Kentucky Derby Pedigree Profile: Honor Marie

Honor Marie has a strong stamina-oriented pedigree primarily from his 2nd dam, Crystal Crossing and inbreeding 5X4 to Crimson Saint.

Crystal Crossing produced English Classic winner Rule of War who won the 2004 St. Leger Stakes. Honor Marie’s dam, Dame Marie, was graded stakes placed on the turf. His sire, Honor Code, has a pedigree that is synergistic and complimentary to his dam.

Honor Marie has the running style of a closer. This is not a running style that is typically conducive to consistent success on a dirt track. His lack of tactical speed can present obvious problems in a race with 19 other horses. But Honor Marie is not a plodder and has shown a nice turn-of-foot in his races. He did break his maiden going 6 furlongs with a furious late rally.

He was very impressive in his victory in the KY Jockey Club Stakes (G2) at Churchill Downs going 1 1/16 miles. Not only did he show a burst of speed inside the 3/8 pole to put himself into contention at the top of the stretch, but his balance and flawless lead change showed his athleticism. His gallop-out was also noteworthy and very impressive.

This horse appears to have the stamina that will enable him to run all day so classic distances should only allow him to gain separation from his competition. The fact that he has had 3 solid races as a 2 year old, 2 of them sprints, should set him up well to continue his development toward the Derby.