Kentucky Derby Prep Races: 2025 Kilroe Mile

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Kentucky Derby Prep Races News

Kilroe Mile 2025: El Potente, Formidable Man Headline Santa Anita Turf Showdown

The $300,000 Frank E. Kilroe Mile (G1T) at Santa Anita Park on March 1 has drawn a competitive field of eight, led by El Potente, who looks to extend his winning streak in his biggest challenge. 

The Grade 1 turf mile will be a key test for several contenders, many stepping up in class or returning from out-of-state competition.

This race also shapes early-season form for turf milers, an essential racing category. With competitive Kentucky Derby Prep Races happening nationwide, bettors are watching potential future stars. 

While not a Derby prep itself, the Kilroe Mile provides insight into horses that may impact the turf division throughout the year. As fans look at Kentucky Derby odds and consider their Kentucky Derby betting strategies, this event serves as an essential betting opportunity in its own right.

El Potente Seeks Grade 1 Breakthrough

Trainer Dan Blacker has had a strong start to the year, and El Potente has been a major contributor to that success. The Florida-bred son of Temple City has been nearly flawless since switching to turf, winning six of his last 10 starts while never finishing off the board. His most recent victory came in the Thunder Road Stakes (G3T) at Santa Anita, where he dominated by three lengths.

El Potente’s consistency makes him a formidable contender, and jockey Hector Berrios has developed a strong partnership with him. The question now is whether he can handle the jump in class to Grade 1 competition.

Formidable Man and Mi Hermano Ramon Return from Pegasus Turf

One of the biggest threats to El Potente is Formidable Man, who ships back to California after an unsuccessful trip to Florida for the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational (G1T). Trained by Michael McCarthy, the son of City of Light faded in the stretch after setting the pace in that race, finishing last in a field of 12. He will remove blinkers and cut back to a mile, which should be more favorable for his running style.

Mi Hermano Ramon, trained by Mark Glatt, finished a respectable fourth in the Pegasus Turf. The Creative Cause gelding has been consistent on the Santa Anita turf, finishing in the top three in five of his six local starts. With Flavien Prat aboard, he could be a strong contender if the pace setup is correct.

New Face in California: Neat Ships West

Neat will be making his first California start after spending most of his career racing in Kentucky and New York. Notably, the Constitution Colt is one of the more accomplished runners in the field, having won three graded stakes races. This season, he has been based in Louisiana with trainer Rob Atras and will have Jose Ortiz in the irons. Given his running style, Neat typically comes from off the pace, and if the early fractions are fast, he could be a major player in the stretch.

Other Contenders to Watch

Air Force Red enters the race as an experienced miler, winning multiple turf races at Santa Anita. Additionally, trained by Leonard Powell, he will likely be part of the early speed scenario. Meanwhile, Almendares, trained by Philip D’Amato, is another horse with potential upside. Although he is still seeking his first graded stakes win, he has been improving and could be a factor at a price.

Furthermore, Zio Jo and Cabo Spirit are rounding out the field, both of whom will need career-best efforts to make an impact. Notably, Zio Jo is a 20-1 longshot for trainer Doug O’Neill, while Cabo Spirit, trained by George Papaprodromou, has shown flashes of talent but has been inconsistent in recent starts.

For those looking to place wagers on this exciting race and upcoming Kentucky Derby Prep Races, visit our racebook for the latest odds and betting options.