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The road to the Kentucky Derby runs though Gulfstream Park in South Florida this weekend as three-year-olds go to the post in the Florida Derby and Swale Stakes.

The complexion of the $750,000 Grade I Florida Derby changed dramatically earlier in the week when the connections of Eskendereya decided to pass on this race in favor of the Wood Memorial.

While many reasons were given for Eskendereya change in plans, rumors continue to persist that the change was made to give Zayat Stables more time to finalize a deal to sell to sell at least a portion of the colt.

Jess Jackson's Stonestreet Stables is rumored to be leading the chase, but the two sides are reportedly far apart, as Zayat's is rumored to value Eskandereya's worth at $20,000,000.

The defection of Eskendereya had lead many horseman to change plans and take a shot in the prestigious event, including trainer Michael Matz ,who will saddle Lentenor, a full-brother to Barbaro, winner of the 2006 Florida Derby.

There are only four-horses in the race that have more than one career victory.

Rule, the expected favorite, is a son of Roman Ruler that will go to the post for trainer Todd Pletcher. This colt has won four consecutive races in gate-to-wire style, but Pletcher has said all week his colt does not need the lead and it will be interesting to see if this colt sends from the break or tries to rate just off the pace.

Another colt expected to be among the favorites is Radiohead, a son of Johannesburg that posted a victories over allowance runners on February 25 going a mile. While Radiohead handled dirt in that race, he was never behind horses and has not yet dealt with kickback when behind other horses.
He will have to show this is not an issue if he is to become a Grade I winner.

The $750,000 Florida Derby will be run at 1 1/8 miles. The race can be seen on HRTV and NTRA.com.