Proud Truth, Stephan’s Odyssey Favored in Saturday’s Florida Derby

Eleven horses, two more than expected, were entered Thursday for Saturday’s $300,000 Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park, with Proud Truth installed as the 2-1 favorite.

The Florida Derby, at 1 1/8 miles, is the first major race of the year for 3-year-olds, whose major objective is the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs May 4. In the previous 33 runnings of the Florida Derby, 14 winners have gone on to take the Kentucky Derby, including Swale last year.

Stephan’s Odyssey, winner of last year’s Hollywood Futurity and second by a neck to Proud Truth in the Fountain of Youth Stakes here Feb. 18, is the second choice Saturday at 5-2. Stephan’s Odyssey spotted Proud Truth 10 pounds in the Fountain of Youth, but the two colts will be running at equal weights, 122 pounds, Saturday.

Unexpectedly, Avey’s Brother and Popops Choice were entered Thursday. Both are listed at 30-1 on the morning line.

The Florida Derby field, starting with the No. 1 post position, consists of Stephan’s Odyssey, Eddie Maple riding; Irish Sur, Jose Santos; Avey’s Brother, Jean Cruguet; Mighty Appealing, Vince Bracciale; Popops Choice, Ruben Hernandez; Silver Rich, Victor Molina; Proud Truth, Jorge Velasquez; Banner Bob, Keith Allen; Do It Again Dan, Craig Perret; Attribute, Jerry Bailey, and Covert Operation, Octavio Aviles.