Trainer Paulo Lobo and jockey Mike Smith flew to Louisville, Ky., from California April 26 for the final work by Gayego before the May 3 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I).
With regular rider Smith aboard, the Gilded Time colt worked five furlongs in 1:01, the fifth-fastest time of 20 horses working that distance. After overnight thunderstorms, the track was labeled sloppy early, but was upgraded to muddy by the time Gayego went out after the break for track maintenance.
Lobo said he was concerned about whether to work the colt because of the rain, but decided to go ahead after discussing it with several other trainers. Before he and Smith departed for their return flight to California, Lobo said the work was exactly what he wanted.
Gayego has finished first or second in all five career starts, including a victory in the San Pedro and a runner-up effort in the San Felipe (gr. II) prior to his Arkansas Derby win. He has earned $723,420.
Arkansas Derby winner Gayego working at Churchill Downs on April 26.
