Welcome to the grand spectacle of the Kentucky Derby! As the thrill of the Triple Crown beckons, professional sports handicapper Ron Raymond, owner of ATS STATS and last year’s Derby-predicting Mage (15-1), brings you his exclusive tipsheet for this year's 150th running.
Location: Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky
Date: Saturday, May 4th, 2024
Race: Kentucky Derby (Race 12) – Post Time: 6:57 PM EST
Winning Pick:
- Dornoch (#1)
- Morning Line Odds: 17-1
- Jockey: Luis Saez
- Trainer: Danny Gargan
- Insight: “Dornoch's training sessions leading up to the Derby have been nothing short of impressive. Under the skilled guidance of Luis Saez, expect a dynamic run. Despite the longer odds, his recent form on the dirt makes him my top pick for a surprising yet strong finish.”
Place Pick:
- Fierceness (#17)
- Morning Line Odds: 5-2
- Jockey: John Velazquez
- Trainer: Todd Pletcher
- Insight: “Fierceness enters as the favorite, and it’s easy to see why. Teamed with Hall of Famer John Velazquez and trained by the esteemed Todd Pletcher, this horse has the pedigree and the performance. Positioned for success, yet I foresee a strong challenge keeping him just shy of a win.”
Show Pick:
- Resilience (#19)
- Morning Line Odds: 26-1
- Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr.
- Trainer: Dale Romans
- Insight: “Resilience might be the sleeper hit. With Irad Ortiz Jr.'s strategic prowess, expect him to navigate through the pack and secure a spot at the top. The odds are long, but the potential for a surprise finish is too good to pass up.”
Longshot Winner Pick:
- Just Steel (#6)
- Morning Line Odds: 30-1
- Jockey: Keith Amussen
- Trainer: Wayne Lukas
- Insight: “Just Steel is my wildcard pick. Under the legendary Wayne Lukas and with Keith Amussen up, this colt might just steel the spotlight. At these odds, he represents exceptional value for the adventurous bettor.”
Ron Raymond's selections are designed for those looking to make informed choices with a blend of favorites and high-value underdogs, ensuring exciting possibilities for all betting enthusiasts. Remember, in the run for the roses, anything can happen. Good luck, and may the best horse win!
