Full Breakdown
Two Tribute Colts Face Off in a Grade 1 Champagne Race
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Two two-year-old colts—Gaudreau and Johnny Hockey—are slated to run together in the Grade 1 Champagne at Belmont Park. The race offers a berth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, a key stepping-stone toward the Kentucky Derby. Gaudreau, trained by five-time Eclipse Award winner Chad Brown and ridden by Flavien Prat, entered his career with a win at Saratoga in early August 2026. Johnny Hockey, owned by Devon Bradley of Bradley Thoroughbreds (in partnership with Tanglewood Thoroughbreds, Thirty Year Racing, Rodeo Creek Racing, Laura Leigh Stable and Swift Thoroughbreds), secured his first victory the following day at Monmouth Park. On the morning line, Gaudreau is the second choice at 8-5 odds, behind 3-5 favorite U.S.S. Valor, while Johnny Hockey is listed at 30-1.
Naming Origins and Personal Connections
The horses honor late NHL forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, who died in a bicycle accident in late August 2024. Vincent Conanan, who purchases yearlings for Next Level Stables, chose the name “Gaudreau” after his son repeatedly asked about the player known as “Johnny Hockey.” Conanan recalled growing up playing hockey alongside Johnny Gaudreau and keeping old text messages from the star. Independently, Bradley, who had previously named a horse after the son of former champion Nyquist, learned the “Johnny Hockey” name was already taken and registered “Gaudreau” with the Jockey Club. Both owners said the names were meant to give the horses “extra oomph” and to continue the Gaudreau brothers’ legacy.
Expectations and Betting Landscape
Gaudreau’s debut win and strong pedigree have generated lofty expectations, prompting Conanan to hope for a 1-2 finish for the two tribute colts. Bradley echoed the optimism, noting the horses’ “big hearts” and “real deal” potential. The odds reflect Gaudreau’s status as a serious contender, while Johnny Hockey remains a long shot.
Official Statements & Responses
Conanan expressed confidence that the horses will honor the Gaudreau family, saying he intends to invite the brothers’ parents, Guy and Jane Gaudreau, to the Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland later in the fall if his colt pulls off an upset.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Hopefully we can run 1-2 this weekend, either way,” — Vincent Conanan
- “He goes, ‘Vin, this horse always tries hard and has a big heart,’” — Vincent Conanan
- “My hopes are very high on the horse,” — Vincent Conanan