Desormeaux Rides Michief Clem in Cal Cup Derby

There may be no tangible explanation for the success Kent Desormeaux and Bob Hess Jr. have enjoyed together over the past two decades. Call it karma, but whatever it is, it works.

They hope it continues next Saturday when Desormeaux rides Mischief Clem for Hess in the $250,000 California Cup Derby for 3-year-olds at 1 1/16 miles.

“He’s a very honest little horse,” said Desormeaux, who has ridden the son of Papa Clem in four of his five career races, winning his debut by 7 ¼ lengths at Del Mar Sept. 1. Last out they finished second by nearly seven lengths to unbeaten runaway winner Acceptance in the King Glorious Stakes at Los Alamitos.

“Usually he only gets beat if he gets outrun,” Desormeaux continued. “I really enjoy riding him.”

As to his prosperity with Hess, the three-time Kentucky Derby winner and Hall of Fame member said, “It’s always a confidence-builder knowing I’m going out there to ride for Bob.”

Source: Santa Anita Park