The Grade 1 (G1), $300,000 Santa Anita Handicap is set to take place on March 1 at Santa Anita Park, drawing a competitive field of nine older horses. Among the contenders are some of the top names in the division, with several shipping in for the historic 1 1/4-mile race. This event will serve as a key test for horses aiming for high-profile races later in the season. It will also allow bettors to assess Kentucky Derby odds and explore Kentucky Derby betting strategies as Kentucky Derby prep races continue across the country.

A field of six 3-year-olds is set to contest the Grade 2, $300,000 San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita Park. This key prep race for the Kentucky Derby offers qualifying points on a 50-25-15-10-5 scale, although new rules could reduce the total available points if scratches occur.

The road to the Kentucky Derby makes another key stop this weekend with the Grade 2, $415,000 Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream Park. As one of the Kentucky Derby Prep Races, this 1 1/16-mile event will award 50-25-15-10-5 qualifying points to the top five finishers. The race has drawn a competitive field of eight, featuring multiple stakes winners and promising newcomers looking to establish themselves on the Derby trail.

The Grade 3, $300,000 Gotham Stakes at Aqueduct has drawn a field of 10 three-year-olds eager to earn valuable points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. As the race unfolds, the Gotham will distribute 50-25-15-10-5 points to the top five finishers, bringing contenders closer to a potential start in the Kentucky Derby.

Take Charge Milady takes on 12 talented 3-year-old fillies in the $500,000 Honeybee Stakes (G3) at Oaklawn Park on February 23. Initially scheduled for February 22, the race was moved due to winter weather. The Honeybee is a critical stop on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks, offering 50-25-15-10-5 qualifying points to the top five finishers.As the Kentucky Derby Prep Races continue shaping the season, bettors are closely analyzing performances to gauge Kentucky Oaks odds and identify strong contenders. With several promising fillies, this race could have significant implications for Kentucky Derby betting.