Kentucky Derby 2013: Favorites That Will Dominate the Field

The official field and post positions for the 2013 Kentucky Derby might not be set yet, but we can already gain a fairly good understanding as to which horses will go off as favorites for the Run of the Roses.

After posting dominant seasons so far, Orb and Verrazano have attracted plenty of interest early this year. Whilst their favoritism status might change come race day, they'll still likely be in the mix for the top prize in 2013.

Which other favorite horses will dominate the field at Churchill Downs this year?

Read on and find out.

Orb (currently 5/1)

Orb is currently second-favorite in betting markets behind Verrazano for the big race this weekend, and he'll no doubt prove that with a stellar run in the Derby.

He has shown that he knows how to win a close race—evident in his last two wins—and with a pedigree that's perfect for the 1.25 mile course, he'll prove very tough to run down. Especially if the pace in this year's prestigious event isn't as fast as previous races.

Look for the Shug McGaughey-trained horse to be a real contender on Saturday.

Goldcents (currently 7/1)

Ever since his dominant victory in the Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby, Goldcents has announced himself as a key favorite for the race and one who will be very tough to beat on the day. He is strong out in front, and if he can keep the pace relatively slow here, he'll be extremely difficult to gun down.

Trainer Doug O'Neill knows how to prepare horses for big races. With a pedigree that suggests he could thrive against a slightly-weaker field in this year's Derby, look for Goldcents to be a key player.

Especially if he makes out to the front of the pack early.

Normandy Invasion (currently 10/1)

Yes, 10/1 aren't really great odds for a favorite, but that could well change by the time post positions are released. And if he can get a good draw, look for Normandy Invasion to be a big factor come the 139th Run of the Roses.

Normandy Invasion showed at the Wood Memorial that once he gets going, he can be a key player down the outside. If the pace is slow—which it seems it will be this year—his strong pedigree of speed and residual stamina will hold him in good stead for a strong run home that may just win it all.

This one probably depends on a good draw, but don't rule out Normandy Invasion as a Derby winner.

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