Santa Anita Derby Results: Rock Your World Did Just That... Headed to KYD147

The $750k Santa Anita Derby (G1) is now in the books, and it appears that John Sadler's Rock Your World #3 is the new champ, garnering 100 KYD Points. The colt exhibited a strong cruising speed throughout, as he took home the top SoCal prize in fine fashion.

Coming into this race, most were severely disappointed that Bob Baffert's Life Is Good (LIG) had to be taken off the Derby Trail because of an injury he sustained in a workout after his win in the San Felipe Stakes (G2). In LIG's place was yet another colt in the HOF trainer's arsenal. Medina Spirit #7 (MS) was a heavy favorite at 1/1 once post time arrived. Well-backed, John Velazquez got the call, and most believed that his mount's rating skill, coupled with his breakaway ability, would win the day. Baffert not only sent "MS" into this race, but he also entered the lightly-raced Defunded #10.

Against that pair, the conditioner faced other formidable foes like Dream Shake #2, The Great One #9, and Parnelli #4. Unfortunately, Roman Centurian #1 was scratched when changes were released earlier in the day.

At the break, it appeared no one in the race wanted to take the lead. You could see "MS" hesitating, as Johnny V surveyed the situation. As Turn-1 arrived, it was Rock Your World #3 (off at 5/1) and Parnelli #4 who took their positions up front. They were quickly joined by Velazquez. Rolling down the backstretch it was apparent that Sadler's charge was full of run, and Umberto Rispoli steadily built up speed. He has ridden well over the course of the Santa Anita Meet, and was undeterred as Turn-2 arrived.

Gradually, he accelerated his colt to a top speed at this right moment. Parnelli #4 was quickly left behind, and it was evident that Medina Spirit #7 and Dream Shake #2, the closest competitors, were not going to catch the leader, as they finished 2nd and 3rd, respectively. Of the rest, only Medina Spirit #7 has a shot to make it to Louisville...

Rispoli, visibly emotional as he crossed the wire, celebrated the win on behalf of Sadler, and for owners Hronis and Talla Racing. Going 1 1/8th at 1:49.17, Rock Your World #3, a colt out of Candy Ride, had only 2 races under his belt coming into this challenging Grade I race. Both of those event were on the Santa Anita turf, not the dirt. Granted, the Pasadena Stakes 100k was a strong statement, and clearly showcased his high-level of fitness.

Now, the connections are suddenly headed to the Kentucky Derby where dreams can come true. Rock Your World #3 did just that in the Santa Anita Derby... 

Tomorrow, check out the latest edition of my NTRA Voting Poll submission, as I outline my selections for the Top Thoroughbreds in North America. You will not want to miss it!