The 141st run for the roses is takes place this Saturday at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The Kentucky Derby official start time is 6:24 pm ET. There are several Longshots in the event, including Mr. Z, who has been installed as 50/1 Odds to win the Derby.
Mr. Z's Record: 1-4-4 in 12 Races. Trainer: D. Wayne Lukas. Jockey: Ramon Vazquez. Sire: Malibu Moon. Dam: Stormy Bear. Best Beyer Speed: 91
Mr Z has drawn the 17th slot in the gate. He is trained by D.Wayne Lukas, who has compiled 4726 wins in his career, including 6 this year. Lukas was inducted into the racing Hall of Fame in 1999 and he has won 4 Eclipse Awards for most outstanding trainer, with the last one coming in 1994. D. Wayne is a four-time Kentucky Derby winner and MR. Z will be his record 48th Derby starter and his is the all-time leading money winner and the first to reach the $200 million plateau. He also has a record 14 overall winners of Triple Crown races.
Mr. Z will be ridden by Ramon Vazquez, who has compiled 1995 wins in his career, including 55 this year. Despite all the wins and the fact that he has ranked in the top 100 in wins 9 times since 2002 he has yet to have a top 3 finish in any Triple Crown race. He made the move to the United States in 2011 and started his career at Delaware Park. His neighbor growing up was Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez, who he considers his biggest mentor.
Mr. Z started out with a win in his first race, but has failed to get a win in his next 11. Pretty much an 11 race losing streak. Not much momentum heading into this race. Lukas has won many big races in his career, but his is just way overmatched in this one. Just really no shot here for this horse.
INFO TAKEN FROM KENTUCKYDERBY.COM AND BLEACHER REPORT
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