Catching Freedom, winner of the Grade 2 Louisiana Derby last year, returns to Fair Grounds on Saturday as the 3-1 morning-line favorite for the Mineshaft Stakes (G3). The 1 1/16-mile dirt route features a competitive field of eight older males looking to establish themselves in the division.

A competitive field of 11 fillies and mares will go head-to-head in the $165,000 Royal Delta Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park on February 15. The 1 1/16-mile dirt contest features a mix of seasoned stakes runners and up-and-coming talent, all looking to add a graded stakes victory to their resume.As the Kentucky Derby Prep Races continue to shape the 3-year-old division, older fillies and mares get their chance to shine in this key race. With Kentucky Derby odds fluctuating as more prep races unfold, bettors will closely watch this race for insights into emerging talent. Kentucky Derby betting may not be directly impacted, but strong performances here could highlight horses to follow in future graded stakes.

The stakes action at Santa Anita Park heats up on February 15 with the $100,000 Palos Verdes Stakes (G3), a six-furlong dirt sprint for older horses.Big City Lights headlines the sixth field as he looks to defend his title in this race. A dominant force in California sprint races, the 6-year-old son of Mr. Big is riding a wave of success after consecutive victories in the Cary Grant Stakes and the California Cup Sprint.

The Road to the Kentucky Derby heats up with the Grade 2, $500,000 Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds Race Course on February 15. This pivotal 1 1/8-mile contest serves as the first 105-point qualifying race of the season, offering Kentucky Derby Prep Races points on a 50-25-15-10-5 scale to the top five finishers.

Here’s a detailed preview of the Sunland Park Derby (G3), a key stop on the Kentucky Derby prep races, where promising 3-year-olds will compete for valuable qualifying points toward the first Saturday in May.