American Promise catapulted himself squarely into the Kentucky Derby (G1) picture with his 7 ¾-length win in the $500,000 Virginia Derby March 15 at Colonial Downs.
With the win in the inaugural running of the 1 1/8-mile race for 3-year-olds, the Candy Meadows LLC-bred colt by Justify earned 50 points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby Challenge, bringing his total to 55, currently fifth-best in the standings. The top 20 points earners are assured of a starting spot in the Run for the Roses on May 3rd.
Getaway Car, the heavy favorite in the one-turn, 1 1/8-mile race, broke on top with American Promise chasing him through a quarter-mile in :23.12. By the time they hit the turn, American Promise was on even terms with the pacesetter. Well off the fence around the bend, American Promise pulled away and came into the stretch full of run. With Getaway Car fading, American Promise was all alone in the lane and stopped the timer in a track-record 1:46.41 earning a 95 Beyer Speed Figure.
“I didn’t want to use my horse early, but I knew I had to get forward position with how the track has been playing,” said winning rider Nik Juarez. “I’m just a guy who is lucky enough to be named to ride Mr. Lukas’ horses. To be heading to the Derby for him is a dream come true. American Promise is doing so good. He proved himself out there today.”
American Promise, owned by BC Stables LLC, is 2-1-1 in nine starts and has earned $444,874. The chestnut colt is out of Tapella and is a half-brother to Grade 2 winner Hoosier Philly.
