The Isaac Murphy Marathon Stakes, a $200,000 Listed event, is set to take place on April 30, 2025, at Churchill Downs. This prestigious race, run over a grueling 1 1/2 miles on dirt, features a competitive field of eight horses aged four and older.
1. Honor Marie
- Jockey: Ben Curtis
- Trainer: Whit Beckman
- Pedigree: By Honor Code out of Marie’s Melody (by Unbridled’s Song)
- Overview: Honor Marie is a well-bred colt who has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled for consistency. After finishing eighth in last year’s Kentucky Derby and fourth in the Belmont Stakes, he has yet to find his stride in 2025. His trainer, Whit Beckman, believes the extended distance could suit him, as his pedigree suggests stamina. Honor Marie will break from post 1 and is expected to save ground early.
2. Game Warden
- Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr.
- Trainer: Norm Casse
- Pedigree: By Tapit out of Wildwood Flower (by Langfuhr)
- Overview: Game Warden enters the race off a strong second-place finish in the Temperence Hill Stakes at Oaklawn Park, where he was 3 1/2 lengths behind Lambeth. Known for his tactical speed, Game Warden is likely to stalk the pace and make his move in the stretch. With Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard, he is a serious contender.
3. Speed Bias
- Jockey: Flavien Prat
- Trainer: Ron Moquett
- Pedigree: By Uncle Mo out of Quick Step (by Giant’s Causeway)
- Overview: Speed Bias has been a consistent performer in graded stakes, including a third-place finish in the Essex Handicap. While he has yet to win at this distance, his pedigree suggests he could handle the marathon trip. Flavien Prat’s tactical expertise will be key to his chances.
4. Warrior Johny
- Jockey: Joel Rosario
- Trainer: Phil Bauer
- Pedigree: By Cairo Prince out of Warrior’s Song (by A.P. Indy)
- Overview: Warrior Johny has been competitive in allowance company but has yet to prove himself at this level. His fourth-place finish at Keeneland earlier this month suggests he may need to step up his game. Joel Rosario’s experience could help him navigate the longer distance.
5. Lambeth
- Jockey: Brian Hernandez Jr.
- Trainer: Joe Sharp
- Pedigree: By Arrogate out of Lady of the Manor (by Smart Strike)
- Overview: Lambeth is the morning-line favorite after a dominant gate-to-wire victory in the Temperence Hill Stakes. His pedigree screams stamina, and his recent performances suggest he is peaking at the right time. With Brian Hernandez Jr. aboard, Lambeth is expected to set the pace and could prove tough to catch.
6. Le Gris
- Jockey: Jose Ortiz
- Trainer: Al Stall Jr.
- Pedigree: By City of Light out of Grisaille (by Medaglia d’Oro)
- Overview: Le Gris has struggled in recent starts, including an 11th-place finish at Keeneland. While his pedigree suggests potential, he will need a significant turnaround to contend in this field. Jose Ortiz’s skill in the saddle could help him find a better trip.
7. Baba Voss
- Jockey: Julien Leparoux
- Trainer: Bob Hess Jr.
- Pedigree: By Empire Maker out of Vossity (by Street Cry)
- Overview: Baba Voss enters the race off back-to-back wins, including a claiming race at Keeneland. While he is stepping up in class, his recent form suggests he could be a live longshot. Julien Leparoux’s patient riding style will be crucial to his chances.
8. Timeout
- Jockey: Junior Alvarado
- Trainer: Bill Mott
- Pedigree: By Curlin out of Lull (by War Front)
- Overview: Timeout has shown flashes of talent, including a second-place finish in a Saratoga allowance race last year. While he has yet to race at this distance, his pedigree suggests he could thrive in a marathon. Bill Mott’s expertise with distance runners makes Timeout an intriguing contender.
Race Dynamics
The Isaac Murphy Marathon is expected to feature a moderate early pace, with Lambeth likely to take the lead. Game Warden and Speed Bias are expected to track closely, while Honor Marie and Timeout could make late bids. The key to victory will be stamina and positioning, as the 1 1/2-mile distance tests both horse and rider.
