Paladin (Gun Runner), the winner of the GII Remsen Stakes at the Big A Dec. 6, will according to his trainer Chad Brown point to the Feb. 14 running of the GII Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds, which is tabbed as a GI Kentucky Derby qualifier offering 50-25-15-10-5 points to the top five finishers.
The $1.9-million Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Select Yearling purchase, owned by Mrs. John Magnier, Michael B. Tabor, Derrick Smith, Peter Brant, Brook T. Smith and Summer Wind Equine, broke his maiden on debut in Ozone Park Oct. 17 after a disqualification. The colt then won the Remsen by two lengths.
Since then at Brown's Payson Park base Dec. 28, Paladin has worked a half-mile in :50.80 for his conditioner.
“He's settled into South Florida nicely and will likely point to the Risen Star,” trainer Chad Brown said. “He's 2-for-2 and he's a very smart horse; an efficient mover and he's obviously got the pedigree and looks. Given his purchase price, he's got all the right tools. It's just a matter of staying healthy and moving forward in his development.”
PALADIN remains unbeaten, winning the G2 Remsen Stakes under Flavien Prat for trainer Chad Brown, and earning 10 @KentuckyDerby qualifying points! pic.twitter.com/1yV66Bz1YV
— NYRA (🗽) (@TheNYRA) December 6, 2025
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