Horse racing fans received disappointing news ahead of the Grade 3 Southwest Stakes at Oaklawn this Saturday. Render Judgment, a promising Kentucky Derby contender, will not compete due to a foot issue. Here’s everything we know about the situation and what it means for the race.
What Happened to Render Judgment?
Trainer Kenny McPeek confirmed that Render Judgment will be scratched because of a foot problem. Speaking to Horse Racing Nation, McPeek explained that it’s uncertain how long the colt will be sidelined. “It’s hard to say,” McPeek said, estimating the downtime to be anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
The colt, owned by Baccari Racing Stable, Dream Walkin Farms, MJM Racing, and Rocket Ship Racing, had been listed at 15-1 on the morning line for the Southwest Stakes. This $310,000 yearling had shown promise, breaking his maiden in his second start and later finishing third in the Gun Runner Stakes, earning four Kentucky Derby qualifying points.
McPeek’s Derby History
This setback is especially notable given McPeek’s impressive record in the Southwest Stakes. In 2024, McPeek trained Mystik Dan to victory in this same race. Mystik Dan later went on to win the Kentucky Derby, cementing his place in horse racing history. McPeek’s expertise and success make Render Judgment’s withdrawal a significant loss for this year’s competition.
What Is the Southwest Stakes?
The Southwest Stakes is a Grade 3 race held annually at Oaklawn Park in Arkansas. It’s one of the key prep races for the Kentucky Derby, with qualifying points on the line for the top finishers. The 2025 race features a competitive field, including top names like Patch Adams, Sandman, and Speed King.
With Render Judgment out of the mix, fans will shift their attention to other contenders, including Patch Adams, the second choice on the morning line at 5-2, and Sandman, listed at 5-1. The race remains an important stop on the road to Churchill Downs.
What’s Next for Render Judgment?
While Render Judgment’s Derby hopes remain uncertain, his team will focus on recovery and careful planning for his next start. Foot issues can vary in severity, so it’s unclear when the Blame colt will return to racing. However, his prior performances and Kentucky Derby qualifying points indicate he has the potential to make a comeback.
The Kentucky Derby is the ultimate goal for many horses, but setbacks like injuries are part of the journey. Render Judgment’s withdrawal from the Southwest Stakes is disappointing, but fans and his connections remain hopeful for a quick recovery. With many talented horses still competing, this year’s Derby trail promises to be an exciting ride.
The Southwest Stakes continues to be a pivotal race, offering valuable Derby points and showcasing future stars. As fans follow Render Judgment’s recovery and the progress of other contenders, the excitement of the Derby trail only grows stronger.
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