Big Brown favored at Kentucky Derby despite post
LOUISVILLE, Kentucky (Reuters) - Big Brown enters Saturday's Kentucky Derby hoping to become the first horse in nearly 80 years to win American's top race from the 20th post position.
"I just can't wait until (Saturday) when they load him in the gate," Big Brown trainer Richard Dutrow Jr. told reporters on Friday. "It's very exciting, over the top."
With Kent Desormeaux in the saddle, unbeaten Florida Derby champion Big Brown was the slight favorite at 7-2 odds, followed by Colonel John at 4-1 and Pyro at 5-1.
Big Brown has reached the starting gate only three times but has won those races by a combined 29 lengths. The Kentucky-bred bay figured as the overwhelming choice at the betting windows before being slotted in the far outside.
The last horse to win the Derby at the 20th post was Clyde Van Dusen in 1929. Dutrow, however, could not be more confident this week, saying his horse was primed for the winner's circle.
Dutrow's brashness triggered some good-natured ribbing by trainer Barclay Tagg, who will saddle outsiders Tale of Ekati and Big Truck in the 134th running of the Derby.
"I think it's a wide-open race," said Tagg, who won the 2003 Derby with Funny Cide. "Who knows? I don't think anyone really knows except Dutrow. He, at least, says what he thinks."
Santa Anita Derby winner Colonel John will break from the 10th slot, considered a prime spot for the crowded field.
"He looked fantastic," Irish trainer Eoin Harty said of the Tiznow colt following a mile-and-a-half gallop on Friday.
A heavy rain on Friday at
(Editing by Rex Gowar)
