Nyquist Posts Penultimate Derby Workout at Keeneland

Coady Photography/Keeneland Photo

The unbeaten Kentucky Derby (gr. I) favorite Nyquist turned in his penultimate pre-Derby workout on April 23rd at Keeneland, going five furlongs in a solid 1:01.80.

With trainer Doug O’Neill overseeing the exercise, which was originally scheduled for April 22nd but delayed because of rain, Nyquist worked in company with the Hopeful Stakes (gr. I) winner Ralis and posted fractions of :12 flat, :23.80, and :35.80 before galloping out six furlongs in 1:18 flat. Nyquist started the work about a half-length behind Ralis, but edged his workmate by just under a length at the finish line.

A son of Uncle Mo owned by Reddam Racing, Nyquist was the champion two-year-old male of 2015 after going undefeated in five starts, including three grade I wins culminating with the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (gr. I). He is 2-for-2 this year, having beaten future Santa Anita Derby (gr. I) winner Exaggerator in the San Vicente Stakes (gr. II) before conquering the previously unbeaten Mohaymen in a thrilling renewal of the Florida Derby (gr. I).

Nyquist’s final pre-Derby workout is expected to come one week from now.

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