Asmussen enters Kentucky Derby weekend with two classic contenders

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WFIE) – The Kentucky Derby is just three weeks away, and Corridor of Fame coach Steve Asmussen has two large favorites for the 2 largest races.

He has a robust contender within the Derby, in addition to seemingly the unquestioned favourite within the Kentucky Oaks.

Within the Run for the Roses, he’ll begin Epicenter, who received the Louisiana Derby a number of weeks in the past by over two lengths. Epicenter has received 4 of his six lifetime begins.

Within the Oaks, he’ll run the undefeated Echo Zulu. She’s an ideal five-for-five in her profession, together with a win by a nostril within the Fairground Oaks.

“Each horses are coaching extraordinarily properly. It’s clearly very thrilling going into the Oaks and the Derby to have two horses of this caliber doing so properly,” Asmussen mentioned. “Great quantity of expertise in each races, and I feel each races shall be very quick. We like the 2 who we get to run, and we’re very enthusiastic about their possibilities.”

Epicenter and Echo Zulu even have robust Western Kentucky connections. Epicenter was born and raised in Bowling Inexperienced at Westwind Farms. He and unbeaten 2-year-old filly champion Echo Zulu are owned by Ron Winchell, co-owner and co-managing companion within the Mint Gaming Corridor at Kentucky Downs in Franklin and The Mint Bowling Inexperienced.

Asmussen additionally runs loads of horses at Ellis Park, so little doubt horse racing followers across the Tri-State shall be cheering him and his horses on.

Kentucky Oaks Day shall be held on Could 6, whereas the Kentucky Derby is ready for someday in a while Could 7.

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