Although Bullard may be nominated to the Santa Anita Derby, trainer Michael McCarthy said it would be “just to keep our options open.” Bullard is more likely to be trained toward the Grade 3 Lexington Stakes on April 12 at Keeneland.
A Grade 3 sprint winner last fall at Del Mar, Bullard has not started since he finished third in the Grade 2 San Vicente on Jan. 4 at Santa Anita. He shipped to Oaklawn Park for the Grade 2 Rebel Stakes in February, but got sick and missed 10 days of training. The setback effectively ended hopes of making the Kentucky Derby. Bullard has resumed workouts, including half-miles on March 16 and Saturday.
“He’s back in a pattern, and most likely will end up in the Lexington,” McCarthy said.
Bullard, sired by Gun Runner, has won 2 of 3 starts, all sprints.
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