Horse Racing Odds: Virginia Derby Contenders

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Horse Racing Odds: Virginia Derby 2024 Key Runners

The 2024 Virginia Derby is an exciting race at Colonial Downs, offering a $500,000 purse and a highly competitive field of 12 horses.

This year’s race will take place over 1 1/8 miles on the turf and serves as one of six turf stakes on a card packed with action. Offtrack betting fans will have their hands full analyzing the field, with top contenders like Deterministic and Grand Mo the First leading the pack. 

Both horses have successfully transitioned to turf racing after earning Kentucky Derby qualifications earlier in the year.

Top Contenders: Deterministic and Grand Mo the First

Deterministic, trained by Christophe Clement, has shown impressive form since switching to turf. After placing second in the Grade 3 Manila and finishing third in the Grade 1 Saratoga Derby Invitational, this talented colt is the 3-1 favorite in the morning line. Known for his strong late bid, Deterministic will surely be a popular pick for those eyeing the horse racing odds.

Grand Mo the First, trained by Victor Barbosa Jr., also stands out in this year’s Virginia Derby field. After earning his way to the Kentucky Derby with third-place finishes in the Florida Derby (G1) and Tampa Bay Derby (G3), Grand Mo the First returned to turf racing and claimed victory in the Bear’s Den Stakes at Gulfstream Park. 

With Paco Lopez aboard, Grand Mo the First enters the race as the 4-1 second choice and is a strong contender to watch.

Underdogs and Rising Stars: Zverev and Herchee

While the focus may be on the top two contenders, the Virginia Derby also features several up-and-coming horses that could surprise bettors. Zverev, trained by Cherie DeVaux, finished three lengths back in the Hall of Fame Stakes (G2) with good Saratoga betting odds and has the potential to make an impact.

Herchee, trained by Helen Pitts, is another name to watch. With two consecutive wins under his belt, this colt has proven he can hold his own and enters the race with a morning line of 5-1.

Other Challengers

Other notable horses in the race include Izzy d’Oro, Frontline Warrior, and Fulmineo, who also ran in the Saratoga Derby Invitational (G1). Each of these horses has the experience and potential to shake up the final standings. Whether you’re placing bets based on form, recent performances, or gut instinct, this year’s Virginia Derby has no shortage of options.