Breaking News: Nearly Sparks Holy Bull Run After Gulfstream Victory

In a brisk start to the Gulfstream park meet, Centennial Farms’ rising sophomore Nearly dominated a January 2 first-level allowance at Gulfstream, signaling a potential run toward the Holy Bull Stakes (G3) on January 31. The three-year-old son of Not This Time surged clear late, repelling the favorite confessional by a widening margin of five lengths.

Race Snapshot

Nearly clashed head-on with Confessional as they exited the gate, then settled into a clear path four-wide down the backstretch. He pressed forward past the half-mile marker, loomed alongside Confessional in the stretch, and pulled away to secure his second straight win at Gulfstream. The performance came after a prior defeat on debut, when kickback hindered his start and left observers unsure of his immediate upside.

Torquing past a field that included Timeless Victory, Mob, and Vost, Nearly demonstrated the professionalism his trainer has long trusted.Hall of Fame conditioner Todd Pletcher praised the colt’s work ethic and noted the plan to continue expanding his distance once he proves himself over more ground.

Connections and Pedigree

Nearly is a $350,000 purchase from the Denali Stud consignment at Keeneland September yearling Sale. He hails from the Mineshaft mare Ib Prospecting, and his growing appetite for racing action has already produced a 2-for-2 record at Gulfstream Park. The gelding’s fast turn of foot and steady progression are being watched closely as the team maps a spring path toward longer races.

quotable: Trainer’s View

“The start was a bit rough, but he found his rhythm and finished strongly,” Pletcher said. “He’s always trained well. We’ll see if he’s ready to stretch out next, but there are several options on the calendar.”

The Road to the Florida Derby

With the Holy Bull Stakes looming as a key stepping stone to the florida Derby (G1) on March 28, Nearly could anchor a Gulfstream-based campaign that features a pair of significant Kentucky Derby-style prep races for 3-year-olds on dirt. The Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) at 1 1/16 miles, scheduled for February 28, stands as another major checkpoint on the local calendar.

Why This Matters for the 3-Year-Old Turf and Dirt Routes

Early-season Gulfstream results often set the tone for the spring’s standout races. A clean progression from sprint distances to longer routes tests a colt’s stamina, adaptability, and pace scenario—factors that can separate a potential Derby contender from a hopeful. Nearly’s 1 1/16-mile forecast will be watched closely as the team weighs pacing strategy and potential movements in the coming weeks.

Key Facts at a Glance

Runner-Up and Nearby Contenders

Confessional, who led the pace early and was pressed by Nearly, finished a clear second. Timeless Victory and Mob ran competitive races to fill the next spots, with Vost and other notable debuts, such as Into the beast and Prost, noted as scratches ahead of this meet. Despite the crowded field, Nearly’s performance stood out as a potential springboard into longer distances.

What Happens Next

If Nearly maintains form, Gulfstream’s upcoming schedule could see him stepping up to the Holy Bull, with the Fountain of Youth as an alternate route.The team will assess options as spring approaches to align his progression with longer, more demanding tests on dirt. For fans and bettors, this is a clear signal: watch Gulfstream’s 3-year-old program closely as the season advances.

Analyst Insight

Racing observers note that a horse improving with each start often legends the early lead and handles kickback better than expected. Nearly’s recent tune suggests a more polished approach that could translate well to longer trips. The Florida Derby path remains the marquee objective, but adaptability in schedule will be key depending on condition and class of competition.

Engagement Corner

How do you rate Nearly’s potential for a deeper run in the Holy Bull and beyond? which three-year-old rival do you anticipate delivering the stiffest challenge on the dirt this winter?

Two quick Reader Prompts

1) Who do you see as the top challenger to Nearly on the Florida Derby trail this season? 2) Which distance would you bet suits Nearly best for a prolonged campaign?

For more on Gulfstream Park’s race schedule and event details, visit the official track site: Gulfstream Park.

Related insights and racing calendars can also be explored on major international racing outlets and the Florida Derby overview pages from credible authorities.

Disclaimer: Races and scheduling are subject to change.This article reflects the latest verified results and official declarations available at time of publication.