Kentucky Derby Prep Races: Burnham Square’s Victory

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Kentucky Derby Prep Races Odds and News

Burnham Square Upsets Holy Bull Stakes – What It Means for the Derby Trail

The Road to the Kentucky Derby continued on Feb. 1 at Gulfstream Park with the Grade 3 Holy Bull Stakes, where Burnham Square delivered an impressive come-from-behind victory. 

As one of the key Kentucky Derby Prep Races, the 1 1/16-mile contest awarded the winner 20 qualifying points, positioning Burnham Square firmly in the Derby conversation. While Kentucky Derby betting continues to take shape, this performance adds another contender. 

With Kentucky Derby odds fluctuating as prep races unfold, Burnham Square’s ability to overcome adversity in a competitive field makes him a horse to watch.

A Hard-Fought Victory

Burnham Square did not get the ideal trip out of the gate. Breaking sluggishly, he settled off the pace as Kinetic Control set an early quarter-mile fraction of 23.42 seconds before Guns Loaded took over with splits of 47.60 and 1:11.69. 

With jockey Edgard Zayas aboard, Burnham Square gradually advanced along the rail down the backstretch. He made contact with He’s Not Joking near the half-mile pole but continued his steady progression.

As the field entered the stretch, Tappan Street surged to the front, poised for victory. However, Burnham Square angled outside and found another gear, overtaking the leader and pulling away to win by 1 ¾ lengths in 1:43.60. Sent off at 4-1, he rewarded bettors with a $10.60 payout.

Kentucky Derby Points and Race Results

Tappan Street, the 9-5 favorite ridden by Luis Saez, finished second and earned 10 Kentucky Derby qualifying points. He was clear of Burning Glory, who ran third and collected six points. The gap between Tappan Street and the rest of the field was a sizable 9 ¼ lengths, showcasing the strength of the top two finishers.

For Burnham Square, this victory marked his second consecutive win since trainer Ian Wilkes added blinkers. He dominated a maiden special weight race by nine lengths on Dec. 28 before stepping up in class for the Holy Bull.

Trainer and Owner Reactions

Wilkes, who previously trained Burnham Square’s dam, graded stakes winner Linda, for Whitham Thoroughbreds, praised his colt’s determination. Despite the challenging trip, the gelding found a way to win. He noted that while there are still areas for improvement, Burnham Square’s endurance and ability to overcome adversity make him a serious contender on the Derby trail.

Whitham Thoroughbreds’ Clay Whitham was equally impressed, highlighting the horse’s relentless drive. Overcoming an imperfect trip solidified his reputation as a competitor who doesn’t quit.

Next Steps on the Derby Trail

Burnham Square’s next start will likely be either the Grade 2 Fountain of Youth Stakes on March 1 or the Grade 1 Florida Derby on March 29, both at Gulfstream Park. His strong affinity for the surface makes either race a logical next step as he continues his path toward the first Saturday in May.