Desert Party, Regal Ransom sharp in Derby works

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Godolphin Racing stablemates Desert Party and Regal Ransom looked sharp during their final workouts before next week’s Kentucky Derby.

Regal Ransom, winner of the UAE Derby, zipped five furlongs in 59.20 seconds under exercise rider Bob Chapman, the fastest time among the 30 horses at that distance.

Desert Party, also with Chapman in the irons, covered five furlongs in 59.60, the second-fastest time at the distance.

Trainer Saeed bin Suroor was pleased with the works of both horses and said they should be ready to go for the Derby.

Alan Garcia will have the Derby riding assignment on Regal Ransom and Ramon Dominguez is on Desert Party.

Both horses are owned by Dubai ruler Sheik Mohammed.