Everybody else at 5-2? Maybe not

The mutuel field, which translates to most three-year-olds walking the earth is the opening-line favorite in the first of three pools of Churchill Downs’ Kentucky Derby and Oaks future wagers, as has been the case every year since the bet was first offered in 1999. The trend is expected to continue in 2008. The pools open on Thursday.

Churchill Downs linemaker Mike Battaglia, who has made a few, cannot make a mistake in setting this opening line. There are no single-digit prices at this point. Most of the three-year-old on earth are the collective 5-2 favorite over 23 other interests. War Pass, Pyro and Court Vision are listed at 12-1. Taking this price on all three would not be a bad idea, though it is more likely that all will be at lower odds when the first pool closes on Sunday. One or more from this trio may very be among the favorites on Derby Day.

After all-ther three-year-old fillies walking the earth, Indian Blessing, heavily favored in for this weekend's Silverbulletday Stakes at Fair Grounds, and Country Star open at 8-1.Proud Spell and Pure Clan, are next at 12-1.


Aqueduct: Feb. 6 (six racing days and counting)

Race 1: Shelby's Memory