18Stronghold

35-1
Current odds

20-1
Morning line odds

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Owner

Eric M. Waller & Sharon Waller

Trainer

Phil D'Amato

Jockey

Antonio Fresu

Breeder

Eric Waller & Sharon Waller

Earnings

$742,800

Color

Bay

Birthplace

Kentucky

Foal date

January 24, 2021

Home > Derby Horses > Stronghold

Overview

Californian breeders Rick and Sharon Waller are hoping to eye the big time with their homebred three-year-old Stronghold this year.

From a family they have nurtured for years, the Wallers have produced a colt who from the stable of Philip D’Amato has become their second graded stakes winner.

The first graded stakes winner for them was Stronghold’s dam Spectator, winner of the Sorrento Stakes (G2) at two and subsequently Grade 1-placed in both the Del Mar Debutante and the Santa Anita Oaks. Following her racing career she was sent in 2020 to Ghostzapper, sire of top-class horses such as Goodnight Olive and Mystic Guide, but she died giving birth to that foal, Stronghold.

Ghostzapper is primarily known for siring sprinter-milers but he has produced horses capable of staying 1 1/4 miles such as Mystic Guide and Shaman Ghost and it remains to be seen if he has transmitted enough stamina for the Kentucky Derby.

Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Maiden Watch: Stronghold is strong

2024 Kentucky Derby News and Notes

Ultimate Road to the Kentucky Derby Racing Guide

The Complete Kentucky Derby Guide powered by Brisnet

Track this horse with free TwinSpires Stable Alerts: Add Stronghold to your stable now.

Speed Rating

Best: 99 on Dec. 16, 2023

Tales From the Crib April 26, 2024

Tales from the Crib: Stronghold

As a fourth-generation homebred, Stronghold is essentially a member of Eric (“Rick”) and Sharon Waller’s family.

Stronghold outduels Imagination in Santa Anita Derby

Rick and Sharon Waller’s homebred Stronghold outdueled even-money favorite Imagination in Saturday’s Santa Anita Derby (G1), garnering 100 more points toward the Kentucky Derby (G1).

Stronghold among eight in Santa Anita Derby; Kopion seeks Oaks points

Last seen landing the Sunland Park Derby (G3), Stronghold bids for his second straight victory on the Road to the Kentucky Derby in Saturday's Santa Anita Derby (G1).