More Than Ready colt Tom’s Ready upped his preparation for the G1 Kentucky Derby with a sharp gallop under the Twin Spires on Thursday.

With the first-leg of the USA Triple Crown three weeks away, Tom’s Ready was sent over 1000m at Churchill Downs in 61.60s.  “It was great work and I’m really happy with the way he handled the track,” trainer Dallas Stewart said.  “It was strong maintenance and he finished without any urging.”

Tom’s Ready booked a spot in the Kentucky Derby on May 7 with seconds to Mo Tom in the G3 Lecomte Stakes and Gun Runner in the G2 Louisiana Derby earlier this year.  “We’re proud of the way he handled things down in New Orleans,” said Stewart.  “He came out good and he looks to be healthy – knock on wood.”

Stewart rated Tom’s Ready from the outset last year.  He finished fifth second time out in the G1 Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga and followed up with an impressive victory at Churchill Downs in September.  He was nominated for the G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile but missed a start from second emergency.

More Than Ready sired him from Goodbye Stranger (Broad Brush) who was sold by Gainesway (as agent) carrying the Kentucky Derby hopeful at the 2013 Keeneland January Mare Sale.  She had already foaled west coast stakes performer Consulado (More Than Ready) and was a bargain $40,000 buy for Blackstone Farm.

Entering the sale-ring once again at the 2014 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga August yearling sale, Tom’s Ready made $145,000 to the bid of GMB Racing.

“We liked him as a two year-old and he’s kept progressing,” Stewart said.  “We will breeze him again next Thursday but we don’t take anything for granted.  It’s a big step to where we’re headed.”

TOM’S READY