New Entry: Cristian Torres Secures Spot in Kentucky Derby with Robusta
Cristian Torres has secured a spot to ride in his first Kentucky Derby as Kenny McPeek's Right to Party was withdrawn from the race, allowing Doug O'Neill's Robusta to enter the field. Torres initially faced disappointment when Silent Tactic was sidelined due to a foot injury earlier in the week. Trainer Mark Casse made the decision to withdraw the horse for its well-being, leaving Torres without a ride. However, with Robusta joining the race as an also-eligible horse, Torres was chosen by O'Neill to ride, as Emisael Jaramillo was already committed to another race in California. Robusta's entry completes the field for the prestigious event, with any further withdrawals reducing the number of participants from the maximum of 20. Notably, Right to Party, Silent Tactic, and Fulleffort were among the horses scratched from the race, with Fulleffort's withdrawal attributed to an ankle injury.