Highly Motivated works toward Kentucky Derby start

Klaravich Stables’ homebred Highly Motivated, runner-up to champion Essential Quality in the Toyota Blue Grass (G2) here April 3, began his final preparation for an expected run in the
$3 million Kentucky Derby (G1) Presented by Woodford Reserve by working a half-mile in :47.20 over a fast main track Sunday morning at Keeneland.

The move was the best of 27 at the distance. (Click here for a video of the work.)

Trained by Chad Brown, Highly Motivated worked in company with Founder, who was fifth behind Essential Quality in the 2020 Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity (G1) at Keeneland. The two came on the track shortly after 9 a.m. and worked on even terms through fractions of :12.20, :23.60, :36 and :47.20 with Highly Motivated galloping out 5 furlongs in 1:00.20 and 6 furlongs in 1:15.60.

Highly Motivated set Keeneland’s track record for 6½ furlongs with his 1:14.99 clocking in winning the Nyquist Stakes during the first day of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. The colt is scheduled to ship to Churchill Downs Monday, April 19 with Brown slated to arrive in Louisville on Wednesday, April 21.