Mike Repole, a St. John’s University alum, had hoped to attend the NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four but the Red Storm’s loss to the University of Arkansas ended those plans. Despite the loss, Repole reflected on the team’s successful season, which included winning the Big East regular title and tournament title for the first time in decades.

Repole’s focus now shifts to the $750,000 Wood Memorial Stakes for 3-year-olds at Aqueduct Racetrack, where his colt Grande will compete. Grande, a son of Curlin, has shown promise in his previous races and a strong performance in the Wood Memorial could secure him a spot in the Kentucky Derby.

Grande will face tough competition in the Wood Memorial, including Rodriguez, Captain Cook, and McAfee. Rodriguez, trained by Bob Baffert, is looking to secure a spot in the Kentucky Derby with a strong finish. Captain Cook, trained by Rick Dutrow Jr., has shown potential after winning the Withers Stakes and is aiming for a successful run in the Wood Memorial.