Horse Racing News by Claire Novak

Charles Fipke's homebred Java's War overcame a troubled start in the $750,000 Toyota Blue Grass Stakes April 13 at Keeneland, closing from last of 14 to first while earning his way into the field for the May 4 Kentucky Derby.

The champ is back. Morton Fink's 2012 Horse of the Year Wise Dan easily won the $300,000 Maker's 46 Mile by a length over Data Link April 12 at Keeneland, successfully making his 2013 debut while recording his sixth straight victory.

This year's edition of the $300,000 Madison Stakes may not feature a superstar such as 2012 winner Groupie Doll, but 10 older fillies and mares will provide a good wagering event April 13 at Keeneland.

Morton Fink's reigning Horse of the Year Wise Dan makes his 2013 debut for trainer Charlie LoPresti in the $300,000 Maker's 46 Mile April 12 at Keeneland, with only four contenders willing to face him first time off the bench.

Jockey Javier Castellano has committed to ride Fox Hill Farms' Wood Memorial runner-up Normandy Invasion in the Kentucky Derby, leaving Louisiana Derby winner Revolutionary open, agent Matt Muzikar confirmed April 11.

It was a crowded scene at the April 10 draw for the $750,000 Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, as the connections of contenders crossed their fingers and hoped for good post positions in Keeneland's April 13 prep for the Kentucky Derby.

Jockey Joel Rosario has been named to ride Besilu Stables Florida Derby winner Orb in the Kentucky Derby, agent Ron Anderson confirmed April 10.

Verrazano turned back the challenge of Vyjack and held off a late-closing Normandy Invasion in a formful edition of the $1 million Wood Memorial.

Goldencents was back on top of his game April 6, turning back even-money choice Flashback to capture the $750,000 Santa Anita Derby.

Twin Creek Racing's Graydar had a few questions to answer coming out of the Feb. 9 Donn Handicap, where he earned his first stakes score.