Ocelli, the Kentucky Derby third-place finisher and Preakness Stakes fourth-place finisher, is skipping the Belmont Stakes, according to trainer Whit Beckman. This decision comes as a strategic move to target the $500,000 Ohio Derby (G3) instead, which offers preferred spacing between starts and is relatively close to Beckman's base at Churchill Downs. This choice highlights the importance of careful planning and the trainer's expertise in deciding a horse's race schedule.
The decision to skip the Belmont Stakes is not without precedent. The 1917 Belmont Stakes, won by Hourless, was the last time a horse did not start in the Preakness Stakes. This historical context adds an intriguing layer to Ocelli's decision, suggesting a potential return to a more traditional racing strategy.
Beckman's assessment of Ocelli's performance is insightful. Despite being a maiden in eight starts, Ocelli has consistently competed in stakes company, including impressive sixth-place finishes in the Sam F. Davis Stakes and Virginia Derby. The Preakness Stakes, where Ocelli finished fourth, showcased his ability to run a complete race, albeit in a track condition that favored front-runners.
The Ohio Derby, scheduled for June 20 at Thistledown, provides a strategic opportunity. It offers the right spacing between starts and is conveniently located near Beckman's base, allowing for optimal training conditions. Ocelli's recent half-mile workout at Churchill Downs, recorded in :48 3/5, further reinforces his readiness for the challenge.
This year's Triple Crown will mark a significant moment in racing history. It will be the first time since 2023 that no horse will compete in all three Triple Crown races. This development underscores the evolving strategies and decisions that shape the racing landscape, where trainers like Beckman play a pivotal role in shaping their horses' destinies.
In my opinion, Ocelli's decision to skip the Belmont Stakes and target the Ohio Derby is a testament to the trainer's expertise and strategic thinking. It showcases the delicate balance between pushing a horse's limits and ensuring their well-being, a challenge that trainers face in the pursuit of racing glory.
