January 14, 2025
Trail to Kentucky Derby 2023 at Churchill Downs: Weekend’s prep races
Trail to Kentucky Derby 2023 at Churchill Downs: Weekend’s prep races

Louisville trainer Brad Cox already has one probable starter for the upcoming Kentucky Derby with Risen Star winner Angel of Empire and will look to strengthen his hand Saturday in the $1 million, Grade 2 Louisiana Derby.

Cox has three contenders entered in the race scheduled for 6:42 p.m. at Fair Grounds in New Orleans. The Louisiana Derby offers 200 qualifying points toward the May 6 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs — 100 for first place, 40 for second place, 30 for third place, 20 for fourth place and 10 for fifth place.

Leading Cox’s contingent Saturday will be 2-1 morning-line favorite Instant Coffee. The son of Bolt d’Oro enters off a 2 ½-length score in the Grade 3 Lecomte on Jan. 21 at Fair Grounds.