22Ocelli

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Who is Ocelli?

Ocelli is a bay (reddish-brown) colt born February 27, 2023. His father is a horse named Connect, and his mother is Zalia. Ocelli was bred in Kentucky by Rosedown Racing Stables and is owned by three people working together. Trainer D. Whitworth Beckman has been working with him since the beginning, with jockey Joseph Ramos riding him most of the time.

The Good News

Ocelli's trainer and owners believe in him—they keep entering him in really important, high-money races. He's raced in graded stakes races like the Wood Memorial (worth $750,000), the Virginia Derby ($500,000), and the Sam F. Davis ($250,000). That shows they think he's special. In his races, his speed ratings have been solid, especially a 115.8 rating in the Wood Memorial.

What Matters

Ocelli keeps competing against tough horses. The fact that his connections keep running him in big races means they're patient with his development and believe his talent will eventually shine through.

The Caution

Here's the big problem: Ocelli has never won a single race. In 6 starts, he's run second once (December 20, 2025), but mostly finishes third or worse. When he raced at the longer 1 1/8-mile distance, he finished sixth in the Virginia Derby and third in the Wood Memorial. He struggles to get across the finish line first, which is what racing is all about.

The Bottom Line

Ocelli shows promise but hasn't proved he can win when it counts. Horses need to actually finish first to succeed in racing.

Ocelli's Important Related Information

Kentucky Derby Context: Ocelli

Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Ocelli