Sherman Thinks ‘Chrome’ Will Shine

At 77-years-old trainer Art Sherman will saddle the likely favorite in this year’s GI Kentucky Derby California Chrome (Lucky Pulpit). The Martin Perry and Steve Coburn homebred has won his last four races in eye catching style, making him undefeated this season. 
    “I know he was kind of green when he first started, but he is different now,” Sherman commented. “He just developed into a runner, you know what I mean? He goes out there and takes my breath away. The last four races he has won by over 25 lengths and I have never had a horse that did that before.” 
    The flashy chestnut was last seen running away with the GI Santa Anita Derby Apr. 5, where he registered a 5 1/4-length score. Based on the ease with which he handled the 1 1/8-mile distance of that test, Sherman does not feel the 1 1/4 distance of the Derby will be an issue. 
    “He is coming back in a month from going 1 1/8 miles and I really think this horse will run all day long,” Sherman remarked. “He has that kind of stride to him. I don’t 1 1/4 miles will be any trouble for him.” 
    California Chrome is one of the most experienced horses in the field with a total of 10 starts under his belt, which Sherman thinks will also aid him in the Derby. 
    “Of everything that I have read about horses winning the Derby, they all run 1 1/8 miles prior to running in the Derby,” the conditioner said. “I think that being seasoned and not having to do a whole lot of training coming into the Derby helps.” 
    Sherman is very happy with the way his charge is coming into the Derby and will work him once more at Los Alamitos this Saturday. 
    “I think he is coming into the Derby perfect, the way I would like him,” he said. “I got one more final work this Saturday and hope everything goes right. I just have to hold him together for a couple more weeks. When you read the paper about these horse going by the wayside I just kind of hold my breath.” 
    Sherman continued, “It is going to be an anxious time until I can ship him. He is leaving Monday the 28th to head to Kentucky and school. I am looking forward to that. I just hope he has a good trip. That is my main concern.” 
    The veteran conditioner feels good about California Chrome’s chances in the Run for the Roses, but remains modest and realistic. 
    “I have been in the game a long time,” Sherman said. “I have always been one of those kind of guys that if its meant to be, its meant to be. I just want my horse to have a good shake at it and have good racing luck. I am sure he will perform. He is a gutsy little horse.”