30-Year-Old Popular Rider Confirmed as Jockey for Angel of Empire in Highly Anticipated Kentucky Derby

Flavien Prat, is no stranger to the world of equestrian sports. Having claimed the title of Champion Apprentice Jockey and Group 1 race winner in France, Prat has established himself as a master of thoroughbred racing. The French-born equestrian star made the move to the United States on a full-time basis in 2015. Despite the move, he has managed to maintain his winning streak with 4 Breeder’s cups, the 2019 Kentucky Derby and more recently, the 2021 Preakness Stakes. With the highly anticipated 2023 Kentucky Derby just around the corner this May, all eyes are on the star who has made a significant move by selecting a specific horse over the rest.

In a recent report by the Thoroughbred Daily News, it has been revealed that the 30-year-old equestrian sensation has announced his participation in the upcoming Kentucky Derby. He will be riding Angel of Empire, the G1 Arkansas Derby champion, in the highly anticipated event.

A tough choice for the equestrian star

Jockey Flavien Prat made a difficult decision when he opted to ride Angel of Empire instead of the G2 Louisiana Derby champion, Kingsbarns. Trained by Todd Pletcher, Kingsbarns remains unbeaten in three starts. Pletcher made a strategic jockey change for the Louisiana Derby, opting for Flavien Prat after previously utilizing Luis Saez and Antonio Gallardo, for Kingsbarns. The decision proved successful as Prat guided the horse to a commanding 3 1/2-length victory while leading from start to finish.

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Despite the wins, Prat was left in a dilemma about his mount. Then Brad Cox, who trains Angel of Empire, showed up. Cox confirmed that jockey Flavien Prat will be riding Angel of Empire in this year’s Kentucky Derby, as reported by the Thoroughbred Daily News. The news has also been confirmed by Prat and his agent, Brad Pegram.

Making the decision to change horses just a couple of weeks before an event can be a significant undertaking. The potential for issues to arise during the event due to a lack of bonding with the new horse is a concern. However, Prat, a seasoned jockey, is gearing up for his sixth Kentucky Derby with his sights set on clinching the coveted number one position.

The 2023 Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby, widely considered the most renowned horse race in the United States and across the globe, will be held on May 6, 2023. Since its inception in 1875, the event has been a staple for anyone with a passion for horses. This year is the 149th running of the race, which will be held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

There would be around 13 other races scheduled for that day. At 6:57 p.m. ET, the time of the 12th race, the Derby would take place. Fans would be able to tune in on Peacock, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app to see the top 20 horses compete in this magnificent event.

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In preparation for one of the most significant equestrian competitions, the superstar saddles up his new mount and prepares to provide his usual electrifying performance.