Kentucky Derby 2012 Odds: Resilient Bob Baffert Makes Bodemeister the Best Bet

Nothing could stop Bob Baffert from making a bid for a fourth Kentucky Derby triumph—not even a heart attack.

The trainer, who works with potential favorite Bodemeister, was in Dubai in late March prepping Game On Dude for the Dubai World Cup when a sharp pain in his left arm, sweating and vomiting served as the early signs of a heart attack, according to USA Today's Tom Pedulla.

Now, less than two months later, he's back on the horse, so to speak, and will be chasing a fourth victory at Churchill Downs, which would rank him second on the all-time list.

One would think that the health trauma would leave him out of sorts prior to the Derby. But not Baffert. Instead, post-heart attack, he feels more prepared than ever to chase the win with Bodemeister on Saturday.

He told Pedulla: 

"

I just realize that I've got this second chance. I could easily have died in Dubai. If it would have happened on the plane, I would have been toast. 

"

According to ESPN.com's Gary West, Baffert will be as good as new for the Derby, thanks to some much-improved habits: more exercise, a better diet and less stress.

Much like his trainer, Bodemeister gives the impression of being excessively laid-back and carefree, mostly due to his less-than-graceful gallop. But when it's time to work, his competitive fire emerges and he's better than the rest. Just like Baffert.

Still, the odds won't necessarily be in Bodemeister's—or Baffert's—favor on Saturday. Not since 1882 has a horse that was unraced as a two-year-old won the Kentucky Derby.

In the past, Baffert has tasted victory at Churchill Downs with Silver Charm, Real Quiet and War Emblem. Bodemeister could very well be his fourth, coming off a 9 1/2-length victory at the Arkansas Derby.

If anyone can overcome the odds, it's Baffert.