Ny Traffic Unlikely Path to the Kentucky Derby

Ny Traffic is currently has the second most Kentucky Derby points, only behind Authentic. However, unlike Authentic, NYT has managed to acquire the points without winning a Kentucky Derby prep race.

The three-year-old colt finished second in the Grade 1 Haskell Stakes after mounting a late surge. Even though he lost to Authentic, jockey Paco Lopez felt Ny Traffic had a good chance to win the race, which Authentic won by a nose.

“I was sure I got him – 100 percent,” Ny Traffic jockey Paco Lopez said of the photo finish. “I can’t believe it. I’m surprised we didn’t win. I really thought we got him.”

Ny Traffic earned 10 points for finishing third Feb. 15 in a division of Fair Grounds’ Risen Star, then 40 points for placing second March 21 over the same track in the Louisiana Derby.

Ny Traffic Kentucky Derby Betting Odds 146

Due to the fact that the Kentucky Derby was postponed until September, Ny Traffic took advantage of the additional prep races, earning 20 points for a second place finish in the Matt Winn Stakes and 40 points for a second place finish in the Haskell.

Trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. said he “was a little concerned” when NYT missed a workout during Haskell preparations. The colt looked fully fit during the race, though, earning a 100 Beyer Speed Figure that matched winner Authentic’s 100.

Ny Traffic’s performance at the Haskell Stakes makes Joseph believe that his horse is ready to take on the field at Churchill Downs in September.

“I just want to keep going forward,” Joseph said. “That’s the important thing. Hopefully, all goes well to the Kentucky Derby and we’re living the dream.”