Despite the fact that OKers everywhere have been nagging me constantly during the past few weeks for hints or insight into my 2003 Kentucky Derby picks, I felt I should hold off until the day felt "just right". I think today is the right day, so, with no further delay... here you have it:

1. -- I'm picking Ten Most Wanted for the win based on his dominating performance at the Illinois Derby. With Pat Day aboard, it is hard to look past this colt.

2. -- Empire Maker will place a competitive second, charging hard along the rail. I just don't think he has enough in him to get to the wire ahead of Ten. I worry a bit about the injury as well.

3. -- A strong showing by Indian Express will round out your top three horses. He looked really smooth in his training runs.

My dark horse this year just has to be Ten Cents A Shine! This might be the year a longshot takes home the roses.

-- Mook (mook@mook.com), May 01, 2003

Answers

Well, I don't know about the Kentucky Derby...but here is my pick for the "Pontiac Excitement 400" at Richmond International Speedway:

Jeff Gordon. Why Gordon? Well, he was in Kansas yesterday. I figure being in Kansas will put him in the right frame of mind for a victory.

Don't be surprised if Gordon doesn't win, though. Matt Kenseth is probably an obivous pick. My dark horse pick will be Ward Burton.

-- Michael (meglin@juno.com), May 01, 2003.