Vicar’s in Trouble stamps Kentucky Derby ticket

Into Mischief is likely to have his third Kentucky Derby (G1) starter in two years following a front-running victory for Vicar’s in Trouble in the $1 million Louisiana Derby (G2) Saturday at Fair Grounds Racecourse.

With more than $1.2 million in progeny earnings, Into Mischief ranks first on the 2014 Third-Crop sire list.

Coming into Saturday’s contest off a troubled third-place effort in the Grade 2 Risen Star S. on Feb. 22, Vicar’s in Trouble got away cleanly from post six in Saturday’s 1 1/16-mile affair. Through the first quarter mile, it was Louie’s Flower pressing the leader, then Rise Up took his shot at the front spot for the run down the backstretch.

Every time, Vicar’s in Trouble had a response, with Rosie Napravnik doling out her mount’s speed just enough to maintain her position on top. Coming into the homestretch, Vicar’s in Trouble spurted away once again, this time leaving his nine foes behind for good. After clearing off by some four lengths in mid-stretch, Napravnik geared her mount down late to win by 3 1/2-lengths in 1:50.77.

“Last time we drew a terrible post and had a terrible trip, but that’s now a distant memory,” winning trainer Mike Maker said. “When the speed didn’t go, Rosie could dictate (the pace) and she did a fabulous job. His tactical speed makes him interesting in the (Kentucky) Derby.”

The win earned Vicar’s in Trouble 100 points and a position in the Kentucky Derby starting gate at Churchill Downs five weeks from now on May 3. With 120 total points, Vicar’s in Trouble currently holds the top spot on the list.

Owned by Ken and Sarah Ramsey, Vicar’s in Trouble is 3-0-2 in five outings, with earnings of $788,900 following Saturday’s $600,000 payday.

Vicar’s in Trouble was bred by Spendthrift Farm from the Harlan’s Holiday mare Vibrant, who is a half-sister to Fall Highweight H. (G3) winner True Direction.

The Ramseys acquired Vicar’s in Trouble for $80,000 out of the 2013 Fasig-Tipton Midlantic Spring 2-year-old sale.