Full Breakdown
2026 Risen Star Stakes: Key Contenders and Predictions
2/13/2026, 9:20:27 PM
Overview of the Risen Star Stakes
The 2026 Risen Star Stakes, a pivotal qualifier for the Kentucky Derby, is set to take place on Saturday at Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans. This Grade-2 race spans 1 1/8 miles and boasts a purse of $500,000. The winner will earn 50 points towards qualifying for the Kentucky Derby, making it a crucial event in the lead-up to the prestigious race.
Key Contenders
Among the notable entrants, Paladin, trained by Chad Brown, is the morning-line favorite at 8-5. Other contenders include Golden Tempo (3-1), Chip Honcho (6-1), Courting (6-1), Universe (8-1), and Carson Street (8-1). Chip Honcho, despite being tied for third in the odds, has garnered attention for his potential to perform well after a fourth-place finish in the Lecomte Stakes. Gene Menez, a horse racing expert from SportsLine, has highlighted Chip Honcho as a key pick, suggesting that his previous performance does not reflect his capabilities.
Expert Predictions
Menez has expressed confidence in Chip Honcho's ability to rebound, stating, "If he can get out of the gate on Saturday, he should be on the lead in a race without much pace." He also emphasizes the importance of tactical speed in the race, indicating that Chip Honcho's previous stumble at the Lecomte may not hinder his chances this time around. Menez's predictions are based on his extensive experience in horse racing, including successful calls in previous major races.
Impact of Withdrawals
The road to the 2026 Kentucky Derby has been complicated by the withdrawal of Ted Noffey, the reigning Breeders' Cup Juvenile winner, due to bone bruising. His absence has opened up the field, making the competition for the Derby even more unpredictable. Paladin, who won the Remsen Stakes, is currently positioned as a leading contender in the Kentucky Derby Future Wager, reflecting the shifting dynamics in the race.
Upcoming Races and Stakes
In addition to the Risen Star Stakes, the Sunland Derby, another significant prep race for the Kentucky Derby, will feature eight thoroughbreds competing for a $500,000 purse. This race will also play a role in determining which horses secure points for Derby qualification. Notable entries in the Sunland Derby include horses with promising track records, such as Express Kid and Bricklin, who have shown consistent improvement in their performances.
Conclusion
As the 2026 Risen Star Stakes approaches, the focus remains on the key contenders and expert predictions that could shape the outcomes of both this race and the upcoming Kentucky Derby. With the withdrawal of Ted Noffey and the emergence of horses like Chip Honcho and Paladin, the landscape of the Derby qualifiers is evolving, promising an exciting season ahead for horse racing enthusiasts.
