#17 Albus | 100 pts
Trainer: Riley Mott
Jockey: Jamie Torres
Last Race: Wood Memorial (G2) – 1st
Running Style: Closer
Albus is a late-running colt who thrives when pace develops in front of him, allowing him to settle early before unleashing a powerful closing kick. He delivered a breakout performance in the Wood Memorial, navigating traffic along the rail before angling out and surging past the field to win convincingly against a large, competitive group.
His ability to stay composed early and accelerate late makes him particularly dangerous in races where early fractions are contested. However, a slower Derby pace could present a challenge, as his best performances rely on setup.
Albus has shown steady improvement with each start, and his Wood Memorial victory suggests he’s peaking at the right time. If he gets the right pace scenario at Churchill Downs, he has the closing ability to factor late against the best of his class.
Why He’s Ranked #17
• Wood Memorial (G2) winner earning 100 points
• Strong late-closing kick in large fields
• Improving form with each start
• Dangerous if pace sets up for closers
Pedigree Analysis
Sire: Yaupon
Dam: Adream
Grandsire: Uncle Mo
Granddam: Modification
Other notable ancestors: Bernardini, A.P. Indy, Unbridled, Indian Charlie, Mr. Prospector, Seattle Slew
Albus’s pedigree blends speed and stamina influences, with Yaupon bringing speed and Uncle Mo adding class and versatility. Bernardini and A.P. Indy deepen the stamina profile, while influences like Unbridled and Seattle Slew contribute durability and classic-distance capability.
This mix suggests Albus has the foundation to handle longer distances, especially when allowed to settle and make one sustained run. His pedigree supports his closing style and gives him the tools to compete effectively over the Kentucky Derby distance if race conditions play to his strengths.
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