Get ready for an exciting tale of speed and strategy! Paladin's late surge left Chip Honcho in the dust, securing a crucial victory in the Fasig-Tipton Risen Star. But here's where it gets controversial...
Paladin, a Gun Runner colt, had to dig deep in the stretch, but his relentless charge paid off, earning him a half-length win over Chip Honcho in the GII Fasig-Tipton Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds. Golden Tempo, the last-to-first winner of the GIII Lecomte Stakes, finished third.
Making his sophomore debut, Paladin, who previously defeated Renegade in the GII Remsen Stakes, showed his class by racing in fourth during the opening quarter. Hung out wide, he tracked Chip Honcho's pace, and as they turned for home, Paladin's rider, Tyler Gaffalione, urged him on. Chip Honcho fought bravely, but Paladin's persistence paid dividends, earning him 50 crucial points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby.
Gaffalione expressed his gratitude, saying, "He fought hard today, and the more I asked, the more he delivered."
The $1.9 million Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale graduate is owned by a partnership that includes Mrs. John Magnier, Michael Tabor, and Coolmore's Derrick Smith. Interestingly, this team also campaigned Gun Runner's talented son, Sierra Leone, who won this race in 2024.
Paladin's journey began with a disqualification win over Renegade at Aqueduct, and he's now steered by Gaffalione, who was previously ridden by Flavien Prat.
Brook Smith, one of the owners, praised Paladin's performance, saying, "He showed his talent today. We're hoping for a return to Kentucky in April and then the Derby in May."
Paladin's pedigree is impressive, being a son of Gun Runner and out of Tapit's daughter, Secret Sigh. Tapit also sired Hit Show and Bella Ballerina, who won the GIII Mineshaft Stakes and the GII Fasig-Tipton Rachel Alexandra Stakes, respectively, on the same card.
So, what do you think? Is Paladin a true contender for the Kentucky Derby? Will his late-running style be his strength or weakness? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss the future of this exciting colt!
