A look at projected Derby favorite Classic Empire

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Classic Empire is the projected Kentucky Derby favorite.

Trainer Mark Casse has his eyes set on roses next Saturday at Churchill Downs.

Friday was the last work for the Arkansas Derby winner.

5 first places finishes and a show finish in the Holy Bull to his name, Classic Empire finished 2016 as the top 2-year-old on the track taking the Breeders Cup Futurity and BC Juvenile.

So, does Casse see his likely top horse in the winner’s circle the first Saturday in May?

It’s been a process for Casse with Classic Empire.  The hiccup in the Holy Bull appears to be just that though.

“With the average horse, you couldn’t do this,” says Casse.

Empire is so talented he can overcome a race in which nothing goes his way.

As with any race and any preparation in any sport for any event, it’s about one thing…and Casse knows it.

Don’t forget about Casse’s other horse either, State of Honor.

Because of Classic Empire, there’s not much attention going to the place finisher in the Florida and Tampa Bay derbies.

Casse is a Louisville guy.  He feels at home and relishes being in the position he’s in entering this year’s Kentucky Derby with son Norman by his side.

Now, it’s just time to get it done…and maybe talk a little trash along the way.

Hear from Mark Casse in the video and see Classic Empire’s final work ahead of Derby day.