In the exhilarating world of horse racing, a young contender named Built has captured attention as one of twenty hopefuls aiming for glory in the 2025 Kentucky Derby. This prestigious event will take place on May 3 at Churchill Downs. The journey to this iconic race involves earning points through various preparatory races, and Built’s performance thus far has positioned him as a potential contender.
Details Surrounding Built's Journey to the Kentucky Derby
In the vibrant atmosphere of spring, amidst the anticipation leading up to the Kentucky Derby, Built stands out as an intriguing participant. Trained by Wayne Catalano, who previously achieved a fifth-place finish in the Derby with Crypto Star back in 1997, Built is owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, led by Aron Wellman. The horse, bred in Kentucky, descends from a lineage that includes Hard Spun and Curlin, both having notable histories in the Kentucky Derby themselves.
Built's racing career began promisingly last October when he broke his maiden at Keeneland. Subsequently, he participated in a series of important prep races at Fair Grounds, achieving varying results: a victory in the Gun Runner, a second place in the Lecomte, third in the Risen Star, and most recently, a fifth-place finish in the Grade 2 Louisiana Derby on March 22. These performances have earned him 45 points, placing him 18th on the leaderboard for the Kentucky Derby.
However, despite these accomplishments, Wellman remains undecided about entering Built into the Kentucky Derby. An alternative option exists in the form of the Pat Day Mile on the same day, offering another path for Built's competitive future.
The post-position draw is scheduled for April 26, while the race itself is set to commence at 6:57 p.m. on May 3. Fans can look forward to watching the event streamed via platforms like Fubo and Peacock, ensuring widespread accessibility.
With NBC Sports partnering with Churchill Downs until 2032, coverage of the Kentucky Derby and associated events will continue to be comprehensive across multiple channels.
From a journalistic perspective, the story of Built encapsulates the essence of perseverance and strategic decision-making inherent in horse racing. It highlights how even seasoned participants must weigh risks against opportunities, reflecting broader life lessons about timing and commitment. Whether Built ultimately participates in the Kentucky Derby or not, his journey underscores the complexities and excitement of preparing for such monumental sporting occasions.
