New Mexico's trainer Chip Woolley brought his first Kentucky Derby starter to the 135th running of Roses. Driving 21 hours from New Mexico, with his trainer Woolley nursing a broken leg from a winter motorcycle accident, this colt was far from a favorite in this year's race.At 50-1 odds, Mine That Bird was clearly an underdog. An inexpensive find who originally sold for only $9500 at the 2007 Fasig-Tipton October Yearling Sale, Mine That Bird more than earned his keep today with a stunning upset today at Churchill Downs -- the 2nd biggest upset in the history of the Kentucky Derby. He finished the 1 1/4 mile in 2:02 3/5 on a wet and sloppy track.
Ridden by experienced Louisiana jockey, Calvin Borel -- winner of the 2007 Kentucky Derby aboard Street Sense -- Mine That Bird came from more than 15 lengths back, finding an opening on the rail and pulling ahead in a striking and unapproachable lead to win by 6 3/4 lengths. And just yesterday, Calvin Borel won the Kentucky Oaks aboard filly Rachel Alexander, said by many to be capable to beating the boys -- perhaps even Mine That Bird.
Not even 3 years old until May 10, Mine That Bird is co-owned by Mark Allen and Dr. Leonard Blach through their partnership in the Double Eagle Ranch in Roswell, New Mexico. While Dr. Blach said he was confident all along their horse would win, Mark Allen was nearly speechless with surprise. He had merely hoped to "light up the board'. Well, Mine That Bird certainly lit up the board tonight.
For a brief history of the Kentucky Derby, check out my earlier article. And tune in here tomorrow where the Sunday photo feature will feature the best shots from today's amazing race.
Ridden by experienced Louisiana jockey, Calvin Borel -- winner of the 2007 Kentucky Derby aboard Street Sense -- Mine That Bird came from more than 15 lengths back, finding an opening on the rail and pulling ahead in a striking and unapproachable lead to win by 6 3/4 lengths. And just yesterday, Calvin Borel won the Kentucky Oaks aboard filly Rachel Alexander, said by many to be capable to beating the boys -- perhaps even Mine That Bird.
Not even 3 years old until May 10, Mine That Bird is co-owned by Mark Allen and Dr. Leonard Blach through their partnership in the Double Eagle Ranch in Roswell, New Mexico. While Dr. Blach said he was confident all along their horse would win, Mark Allen was nearly speechless with surprise. He had merely hoped to "light up the board'. Well, Mine That Bird certainly lit up the board tonight.
For a brief history of the Kentucky Derby, check out my earlier article. And tune in here tomorrow where the Sunday photo feature will feature the best shots from today's amazing race.
Great Race, and completely un-expected. Congratualtions to Mine that Bird, Calvin Borel, Chip Woolley, Mark Allen and Leonard Blach.
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