Early Favorite

Uncle Mo established himself as the early favorite for the 2011 Kentucky Derby with an impressive win in the Breeder's Cup Juvenile. Poor Mike Smith was not having a god day. His mount, Jaycito, veered very wide and then just did not seem to be able to get it together.

Uncle Mo looks like a nice horse but I say that with the usual caveat about Kentucky Derby favorites. Few have ever won the roses.

Keep your eye on him throughout the winter campaign. He is light years ahead, in terms of racing experience, of those two and three year olds who might be making their first starts in December and January of the new year.

The jury is still out as to whether or not an impressive racing campaign as a two year old helps or hurts one's chances for a successful three year old year. It depends on the horse, the trainer and good old fashioned racing luck.