Kentucky Derby Has Full Field, Few Contenders

When the gates open at Churchill Downs on May 3 a full field will start out hoping to win the Kentucky Derby, but only a small handful are considered to have a realistic shot at victory. Pyro, Big Brown and Colonel John are the only horses of the 20 3-year-olds entered who appear ready to win the race, reports the Los Angeles Times.

Pyro and Florida Derby winner Big Brown are considered the top horses in the country, but Colonel John was impressive in his win at the Santa Anita Derby and has good shot at an upset. Of all the other participants in the field the filly Zenyatta may be racing the best, having won all four of her events this year. (More horse racing stories.)