New prep schedule unveiled for Kentucky Derby qualifying
LOUISVILLE, KY. (AP) » Churchill Downs on Tuesday released a preliminary list of races that could be used as an extension of the Road to the Kentucky Derby prep schedule, pending agreement by the host tracks.
The 146th Derby was rescheduled for Sept. 5 from its traditional spot on the first
Saturday in May because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Preakness and Belmont — the other legs of the Triple Crown — have yet to be rescheduled. If they are run before the Derby, points to the top four finishers would be worth 150-60-30-15.
The lone prep race in May will be the $150,000 Matt
Winn on May 23 at Churchill Downs. The top four finishers will receive points of 50-2010-5. That’s an increase from the previously announced points of 10-4-2-1.
Other preps have been added on a regional basis, and once the New York Racing Association finalizes its stakes
schedule, more preps could be added to the series. The point values for each race will be subject to readjustment based on their proximity to all Triple Crown races.
“We’re in the midst of an unprecedented year, and this year’s Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown will be one of the most memorable of our lifetimes,” said Mike Ziegler, executive director of racing for Churchill Downs Inc. “This will continue to evolve, including date placement, as host tracks firm up their plans.” The schedule is: — East: Haskell (100-4020-10) and Pegasus (20-84-2) at Monmouth Park in New Jersey
— Midwest: Matt Winn (50-20-10-5); Indiana Derby (20-8-4-2); Blue Grass (100-40-20-10); and Ellis Park Derby (50-2010-5)
— West: Santa Anita Derby (100-40-20-10); Los Alamitos Derby (20-8-4-2); and Shared Belief (50-2010-5) at Del Mar
Adjustments will be made to the Road to the Derby for Europe and Japan in the coming weeks.