By Paul Sykes

No fun betting favorites in the Kentucky Derby. They disappoint more often than not.

Animal Kingdom, last year’s winner, went off at 20-1 odds. Though this was his first race on dirt, the winner had an easy trip, paying $43.80, $19.60 and $13 for a $2 bet.

Here are a few “live” outside shots that could reward their backers:

Take Charge Indy (15-1) — Won the Florida Derby earlier this spring and gets the services of local legend Calvin Borel. Few know the track better than Calvin “Bo-rail” and this horse could be dangerous if Borel can get him to the rail to sweep by tiring horses down the stretch.

I’ll Have Another (12-1) — Got his nose up in time to win the Santa Anita Derby and is hoping the track stays fast and firm Saturday. If the rains come, he may finish last…but his tracking style and stamina suggest he can make the distance easily with “wunderkid” Mario Gutierrez aboard.

Went The Day Well (20-1) — Won the Spiral Stakes at northern Kentucky track Turfway where last year’s winner prepped. He also gets the services of last year’s winning jockey, John Velazquez. The reports from the backside at Churchill Downs are glowing and positive about how he’s ripping up the morning works and loving the surroundings.

Have a happy, safe and prosperous Derby Day. As the late Louisville Times sports columnist Mike Barry would say: “I hope to break even at the track today. I could use the money.”

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By Paul Sykes

Paul Sykes owns Paul Sykes Advertising and does contract work for other advertising and publishing firms. The proud husband of Sonja, he has a fascination with bears, bars and Cardinal sports. He's also the moderator of CardinalCouple.blogspot.com

5 thoughts on “Outside shots in the Kentucky Derby”
  1. And the 138th Kentucky Derby winner is:

    I’ll Have Another.

    (Takes bow and circles the sidelines pointing at all the fans who “believed”.)

    Heart sure goes out to Bodemeister. Thought he was bye-bye and gone. Sorry, Bob Baffert and Mike Smith. Thought it was yours.

    Paulie

  2. Hi, Becky. I made it a point to always read any of your Uncle Mike’s columns. I use him as a pattern and example of great journalism. It was my esteemed honor to actually meet him in 1974. Those were great days for journalism. Thanks to guys like him (and Charlie) who have helped shape the way I approach writing.

    Paul

  3. Becky, I had the privilege of working with Mike a few years. He was a great writer and a gentleman in every respect. You should be very proud.

  4. Hey thanks for the Mike Barry reference. He was my uncle and I really miss him at Derby time. Good to know he is still remembered!

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