In discussions surrounding the Kentucky Derby, one name frequently emerges: Bob Baffert. What is the reason for that? In a distinguished career that has lasted for decades, the 72-year-old trainer has previously secured six Run for the Roses and is now set to pursue a seventh title on May 3, 2025. Nevertheless, the challenges he faces are significant, largely due to the fierce competition within the field.
With under two weeks remaining, his horses are currently engaged in a series of workouts. For those who may not be in the loop regarding Baffert’s entries at Churchill Downs, the horses to watch are Citizen Bull and Rodriguez. Initially, Citizen Bull surged to the top of the leaderboard under the trainer’s guidance, but ultimately slipped down the rankings while maintaining a position within the qualification bracket.
Rodriguez ascended to the pinnacle after amassing 100 points from the G2 Wood Memorial Stakes. The three-year-old colt showcased an impressive display, securing victory in the Grade 2 race by a margin of 3½ lengths. Rodriguez maintained a commanding lead throughout the race, finishing the 1⅛-mile course in a time of 1:48.15. His jockey, Mike Smith, developed an appreciation for the colt’s speed.
Recently, a report by DRF highlighted the jockey’s confident remarks about the horse, stating, “I love that when I pulled him up the outrider had to get me. It was easy for him, the first time going a mile and an eighth. He could have gone another eighth of a mile that day. He won really well. He relaxed good. He had to win to be a contender and he did that impressively. If they want to be in front of him, they’ll have to run to get it.”
Smith observed the racing speed of the colt. He expressed admiration for Rodriguez’s performance at Aqueduct, noting that the horse had the potential to extend its lead even further. The Grade 2 race held significant importance for Bob Baffert’s colt, as securing those 100 points was crucial for qualifying for the Kentucky Derby.
Moreover, Smith expresses strong confidence in his ability to be a formidable competitor on the racetrack, serving as a cautionary note to his opponents. However, did you know that the trainer is also concentrating on another Grade 1 race?
Bob Baffert is also taking care of other businesses
Churchill Downs will serve as the venue not only for the Kentucky Derby but also for the Kentucky Oaks, just a day before on May 2, 2025. The upcoming Grade 1 race promises to showcase the top 3-year-old fillies from across the nation, all vying for an impressive purse of $1.5 million. Among the competitors is Tenma, set to race under the guidance of Bob Baffert.
In a recent workout, the filly caught the attention of photographer J. McLaughlin Safford, who noted, “Kentucky Oaks bound Tenma worked 6F in 1:12.60 this morning under Juan Hernandez for HoF trainer Bob Baffert at Santa Anita Park.” The planned training session took place with jockey Juan Hernandez in control, skillfully directing the filly as she practiced under the keen observation of Baffert.
This performance suggests that Tenma is in outstanding form as she prepares for the esteemed race, with the time showcasing a strong and competitive pace. Undoubtedly, akin to the Kentucky Derby, the Kentucky Oaks promises a thrilling contest. For a filly like Tenma, there is considerable optimism that she can secure that prestigious Grade 1 title for her trainer.
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