With the Kentucky Derby drawing closer, leading contenders from the Curlin Florida Derby are sharpening their form through strategic workouts in Florida. At Payson Park, Tappan Street and Sovereignty—first and second respectively in the March 29 Florida Derby—continued their preparations with timed breezes that left their connections optimistic about their Derby readiness.
Tappan Street, who races under the silks of WinStar Farm LLC, CHC Inc., and Cold Press Racing, breezed a half-mile alongside stablemate Rapture in a move that impressed trainer Brad Cox. Cox, who has chosen to keep the colt in Florida rather than risk disruptions from Kentucky’s unpredictable spring weather, noted the controlled yet sharp nature of the work. Tappan Street, who previously placed in the Holy Bull Stakes and made a strong impression in his Florida Derby victory, seems to be thriving in his current environment. His ability to handle quality competition during morning gallops has only reinforced Cox’s belief in his mental and physical development.
Cox emphasized the colt’s intelligence and consistency from the starting gate, traits that are often essential in the fast-paced and chaotic environment of the Kentucky Derby. He hinted at one final work at Payson Park before relocating to Churchill Downs for the final stretch of preparations. Tappan Street’s previous experience over the Churchill surface last summer is another factor that adds to the team’s quiet confidence.
Sovereignty, campaigned by Godolphin and trained by Hall of Famer Bill Mott, also logged a half-mile breeze at Payson Park. Though not known for flashy workouts, the colt’s most recent move was deemed solid by Mott, who expressed satisfaction with how his charge is progressing. The colt had a delayed seasonal debut due to a brief setback but rebounded impressively to win the Fountain of Youth before his runner-up effort in the Florida Derby.
Mott is still weighing the timing of Sovereignty’s ship to Churchill Downs, keeping a close eye on the weather before making the call. He is keen to give the long-striding colt at least a couple of workouts over the Derby track, provided conditions allow. Although Sovereignty’s closing style could present challenges in a crowded Derby field, Mott remains confident in his stamina and ability to handle the classic distance.
Meanwhile, Curlin Florida Derby third-place finisher Neoequos recorded a maintenance breeze at Gulfstream Park. Trained by Saffie Joseph Jr., the colt is being considered for a potential run in the Grade 1 American Turf on Derby day. With turf works planned for the coming week, the team will use upcoming gallops to assess suitability and finalize the colt’s path forward.
As contenders fine-tune their fitness and connections monitor every detail, the road to the first Saturday in May is narrowing. The next few weeks will be crucial in shaping final decisions, and for these Derby hopefuls, every gallop, breeze, and travel plan counts toward the goal of classic glory.
