The road to the Kentucky Derby is paved with stories of grit, ambition, and unexpected entries. And Burnham Square is Kentucky Derby’s latest rising star with a story beyond the track. For Burnham, it’s not just about reaching Churchill Downs, instead it’s more about proving he belongs in the ranks of the greats. And with each stride, he’s inching closer.

From a surprise second-place debut to an electrifying win at the Blue Grass Stakes, the colt has stormed his way to Churchill Downs. He’s not just carrying 130 qualifying points, but also the hopes of fans who see in him as a rare mix of speed, stamina, and soul. So, who exactly is Burnham Square, and why has he become one of the most compelling contenders heading into America’s most iconic race?

Who is Kentucky Derby’s horse Burnham Square?

Burnham Square was foaled on April 8, 2022, and just three years later, he already finds himself under the spotlight. His blend of speed and stamina quickly began turning heads. With fans and pundits tracking his rise, the Kentucky-bred colt has become one of the standout names in the 2025 Derby lineup.

Following a pair of modest finishes, Burnham stunned spectators at Gulfstream Park in December 2024 with a jaw-dropping nine-length maiden win. That victory marked a turning point. Since then, he has racked up a series of strong performances, including wins in the Grade 3 Holy Bull Stakes and the prestigious Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes. With peak form and 130 qualifying points, Burnham heads into Churchill Downs as one among the top Derby contenders.

Who owns Burnham Square?

Whitham Thoroughbreds, his breeders and current owners are well-regarded within the racing world for their calculated approach and long-term planning. Known for producing the likes of McCraken, the stable has often come close to Derby greatness, but ultimate victory has eluded them so far. With Burnham Square, they are looking to make history.

Who is the trainer of Burnham Square?

Ian Wilkes is Burnham’s anchor. A seasoned trainer and former assistant to Hall of Famer Carl Nafzger. Wilkes has seen the Derby limelight before. Most notably with McCraken in 2017. However, Burnham might be his most promising project yet.

Before Wilkes, Burnham was trained by junior assistants within the Whitham. And what sets Wilkes apart is his conservative yet effective approach. He emphasizes mental fortitude just as much as physical conditioning. Burnham’s training regime includes mock traffic scenarios and staggered pace workouts to mimic the high-pressure Derby field. That focus on real-time adaptability is evident in the colt’s ability to adjust mid-race, often making strong closing moves from difficult positions.

Who is Burnham Square’s jockey?

Every great Derby tale needs a skilled rider and Brian Hernandez Jr. fits perfectly. The jockey, who rode Mystik Dan to Derby triumph in 2024, now finds himself with another high-stakes partner. His first outing on Burnham came during the Blue Grass Stakes, and the chemistry was great.

Hernandez is known for his calm under pressure and ability to navigate crowded fields. These skills could prove invaluable in the chaos of the Derby. That level of composure, paired with Burnham’s responsiveness, creates a duo perfectly in sync.

What are Burnham Square’s career earnings?

With six starts under his belt, Burnham Square has already amassed $977,755. His record stands at 3 wins, 1 second, 1 third, and just one unplaced finish. These numbers not only reflect his talent but also the strategic placement by his handlers.

When and where is Burnham Square’s next race?

After that thrilling Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes finish and 130 qualifying points – he secured his spot after clinching victory in the Blue Grass Stakes on April 8. Burnham Square’s next start is the 2025 Kentucky Derby. And it is set for May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs.

What are Burnham Square’s racing stats and past performances?

Burnham’s debut on October 26, 2024 at Keeneland saw him defy his 30-1 odds with a fighting second. Later on December 28, 2024, he placed third before stunning Gulfstream Park with a nine-length maiden win. That performance was the turning point. Blinkers were added, and suddenly, Burnham’s potential was in full display.

He picked up his first stakes win in the Grade 3 Holy Bull on February 1, 2025 and later on March 1, 2025 faced a blip in the Fountain of Youth Stakes. But his response? An assertive win in the Blue Grass.

On April 8, 2025, riding Burnham for the first time, jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. guided him through the Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes, executing a perfectly timed rally that culminated in a nose victory. That thrilling finish earned Burnham a Derby-best 130 qualifying points. Hernandez, already riding high after his 2024 Derby win aboard Mystik Dan, could make the difference on the first Saturday in May.

What is Burnham Square’s pedigree and bloodline?

His bloodline is headlines. His sire, Liam’s Map is known for his explosive pace and a win in the 2015 Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. The dam Linda, by Scat Daddy has a potent counterbalance to his sire’s brilliance. Their breeding fruitioned into a versatile colt capable of adapting to different race dynamics, a crucial factor for Kentucky Derby success.

Burnham Square is more than numbers on a stat sheet. He’s a story of potential meeting preparation. On May 3, 2025, all eyes will be on Churchill Downs. And while many will bet on speed or experience, the ones who’ve followed Burnham Square’s journey know this colt brings something more. Will he wear the roses? That remains to be seen. But racing fans have already got something to follow.