Wood Memorial (G2) winner Albus the first Derby starter for Yaupon

Leading Second-Crop sire Yaupon will be represented by his first Kentucky Derby (G2) starter this Saturday when Wood Memorial (G2) winner Albus breaks from post 2 in the 152^nd Run for the Roses.

Albus is definitely a colt whose stock is on the rise. He started twice at 2 last fall, then had a brief break before returning to the races with a 6 ¾-length maiden win at Tampa Bay Downs in late February. In the Wood, Albus showed he was able to race from off the pace, making up some 10 lengths in the final half-mile to secure his Derby spot.

Since arriving at Churchill Downs, Albus has breezed twice, most recently on April 26^th, going four furlongs in :49 flat.

“They both looked happy and had their ears pricked,” trainer Riley Mott, who also trains the Bolt d’Oro colt Incredibolt for the Derby, said of the works. “They traveled well. Finished strong and galloped out well. They are two different horses and this was a typical work for them.”

Albus is owned by Pin Oak Stud and sold for $320,000 at the 2024 Keeneland September sale. The dark bay colt was bred in Kentucky by Susan Casner.

In the Derby, Albus will be ridden by Manny Franco.

The Derby will be run at 6:57 pm ET and can be seen on the NBC family of networks.