Mendelssohn has been on my short list of Kentucky Derby contenders since his win in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf last year. When I saw he was being pointed for the Kentucky Derby since that race I took notice.
Being by Scat Daddy didn’t hurt his chances on dirt. Neither did his connections who have had their eye on the Kentucky Derby a long time. Mendelssohn might just be the horse to bring it home for the Coolmore connections and Aidan O’Brien and also become the first Kentucky Derby winner to come via the UAE Derby.
He was ultra impressive on Saturday in Dubai despite his riding a speed bias and a great inside track to victory. While he did not beat a whole lot, and track records were up for grabs Saturday he did it easily and I doubt he was at full steam. He will also add Lasix for the Kentucky Derby which can move him up.
He’s a top 5 contender. He may justify his cool 3 mil price tag. No puns intended.
