Arkansas Derby Concludes with Results Pending for Kentucky Derby Hopefuls

Bob Baffert's Cornucopian faces strong competition from Coal Battle and Sandman in the pivotal Grade 1 race, with Kentucky Derby qualification at stake.

• The Arkansas Derby, a key qualifier for the Kentucky Derby, concluded on March 29, 2025, with results yet to be reported.
• Bob Baffert's Cornucopian entered the race as the 7-5 morning-line favorite after an impressive maiden victory at Oaklawn Park.
• Baffert expressed confidence in Cornucopian's readiness but acknowledged rivals Coal Battle, with four consecutive stakes wins, and Sandman as formidable competitors.
• The Grade 1 race offered a $1.5 million purse and 100 qualifying points to the winner, critical for securing a Kentucky Derby spot.
• Opinions within the horse racing community remain divided on Cornucopian's potential, with some predicting greatness and others voicing skepticism.

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