Trainer Chad Brown is showcasing several promising contenders for the Kentucky Derby, featuring G2 Remsen winner Paladin and impressive local debut winners Ottinho and Schoolyard Superman, both recently seen at Aqueduct Racetrack. At 47 years old and based in Mechanicville, New York, Brown aims for his first Kentucky Derby victory, with his closest finishes so far being Sierra Leone’s runner-up spot in 2024 and Zandon’s third place in 2022.
Paladin, purchased for $1.9 million at the 2024 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Select Yearling Sale, claimed an impressive win at Belmont before triumphing in the Grade 2 Remsen race at Aqueduct by two lengths, earning an 85 Beyer speed figure. Trained in South Florida, he is slated to prepare for the Risen Star Stakes in February, a key Kentucky Derby qualifier.
In a thrilling maiden race at Suidobashi, Ottinho edged out stablemate Hadrian’s Wall in a nail-biting finish. Ottinho, bred from Quality Road and related to the Hall of Famer Gun Runner, showed remarkable grit under jockey Flavien Prat, signaling a likely appearance at the January 31 Wizards Stakes. Hadrian’s Wall, although just behind, is recovering from a race break and expected to race again soon.
Schoolyard Superman, also from Brown’s stable, debuted with a strong win at Aqueduct and is anticipated to enter the Wizards Stakes after gaining more racing experience and training time. This horse, a product of Practical Joke, showed significant progress after a difficult initial start.
Other notable 3-year-olds under Brown’s care include Klaravich Stable’s Hedge Ratio, a Speightstown colt showing potential after winning at Oaklawn Park, and Iron Honor, a Nyquist sophomore who impressed with a debut win at Aqueduct. Brown is also nurturing mares like Growth Capital and Standard, aiming to prepare them for upcoming stakes races.
For older horses, Klaravich Stable’s Weigh the Risks is a standout, having secured five wins from six starts and now targeting regional stakes events. Shadow Banking, a gelded Maclean’s Music son, recently posted a strong maiden win, showing promise for longer distances.
Among other trainees, UK is taking a short break after a less impressive finish but remains healthy. Overall, Brown’s stable reflects a deep pool of talent groomed with careful attention to racing schedules and horse development.
Fan Take: This update highlights why Chad Brown remains one of the most influential trainers in the sport, delivering a mix of promising young talent and seasoned contenders. For horse racing fans, these developments signal an exciting upcoming Derby season filled with competitive races and potential future champions who could shape the sport’s landscape for years to come.
