Dick Downey writes that many Kentucky Derby (G1) winners showed steadiness in their splits in their final Derby preps, pointing to their ability to handle the 1 1/4-mile first leg of the Triple Crown.

In this week's Porter on Pedigrees, two Kentucky Derby (G1) contenders hail from Japan, one a Kentucky-bred with a decidedly American pedigree, and one with bloodlines less familiar to United States racing.

More Than Even Stakes

The breeze-up sector has evolved into a hugely important part of the bloodstock market as each year pinhookers invest significant sums on raw materials at the yearling stage.

The deal between 1/ST Maryland LLC/The Stronach Group and Churchill Downs Inc. does not affect The Maryland Jockey Club's right to full operational control and responsibility for the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes and Preakness Stakes.

The 2025 study captured training and racing data in real time with 2-year-olds. A multivariate analysis of the data shows biometric sensors are a valuable tool for identifying at-risk horses before a musculoskeletal injury occurs.

The Fasig-Tipton April Digital Sale closed April 21 with gross sales of $2,056,000 for 94 horses sold.

The 152nd Kentucky Derby (G1) will be charged with emotion for many fans, but none more so than 94-year-old Leverett Miller, breeder of Santa Anita Derby (G1) winner So Happy.

Nine fillies and mares will meet in the final graded stakes feature of Keeneland's spring meet, the $350,000 Bewitch Stakes (G3T). The field is topped by Just Basking and Speed Shopper, who each have a graded stakes win under their belt in 2026.

This week's The List takes a look at four stallions expected to have their first-ever Kentucky Derby (G1) runners May 2 at Churchill Downs.