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Derby Notes With Local Flavor

Will Win Willy run in the Kentucky Derby?

There has been no formal announcement yet as to the Derby status of Rebel winner Win Willy. The 3-year-old colt, campaigned by Jer-Mar Stables of Minneapolis and trained by Mac Robertson, most recently ran fourth in the Arkansas Derby. “He’s earned the right to go to the Derby based on his (graded stakes) winnings,” owner Jerry Myers said. “It is Mac’s decision. Would we like to go? Sure…. But Mac will decide.”

Derby Contender Eligible for Claiming Crown

Early nominations for the 2009 Claiming Crown closed on Friday. The Oracle commented today that were he the owner of Derby hopeful General Quarters he would have paid the $100 nom fee just in case things don’t work out so well and he needs a nice $150,000 purse to take down on July 25 at Canterbury Park.

General Quarters, winner of the Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland, began his career in a $20,000 maiden claimer at Churchill, making him eligible for the Claiming Crown Jewel. The Oracle is likely correct, it would have been a solid $100 investment.

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