Champion Forte Handed 3-1 Favoritism in Kentucky Derby

Champion 2-year-old Forte  was awarded 3-1 favoritism for the 149th running of the $3 million Kentucky Derby (G1) May 6 at Churchill Downs. The Repole Stables' runner, who has won six of seven career starts, rides a five-race win streak into the 1 1/4-mile Run for the Roses. Trained by Todd Pletcher, the son of Violence   most recently was victorious in the April 1 Florida Derby (G1) at Gulfstream Park.

Post Positions for the Kentucky Derby pic.twitter.com/leSFQnnPsE

— Kentucky Derby (@KentuckyDerby) May 1, 2023

Breaking from the 15 post, Forte will be piloted by regular rider Irad Ortiz Jr. in the Derby. The win would be the third victory in the classic for Pletcher following wins by Super Saver   in 2010 and Always Dreaming   in 2017. Pletcher will also saddle Blue Grass Stakes (G1) winner Tapit Trice  (post 5), the second choice on the odds board at 5-1 and undefeated Louisiana Derby (G2) hero Kingsbarns  (post 6, 12-1 odds).

The third choice at 8-1 is Arkansas Derby (G1) victor Angel of Empire  (post 14), who is one of four entries for trainer Brad Cox. His other contenders are Verifying  (post 2, 15-1 odds), Hit Show  (post 1, 30-1 odds), and expected pacesetter Jace's Road  (post 12, 15-1 odds).

The Japanese-trained duo of Derma Sotogake  (10-1 odds) and Continuar  (50-1 odds) drew outside posts at 17 and 20, respectively.

This story will be updated.