Horse racing column: Baffert tests 3 Kentucky Derby prospects in Robert B. Lewis Stakes

Trainers and racing enthusiasts are abiding by the rules of thoroughbred breeding when John Baffert recently conducted his own series of tests to evaluate three potential Kentucky Derby runners. The results, which will be determined this weekend, could offer valuable insights into who might emerge as the favorite for the upcoming race. By placing these horses against one another in a new stakes event called the Robert B. Lewis Stakes, Baffert is attempting to identify which horse has the best chance of duplicating his own Derby success. The outcome of this test series could serve as an indicator of how each contender might perform when it comes time for the 106th Kentucky Derby, scheduled for May 5 at Churchill Downs. Trainers often use such exercises to assess a horse’s readiness and potential traits that may translate into race success, making this an interesting preview ahead of what promises to be one of the most anticipated races in horse racing history.