Kentucky Derby Contender Profile: Owen Almighty

Share News

Kentucky Derby Contender Profile

Owen Almighty: Chasing Redemption in the 2025 Kentucky Derby

Horse Racing Betting fans keeping an eye on Kentucky Derby odds have a lot to consider with Owen Almighty. Initially pointed toward the Pat Day Mile, Owen Almighty’s connections reversed their plan and opted to rejoin the Kentucky Derby field, sparking much debate.

The son of Speightstown and Tempers Rising will try to rebound from a tough 6th-place showing in the Blue Grass Stakes as he tackles the biggest test of his career on May 3.

Trained by Brian Lynch and ridden by veteran jockey Javier Castellano, Owen Almighty enters the Kentucky Derby with a record of three wins and two runner-up finishes from seven starts. His front-running style has delivered success before, but questions about his stamina at longer distances make his Derby chances a hot topic among handicappers.

Breeding and Connections

Owen Almighty is by Speightstown, the 2004 Breeders’ Cup Sprint champion and Eclipse Award-winning sprinter, known for producing speedy offspring. 

On the dam side, he is out of Tempers Rising, a daughter of Bayern, who famously won the 2014 Breeders’ Cup Classic and Haskell Invitational for Bob Baffert. While his pedigree shows brilliance at shorter distances, it leaves uncertainty regarding the 1 1/4-mile Derby challenge.

Jockey Javier Castellano, who captured his first Kentucky Derby victory aboard Mage in 2023, will once again look to make an impact aboard Owen Almighty. Meanwhile, trainer Brian Lynch returns to the Derby after previously saddling Classic Causeway to an 11th-place finish in 2022.

Race History and 2025 Campaign

Beginning his career with a maiden sprint win at Churchill Downs last June, Owen Almighty wasted little time adding a second victory in the Juvenile Stakes over seven furlongs. After a strong start, he faced tougher competition, finishing second behind Jonathan’s Way in the Iroquois Stakes (G3) at a mile.

The colt appeared to have notched another win in the Pasco Stakes, but a disqualification for interference dropped him to fifth. He bounced back with a runner-up finish in the Sam F. Davis Stakes (G3) before posting his most impressive performance yet, winning the Tampa Bay Derby (G3) by 3 ½ lengths.

However, Owen Almighty’s momentum stalled when he finished a disappointing sixth in the Blue Grass Stakes (G1) at Keeneland, well behind Derby rivals Burnham Square and East Avenue. Despite having a perfect stalking trip, he failed to fire down the stretch, sparking doubts about his ability to handle longer distances.

Kentucky Derby Outlook

Owen Almighty finished 15th on the final Kentucky Derby points leaderboard with 65 points, earning his spot in the starting gate. However, oddsmakers are cautious, listing him at +3000 in Derby Futures. His connections’ previous hesitation about the Derby distance, coupled with his recent lackluster effort, leave bettors with valid concerns.

While Owen Almighty’s early career flashes of speed are notable, the question remains whether he can carry that brilliance over a mile and a quarter against the deepest field he has ever faced. 

For those seeking the latest Kentucky Derby betting insights, expert picks, and up-to-the-minute odds, make sure to visit our racebook today.