Crown Pride: Kentucky Derby contender profile

The fourth Japanese horse to ship for the Kentucky Derby, Crown Pride may be the country’s most formidable challenger to date. Japan's best previous result came via Master Fencer, elevated one spot to sixth via disqualification in 2019, but none were as accomplished as Crown Pride. He relished 1 3/16 miles in the UAE Derby (G2), rallying from midpack to win going away by 2 3/4 lengths, and he’s captured 3-of-4 career starts while racing exclusively on dirt. Class remains a valid concern for the Kentucky Derby, but Japan’s been on quite of a roll over the last six months, recording two wins in the Breeders’ Cup, four victories on the Saudi Cup card and five tallies on the Dubai World Cup program.

Crown Pride Speed Ratings

Crown Pride Pedigree

Crown Pride Connections

Owner: Shadai Farm

Japanese-bred Crown Pride will be the second Kentucky Derby starter for owner/breeder Shadai Farm, which finished 14th with Ski Captain in 1995. Teruya Yoshida is the proprietor of Shadai, which is best known in North America for importing the all-time great sire and 1989 Kentucky Derby winner Sunday Silence.

Trainer: Koichi Shintani

A rising trainer in Japan, Koichi Shintani will make his first Kentucky Derby appearance. He started his Japan Racing Association stable in 2020, and Crown Pride is his first graded winner.

Jockey: Christophe Lemaire

Japan’s leading jockey the last five years, Frenchman Christophe Lemaire is an accomplished rider worldwide who has won classic races on dirt and turf. Crown Pride will be his first Kentucky Derby mount.

Learn about all of the Kentucky Derby Contenders and the lead up to the Fastest Two Minutes in Sports here on TwinSpires.com