HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (AP) — Bodemeister pulled away for a convincing 912-length victory in the $1 million Arkansas Derby on Saturday at Oaklawn Park.
Bodemeister broke wide coming out of the gate, but quickly took the lead and never relinquished it, in the 76th running of the race, which is a major prep for the Kentucky Derby in May.
The finish was a spectacular outcome for trainer Bob Baffert, who named the winner after his son, Bode. Baffert also trains Secret Circle, who finished a distant second in the field of 11 3-year olds.
The winner, with Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith aboard, paid $6.80, $4.60 and $3.60. Secret Circle, ridden by Rafael Bejarano paid $4 and $3. Sabercat ran third, paying $4.80, with Corey Nakatani aboard.
