Zedan's Quest for the Kentucky Derby: A $2.2 Million Investment
Amr Zedan, renowned owner of Zedan Racing Stables, has a notable absence in his racing résumé: a victory at the prestigious Kentucky Derby (G1). Determined to fill this void, Zedan, through his agent Donato Lanni, made a bold move by investing $2.2 million in a Gun Runner weanling colt, consigned as Hip 146 during the Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale on November 4.
Lanni expressed Zedan's ambition, stating, 'Amr wants to win the Derby.' This particular colt, a product of Gun Runner, exudes potential. Lanni described him as a 'special-looking horse' with the stamina to endure a full day of racing. Initially, the colt's estimated value in September was double the purchase price, but Zedan's decision was driven by the horse's exceptional qualities.
The colt will be trained by the renowned Bob Baffert. He is a bay colt, born to the Scat Daddy mare Nickname, a winner of the 2015 Frizette Stakes (G1). Nickname has produced four racing-age foals, with two winners, including the Group 3 winner Ides of March (Wootton Bassett).
Lanni's initial impression of the colt was one of class. He believes that to win races like the Derby, a horse must embody a specific profile, and this colt fits the bill perfectly. Lanni's plan is to nurture the colt, emphasizing, 'We're going to take him home, care for him, and raise him.'
Gun Runner, a Hall of Famer, has achieved six Grade 1 victories, including notable wins at the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) and the Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes (G1).
Zedan's pursuit of the Kentucky Derby win is a significant departure from his usual strategy, as he typically focuses on yearlings and 2-year-olds. Lanni justified this decision by emphasizing the importance of remaining open-minded during sales, especially when a horse aligns with the desired profile.
Despite never having won a classic or Breeders' Cup race, Zedan's determination to secure a Kentucky Derby victory is a testament to his passion and commitment to Thoroughbred racing.
