With $476,100 in Career Earnings, Lord Miles Set to Make His Mark in Renowned Virginia Equestrian Event

Mountaineer Casino Racetrack & Resort is gearing up for an electrifying equestrian showdown on August 6. After a bumpy ride, Vegso Racing Stable’s Lord Miles has set his sights on the prestigious $500,000 West Virginia Derby (G3). Lord Miles is eager to regain his winning form in this overdrawn 1 1/8-mile race. However, he will face fierce competition from the likes of Tapit’s Conquest, Red Route One, One in Vermillion, and Raise Cain.

The young colt carries an impressive track record, having clinched victory in the Wood Memorial Stakes (G2) at Aqueduct Racetrack, beating Hit Show by a nose. This feat secured him a Kentucky Derby (G1) start, but fate had other plans.

The equestrian tragedy at Churchill Downs

Earlier this year, the Kentucky stewards scratched Lord Miles from the race after two of Saffie Joseph Jr.’s runners tragically collapsed and died during the initial race dates at Churchill Downs. Eventually, Joseph was cleared of any wrongdoing and reinstated by CDI, paving the way for Lord Miles to set his sights on new victories. The young colt, a homebred son of Curlin, has been diligently preparing for the West Virginia Derby at Gulfstream Park under the watchful eye of Saffie Joseph Jr. During his summer workouts, Lord Miles has impressed with his blazing speed, clocking an astonishing five furlongs in a bullet:58.63, last month.

According to a Bloodhorse report, Jockey Arnaldo Bocachica will be aboard as Lord Miles aims to add more accolades to his record, boasting 2 wins, 1 second-place finish, and earnings of $476,100 from six starts. Joseph has another contender in the race, Gentry Farms’ West Coast Cowboy, who took fifth place in the Iowa Derby at Prairie Meadows on July 8. While Lord Miles stands as the favorite, West Coast Cowboy has the talent and tenacity to give him a run for his money. As the West Virginia Derby unfolds, it’s essential to note that most of the entrants are racing with the diuretic Lasix, except for Raise Cain. This diuretic is commonly used to prevent respiratory bleeding in horses during races. West Virginia’s stance on Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) rules sets it apart from other states, which operate under HISA regulations. However, Lord Miles isn’t the only horse in the race and will face stiff competition from other challengers.

Tapit’s Conquest poses a challenge to Lord Miles

The stakes are high in the West Virginia Derby. Tapit’s Conquest, owned by Bob LaPenta, e Five Racing Thoroughbreds, and Madaket Stables, takes the spotlight as a major player. Under the guidance of trainer Brad Cox, Tapit’s Conquest has impressed in an allowance race at Ellis Park, clocking 1 1/8 miles in 1:48.51. This performance places him just shy of West Will Power’s winning time in the July 1 Stephen Foster Stakes (G1) at Ellis Park. Winchell Thoroughbreds’ Red Route One also has a penchant for surprises.

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The late-running colt, sired by Gun Runner, is also a formidable contender under the expert guidance of Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen. The West Virginia Derby promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, determination, and heart-stopping moments. With high stakes and intense competition, this race is sure to leave spectators on the edge of their seats.

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