Gallery: 6/6
No. 1 Hence
Odds: 15-1
Jockey: Florent Geroux
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Outlook: Hence's Derby odds are down for several reasons. He had a disappointing performance two races ago at the Southwest Stakes where he finished 7th. While his victory in the Sunland Derby sent him through to Churchill Downs, it is not a major prep race like the Florida or Arkansas Derby. So why is Hence on the list? The horse has great speed, as much as any horse in the field. According to Horse Racing Nation, his fastest speed figures are 97 (Beyer), 103 (BRIS Speed Ratings) and 108 (Timeform US). His fastest Beyer time puts him as the third fastest horse along with two other horses. His BRIS Speed Ratings of 103 is the second fastest time among horses by that measurement. It also helps that Hence is coming off his fastest performance. Hence has an experienced trainer in Steve Asmussen who is looking for his first Derby victory but has had success at Churchill Downs. (Getty)
Comments
Kentucky Derby 2017: Top 5 Best Sleepers & Dark Horses