Kentucky Derby Contender Profile: Burnham Square

Share News

Kentucky Derby Contender Profile

Burnham Square Top Points Leader Eyes Churchill Glory

Horse Racing Betting action is heating up as the 151st Kentucky Derby draws closer, and Burnham Square is making a strong case as a top contender. 

With the most points earned during the 2025 Kentucky Derby Prep Races, he leads the field heading into May 3. His position on the leaderboard and rising popularity in Kentucky derby odds make him a major player for anyone evaluating Kentucky derby betting strategies.

Trained by Ian Wilkes and ridden by veteran jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., Burnham Square has posted a solid record of 3 wins, 1 second, and 1 third from 6 starts. The gray colt has earned $977,755 and is coming off a dramatic win in the Blue Grass Stakes, which sealed his place at the top of the Road to the Kentucky Derby with 130 points.

Proven Pedigree and Team Experience

Burnham Square is by Liam’s Map, a sire known for producing multiple graded stakes winners, though most have had more success on turf. However, the bottom side of Burnham Square’s pedigree strengthens his dirt credentials. Linda, his dam, is a daughter of Scat Daddy, best known as the sire of 2018 Triple Crown winner Justify. That lineage gives Burnham Square a balanced blend of speed and stamina.

Jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. adds even more confidence to this colt’s chances. Hernandez made history last year by winning both the Kentucky Oaks with Thorpedo Anna and the Kentucky Derby aboard Mystik Dan. For trainer Ian Wilkes, Burnham Square marks his second attempt in the Derby after McCraken finished eighth in 2017.

Building Momentum with Key Victories

Burnham Square responded to his disappointment over the Fountain of Youth with a strong series of standout efforts. He broke his maiden impressively at Gulfstream Park in late December, drawing away by nine lengths under Edgard Zayas. He followed that effort by winning the Holy Bull Stakes (G3), defeating Derby rival Tappan Street.

In the Blue Grass Stakes (G1) on April 8 at Keeneland, Burnham Square produced his most impressive effort yet. He rallied from the back of the pack, unleashing a wide, sweeping move in the stretch to narrowly outfinish East Avenue at the wire.

Kentucky Derby Betting Outlook

Even with the highest points total heading into the Derby, Burnham Square enters the race flying under the radar compared to some higher-profile contenders. At +1400 in the latest Kentucky Derby futures, he is tied for the fourth-lowest odds on the board. Some bettors are cautious about whether he can handle the full 1 1/4-mile distance, but others see value in backing a colt who continues to progress and has a proven rider.

With his strong pedigree, momentum from graded stakes wins, and a rider who has already conquered this stage, Burnham Square is one of the most intriguing contenders in this year’s field. For live odds, Kentucky Derby betting picks, and complete coverage of the Derby, visit our racebook today.