Flying Mohawk, after finishing as a runner-up in the Jeff Ruby Steaks, has qualified for the Kentucky Derby due to a necessary defection by one of the top-20 qualifiers. The colt, who will be switching to dirt after previously racing on synthetic and turf surfaces, is a massive longshot with a career record of two wins and two second-place finishes in six starts.
Sired by Karakontie, who won the 2014 Breeders’ Cup Mile, and out of Bonbons Fleur, Flying Mohawk is set to be ridden by veteran jockey Joe Ramos in the Kentucky Derby. Trained by Whit Beckman, this will be Beckman’s second entrant in the Derby after Honor Marie finished 8th in last year’s race. Flying Mohawk has shown improvement, earning a career-best 97 Equibase speed figure in a last-to-first move at Fairground.
Despite being listed as the biggest longshot in the field at +6900 in Derby Futures, Flying Mohawk’s chances are uncertain as he makes his dirt debut in the Kentucky Derby. With odds subject to change, the colt is likely to be overlooked by sharp handicappers due to appearing overmatched on paper against the competition. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER for help.
