Supporters gather to cheer on Derby runner Bolt d'Oro
The Dam Town Tavern in Hungry Horse hosted a Kentucky Derby party Saturday to cheer on Bolt d’Oro, a horse owned by local businessman Mick Ruis. Mick’s brother, David (far left), runs the tavern. Bolt had a strong start in the race, but faded near the end and finished 12th. (Jeremy Weber photo)
Dozens of locals filled the Dam Town Tavern in Hungry Horse Saturday to cheer on Bolt d’Oro in the 144th running of the Kentucky Derby. (Jeremy Weber photo)
Dozens of well wishers filled the Dam Town Tavern in Hungry Horse Saturday afternoon to cheer on Bolt d’Oro in the 144th running of the Kentucky Derby.
Owned by local businessman Mick Ruis, Bolt d’Oro started the race from the No. 11 gate and made a quick break to the inside, making his way into the third position. Bolt d’Oro remained in third for the majority of the race, but faded down the stretch to finish a distant 12th to trainer Bob Baffert’s Justify.
The Tavern, which is operated by Mick’s brother, David, filled steadily before the race and reached a fever pitch as Bolt d’Oro ran in third early in the race.
What’s next for Bolt? Mick Ruis, who also trained the horse, told several media outlets that Bolt d’Oro is heading home to Southern California with a new goal in mind: Del Mar’s $1 million Pacific Classic.
Two other possibilities for Bolt d’Oro are the $500,000 Indiana Derby at Indiana Downs on July 14 or the $600,000 Jim Dandy at Saratoga Springs, N.Y., on July 28.
Bolt is set to retire after the Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park in Florida early next year.