On Tuesday, the Zia Park Derby, a 1 1/16-mile race with a $300,000 purse, was claimed by jockey Brotha Kenny, owned by Lance and Steve Kinross, in a thrilling four-horse photo finish. The Motown gelding, trained by William Morley and ridden by Joe Ramos, made a strong move from the third post position, ultimately finishing last in the nine-horse field early but closing rapidly to clinch victory.
The favorite, Mr. Omaha, posted times of 23.72 seconds, 47.73 seconds, and 1 minute 12.07 seconds, but Ramos skillfully guided Brotha Kenny to take the lead around the home turn, pushing the horse wide in the stretch. Brotha Kenny surged ahead, finishing just half a length in front with a final time of 1 minute 44.00 seconds, while Honbaba, known for speed, placed behind. Zero Sugar secured second place, and after a fierce battle, Big Jim finished third, with Mr. Omaha coming in fourth.
Brotha Kenny’s win paid $6.80, marking his second stakes victory after winning the Scratch Mitigation Bourbon Flight Stakes at Churchill Downs last September. This marks the fourth win of his career; bred by Terrazas Thoroughbreds in Kentucky, he was bought for $25,000 at the 2023 Keeneland September Yearling Sale.
In another highlight, the 1 1/16-mile, $300,000 Zia Park Oaks was won by A Thousand Miles, a Horse bred by Thousand Words, owned by Brian Seymour, and trained by Bert G. Horn. Ridden by Diego Herrera, the horse stayed three lengths behind the leader before pulling ahead decisively down the stretch. Kanojo, the top favorite at the Oaks, had a rough start inside the gate and fell behind early.
This report was originally published by Paulick Report on November 26, 2025, and appeared in their News section.
Fan Take: This exciting photo finish in the Zia Park Derby highlights the rising talent in horse racing, showcasing the thrilling unpredictability that keeps fans captivated. These results also underline the importance of strategic racing and skilled jockeyship, critical elements that continue to define the sport’s dynamic appeal.
