Sandman Claims Arkansas Derby Victory, Qualifies for Kentucky Derby 2025

Sandman triumphed in the $1.5 million Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park, marking his first stakes victory and qualifying him for the upcoming Kentucky Derby. The 3-year-old colt, trained by Mark Casse and ridden by jockey Jose Ortiz, overcame a fast pace set by favorites Cornucopian and Speed King, finishing the 1 1/8-mile race in 1:50.08. Sandman won by 2 1/2 lengths, with Publisher in second and Coal Battle in third, while favored Cornucopian finished fourth. Despite a brief post-race inquiry regarding his erratic stretch run, the results stood, confirming his victory. This win propelled Sandman to the top of the Kentucky Derby leaderboard with 129 qualifying points. His owners, D.J. Stable, St. Elias Stable, West Point Thoroughbreds, and CJ Stable, celebrated this significant milestone as he heads towards the prestigious race on May 3.