2026 Sunland Derby winner Pavlovian has fighting chance in Kentucky Derby
Pavlovian, the 2026 Sunland Derby winner, is considered a long-shot contender for the Kentucky Derby but has shown improvement and resilience in recent races. Trained by Doug O'Neill, who has previously won the Kentucky Derby twice, the horse has experience adapting to different tracks. Despite not being a favorite, Pavlovian's performance history and training give him a fighting chance in the 20-horse field at Churchill Downs.
- ▪Pavlovian won the 2026 Sunland Derby and finished second in the Louisiana Derby.
- ▪Trainer Doug O'Neill has previously won the Kentucky Derby with I'll Have Another in 2012 and Nyquist in 2016.
- ▪Pavlovian's odds have shifted from a 30-1 morning line to 50-1 in updated live odds.
- ▪Right To Party scratched from the race due to front lameness, but the field remains at 20 horses.
- ▪Sunland Derby alumni Mine That Derby and Firing Line previously achieved top finishes in the Kentucky Derby.
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