Kentucky Derby 2023 Prep Race – Sam F Davis

Overview: A field of twelve is among the entries for the Sam F Davis at Tampa Bay Downs. Remsen Stakes winner Dubyuhnell makes his first start of 2023, and Nashua winner Champions Dream is looking for Kentucky Derby points. Prairie Hawk goes for Saffie Joseph.

Sam F Davis Analysis: 

Champions Dream needs a solid pace to run his best race, and he should get that with the additional speed entered in this spot. He is more of a grinder but should get a favorable pace set-up.

Dubyuhnell ran a fast race in the Remsen Stakes. His maiden win was a come-from-behind win in the slop. He is a robust horse and has tactical speed. He is the logical favorite but will have to earn the victory with a strong group of contenders.

Prairie Hawk has the benefit of two straight wins at Tampa Bay and fired a solid workout to remain fit earlier this week. The price will be 6/1, which fits on speed figures and is in short form.

Litigate was in a vital allowance race last time at Gulfstream Park and ran the widest into a hot pace going into the turn, and he drew an outside post, so he will have to tuck in after the first turn. He should be running late.

Classic Car Wash is another improving three-year-old with back-to-back wins and has speed and an inside draw. He should be able to secure an early position, and his recent form puts him in the mix turning for home. If he can clear this field, he could take them a long way.

Betting: Dubyuhnell will be the post-time favorite based on speed ratings and two-year-old form. My choice is Litigate, and the odds should be 5/1. Prairie Hawk is another to consider at 6/1, an inside draw and enough speed to be close to the pace.