Kentucky Derby Profile: Highly Motivated

Highly Motivated

Trainer: Chad Brown

Owner: Klaravich Stables Inc.

Breeder: Klaravich Stables Inc.

Jockey: Javier Castellano

Sire: Into Mischief Dam: Strong Incentive by Warriors Reward

Highly Motivated nearly upset Essential Quality in the April 3 Blue Grass Stakes (G2) at Keeneland by going to the lead and trying to outlast him, but trainer Chad Brown doesn't want the same results and is looking to switch it up for Highly Motivated as he is thinking about setting him off the pace to make a run later. "I do think he's more effective with a target," Brown said. "What I'm hoping for is more pace in the Derby, where he can be close but following somebody. I think if that happens, you're going to see this horse get the mile and a quarter without any problems."

Running Style: Front Runner / Off the Pace

Highly Motivated, a homebred Into Mischief colt for Seth Klarman's Klaravich Stables, will provide Brown with his sixth Kentucky Derby starter. Riding the colt is Hall of Famer Javier Castellano, seeking his first Derby win in his 15th attempt.