Expert prediction
Horse Racing Picks: Gun Runner Stakes Prediction, Preview, and Odds (Dec 23)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- Kentucky Derby prep action takes place at Fair Grounds on December 23
- Epicenter landed victory in the race as a two-year-old
Key prep action for the 2024 Kentucky Derby is staged at Fair Grounds this weekend, as the Gun Runner Stakes is run. It could offer early clues for the race at Churchill Downs in May, with Epicenter winning this race in 2021 before finishing second in the Derby.
Schedule and How To Watch
- When: Saturday, December 23, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. ET
- Where: Fair Grounds, Louisiana
- How To Watch: FanDuel TV
Gun Runner Stakes Odds
| Horse | Odds |
|---|---|
| Nash | -150 |
| Track Phantom | +350 |
| Risk It | +700 |
| Catching Freedom | +900 |
| Snead | +900 |
| Next Level | +1400 |
| Neat | +1600 |
| Footprint | +5000 |
Latest Gun Runner Stakes odds are taken from an offshore sportsbook.
Race Preview
The Gun Runner Stakes is one of the newest races added to the Kentucky Derby prep schedule. However, it has already been significant in terms of finding a potential superstar, evident from Epicenterās victory in the race in 2021. A number of eye-catching two-year-old runners will be involved this weekend, and it promises to be a thrilling race in prospect.
Nash for Brad Cox is the dominant horse in the betting at this stage, as the two-year-old was incredibly impressive on his previous start at Churchill Downs. He cleared away from the field in impressive style on that outing, reaching a speed rating of 104. A repeat effort is extremely likely over the 1 1/16 mile distance this weekend. That form makes him challenging to oppose for leading connections.
READ More: Anthony Joshua vs Otto Wallin Prediction, Preview, and Odds (Dec 23)
Steven Asmussen sends two runners to Fair Grounds this weekend, as the trainer chases a second victory in the race. His most likely contender based on the odds comes in the form of Track Phantom. The two-year-old has won once from three career starts, but he was very impressive on his latest outing when landing a maiden special weight at Churchill Downs with a 97-speed figure.
Catching Freedom could be an interesting selection of exotics players this weekend, as the Brad Cox runner was impressive on his first racecourse start at Churchill Downs in October. However, a return to form will be needed this weekend after he was fourth on his previous effort at the same track.
Gun Runner Stakes Prediction
Nash appears to be the most likely winner of the race this weekend, as he looks incredibly progressive for trainer Brad Cox. His experience over this distance, coupled with the fact that he boasts the best rating, makes him the obvious play.
Free Pick:
- Win:
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