A thrilling showdown took place on the road to the Kentucky Derby, and it's a tale that will leave you on the edge of your seat! The battle between Class President and Silent Tactic in the Rebel Stakes was an epic display of determination and skill.
On March 1st, Oaklawn Park witnessed an intense final furlong fight as Class President, making his first attempt at a two-turn race, bravely faced off against the Southwest Stakes winner, Silent Tactic. Despite a late bump, Class President refused to yield, securing a narrow victory in the $1 million Rebel Stakes.
Jockey John Velazquez, a Hall of Fame rider, expressed his pride in Class President's performance. "It was his first time going two turns, and he showed incredible heart," Velazquez said. "When Silent Tactic challenged, Class President came right back at him."
But here's where it gets controversial... The top two finishers, Class President and Silent Tactic, had an ideal trip into the first turn, unlike most of their competitors. Velazquez, breaking from the inside, followed the rail-breaking Litmus Test into the clubhouse turn, while Silent Tactic, starting slower, avoided early traffic and tucked in on the rail. As the race progressed, Velazquez turned up the heat, taking the lead by the quarter pole, and from there, it was a breathtaking display of speed and strategy.
"I wanted to save my best for the end, and it paid off," Velazquez added.
Class President's tenacity was on full display as he responded to Silent Tactic's challenge with determination. They completed the 1 1/16 miles in an impressive time of 1:43.21, with Class President paying $19.00 to win. Litmus Test finished third, clearly the best of the rest, while Blackout Time and Soldier N Diplomat rounded out the top five.
The Rebel Stakes victory was a significant milestone for Class President, elevating his chances for the Kentucky Derby on May 2nd at Churchill Downs. Class President earned 50 qualifying points, and Silent Tactic's second-place finish added 25 points to his total, putting him in a tie with Class President based on non-restricted stakes earnings. Silent Tactic currently holds the tie-breaker and ranks second overall on the Derby Leaderboard.
Now, here's an interesting twist: Class President's journey to the Rebel Stakes began with a strategic decision by his trainer, Todd Pletcher. Initially, Pletcher had planned to race him over a one-turn mile at Gulfstream Park, but after the targeted race failed to attract enough entries, they decided to cut back the distance. It was a move aimed at maintaining the horse's rhythm and timing rather than a lack of confidence in his ability to go the distance.
"We wanted to ensure the right number of starts and race timings," explained Elliott Walden, president, and CEO of WinStar Farm. "We always believed he could handle the distance, and he proved us right."
Class President's first start away from Gulfstream Park, a journey to Arkansas, showcased his adaptability and the expertise of his trainer. Walden praised Pletcher's role, saying, "Todd has been an incredible asset to us for many years. This victory is another testament to his Hall of Fame status."
Class President, a son of the legendary sire Uncle Mo, is out of the talented mare Top Quality, a multiple stakes winner and grade 3 placer. WinStar purchased Top Quality for $335,000 at the 2019 Keeneland January Horses of All Ages Sale, and Class President's career earnings now stand at $593,700.
So, what do you think? Will Class President's victory in the Rebel Stakes be a stepping stone to Derby glory? Or will Silent Tactic's consistent performance earn him the top spot? Let's discuss in the comments and share your predictions for these talented horses!
