Gilded Bandit continued his rapid rise on Saturday with another impressive performance, overcoming a slow early pace to capture the race after the Kentucky Derby in dominant fashion.

Trained by Hall of Famer Bill Mott and ridden by Junior Alvarado, the colt entered the race off a dazzling maiden victory at Keeneland on April 4 that earned him “TDN Rising Star” honors. Sent off as the 4-5 favorite while running back over the same distance of 6 1/2 furlongs, Gilded Bandit once again showed his talent.

Breaking from the gate without much urgency, Gilded Bandit found himself near the back of the field through the opening stages while racing behind a moderate tempo. Alvarado allowed the colt to settle comfortably before asking him to quicken approaching the far turn.

The response was immediate.

Displaying an explosive turn of foot, Gilded Bandit rapidly swept into contention around the bend and surged to the front entering the stretch. Once clear, the chestnut colt continued to widen his advantage with a sustained, powerful drive before being wrapped up late to score by 2 1/2 lengths.

Gilded Bandit is from the first crop of multiple G1 winner Charlatan and out of Diamond Ore, a half-sister to Horse of the Year Arrogate. Gilded Bandit has a 2-year-old Life Is Good half-sister and a yearling half-brother by Nyquist. Diamond Ore was covered by Into Mischief for this year.