HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (AP) - Tapiture has been designated the early favorite in the $1 million Arkansas Derby and will break from the third post position.
The Southwest Stakes winner was named a 9-5 favorite for Saturday’s race at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs. Bayern is 2-1 and Strong Mandate had odds of 9-2 Wednesday. Danza will break from the rail Saturday.
Joel Rosario will be aboard Tapiture in the Kentucky Derby prep race.
In order from the rail out, horses set to run Saturday include Danza, Knock Em Flat, Tapiture, Ride On Curlin, Thundergram, Commissioner, Conquest Titan, Bayern and Strong Mandate.
The winner from the nine-horse field will pick up 100 points for the Road to the Kentucky Derby, increasing the chance of a spot in the May 3 race in Louisville, Ky.
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