Kentucky Derby Prep Races: 2025 Tampa Bay Derby

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Kentucky Derby Prep Races Odds and Picks

Tampa Bay Derby Draws Competitive Field for May 3rd

The Grade 3 Tampa Bay Derby at Tampa Bay Downs is set to be a crucial race for three-year-olds vying for a spot in the Kentucky Derby. This Saturday, the $400,000 race covers 1 1/16 miles and offers 50-25-15-10-5 qualifying points toward the Run for the Roses. 

With a win-and-you’re-in opportunity on the line, this race will significantly impact Kentucky Derby odds and Kentucky Derby betting as contenders look to solidify their status.

Patch Adams and Chancer McPatrick Lead the Field

Two of the top names in Las Vegas futures betting for the Kentucky Derby, Patch Adams and Chancer McPatrick, headline the seven-horse field. Patch Adams, a homebred colt for WinStar Farm, is trained by Brad Cox and has been heavily backed in all three of his races. 

After winning as a maiden, he finished fourth in the Southwest Stakes at Oaklawn Park. Jockey Florent Geroux will be back aboard, with the colt starting from the outside post.

Chancer McPatrick, a $725,000 McKinzie colt owned by Flanagan Racing, was undefeated in three starts before a sixth-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. Trained by Chad Brown, he will make his 2025 debut under jockey Flavien Prat, breaking from post 2.

Both colts have been prominent in Kentucky Derby futures betting, with Patch Adams listed at 25-1 and Chancer McPatrick at 30-1.

Owen Almighty Seeks Redemption

Owen Almighty, trained by Brian Lynch, has finished first or second in all five of his starts. However, his apparent victory in the Pasco Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs was erased due to a disqualification, dropping him to fifth. The Speightstown colt rebounded with a runner-up finish in the Sam F. Davis Stakes over the same course and distance. Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. retains the mount as Owen Almighty starts from the rail.

Hill Road Looks to Transition to Dirt

Hill Road, another Chad Brown trainee, made his U.S. debut on turf before switching to dirt. After finishing third in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at 61-1, the Quality Road colt showed promise in his first dirt start. Owned by Amo Racing USA, Hill Road will have Tyler Gaffalione aboard as he tries to make another step forward.

Other Contenders in the Field

Mark Casse sends out Brodeur, an Oaklawn Park allowance winner, while Filoso and Naughty Rascal round out the field. In addition, Filoso, trained by Chad Summers, broke his maiden impressively and will now step up in class. Naughty Rascal, a two-time Florida stakes winner, looks to make an impact for trainer Gerald Bennett.

The Tampa Bay Derby will run as the 11th race on Saturday’s card, with a post time of 5:34 p.m. EST. The first race of the day kicks off at 12:05 p.m. As the Kentucky Derby Prep Races continue, this race will be crucial in shaping the field for the first Saturday in May. Be sure to check our racebook for the latest odds and betting options.