While the rest of the field for the $1,250,000 Toyota Blue Grass (G1) on Saturday made their most recent starts outside Kentucky, Three Chimney’s Farm and trainer John Ennis’ Great White has raced exclusively in the state. All three of his races have been over the all-weather surface at Turfway Park, where in his most recent effort he captured the John Battaglia Memorial (L) on Feb. 21.

On Wednesday, three days before the 1 1/8-mile Toyota Blue Grass, Ennis said he is not concerned about Great White’s lack of experience with dirt racing.

“He has always moved great at The Thoroughbred Center (TTC) on the dirt,” said Ennis whose stable is based at Keeneland’s TTC, 12 miles northeast of Keeneland.

“We are going into deeper waters, but better to find out now than the first Saturday in May,” Ennis said. “He is an improving horse and if he gets enough points in the Blue Grass for the Kentucky Derby (G1), I think it will be worth going to the Derby.”

Great White tuned up for his dirt race debut on Sunday at Keeneland by clocking a half-mile in :47.60 in company with maiden Just Munny. On Wednesday the stablemates were back at Keeneland to get acquainted with the Saddling Paddock. 

“The Blue Grass is such a big event, so we wanted to make sure he sees the Paddock and has a quiet, easy time,” said Ennis about Great White.

In 2024, Ennis was represented in the Toyota Blue Grass by third-place finisher Epic Ride, who went on to finish unplaced in the Kentucky Derby (G1).

“They are different horses and (Great White) is probably a better horse,” he said.  

After recognizing Great White’s potential during his early lessons under saddle as a yearling, Ennis readily agreed to become a partner with Three Chimneys.

“He just had so much presence about him and such a good demeanor,” Ennis said. “He was big with legs everywhere and a great attitude. He has a massive stride. He’s a big unit who is getting better and stronger. He is a business-type horse. He doesn’t want you petting or loving on him. Give him one pat, and then he will tell you to get away. He is all work, eat, sleep. The type of horse you want.”

Great White went back to The Thoroughbred Center after today’s morning schooling session and will return to Keeneland on Toyota Blue Grass Day.