Bodog Beat

Steve Asumussen's Pyro has some stiff competition as the Kentucky Derby draws near. (AP Images)

Milestone accomplishments of two of North America’s top horsemen went unheralded after Curlin’s crushing victory at Dubai World Cup Classic dominated racing headlines.

Trainer Richard Dutrow’s two victories on World Cup Day is an achievement that most of his peers won’t reach in a lifetime. Diamond Stripes got his connections off to a good start when he took the $1 million Godolphin Mile, and two races later, stablemate Benny the Bull sprinted to victory in the $2 million Golden Shaheen.

Dutrow watched from Florida while his two World Cup heroes were handled by capable assistant Michelle Nevin. The reason for the talented horseman’s decision to remain home became clear when his undefeated 3-year-old Big Brown dominated the Gr. 1 Florida Derby just a few hours later.

The win vaulted Dutrow’s colt into the Kentucky Derby favorite’s role with Steve Asmussen’s derby hopeful Pyro. If either Big Brown or Pyro fail in their Derby bids, it won’t be from a lack of world-class conditioning.

Don't forget to get your Kentucky Derby futures in the Bodog Racebook.