Stakes high ahead of today’s Kentucky Derby

There has never been such a microscopic dissection of tonight’s Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville.

The defection of Art Collector and King Guillermo, has shuffled the previously large field to 17 declarations.

For the first time since inducting a points system back in 2013, there will be two horses with no points at all - Money Moves, and, Mister Big News.

Tiz the Law heads all markets, but he may be intimidated by so many runners. Honor AP, New York Traffic, and, Enforceable have garnered plenty attention, although their odds range from 20/30-1, which is a fair price for place bets.

King Guillermo had no option than to decline this year, as he had a temperature which needs addressing before the Preakness. He is owned by Victoria's Ranch who only want the best for their ravishing thoroughbred.

It is the nature of this game. Pure uncertainty round every corner. Finnick the Fierce, Max Player, Thousand Words, Sole Volante, and, Authentic, also have sound claims. Just pick a name that rings true.

The two most enchanting three-year-old United States fillies are about to clash this evening in a dynamite $1.45 million Longines Kentucky Oaks. Gamine (John Velasquez 4-6), and, Skydiver (Tyler Gaffalione 8-5).

Of course, Speech (John Castellano 6-1) might turn up to ruin this liaison, quite apart from six lesser unknowns.

It is on everyone's bucket list to wear the garland of lilies, so tune into satellite and enjoy an exhibition of fantasy.