Top KY Derby Hopefuls Clash in Grade 1 Florida Derby

Upstart is the 8/5 morning line favorite for trainer Rick Violette after losing via a controversial disqualification decision by the stewards in the Grade 2 Fountain of Youth Stakes February 21.  Upstart, who has won three of six career starts including a victory in the Grade 2 Holy Bull, has never finished off the board while earning $779,480.  The son of Flatter has looked razor-sharp in 2015 and finished a length and a quarter ahead of today’s rival Itsaknockout (2/1) in the Holly Bull disqualification loss.  Upstart will break from post nine under regular jockey Jose Ortiz. 

Itsaknockout out to validate Holy Bull DQ win

Itsaknockout (2/1) was making up considerable ground on Upstart and was forced to alter course in the Holy Bull.  The Todd Pletcher trainee is unbeaten in three starts and appears to be a rapidly improving runner.  The son of Lemondropkid has worked forwardly at Palm Beach Downs since his last start and should once again be in contention in the final stages.  Jockey Luis Saez will ride breaking from post four. 

Lightly-raced colt steps up in class 

Another lightly-raced, unbeaten Pletcher runner, Materiality, appears poised to challenge the top two from the Holy Bull.  The son of 2005 Preakness and Belmont Stakes winner Afleet Alex posted a triple digit Beyer Speed Figure while winning the 1 1/8 mile Islamorada Stakes March 6.