Horse Racing Sensation Catching Freedom Secures Road to Kentucky Derby at Championship in Oaklawn Park

The 150th edition of the $3 million Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve (Grade I) is slated for May 4th, 2024. It will once again witness the rigorous journey to secure a spot in this prestigious horse racing race. Only 20 horses earn the coveted opportunity to compete in the Kentucky Derby, a feat achieved through the demanding road to the Kentucky Derby series. Here, points are awarded to the top five finishers in designated races worldwide.

Amidst the trials and challenges, a standout performer horse emerged, owned by Albaugh Family Stables, trained by Brad Cox and ridden by Cristian Torres. Despite overcoming obstacles in previous outings, this horse recently showcased immense professionalism in the Smarty Jones S. at Oaklawn Park and secured its place in the Kentucky Derby race.

Catching Freedom, a stallion born to outperform wins race and hearts

In a remarkable display of resilience, Catching Freedom redeemed its prior Churchill Downs setback by triumphing in the $300,000 Smarty Jones S. at Oaklawn Park, marking the inaugural event of the Road to the Kentucky Derby series this year. Guided skillfully by Cristian Torres, Catching Freedom navigated the course adeptly, hugging the inside track for much of the race before making a decisive move, shifting wide for the final stretch and seizing a commanding 2 1/2-length victory in the 1 1/16-mile spectacle. As the favoured contender at odds of 17-10 amidst a field of eight competitors, Catching Freedom rewarded backers with a $5.40 payout, completing the distance in a swift 1:44.59.

Securing a commendable second place in the Smarty Jones was Just Steel, narrowly edging out Informed Patriot by a neck. Notably, the Gettysburg Address faced early adversity, finding itself pushed back to last at the start, yet rallied to claim a respectable fourth, just a neck behind Informed Patriot. The rest of the field comprised Mystik Dan, Lagynos, Mo Winning, Chaperone, and Fidget.

Trail in horse racing quest

Catching Freedom’s impressive win not only secured the coveted Smarty Jones title, but also earned the colt 10 valuable qualifying points for the upcoming Kentucky Derby. Meanwhile, Just Steel clinched five points, marking a notable achievement in his third attempt at Derby prep races. Informed Patriot added three points to his tally, reaching six, whereas Gettysburg Address surged from two points to four, and Mystik Dan earned an additional point.

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The young and promising Catching Freedom, favoured in all three outings so far, boasts two victories, initially breaking ground with a commanding maiden win over a mile at Churchill on Oct. 1. Despite facing challenges in a previous allowance race on Nov. 9, where tight spaces hindered its run, the colt still managed a commendable fourth-place finish over the 1 1/16-mile distance.

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