Saturday will be extra special for Lexington-based trainer John Ennis when he saddles Welch Racing’s Epic Ride in the 100^th running of the $1 million Toyota Blue Grass (G1). 

“It is a privilege to have any horse run at Keeneland but to have one in such a historic race is really a privilege,” said Ennis, who will send out Icicles in Saturday’s Resolute Racing Madison (G1). “Keeneland is like the royalty of horse racing in America.”

Ennis speaks from experience. Prior to obtaining his trainer’s license in 2012, the native of Ireland spent plenty of time here an exercise rider. His notable mounts included Racing Hall of Famer Wise Dan, who won a record seven Keeneland stakes. 

Welch Racing paid $160,000 for Epic Ride at Keeneland’s 2022 September Yearling Sale. The colt, who has won two races in four starts on the all-weather surface at Turfway Park, comes to the Toyota Blue Grass after finishing as the runner-up – a length behind Toyota Blue Grass entrant Encino – on March 2 in the John Battaglia Memorial (L), a traditional prep for the Jeff Ruby Steaks (G3). Ennis opted to bypass the Jeff Ruby.

“I thought the extra two weeks (between races) would help him,” he said. “He has definitely filled out and matured.”

Ennis said Epic Ride relishes the tranquility of stabling at the trainer’s base at Keeneland’s The Thoroughbred Center 15 miles to the northeast. On March 21, the colt got a feel for Keeneland with a 5-furlong breeze in :59.  

“He moved super over the track,” he said. “He’s an ultimate professional horse. Mentally he is a complete pro.” 

Epic Ride, who will be ridden by Adam Beschizza in the Toyota Blue Grass, will leave from post 8. He is 20-1 on the morning line. 

“I would have liked a lower draw,” Ennis said, “but he is a fast horse and I am sure we will go forward from there. We’ll play the cards we’re dealt.”