Battle of Midway Kentucky Derby Odds: ‘Good Post Position’ Says Trainer

• Jockey Flavien Pratt marks Kentucky Derby debut but is already considered an overnight sensation
• Battle of Midway was Santa Anita Derby runner up
• Trainer likes 11 spot but only two winners produced from this post position
• Battle of Midway a 40-1 long shot would pay out $400 on a $10 bet

Santa Anita Derby runner up Battle of Midway had odds of 40-1 to win the 2017 Kentucky Derby. The good news is that he appears to have drawn a good starting position, at least that’s what his trainer believes.

“We like our post quite a bit. It’s right in the middle,” Jeff Hollendorfer said of the number 11 spot.  “I need to study the Form and talk to (jockey) Flavien (Prat) before we make a basic plan but it’s a rider’s race and we’ll see what happens.”

Number 11 has only produced two winners in Derby history however with the last in 1998.

Battle of Midway will be ridden by Flavien Prat, a first time Triple Crown rider.

Prat is being described as a bit of an overnight sensation since he started riding in Southern California races.  He honed his skills in France. 

“I can’t really say I focused on the Derby when I rode overseas, because in Europe, most racing is on grass, so for us, the big day in the U.S. is the Breeders’ Cup,” said Prat, who readily doffs his chapeau to agent Derek Lawson for his role in Prat’s rise to racing’s apex.

“Obviously, the Kentucky Derby is on dirt so we don’t pay much attention to it.

“But since I’ve been riding here, I realize the importance of the Derby and the magnitude it has. It’s really a big day. Last year I rode at Churchill Downs on Derby Day, but not in the race. I watched the Derby from the Grandstand, and with all the tumult and excitement it generated, I realized that one day I had to ride it in.

“I’m grateful the opportunity came this year. Hopefully, we’ll do well.”

- Ean Lamb, Gambling911.com