Express Kid Sidelined for Oklahoma Derby, Trainer Evans Gears Up Full Stable at Remington Park
Express Kid, last year's Springboard Mile champion, has rejoined the racing circuit in Oklahoma City. However, due to unresolved health concerns, the acclaimed colt will be absent from this year's Grade 3 Oklahoma Derby. Despite this setback, his trainer, Justin Evans, is set to make a significant impact at Remington Park with a substantial roster of 38 horses, including another high-profile talent, Getaway Car.
Express Kid's Absence and Evans's Full Stable at Remington Park
In mid-August 2026, the racing community learned that Express Kid, the notable winner of the previous year's Springboard Mile, has returned to Oklahoma City. However, the 3-year-old California-bred colt, sired by Bodexpress, will not compete in the prestigious Grade 3 Oklahoma Derby. Trainer Justin Evans, now a full-time fixture at Remington Park, indicated that Express Kid is still recovering from some lingering physical issues that necessitate a continued hiatus from competitive racing. Despite the customary free entry granted to Springboard Mile winners for the subsequent Oklahoma Derby, Evans confirmed the colt's absence.
Express Kid's last competitive outing was a second-place finish in the Sunland Park Derby on February 15, following his impressive 6 1/4-length victory in the Springboard Mile. Acquired by Paradise Equine Farm (Brad and Sharon Kleven) for $800,000, the colt had a brief rest period over the summer. Evans explained that a minor physical issue emerged after the Sunland Park Derby, which derailed plans for the Preakness. Now, with veterinary clearance, Express Kid is scheduled to commence his comeback training regimen on the track on Monday. To date, Express Kid boasts a career record of three wins and two seconds from six starts, accumulating $345,802 in earnings.
Despite Express Kid's delayed return, Justin Evans's barn at Remington Park is bustling with activity, housing 38 horses. Among them is the graded stakes winner Getaway Car, a 4-year-old Kentucky-bred colt by Curlin. Getaway Car, previously trained by Hall of Famer Bob Baffert, has already shown promising form with recent workouts at Remington Park. His achievements include a victory in the Sunland Park Derby in February 2025 and the Best Pal Stakes (G3) as a 2-year-old in August 2024. This year, Getaway Car secured a second-place finish in the San Pasqual Stakes (G2) and a third in the Santa Anita Handicap (G1). Paradise Equine acquired Getaway Car for $210,000 in July, and the colt's career stands at three wins, three seconds, and one third from 12 starts, with earnings of $692,800.
The upcoming Remington Park Thoroughbred season, which starts on Friday and runs until December 19, marks a significant moment for Evans. He expressed his enthusiasm for his full-time presence at the track, describing the experience as enjoyable thus far. Evans's operation is a true family affair, with his wife, Vanessa, and children, Austin and Addy, actively involved in the barn's daily management. Vanessa plays a crucial role as his right-hand woman, while Austin assists in the mornings, and Addy, remarkably, recognizes every horse by sight.
Looking ahead, Evans is optimistic about his two-year-old prospects, hoping some will emerge as contenders for the Springboard Mile. He also mentioned other promising acquisitions by Paradise Equine, including Bon Voyage, a colt who recently placed second at Churchill Downs, and two first-time starters, Almighty and Triple Blessings. With a deep and talented stable, Evans aims for success in stakes races, strong performances from his young horses, and active participation in the claim box. He also acknowledges his connection to Triple AAA Ranch, a renowned outfit from Remington Park's early days, aspiring to emulate their historical success with his current roster of horses.
A Promising New Chapter for Trainer Evans and Remington Park's Racing Scene
The narrative surrounding Express Kid's temporary absence from the Oklahoma Derby, juxtaposed with trainer Justin Evans's enthusiastic embarkment on a full-time tenure at Remington Park, paints a vivid picture of the dynamic and unpredictable world of horse racing. It underscores the resilience required in this sport, where setbacks are often followed by renewed hope and strategic planning. Evans's commitment, bolstered by his family's involvement, speaks to the deep passion and dedication that drive success in this demanding field. The arrival of a powerful stable, featuring talents like Getaway Car and promising young contenders, injects fresh excitement into Remington Park's upcoming season. This situation not only highlights the constant ebb and flow of equine careers but also celebrates the enduring spirit of competition and the meticulous preparation that goes into nurturing champions, promising a thrilling spectacle for racing enthusiasts.