With the Kentucky Derby less than a month away, the list of possible entrants is starting to take shape. Since the Derby field is limited to 20 entrants, some of these contenders are not going to get in the race. Only the top 20 entrants based on graded stakes earnings can draw into the race, and there is no also eligible list for the Derby. With only one more graded prep remaining and very few upsets so far, those low on the list will really have to perform well to make the cut, which looks like it may easily reach over $150,000 this year.
Below is a list of Triple Crown nominees in order of their graded stakes earnings through April 22. All the preps are over, so this is the final list.
Da' Tara shocks in the 2008 Belmont Stakes - Longest shot on the board Da' Tara led the whole way, drawing off to win by 5 1/4 lengths over Denis of Cork. Heavy favorite Big Brown came up empty and was eased, finishing last. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
More Belmont Day Photos - 16 more photos including Shaquille O’Neal, the unused Triple Crown trophy, and more.
Manhattan Handicap and Just a Game Stakes Results - On the Belmont undercard, Dancing Forever just got up at the wire to beat favorite Out of Control in the Manhattan Handicap, while Ventura held off top choice Lady of Venice in the Just a Game Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Acorn Stakes, True North Handicap, and Woody Stephens Stakes Results - Also on the Belmont undercard, Zaftig upset favorite Indian Blessing in the Acorn, top choice Benny the Bull got up in the final stride of the True North Handicap, and J Be K won wire-to-wire in the Woody Stephens Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2008 Belmont Entries - A field of 10 was entered with Big Brown drawing post #1. Get all the horses, posts, and odds here.
2007 Kentucky Derby Contenders