Florida Derby Tops Huge Gulfstream Card

By Emily Shields

Half of the 14 races at Gulfstream Park on Saturday, March 30, are stakes events, including four graded. The big one on the day is the $1 million Florida Derby (G1), one of the final Kentucky Derby preps available and worth 100 points to the winner.

#1 Hidden Scroll (5-2) was heavily hyped after breaking his maiden by 14 lengths on January 26. He was ultimately fourth after setting a quick pace in the Fountain of Youth (G2) last out; now the son of Hard Spun is back to go nine panels for Bill Mott. #9 Code of Honor (3-1) won that Fountain of Youth closing from midfield and looks to emulate Shug McGhaugey’s Orb by completing the double here in the Florida Derby. #4 Bourbon War (7-2) was second in the Fountain of Youth and has won two of four starts to date. #3 Harvey Wallbanger (15-1) upset the Holy Bull (G2) on February 2 and has not raced since.

The Pan American (G2T) goes as Race 13 and has a field of nine. #1 Focus Group (4-1) has not raced since finishing third in the grade 1 Canadian International in October, but has been working solidly for his return for Chad Brown. #2 Melmich (6-1) will be making his 45^thlifetime start and third straight on turf. He was second last out after being third the race before that, both over this course. They all have to outrun #8 Soglio (3-1) for Mike Maker. The son of Scat Daddy has been second three starts in a row, beaten less than a length total.

The Gulfstream Park Oaks (G2) goes as Race 8. #6 Dunbar Road (8-5) will be favored for Chad Brown and jockey Irad Ortiz. She has to outlast #7 Cookie Dough (7-2) who was second in the Davona Dale (G2) here after battling very gamely in the lane. They both have early speed, which could open the door for #3 Point of Honor (9-5) for George Weaver. The daughter of Curlin is unbeaten in two starts.

The Gulfstream Park Mile (G2) goes as race 4 and drew a field of six. Pennsylvania-bred #4 Prince Lucky (2-5) will be well backed over his five rivals, which include Ontario-breds #3 Be Gone Daddy (9-2) and #6 Guy Caballero (12-1). #1 Tale of Silence (7-2) won the grade 3 Westchester at Belmont Park last May, just two starts back.