On February 24th at Oaklawn Park, Timberlake won the $1,250,000 Grade 2 Rebel Stakes for 3-year-olds by two lengths, starting out his 3-year old campaign on a melodious note.

“It was a great effort,” said Elliott Walden, the CEO, president, and racing manager for owner WinStar Farm. “There was a lot to like. I loved the way he relaxed behind horses. That’s what you need.”

With his third win in six starts under Brad Cox’s training, Timberlake amassed 50 qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby. Should he maintain his current form for the next two and a half months, this would guarantee the millionaire earner a place in the starting gate for the Run for the Roses.

Timberlake had won the one-turn mile Grade 1 Champagne Stakes as a 2-year-old. But finished a disappointing fourth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Santa Anita Park last November. Timberlake was coming off of a 2-month break for his first start as a 3 year old. He was the 6/5 morning line favorite for the Rebel Stakes.

“He’s grown into himself. He ran with a little keenness last year, but he’s settled in, grown up, and matured,” said Walden, whose horse is currently the number 1 contender on the road to the Kentucky Derby standing with 66 points.

– Congrats to to the connections of Timberlake!