American Promise

30-1
Morning line odds

Owner

BC Stables LLC

Trainer

D. Wayne Lukas

Jockey

Juarez, Nik

Breeder

Candy Meadows LLC

Earnings

$335,000

Color

Chestnut

Home > Derby Horses > American Promise

Overview

Who is Kentucky Derby horse American Promise?

American Promise, a chestnut colt by Triple Crown winner Justify out of Tapella (by Tapit), has emerged as an intriguing Kentucky Derby prospect following a dominant 7 3/4-length victory in the Virginia Derby at Colonial Downs. Trained by Hall of Famer D. Wayne Lukas, this improving three-year-old has compiled a record of 2-1-1 from nine starts while earning $444,874.

His pedigree is loaded with stamina influences, combining Justify's proven classic ability with the deep stamina of Tapit through his dam's side. This breeding has manifested in American Promise's running style, as he's developed from a mid-pack runner into a versatile performer who can either press the pace or stalk from just off it. His recent form has been particularly noteworthy, with a breakthrough performance in the Virginia Derby at 1 1/8 miles showing his ability to carry his speed over a distance. His recent workouts at Oaklawn Park have been exceptional, including back-to-back five-furlong moves in :59.80 and :59.20, indicating he's maintaining peak form.

Under Lukas's expert guidance, American Promise appears to be peaking at the right time. His confident handling of nine furlongs and strong gallop-outs suggests the Kentucky Derby's 1 1/4-mile distance should be within his scope, making him a legitimate contender for the classic.

Virginia Derby Speed: 105

Virginia Derby Class: 120.1

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Pedigree

Sire Name Justify

Dam Name Tapella

Derby News April 21, 2025

Kentucky Derby Update: American Promise, Tappan Street Hit the Track; Coal Battle, Admire Daytona (JPN) Slated for Tuesday Works

WinStar Farm, CHC Inc. and Cold Press Racing’s Florida Derby (GI) winner Tappan Street and BC Stables’ Virginia Derby winner American Promise made their initial pre-Derby appearances on the main track at Churchill Downs Monday morning.

Tales from the Crib: American Promise

As a flashy chestnut whose biggest weapon is early speed, American Promise might make you think of his sire, Triple Crown champion Justify.

Pedigree fun facts: American Promise

Triple Crown champion Justify has already sired an Epsom Derby (G1) winner, and now the hot international stallion has a Kentucky Derby (G1) contender in American Promise.