Hendricks trains Brother Derek, who solidified his status as favorite for the May 6 Kentucky Derby presented by Yum! Brands with a victory on Saturday in the Santa Anita Derby. Not only is the colt the best horse trained by the 47-year-old Hendricks since he went on his own in 1987, but Brother Derek will be Hendricks' first Derby horse and served as part of his inspiration for returning to training after a serious accident.
 
Hendricks' life and career changed drastically on July 7, 2004, when he was severely injured in a motocross accident. The accident left Hendricks paralyzed from the waist down. After extensive surgery and rehabilitation and with the support of the racetrack community, Hendricks resumed training two months later.
 
A native of Los Angeles, Hendricks served as an assistant to Richard Mandella for nine years before striking out on his own. Previous to Brother Derek, the best horses conditioned by Hendricks had been grade I winner Private Persuasion, grade II winners Blushing Heiress and Smooth Player, as well as Cal Cup Classic winner Cozy Guy and the speedy Gray Slewpy. Hendricks' family was involved with horses -- his father and uncle were both trainers.

bloodhorse.com's "Talkin' Horses" offers an entertaining and engaging opportunity for racing enthusiasts to talk online "one to one" with high-profile "insiders," newsmakers and legends of the Thoroughbred industry.

Racing enthusiasts are invited to join in the discussion or simply enjoy and monitor the informative "Q&A" session as it occurs by visiting bloodhorse.com's "Talkin' Horses" at Noon ET on Wednesday.