Last Derby Work for International Star

Ken and Sarah Ramsey’s GII Louisiana Derby hero International Star (Fusaichi Pegasus) was one of 10 GI Kentucky Derby contenders putting in a final breeze before the May 2 Run of the Roses Saturday morning. The Derby points leader worked a half-mile in :50.80 under regular jockey Miguel Mena at the Churchill Downs training center. 

Working in company with 4-year-old filly Nominative (Johar), the bay was clocked in splits of :13, :25.20 and :37.60 with a five-furlong gallop-out in 1:06.20. 

“We were out trying to beat the rain,” Maker said of the 6 a.m. move. “It was a simple maintenance work and everything went well. He was well within himself. He’s fit by now. We’re not going to do anything in the last seven days that might put him ‘over the top.’ We’re ready to go.” 

Owner Ken Ramsey was not present for the work, but was in regular contact with Maker. 

“The time doesn’t sound spectacular, but Mike was pleased and if he’s pleased then I’m pleased,” Ramsey said. “I leave the training up to him.” 

Following his work, International Star spent some time in a hydrotherapy spa that Ramsey had installed at Trackside for his top sophomore. 

“He had it in Florida and loved it,” Ramsey said. “When he first got to Trackside, after a few days Mike said he was doing fine but he was missing his cold water spa. So I said, ‘Well, good grief, we have to get one up there!’ It took a week to get permission to put one in but we got his spa and last I heard this morning he was in it and enjoying it. I’m doing all I can to win that Derby!” 

International Star will van to Churchill Downs Monday or Tuesday.