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2023 Kentucky Derby: Forte Odds, Picks & Predictions

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The Kentucky Derby, one of the most prestigious horse races in the world, has enthralled horse racing fans for over a century. It takes place on the first Saturday in May at the Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The 2023 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for May 6, 2023, and the anticipation is already building up around the world. Every year, a new set of contenders emerge, and the odds are favorable for some and not for others.

The Kentucky Derby is a race that has become not only a staple in American culture but also a globally recognized sporting event. The purse for the 2023 Kentucky Derby is set to be $3 million. The winner of the race will take home $1.86 million. One of the favorites to win the 2023 Kentucky Derby is “Forte.” Forte is a three-year-old colt trained by Bob Baffert. Baffert is a well-known trainer in the horse racing world, and he has trained several Derby winners in the past, including American Pharoah and Justify.

2023 Kentucky Derby Predictions: Forte

  • Post Position: 15
  • Odds: 3/1

Forte is the deserving favorite in the early odds after winning both of his graded stakes appearances, including the Florida Derby. Forte isn’t one to jump out and set the pace, but has won his races in the stalking or closing role. He also posted triple-digit speed figures in four of his most recent five events. However, there are questions regarding whether Forte has enough gas to go the 1 1/4 miles at Churchill Downs. His sire's progeny wins have come at an average maximum distance of 6.9 furlongs, while the Kentucky Derby is 10 furlongs. That being said, Forte is about as fast as any other contender in the field.

– Matt Barbato

Bet: Win

Forte Profile

Forte has been on a winning streak, and his performances have been exceptional. He won the American Pharoah Stakes at Santa Anita, which is a significant prep race for the Derby. Forte is highly regarded by many experts and is considered a strong contender to win the race.

Forte’s racing career started when he won his maiden race at Belmont Park in June 2022, ridden by jockey John Velazquez. The colt displayed outstanding racing skills, finishing the six-furlong race in just over one minute and ten seconds. That victory sparked the interest of Pletcher and his team, who quickly scooped up Forte to join their stable.

Since then, Forte has competed in five more races, winning two and placing second thrice. His most recent race was the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, where he finished a close second behind Essential Quality, the current favorite for the 2023 Kentucky Derby.

Forte’s racing style is one of his unique features, with the colt known for his tenacity and ability to maintain a sustained speed throughout the race. According to Pletcher, Forte’s consistency is a result of his training program, which involves a mix of track workouts and natural horsemanship techniques.

Besides his racing style, Forte’s pedigree is another reason why many fans have high hopes for him. He is the son of popular stallion American Pharoah, the 2015 Triple Crown winner, and out of the mare, Serene Melody, who descends from the legendary sire, Northern Dancer.

More 2023 Kentucky Derby Previews

Check out our previews for every horse competing in the 2023 Kentucky Derby and our expert analysis on the best bets for this year’s Run for the Roses.


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