Encino, Also-Eligible Mugatu Only Early Derby Scratches
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Photo: Coady Photography
The field breaks from the gate in the 2023 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs
At long last, the field for the 150th Kentucky Derby (G1) is set after the Kentucky Oaks Day scratch time passed.
With also-eligible Mugatu not drawing into the race, the May 11 Peter Pan Stakes (G3) at Aqueduct Racetrack is his next target, trainer Jeff Engler previously told BloodHorse. He indicated he would work his horse on Derby morning if he did not draw into the race.
As previously announced, Encino 's scratch allowed Epic Ride to run in the Derby from the also-eligible list.
Horses can still be scratched leading up to the Derby—Forte was a race-day scratch last year—but scratches must be submitted by 9 a.m. ET on Kentucky Oaks Day for an also-eligible to gain entrance into the Derby. Several exotic wagers are tied between races on Kentucky Oaks Day and Kentucky Derby Day.