Neoequos Joins Kentucky Derby Field After Built Withdraws

Neoequos, trained by Saffie Joseph Jr., has drawn into the Kentucky Derby field after the withdrawal of Built, whose connections opted to run in the Pat Day Mile instead. Neoequos, a Florida-bred colt, has shown consistent form with third-place finishes in both the Fountain of Youth Stakes and the Florida Derby, and recently posted a strong workout ahead of the Derby. Flavien Prat, a jockey with prior Derby success, is set to ride Neoequos unless another contender, Baeza, also enters the field. Questions remain about Neoequos' ability to handle the Derby distance, as his pedigree leans toward sprinting, but his performances at longer distances have been promising. This will be Joseph's second Kentucky Derby appearance, following his earlier entry with White Abarrio. Neoequos is considered a long shot, but with recent form and a proven trainer-jockey partnership, his connections are hopeful for a strong showing.