Kentucky Derby 2024 Favorite Fierceness’ Arrival Has Fans Buzzing: ‘Fast as Runner Bolt’

The 150th Kentucky Derby (G1) is around the corner, with the field restricted to 20 starters based on Derby qualifying points earned at the 36 Derby prep races. The 2024 championship series races and winners produce the top candidates for the Kentucky Derby. Meanwhile, the profiles of the competing candidates will be released following the post-position draw on April 27.

Now, Fierceness is the #1 favorite heading into the 2024 Kentucky Derby, receiving the most bets to win. Fans are elated at the arrival of Team Fierceness on the field, exchanging words of admiration and well-wishes as the big day approaches.

2024 Kentucky Derby’s fast-loading glimpse

The 2024 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, at Churchill Downs. While the field is not finalized, the predicted roster of competing horses is taking shape. Fierceness, ridden by jockey John Velazquez and trained by Todd Pletcher, is the 3-1 favorite, followed by Sierra Leone (7-2) and Catching Freedom (8-2). Taking to X, @RepoleStable shared Fierceness’ arrival clip, accompanied by the caption, “Fierceness. Arrived. Safe and sound.”

The 3-year-old colt is coming fresh off winning the Florida Derby and was named the juvenile champion in 2023. Fierceness has won three of his five career races: his Saratoga debut, the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, and the Florida Derby. Nonna Bella, Fierceness’ dam, and Repole stable’s owner were 2-0-1 in five career starts in 2017–18. Additionally, Fierceness could earn her trainer Todd Pletcher the 65th Derby starter, to extend his record.

A post location that allows Fierceness to break cleanly and advance toward the front of a large field would be ideal. Any shuffling or bumping early on could harm Fierceness’ chances of winning, as seen by his previous performances. Not long ago, the colt won by 13 1/2 lengths in the Florida Derby, breaking the previous record of 9 ¾ lengths set by Empire Maker in 2003. Making him the clear favorite to win the Kentucky Derby, now comes the exciting part involving the fans.

Fans react to Fierceness’s arrival

Fierceness has left a lasting impression on the equestrian community, racing four- furlongs at Palm Beach Downs in 50.28 seconds on April 12. This was his first timed breeze since the Florida Derby, with Hall of Famer John Velazquez in the saddle. His season records prompted a fan to compare the young colt to the fastest man in the world, Usain Bolt. A commenter said, “Superstar and the Stardom. Colt as fast as runner bolt. Good luck for the forthcoming run.”

Another fan already declared him “the champion!”

Others praised the colt, showering praise like, “He looks incredible,”  “Gorgeous looking,” and “He looks great. Can’t wait to see him on the track.”

Some even showed their readiness to witness the action on the tracks, ultimately turning victory hopefuls. One wrote, “wishing Team Fierceness the best of luck to go with his amazing talent.” “2 more weeks, sweet boy. Stay safe and sound and run YOUR race,” wrote another.