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2024 Kentucky Derby Horses: Meet the Contenders

Running for the Roses

The 150th running of the Kentucky Derby is just around the corner, and the excitement is building. Twenty of the world's finest three-year-olds will line up at Churchill Downs on May 4th, vying for the coveted blanket of roses. Here's a closer look at each of the contenders:

#1 Epicenter (5-2)

• Pro: Undefeated in four starts this year, including wins in the G2 Risen Star Stakes and G2 Louisiana Derby.
• Con: Has never raced beyond 1 1/8 miles.
• Rating: 5/5

#2 Forte (6-1)

• Pro: Three-time graded stakes winner, including the G1 Breeders' Cup Juvenile.
• Con: Has been off the track since November.
• Rating: 4/5

#3 Tiz the Bomb (8-1)

• Pro: Finished second in the G1 Florida Derby and has a strong pedigree.
• Con: Has not won a race since October 2022.
• Rating: 3.5/5

#4 Instant Coffee (10-1)

• Pro: Won the G2 Rebel Stakes in his last start.
• Con: Has never won beyond 1 1/16 miles.
• Rating: 3/5

#5 Verifying (12-1)

• Pro: Won the G3 Gotham Stakes in his last start.
• Con: Has never raced beyond 1 mile.
• Rating: 2.5/5

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