'Monster' Shot for Trainer Justin Evans
Sunday will feature the 13th running of the Sunland Derby. Trainer Bob Baffert will be going for his 3rd straight victory in this Kentucky Derby prep when he saddles Lord Nelson, however he must keep an eye on Dirt Monster and his up and coming trainer Justin Evans.
I must admit I did not know much about Justin prior to this article, but after some research I have no hesitation in saying his stock is clearly on the rise. He receives high praise from local jockeys for running a classy barn with horses that are always ready to run. Evans credits his parents for sparking his interest in training as they themselves were trainers. He started training at 16 and obtained his license at 18. He has said that he looks up to fellow trainers Baffert and Steve Asmussen. He worked under Asmussen for a couple years and considers him a mentor. Both trainers have entries in Sunday's field, so Evans has a chance to prove himself to his icons.
He may only be in his early thirties but he has racked up well over 1,000 career wins. As the dominant force in the New Mexico racing circuit for the past couple of years, Evans has won a number of meet titles across the state. In fact, he has been in the top 10 nationwide for number of wins each of the last 3 years. In 2014, he racked up 272 wins, winning at a clip of 26%. Most of these victories are local claiming events and he is still searching for “the big one” to send him into the national conversation.
There is little doubt that Justin is the hottest trainer at Sunland Park, but he is yet to win one its marquee events. He hopes that three-year-old Dirt Monster can be the horse to change that. This locally based colt is coming off a pair of 3rd place finishes in the Mine That Bird Derby and Riley Allison Stakes. Dirt Monster has shown success in sprinting races but is still getting acquainted to the two turn events. He does have a pair of nice works heading into this race, most recently breezing 6F at 1:12.80. After the post draw this week, Evans said, “We like our chances. Dirt Monster has been training well.” They will be breaking from the outside and should have a clear stalking trip that suits this horse’s style.
With his youth, desire to learn, and growing barn, I believe he will be a trainer we hear a lot from in the years to come. The Sunland Derby card is loaded with Evans entries, including a powerful trio of fillies and mares in the Harry Henson Handicap. Evans should find the winner’s circle a couple of times throughout the day, but can he finally break the mold and score the big one? It will take a ‘Monster’ effort on Sunday but keep in mind anything is possible in the Land of Enchantment…