The Kentucky Derby Curse: A Closer Look at Steve Asmussen’s Journey and New Hope

Welp, it’s officially 0-28. Yes, you read that right. Steve Asmussen, the winningest trainer in North American horse racing history, still can’t shake off the Kentucky Derby curse. With over 10,000 career wins under his belt, Asmussen hasn’t cracked the Derby code yet. This year, it was Tiztastic finishing 10th and Publisher coming in 14th. The Derby dream? Diminishing yet again. But as resilient as always, Asmussen was already looking ahead, re-energized for his next opportunity in the $2 million Preakness Stakes, where the excitement levels were high and the stakes even higher.

Clever Again: The New Challenger

Enter Clever Again, the new horse many are pinning their hopes on. With a name that feels almost poetic for a situation filled with anticipation and unfulfilled dreams, this 3-year-old son of American Pharoah arrived with a fresh aura. He showcased impressive form, particularly after a smooth victory in Hot Springs back in March. Although Clever Again boasts only three starts, he has delivered two wins, made even more promising with the addition of the 2022 Preakness champion, Jose Ortiz, in the saddle.

High Hopes and Poised Presence

Why all the expectations for Clever Again, you might wonder? As he stepped onto the Pimlico stage, he exuded a chill confidence, like a seasoned veteran who had already won by four lengths. With Steve Asmussen strategically holding the reins and Ortiz positioned high in the saddle, this speedster drew all eyes, locking in attention with every stride. He brought energy and dynamism, qualities that resonated with fans watching closely.

Clever Again’s pedigree certainly adds to the fervor surrounding him. His sire, American Pharoah, is not your average racehorse; he’s a full-blown legend, adorned with both Triple Crown glory and a Breeders’ Cup victory. While not every progeny thrives in marathon runs, they possess the intrinsic drive needed for speed and success, making Clever Again’s heritage a key point of interest.

A Family of Champions

Don’t let Clever Again’s limited race record deceive you. His mother, Flattering, is a globe-trotting marvel herself, making her mark in Ireland and the UK with a Group 3 win at a mile-and-a-half. Moreover, his half-brother, Daddy Justify, already boasts multiple wins at longer distances. With such a family tree teeming with talent and ambition, it’s easy to see how Clever Again could channel that genetic fire and handle the Preakness stretch like an experienced pro.

The Preakness Hopes Dashed

Yet, despite the optimism surrounding him, Clever Again couldn’t seize the moment at this year’s Preakness Stakes. Asmussen remained in the victory-less zone after 28 Derby attempts, a haunting statistic that seems to follow him like a shadow. Nevertheless, the seasoned trainer is far from letting defeat weigh him down. Each setback seems to only sharpen his resolve, and with so many triumphs in his career, his legacy remains intact.

The Asmussen Legacy: Still Shining

Steve Asmussen is widely regarded as a titan in the world of horse racing. With a career brimming with accolades, including Hall of Fame induction and multiple Eclipse Awards, his résumé is nothing short of enviable. He has trained champions across major events, including the Preakness, Belmont, Kentucky Oaks, and even the Dubai World Cup. Although Clever Again didn’t gallop into glory this time around, it’s important not to count Asmussen out. His stable is known for producing remarkable talents, and there’s always another potential champion waiting in the wings.

Meet Booth: Another Rising Star

If Clever Again doesn’t reflect Asmussen’s future victories, he might have another ace up his sleeve. That’s where Booth enters the picture, emerging as a speedster on the sprint scene. During the Maryland Sprint at Pimlico, Booth made it four wins in a row, turning the $150K race into his personal victory lap. The atmosphere was electric; the onlookers were buzzing. Under the deft guidance of Hall of Fame trainer Asmussen and his son, Eclipse Award winner Erik in the saddle, Booth dominated the race with style.

He faced initial pressure from Epic Ride—a worthy competitor—but, in typical fashion, Booth shook him off effortlessly, finishing strong without breaking a sweat. His stunning 1:10.39 time showcased not just his speed, but a level of control that left everyone impressed.

Sprinting Royalty: Booth’s Lineage

The roots of Booth carry significant weight: he’s a Mitole baby and his mother, Sophia’s Song, is also well-regarded in racing circles. Snapped up for $250K as a two-year-old from Wavertree Stables, this Kentucky-bred dynamo from Clearsky Farms is thriving, currently flaunting a 4-for-5 record as a 4-year-old. Booth’s performance proves he’s not just fast; he possesses the ability to command the spotlight quite naturally.

The stages of horse racing might evolve with every season, but with Steve Asmussen at the helm, there’s always potential waiting to unfold. While this year may not have brought the Derby dream to life, the allure of the next race is ever-present, with not just one but multiple competitors steered by one of the best trainers in the game.