Brian Hernandez Jr. celebrates after riding Mystik Dan to win the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby horse race at Churchill Downs Saturday, May 4, 2024, in Louisville, Ky. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
BALTIMORE -- Brian Hernandez Jr. spent the leadup to the Kentucky Derby watching replays of winning rides by fellow jockeys to see what it would take to get the job done with Mystik Dan, particularly those of Hall of Famer Calvin Borel.
The 2010 Derby Borel won with Super Saver stuck out as the blueprint to hang tight to the rail, get the lead and cross the finish line first.
"We just needed to be able to save every inch of ground," Hernandez said. "That's what we were able to do."
Hernandez and Mystik Dan made Borel proud with one of the most efficient, masterfully made trips in recent history, traveling just 8 feet more than the 1¼-mile Derby distance measured from the furthest inside part of the track, according to GPS data calculated by Equibase.
Paywall
You've reached your article limit
Get unlimited access to the
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
You can cancel anytime.
Unlimited Digital Access
$1 for 8 weeks
Unlimited digital access to the website, app, newsletters and WholeHogSports.com
More details
Your subscription includes SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE content you can't get anywhere else, unlimited stories, a daily digital version of the printed paper and complete access to newsletters. Cancel anytime.
Most Popular
Unlimited Digital Access + iPad + Sunday Home Delivery
$39/month
Unlimited digital access with an iPad and Sunday home delivery
More details
Your subscription includes an iPad, SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE content you can't get anywhere else, unlimited stories, Sunday print home delivery and complete access to newsletters. Cancel anytime.
Choose Plan
Unlimited Digital Access + iPad
$39/month
Unlimited digital access with an iPad
More details
Your subscription includes an iPad, SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE content you can't get anywhere else, unlimited stories and complete access to newsletters. Cancel anytime.
