126th Kentucky Derby

By Compiled by BRANT JAMES

© St. Petersburg Times, published April 30, 2000

WHEN/WHERE: Post time is 5:27 p.m. Saturday; Churchill Downs, Louisville, Ky.

TV: Ch. 28; coverage begins at 4:30 p.m.THE FIELD: A maximum of 20, based on graded earnings. Supplemental candidates are packing in to fill vacated spots, so expect a cavalry charge.

TOP STORYLINE: If The Deputy does the job, Jenine Sahadi will become the first woman to win the Derby. Sahadi says she still does not get respect from many of her male counterparts. That was evidenced by trainer Bob Baffert's snide remarks before the Santa Anita Derby, when he asked Chris McCarron, The Deputy's jockey, if he actually was training the colt.

ALMOST-TOP STORYLINE: Neil Drysdale, who has never won the Derby, brings in the top contender, Fusaichi Pegasus, a $4-million yearling purchase who has already thumped the best from the East -- and the West.

TOP CONTENDERS: Fusaichi Pegasus, The Deputy, High Yield, War Chant, Captain Steve, Anees.

DARK HORSE: Haven't heard Baffert's name much this go-around, but he brings in Captain Steve, who has shown an affinity for the Churchill Downs surface, posting great times in workouts.

BY THE NUMBERS: 20, likely starters (think Circus Maximus scene in Ben Hur). 1979, the most recent year a favorite won (Spectacular Bid). Fusaichi Pegasus is the likely favorite. 1.00/0.25, the best dosage/center of distribution figures (formulas that estimate speed/distance potential based on breeding) in the field, belonging to The Deputy. Don't ask.

AREA CONNECTIONS: Menifee finished second in the 1999 Tampa Bay Derby, then followed suit in the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. The top two finishers in the Tampa Bay Derby this year (Wheelaway and Impeachment) will run Saturday.

SIMULCAST OUTLETS: Tampa Bay Downs will simulcast the Derby and offer wagering on the entire Churchill card Saturday. Gates open at 10:30 a.m. First post is noon. The local card includes 12 races. Advance wagering on the Derby will be available Friday.

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