Kentucky Derby, Oaks works: Brad Cox duo drills at Churchill

Trainer Brad Cox is always busy, but Wednesday morning offered a little extra buzz as he sent out Kentucky Derby 2025 contender Final Gambit and Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks favorite Good Cheer for breezes at Churchill Downs.

Juddmonte’s Final Gambit, winner of the Jeff Ruby Steaks (G3), breezed five furlongs in 1:00.8 at 7:15 a.m. EDT, 10th fastest of 32 at the distance Wednesday. It was his second work since his Derby-trail win after going a half-mile in 48.8 seconds last week.

Godolphin’s undefeated Good Cheer followed with a five-furlong move in 1:00.4 at 9 a.m., fifth fastest of the 32 at the distance. It also was her second work since her last start, a 3 1/2-length win in the Fair Grounds Oaks (G2). She and Final Gambit both were piloted by Cox’s exercise rider Edvin Vargas.

Final Gambit began his work at the 4 1/2-furlong pole, cruising through an opening quarter-mile in 25.4 seconds. He galloped out six furlongs in 1:13.60 and seven furlongs in 1:27, according to Churchill Downs clocker John Nichols.

Good Cheer went a touch quicker early, clipping an opening quarter in 24.6 seconds. She galloped out six furlongs in 1:13.60 and 1:27.60 for seven furlongs.

Cox, who was on site for both moves, was set to fly to Payson Park, where Florida Derby (G1) winner Tappan Street is slated to work later this week.