Churchill Downs

One of the world's great races and this year's renewal has the usual intrigue, especially with the international runners signed on. There are three main contenders on form and lots more brimming with promise, especially for the unique challenge this race promotes for the dirt horse. The professional Commandment looks the best equipped to emerge from the madness, though Further Ado is a flashier type than him and would be dangerous if working out an uninterrupted run from out wide. But it is RENEGADE who gets the vote. This is such a talented horse, chock full of stamina yet with a searing finishing-kick, that it is worth taking a chance on him navigating a path from the inside stall, especially with the brilliant Irad Ortiz in the plate. Interesting prospects abound, including the highly talented Japanese runner Danon Bourbon and Chief Wallabee (second choice) who could respond to blinkers. [James Willoughby]