Mr. Hot Stuff: Does he have the right stuff? Maybe...

by Kim Thomas

Mr. Hot Stuff, trained by Eoin Harty is a late bloomer with promise. In his first year of racing, Mr. Hot Stuff ran three races and did not place; however in 2009, he placed third in the Santa Anita Derby (Grade I) and the Sham Stakes (Grade III).

Interestingly, he will be ridden by John Valasquez in the Kentucky Derby -- Valasquez was set to ride Quality Road, who has been pulled from the race due to a sore right front foot.

Mr. Hot Stuff is a full-brother to Colonel John (winner of Santa Anita Derby and the Travers Stakes, both Grade I races) his mare is Sweet Damsel and sire is Tiznow (2000 Horse of the Year).

*This is the second installment of my series of profiles on Derby contenders. I do not profess to be an expert, but I love to follow Thoroughbreds in their journey to Churchill Downs. More to come...stay tuned ;-)

Pray for peace,

Kimmy