There are always a few horses that go unnoticed in the wild world of Kentucky Derby hopefuls until they make an impression when it counts most. That’s exactly what Final Gambit has done. Early on, some horses made the news, but this gray colt from Juddmonte’s esteemed breeding program steadily improved his record with every race. He has now earned a spot on the grandest stage of all thanks to a valiant triumph in the Jeff Ruby Steaks. But there are still unanswered questions. It’s a risky move for Final Gambit to race on Churchill Downs’ surface on Derby Day as it hasn’t yet done so. Although his rapid improvement, late-running manner, and pedigree indicate he deserves, the Kentucky Derby has a way of exposing hidden cracks. For trainer Brad Cox and rider Luan Machado, it’s a calculated gamble—and if Final Gambit keeps stepping forward, it could pay off in a big way.
Who is Final Gambit’s owner?
The famous green silks of Juddmonte Farms, one of the most prestigious names in thoroughbred racing globally, are used for Final Gambit’s races. The late Prince Khalid Abdullah founded Juddmonte, which has long been associated with greatness thanks to the production of renowned champions like Frankel, Enable, and Arrogate. Final Gambit is the latest in their legendary tradition of breeding and racing superior stock, which is unmatched. Final Gambit was bred and reared under Juddmonte’s watchful observation, in contrast to many Derby contenders who were purchased at auction. The consistency from foaling barn to racetrack frequently results in horses with a solid foundation, which will be put to the ultimate test at Churchill Downs. Juddmonte, who has already won numerous Breeders’ Cups, but still seeks consistent Derby success, Final Gambit represents both hope and high expectations.
Final Gambit is trained by whom? With good cause, Brad Cox has emerged as one of the most popular names in American horse racing in recent years. With a Kentucky Derby victory already on his CV (Mandaloun, 2021 via disqualification), the Louisville native has established a reputation for timing horses’ best performances. He may add Final Gambit to his increasing list of accomplishments. For a horse like Final Gambit, who required time to mature, Cox’s measured approach is ideal. Cox meticulously crafted a course that boosted the colt’s confidence without pushing him into deep waters too soon after his turf debut and a few synthetic starts. The Jeff Ruby Steaks was the payoff, as Final Gambit let loose a furious rally to grab the win. Now, with Cox’s strategic eye guiding the way, Final Gambit heads to the Derby as a true wild card.
Who is the jockey for Final Gambit?
Although he isn’t yet well-known, Luan Machado is rapidly gaining recognition in a competition full of well-known jockeys. During the Jeff Ruby Steaks victory, the Brazilian rider, who has established himself in the Midwest circuit, had impeccable timing and poise on board Final Gambit. Even though he was up against some of the biggest names in racing, that performance won him the mount for the Derby. It will be essential that Machado is accustomed to Final Gambit’s late-closing technique. Making snap decisions is necessary when navigating a 20-horse Derby field, particularly for a deep closer. If Final Gambit is to maneuver around weary horses down the Churchill stretch, Machado’s ability to be patient and time his move will be crucial. It’s a golden opportunity for both rider and horse to break onto the national scene.
How much money did Final Gambit make over his career?
Final Gambit has $520,639 in career earnings going into the Derby. Considering that he didn’t even record his first victory until February of this year, it’s a respectable figure. The Jeff Ruby Steaks victory, which carried a handsome $776,000 payout and, more significantly, 100 Kentucky Derby qualification points, was his breakthrough performance. Even though Final Gambit doesn’t have the biggest earnings in the industry, its potential is what makes connections exciting. His rising path indicates unrealized promise, as he went from a green two-year-old making a late rally on turf to a polished stakes winner in the spring. Aside from earnings, what makes him a danger in the Derby is the timing of his improvement—he’s peaking at the ideal moment for a horse to peak.
