By Steve Sherack
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Even with unbeaten champion Nyquist (Uncle Mo) heading out to the track earlier in the morning than usual to tour the paddock and visit the starting gate, there was still plenty to digest during the special 15-minute window reserved for GI Kentucky Derby/Oaks horses on a chilly Wednesday morning at Churchill Downs.
Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, sporting an American Pharoah Triple Crown jacket, watched from the gap alongside his wife Jill and Hill 'n' Dale Farm's John Sikura as Mor Spirit (Eskendereya) was out to gallop.
Trainer Dallas Stewart stayed warm with a winter hat and a pair of New Orleans Saints black gloves while watching the blinkered Tom's Ready (More Than Ready) train Wednesday.
Owner Mike Repole and his team, including Eddie Rosen and Jim Martin, took in the action with a camera crew present as the well-put together homebred Outwork (Uncle Mo) continues to receive good reviews for his morning preparations. New York native Repole stopped to catch up with WinStar Farm's Elliott Walden on his way exiting the area. Walden was another who had good reason to smile as it was another impressive trip to the track for the handsome Creator (Tapit).
Trainer Steve Asmussen seemed in good spirits while watching from his pony as the GI Arkansas Derby hero and Gun Runner (Candy Ride {Arg}) returned to the track for the first time since working Monday.
Sol Kumin, co-owner of Derby runners Exaggerator (Curlin) and My Man Sam (Trappe Shot), made his presence felt while making the rounds on the backstretch.
Jay Bligh, breeder and co-owner of the aforementioned GI Blue Grass S. runner-up, enjoyed a cigar back at the Chad Brown barn while chatting with advisor Steve Young. Bligh noted to keep an eye out for My Man Sam's 2-year-old half brother by War Front.
It was a busy second morning in Louisville for the speedy California invader Danzing Candy (Twirling Candy), who galloped, visited the starting gate and walked through the paddock.
Starlight Racing's Jack Wolf and West Point's Terry Finley were some other familiar faces spotted on the backstretch as the crowds continue to grow each morning as the big day approaches.
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