Why Classic Empire Can Win the Kentucky Derby – Still Great Payout Odds

Classic Empire broke away from the pack a bit following the post position draw Wednesday, becoming the 5-1 favorite and no longer sharing the status with the likes of Always Dreaming and Irish War Cry.  This year’s Derby will result in one of the biggest payouts for a favorite in recent memories, assuming the prices hold up.

Classic Derby would offer a $50 payout and some change on a $10 bet.

Regarding the number 14 post position, well, the last horse to win from there was Carry Back in 1961. Only two horses have won from the spot in Derby history.  Oh well, don’t tell that to trainer Mark Casse.

“It’s a good spot. A couple of key contenders are outside of us, which is kind of nice.”

Classic Empire has won three of his last four races, including his most recent at the all-important Arkansas Derby, a race that has produced an abundance of winners. 

Classic Empire was also victorious at the Breeders Futurity and the Breeders Cup Juvenile.

His 3^rd place finish at the Holy Bull in between actually should be applauded as it was later revealed Classic Empire was suffering from a foot abscess.

“This horse wasn’t himself,” said Casse.  “He wasn’t happy. He was not behaving the way we would like him to behave.”

His Arkansas Derby win was all the more surprising in that there were some who believed he had not fully healed.

“I’ve always said good horses win when everything goes their way; great horses win when nothing goes their way,” Casse said. “And I think he’s a great horse. But I guess we’ll determine that (Saturday).”

- Ean Lamb, Gambling911.com