Flood Zone

​Flood Zone, a bay colt born on February 9, 2022, has swiftly emerged as a formidable contender on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. Under the guidance of Louisville native and esteemed trainer Brad Cox, Flood Zone has demonstrated remarkable potential and resilience.​

Pedigree and Early Development

Sired by Frosted out of the Curlin mare Curls for Girls, Flood Zone boasts a lineage rich with racing excellence. Bred in Florida by Al Figliolia and Westbury Stables, he was acquired for $45,000 at the OBS June 2-Year-Olds and Horses of Racing Age Sale. ​

Racing Career

Flood Zone's racing journey began under the tutelage of trainer Victor Barboza Jr., where he made an immediate impact. In his maiden victory at Gulfstream Park on January 4, 2025, he showcased his dominance by winning by over five lengths.

Recognizing his potential, Wathnan Racing secured Flood Zone through a private purchase, entrusting him to trainer Brad Cox. In his debut for the new connections, Flood Zone entered the Grade 3 Gotham Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack on March 1, 2025. Despite being a 17-1 longshot, he defied expectations by taking the lead and securing a decisive 3 1/4-length victory.

Looking Ahead

With his Gotham Stakes triumph, Flood Zone earned 50 qualifying points, positioning him prominently on the Kentucky Derby leaderboard. Trainer Brad Cox now faces the decision of selecting the appropriate next step to prepare Flood Zone for the challenges ahead, considering options such as the Grade 2 Wood Memorial at Aqueduct or the Grade 1 Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park.

Flood Zone's meteoric rise underlines the dynamic nature of horse racing, where potential, opportunity, and timing converge to create compelling narratives. As the Derby approaches, all eyes will be on this colt to see if he can continue his remarkable ascent and etch his name into racing history.