'Comma' Begins Period at Churchill

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Comma to the Top arrived at Churchill Downs just past 1 p.m. Tuesday afternoon, May 3, after an early morning departure from his Southern California base. The Bwana Charlie gelding, who will run in the May 7 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I), shared a flight with Zazu, Evening Jewel, and Caracortado, all scheduled to run in stakes this weekend at Churchill.

Comma to the Top nibbled at his hay rack after being led off the van and into his stall in Barn 42, looking bright-eyed and none the worse for wear after his journey. Trainer Peter Miller greeted his charge and after letting him settle for 30 minutes, led him outside to graze on the well-watered grass behind the barn along Longfield Avenue. Comma to the Top took in his surroundings and seemed to be enjoying the cool Kentucky weather.

Comma to the Top’s six victories lead the Derby field, as do his 13 lifetime starts. Last season he scored in the CashCall Futurity (gr. I), and in his most recent effort  finished second by a head to Midnight Interlude in the Santa Anita Derby (gr. I).

Comma to the Top, to be ridden by Patrick Valenzuela in the Derby, figures to be setting or near the early pace. He is owned by a partnership headed by film industry executive Gary Barber.

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