(WKYT) – Silent Tactic was scratched from the Kentucky Derby field Wednesday because of a hoof bruise, opening the door for Great White to draw in for Saturday’s Run for the Roses.
The late change is familiar territory for Lexington-based trainer John Ennis, who also made his first Derby start two years ago under similar circumstances. “A lot more relaxed this year. I’m going to enjoy it a lot… there’s no pressure around it this year,” Ennis told WKYT.
Great White had been targeting the Pat Day Mile if he didn’t make the Derby field, but Ennis said he likes what he’s seen from the big gray. “He’s been full of energy, which we like to see in a big horse. He’s trained great coming into this race. I’m very pleased with him physically and visually the way he’s training, so we’re pleased and can’t wait to get in there Saturday,” Ennis said.
Great White, a 17.2-hand gray, finished fifth in the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland in early April and is hard to miss on the Churchill Downs backside as Derby week ramps up.
Great White will be wearing saddle cloth number 21, but due to scratches he will break from post 18 Saturday.
Meanwhile, Brad Cox’s Fulleffort was scratched due to a chip in his left hind ankle, making room for Whit Beckman’s Ocelli, who will try to break his maiden in the Derby.