Kentucky Derby 2012: 3 Horses Who Are Legitimate Triple Crown Threats

The 2012 Kentucky Derby may be one of the best in years, precisely because it's a wide-open field. There are, however, a few thoroughbreds that I am confident will be at the top when they come around the final turn. 

One thing seems to be missing in this particular ramp up to the most exciting two minutes in sports, and that is a single horse that is supposed to dominate the field. 

Oh, we have contenders and some great horses that are being talked up as favorites, but there isn't that one horse that has every last person decrying the Derby being all set. 

It's a great year to be a horse racing fan because truly anything can happen on Saturday, but that doesn't mean there aren't likely winners. 

Here are three horses that come in with a chance to win this race, and the prestigious two races that follow. 

The Triple Crown is up for grabs once again, which rare horse will make the claim this year? The first step is winning the Derby, and here are a few that can win it all. 

1. Dullahan

First things first, and that is winning the first leg of the Triple Crown. Dullahan may have the best or worst post, it all depends on what you believe. 

He will be sandwiched between two great contenders, but I say that is perfect for this horse. Dullahan likes to break late, giving him the perfect vantage point to have the best in the field in front of him. 

That brings me to why I like Dullahan through the rest of the year. He is a fighter that loves to be challenged and that mindset will come in handy at Belmont and at the Preakness. 

2. Bodemeister

There is hardly a more talented horse in the field, but pacing will be an issue with the inexperienced horse. 

The only big issue we can see is the Derby, a race that will be hot to start. Horses like Trinniberg will begin fast and there is no telling how Bodemeister will fare with that type of field. 

However, he is under Bob Baffert which gives me confidence in his training, and that the talent to dominate any field this year. 

3. Gemologist

I am hoping we see a great more of Gemologist because there is hardly a more intriguing thoroughbred in the field. 

He has great pedigree and tremendous size. There is no question that he has the speed to compete on any track, but the real fear comes in his personality. 

The undefeated horse has largely been untested. While he loves to scrap and loves to be challenged, it hasn't happened often. 

The Triple Crown journey would be filled with potential pitfalls. All the tangibles are there, but the lack of stressful battles may hurt him. 

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