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| Sumita Pawar |
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Catalytic and Domestic Product also made their debut on the track.
As activity intensified at Churchill Downs, all eyes focused on the morning of April 23 as Fierceness, the anticipated favorite for the 4th May Gr.1 Kentucky Derby, made his inaugural circuit around the Louisville, Ky., oval.
It was a relaxed outing for the 2YO champion, effortlessly maneuvering around the track under regular exercise rider Danny Wright after promptly turning right out of the gap near the 5 1/2-furlong pole.
Trainer Todd Pletcher remarked, "He's incredibly composed, very efficient," noting Fierceness' ease in handling the morning's session.
Fresh off a commanding 13 1/2-length triumph in the Gr.1 Florida Derby on 30th March at Gulfstream Park, Fierceness has displayed significant growth from his 2YO campaign to his current 3YO season.
Pletcher, however, believes there's still room for improvement in the City of Light colt.
"I've witnessed his development throughout the winter and spring," Pletcher stated. "I sense he's still maturing physically, which is quite promising as it suggests there's more to come."
Accompanying Fierceness at 7:30 a.m. were his stablemates Leslie's Rose and Candied, contenders for the Gr.1 Kentucky Oaks. After their arrival from Keeneland the previous day, the fillies made their debut appearance on the track.
Pletcher commented, "All arrivals have transitioned smoothly and seem to be settling in well. The initial days at the track have been seamless."
Another notable entry, Candied, a finalist for an Eclipse Award last year, encountered a delayed start to her season and had a single outing to her name leading up to the Oaks. Despite finishing fourth in the Gr.1 Ashland Stakes at Keeneland on 5th April, she remains hopeful for a chance to compete, sitting 17th on the Oaks leaderboard.
"We're hopeful for her inclusion," expressed Pletcher. "She's had some tough post positions in her recent races and showed promise with a strong finish in the (Breeders' Cup) Juvenile Fillies. We're eager for the opportunity."
Additionally, Domestic Product, winner of the Gr.2 Tampa Bay Derby for Klaravich Stables, took his first strides on the Churchill dirt. Alongside fellow Chad Brown trainee Sierra Leone, both colts engaged in a steady mile and a half gallop.
Reflecting on Domestic Product's debut, Brown remarked, "He looked excellent during his first track session, moving smoothly."
Brown's fillies, Regulatory Risk and Ways and Means, also ventured onto the track for the first time, further amplifying anticipation for their upcoming engagements.