Enticed ‘belongs in Kentucky Derby’ after gutsy Aqueduct second

Already some are claiming this year’s G1 Kentucky Derby has the makings of an epic Classic of the modern era, and Godolphin trainer Kiaran McLaughlin remains adamant Enticed is fully deserving of his place in the final field.

On Saturday, in New York, Enticed battled with great fortitude to finish second to Vino Rosso in the controversial finish to the G2 Wood Memorial at Aqueduct, one of three important Derby trials across America.

Although he was beaten three lengths, Godolphin’s son of Medaglia D’Oro was bumped in the closing stages by Vino Rosso, and McLaughlin argues Enticed might well have won if not for the interference. The winner survived a jockey’s objection and lengthy stewards inquiry.

“I am proud of Enticed,” the trainer declared, “And I believe the call was 50-50. He would have finished closer if he hadn’t been bumped, that’s for sure,” he added.

Enticed started well and was lying second when leader Old Time Revival sprinted clear of the pack and opened up a big gap on the field, setting fast fractions.

It was left to Enticed to set out after the leader, who he cut down at the top of the stretch, only for Vino Rosso to stake his claim on the outside. Restoring Hope took third.

McLaughlin believes Enticed has earned his ticket to Churchill Downs. “He belongs in the Kentucky Derby field. He’s very high on the list of qualifiers (with 103 points) and I feel we deserve to be there with him,” he said.

“As long as he has come out of Saturday’s race in good shape, he will run next in the Derby,” he added.

Bob Baffert sent out Justify (Scat Daddy) to beat Bolt D’Oro (Medaglia D’Oro) by three lengths in the G1 Santa Anita Derby in a most authoritative performance.

While, at Keeneland, Good Magic recaptured his Del Mar Breeders’ Cup form when winning the G2 Blue Grass Stakes from Flame Away and Free Drop Billy.

This, indeed, may be one of the best renewals of the ‘Run For The Roses’ in many years. Certainly, the established ‘trials’ indicate a field of impressive quality is set to be assembled for the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, 5 May.