NEW ORLEANS — On Saturday, Tiztastic surged past three other contenders in the final stretch to claim victory in the $1 million Louisiana Derby, securing a significant triumph by two lengths. This notable win afforded the horse, trained by Steve Asmussen, ample Kentucky Derby qualifying points, positioning Tiztastic for participation in the inaugural race of the coveted Triple Crown series.
Positioned at 9-1 odds from the third post, Tiztastic maintained a strategic pace just behind a closely clustered group of six frontrunners. By the final turn, jockey Joel Rosario expertly guided the horse onto the backstretch, gaining momentum to reach fourth place.
John Hancock, who went into the race as the 2-1 favorite in a field of ten, seized an early lead from the inside lane and held it until Built, who secured third in the previous Risen Star Stakes, challenged this dominance approaching the final bend.
As the race intensified, Risen Star runner-up Chunk of Gold and Tiztastic both drew level as they reached the stretch, while Instant Replay stayed close behind. Tiztastic then gradually edged forward, ultimately taking the lead.
Under the guidance of jockey Jareth Loveberry, Chunk of Gold took second place for trainer Ethan West. Instant Replay claimed third, while John Hancock, trained by Brad Cox, slipped to fourth place.
Completing the 1 3/16-mile route, Tiztastic recorded a time of 1:56.20, resulting in payouts of $17, $7.20, and $4.40. This Grade II win also accrued 100 Kentucky Derby qualifying points for Tiztastic. Meanwhile, Chunk of Gold returned $8.40 and $5.20, earning 50 qualifying points, and Instant Replay offered a payout of $5.20, securing 25 points under jockey Florent Geroux for trainer Cox.