Prep Races
The Puma won the Grade 3 Tampa Bay Derby at Tampa Bay Downs, defeating Further Ado and Canaletto in a performance that highlights his potential for the Kentucky Derby on May 2 at Churchill Downs. The victory flatters other contenders like Renegade, who previously excelled in the Sam F. Davis Stakes. Meanwhile, Potente took the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita, though observers question its strength as a Derby indicator.
Reported by AI
Undefeated filly Bella Ballerina leads the nominations for the 152nd running of the Grade 1, $1.5 million Kentucky Oaks, set for May 1, 2026, at Churchill Downs. The three-year-old earned her status with wins in the Golden Rod Stakes and Rachel Alexandra Stakes. Labwah has risen to second on the leaderboard after a dominant victory in the UAE Oaks.