Went The Day Well
Kentucky Derby
Contender Profile
5/5/12
(Starts: 5 Win: 2 Place: 2 Show: 0 Earnings: $315,344)
Trainer: Graham Motion (19.2%)
Jockey: John Velazquez (18%)
THE CONNECTIONS: Team Valor, Graham Motion and John Velazquez hooked up to win the 2011 Kentucky Derby with Animal Kingdom at odds of 20-1. They are in a very similar situation this year. The fact that they won this race just a year ago speaks volumes about their collective ability. Velazquez is a top five rider in the nation and Graham Motion is as good as any trainer out there. If there is one horse you don’t have to worry about when it comes to connections, it’s Went The Day Well.
THE PEDIGREE: Went The Day Well is a son of Kentucky Derby runner up Proud Citizen. The sire was also third in the Preakness. Proud Citizen has produced top runners like Kentucky Oaks winner Proud Spell. His progeny can get route distances, but he produces all types. The dam sire, Tiznow, was a two time Breeders’ Cup Classic winner that passes on tons of heart and tons of stamina as well. Based on his races and pedigree this horse will have no problems going the Derby distance.
THE HORSE: Went The Day Well enters this race on a two race win streak after taking a maiden race at Gulfstream and the Grade 3 Spiral Stakes at Turfway Park. He was very impressive in that Poly Track event, drawing away to an easy 3 ½ length score. He likes to run late and that could set things up well for him. Blinkers will be going on for the first time and he has trained much better with them. If he improves then he is one of the best horses in this race and a very live long shot contender.
CONCLUSION: This son of Proud Citizen is more than good enough to win the Kentucky Derby. Velazquez will have to work out a good trip and hope for the best. A surprise upset could make for huge exotic payouts with a very reasonable bomber in the winner’s circle.
PEDIGREE GRADE: B+
OVERALL GRADE: B+
FAIR ODDS: 15-1