Kentucky Derby Prep Races: Withers Stakes Winner

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Kentucky Derby Prep Races Odds and News

Captain Cook Claims Withers Stakes, Eyes Wood Memorial Next

The Road to the Kentucky Derby gained another contender on Feb. 1 as Captain Cook delivered a strong performance in the Grade 3 Withers Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack. The 1 1/8-mile contest, one of the key Kentucky Derby Prep Races, awarded 20 qualifying points to the winner, boosting Captain Cook’s standing on the Derby trail. 

While Kentucky Derby betting remains focused on early frontrunners, this victory puts Captain Cook firmly in the conversation. With Kentucky Derby odds constantly shifting, his next start in the Wood Memorial Stakes (G2) will determine his place in the Derby picture.

A Commanding Stakes Debut

Trained by Rick Dutrow Jr. and owned by St. Elias Stable, Captain Cook made his stakes debut in the Withers and did not disappoint. Despite an exhaustive trip and an early challenge from 33-1 longshot Surfside Moon, he showed his class by pulling away in the stretch for a 2 ¼-length victory. 

Jockey Manny Franco kept him in striking position early as Uncle Jim set fractions of 24.11 and 49.13 seconds. Captain Cook moved, turning for home, and responded well when Surfside Moon tried to close the gap. The final time was 1:51.83, a solid effort in his first start at this distance.

Kentucky Derby Points and Race Results

Captain Cook, sent off as the 7-5 favorite, rewarded bettors with a $4.90 payout and secured his first 20 Kentucky Derby qualifying points. Surfside Moon, trained by James Lawrence II, finished second and collected 10 points. Despite a slow start, Omaha Omaha rallied for third and earned six points, bringing his total to 11.

Dutrow expressed confidence in Captain Cook’s ability to stretch out and compete at higher levels, noting that his next start will likely come in the Wood Memorial on April 5. That race offers a 100-50-25-15-10 points distribution, meaning a top-two finish would guarantee a Kentucky Derby berth.

The Journey to the Withers

Captain Cook began his career with a sixth-place finish at Churchill Downs while racing for his original owner, Marylou Whitney Stables. St. Elias Stable later acquired him for $410,000 at the Keeneland November Horses of Racing Age Sale.

He has flourished since moving to Dutrow’s barn, breaking his maiden by 9 ¼ lengths on Dec. 28 at Aqueduct over a sloppy track.

His dam, Pow Wow Wow, an Indian Charlie mare, has produced six foals, with Captain Cook becoming her first stakes winner. Gainesway Farm recently purchased Pow Wow Wow for $7,000 at the Keeneland January Horses of All Ages Sale, further highlighting the value Captain Cook has added to her pedigree.

Looking Ahead

With a growing resume and a trainer who knows how to develop top contenders, Captain Cook has positioned himself as a serious Kentucky Derby prospect. Dutrow, who won the 2008 Kentucky Derby with Big Brown, is taking a measured approach, focusing on the Wood Memorial before making Derby plans.