The thrilling Kentucky Derby Road continued with two intense stretch battles in the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) and Gotham Stakes (G3) on February 28th. Oaklawn Park was next in line to host the next leg of the race. In a display of determination, WinStar Farm, First Go Racing, and CHC's Class President faced off against the Southwest Stakes (G3) winner Silent Tactic in the final furlong of the $1 million Rebel Stakes (G2) on March 1st, refusing to yield and prevailing by a nose despite the late bumps. This victory marked a strong day for Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez, who also guided Batten Down to an impressive win in the Pig Trail Overnight Stakes. Velazquez's expertise and skill were on full display as he managed to keep Class President focused and competitive throughout the race.
Both top finishers had ideal trips into the first turn compared to their competitors. Breaking second from the inside, Velazquez followed Litmus Test into the clubhouse turn, racing in the two path. Five of his rivals aligned outside of him, leaving Soldier N Diplomat seven wide entering the turn. Silent Tactic, slower out of the gate, avoided early traffic and rider Cristian Torres tucked in on the rail, moving up a few spots as the field eventually folded into a pack. Litmus Test set reasonable fractions, but Velazquez turned up the pressure entering the far turn, taking the lead by the quarter pole. Silent Tactic was temporarily paused by the traffic, but they dazzled the Sunday-evening crowd.
Class President proved tenacious, responding to Silent Tactic's challenge. They completed the 1 1/16 miles in 1:43.21, with Class President paying $19.00 to win. Litmus Test was 5 1/4 lengths back in third, clearly best of the rest with a 2 3/4-length gap back to Blackout Time in fourth. The Rebel Stakes was a significant stepping stone for Class President, elevating him into consideration for the May 2 Kentucky Derby (G1) at Churchill Downs. The victory awarded 50 qualifying points to Class President, while Silent Tactic's 25 points for finishing second lifted his total point sum to 50 as well. Based on non-restricted stakes earnings, Silent Tactic currently holds the tie-breaker between the pair and ranks second overall on the Derby Leaderboard.
The remaining top 5—Litmus Test, Blackout Time, and Soldier N Diplomat—received points on a 15-10-5 scale. Class President, a son of the late great sire Uncle Mo, out of the multiple stakes-winning and grade 3-placed Quality Road mare Top Quality, raised his career earnings to $593,700. This victory was particularly significant as it was Class President's first start around two turns, and it showcased his competitive spirit and determination. The win also highlighted the expertise of trainer Todd Pletcher, who has consistently produced top-quality horses over the years. With his improved performance and earnings, Class President is now in the running for the Kentucky Derby, a prestigious race that will test his skills and determination to the fullest.
