University of Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino won’t just be watching the Kentucky Oaks this year – he’ll have a rooting interest.
Pitino is now part-owner of Oaks contender Empress of Midway, a daughter of Empire Maker trained by Doug O’Neill. Pitino joins owner Daniel Kramer.
Empress of Midway, who was on the Oaks “bubble” with 15 points, drew into the field when In Tune was declared out of the race Friday.
It’s the first Oaks contender for Pitino. Last year, Pitino was part-owner of Kentucky Derby runner Goldencents, who finished 17th.
The field for the Kentucky Oaks will be drawn Tuesday.
Photo by J.J. Hysell
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