At 3- 1, Zandon top choice for Kentucky Derby

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Since arriving at Churchill Downs on April 24, Zandon has been the subject of as much backside buzz as any Kentucky Derby contender. On Monday, he was made the favorite for Saturday’s Run for the Roses.

Mike Battaglia, who sets the morning line for Churchill Downs, established Zandon as the 3- 1 favorite for the 148th running of the Kentucky Derby.

Zandon enters off a victory in the Grade 1 Blue Grass on April 9 at Keeneland. His workout Friday at Churchill – 4 furlongs in 1: 00.40 – had trainer Chad Brown beaming. “He’s been so impressive just galloping these two weeks here. Everyone’s on it,” he said.

A full field of 20 was entered for the Kentucky Derby, which has a post time of 6: 57 p. m. ET Saturday. Rich Strike and Rattle N Roll are on the also- eligible list and could race if another horse scratches by 9 a. m. Friday.

Many thought Louisiana Derby winner Epicenter would garner favorite status, but the Steve Asmussen trainee was made the second choice at 7- 2.

Was Asmussen surprised? “I’ll be surprised if he gets beat,” Asmussen said. “The rest I have nothing to do with.”

Asmussen doesn’t expect the No. 3 post position to be an issue for Epicenter jockey Joel Rosario.

“Joel’s very confident in the rhythm of the horse,” Asmussen said. “If he’s away cleanly, Joel will let him be who he is and I think he’ll stay on beautifully. … I’ve always said about post positions: ‘ You don’t know to complain about them until after the race is run.’”

Brown said he was very pleased with the No. 10 post for Zandon. The son of Upstart figures to come from off the pace.