The 2025 Kentucky Derby is shaping up to be an exciting race, with a competitive field of contenders aiming for victory. Among the hopefuls, several horses are standing out due to strong performances in key prep races, and many have posted impressive Beyer Speed Figures, which gauge a horse’s performance over time. Here’s an overview of some of the top prospects, their trainers, and recent Beyer figures:
Sierra Leone – Trained by Todd Pletcher, Sierra Leone has consistently impressed, emerging as a favorite in early betting with odds of 3-1. Known for his speed and endurance, Sierra Leone has posted Beyer Speed Figures that reinforce his place as a top contender in the Derby lineup. Pletcher’s guidance is expected to prepare him well for the mile-and-a-quarter distance
Mystik Dan – Mystik Dan, trained by Brad Cox, is another strong contender, with notable wins in preliminary races. Known for a powerful close in the stretch, he has a Beyer Speed Figure that marks him as a possible dark horse in the Derby, even with higher odds of 20-1. Mystik Dan’s performance will be one to watch, especially given Cox’s history of success in Triple Crown races
Dornoch – Trained by Chad Brown, Dornoch has shown consistent improvement and adaptability across various tracks, with Beyer figures indicating steady progress. Brown, a highly respected trainer with a reputation for conditioning top turf horses, has been working on Dornoch’s speed on dirt in preparation for the Derby, where he’s entering with favorable odds of 20-1
Catching Freedom– Phil D’Amato’s Catching Freedom is among the faster horses, with a Beyer that has caught the attention of bettors and analysts. His recent performances in preparatory stakes races, where he’s demonstrated both speed and stamina, have placed him among the top contenders with 8-1 odds
Fierceness – Trained by Kenny McPeek and among the early favorites, Fierceness has a Beyer Speed Figure that reflects his speed and agility, especially over long distances. With odds currently at 5-2, Fierceness’s recent wins and McPeek’s training expertise make him a prime candidate for a strong finish in the Derby
Just a Touch – Under Danny Gargan’s training, Just a Touch has maintained steady form, with a solid Beyer figure that makes him a 10-1 contender. Gargan’s approach to Just a Touch has focused on developing his endurance, which could prove essential over the Derby’s demanding distance
T O Password (JPN) – This Japanese import, trained by Steve Asmussen, has odds of 30-1 but brings international experience and a strong Beyer figure from his performances overseas. His potential as a longshot may surprise fans as he faces American competition on the Churchill Downs track
Track Phantom – Trained by D. Wayne Lukas, Track Phantom is another noteworthy entry with 20-1 odds. Lukas’s experience with Derby horses is legendary, and his guidance could bring out the best in Track Phantom, whose Beyer Speed Figures show potential
Honor Marie – With Michael McCarthy as the trainer, Honor Marie rounds out the field with respectable odds of 20-1. His consistent Beyer figures signal readiness for a competitive performance, as McCarthy’s methods often yield results in high-stakes environments.
These horses, with experienced trainers and strong Beyer figures, represent a field that is both talented and unpredictable. The Road to the Kentucky Derby races, including the Florida Derby, Wood Memorial, and Blue Grass Stakes, will continue to shape the lineup and test these contenders’ endurance and speed. The Derby’s outcome is as unpredictable as ever, promising an exhilarating start to the 2025 Triple Crown season.
Be sure to follow the Horse Guy right here as we follow all of the races that will impact the field for the 2025 Kentucky Derby. Next up is the Kentucky Jockey Club race at the end of November.
