Du Jour wins $500,000 American Turf (G2) for the home team

Du Jour, owned by Bob Baffert’s wife Jill along with Debbie Lanni, surged past Winfromwithin in the final furlong to score a 1 1/2-length victory in the $500,000 American Turf S. (G2) on Derby Day at Churchill Downs.

Du Jour was making his stakes debut following back-to-back victories in a maiden and allowance win on the Santa Anita turf course. Breaking from post five under Flavien Prat, Du Jour made his way to the inside to take up a spot about four lengths off the lead as the field made their way to the backstretch. 

Prat held his spot all the way around the second turn and into the stretch, not coming off the hedge until mid-stretch, when he went around Winfromwithin to take the lead. Lucky Law (IRE) closed late for second, but was no threat to the winner.

“These turf horses are easier to train,” said Baffert. “You don’t have to train them very hard. We tried to make a dirt horse out of him and he wasn’t that good. I’m really excited about it. And I’m just so happy for Jill. She has to deal with me as a trainer, and all the ups and downs. For that horse to win today, and to listen to her excitement, now she has something that’s hers.” 

The victory was worth $282,100 and increased Du Jour’s earnings to $375,220 with a record of 5-3-1-1.