Renegade, ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., won the 46th Sam F. Davis Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs by 3 3/4 lengths, earning 20 Kentucky Derby qualifying points and his first official career victory. The 6-5 favorite, trained by Todd Pletcher for Repole stable, completed the 1 1/16-mile race in 1:43.54 on a fast track. Owned by Mike Repole and bred by Robert and Lawana Low, Renegade is a son of Into Mischief out of the Curlin mare Spice Is Nice, and his win increased his career earnings to $199,000.
Ortiz executed a strategic ride, keeping Renegade near the back of the pack before making a strong move in the stretch to overtake the long shot leader Wayne’s Law. Trainer Pletcher praised Renegade’s performance, calling it an impressive start to his 3-year-old season. Owner Repole expressed optimism about the horse’s future, noting the potential for improvement with age and longer distances. The race also featured notable performances from other contenders, with The Puma finishing third and Game for It fourth.
