Materiality earns way on to the 'Road to the Kentucky Derby'

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Louisville, KY (SportsNetwork.com) - Materiality, trained by Todd Pletcher, came off the sidelines last Saturday to win the Florida Derby and find a place in the "Road to the Kentucky Derby" points system.

Materiality, making just his third career start, defeated the favored Upstart at Gulfstream Park and earn 100 points for a spot in the 141st Kentucky Derby on May 2.

"It was a very determined effort," Pletcher said. "He showed his tenacity. I thought it was very impressive for him to be able to do that in his third start.

"I think he's certainly earned his way (to the Kentucky Derby). Five weeks should be beneficial since we ran back in 22 days (in the Florida Derby), but it's also a long time, so hopefully he continues to do well."

Owned by Alto Racing, Materiality is tied with UAE Derby winner Mubtaahij for second-place in the standings with 100 points.

"I was just behind the leaders and the pace was good, so I followed it into the straight," said Christophe Soumillon, jockey of Mubtaahij. "I was going very easily and as soon as I pressed the button it was all over. In the end, I kept some energy for the future, especially if he goes to the Kentucky Derby."

International Star, trained by Mike Maker, took over first-place in the standings after winning Saturday's Louisiana Derby at Fair Grounds. The victory was worth 100 points to give Ken and Sarah Ramsey's colt 171 points.

"That's back to back wins for us here in the Louisiana Derby and we swept all three this year," Ken Ramsey said. "Next stop: Kentucky!"

Upstart's runner-up finish in the Florida Derby was worth 40 points to give him a total of 76 and fourth-place place in the rankings. The top 10 is rounded out by El Kabeir (75), Dortmund (70), Carpe Diem (64), American Pharoah (60), Itsaknockout (60) and Firing Line (58).

This Saturday's three major stakes, each with 100 points available to the winner, are the Wood Memorial at Aqueduct, Blue Grass at Keeneland and Santa Anita Derby.