Robby Albarado, who didn't ride in the Kentucky Derby last year and was replaced by John Velazquez aboard Animal Kingdom in 2011, said, "I'm just thankful for the opportunity. It's amazing to get the opportunity."
Trainer of runner-up Golden Soul, Dallas Stewart said of the effort, "We got beat by a great horse. He ran terrific. I'm so proud of Robby (Albarado). He vindicated himself. He's just a great rider and gave this horse a great rider. And (owner) Chuck Fipke, what can I say? One of the best ever."
Calvin Borel, who won the 2010 Kentucky Derby with Super Saver in the slop reunited with those same connections--trainer Todd Pletcher and owner Winstar Farm--was in 18th position after the second call, closed strongly and quickly moved up the track along the rail, but could not get to the winner in time and had to settle for third.
