Strategic Risk delivered an emphatic performance in the Smarty Jones Stakes, continuing a tradition of standout Derby prep victories at Oaklawn Park in the familiar John Oxley silks. It was a reminder of the kind of dominance last seen here in 2017, when Oxley and Team Casse made their mark with Classic Empire on the road to the Kentucky Derby.
Fast forward to 2026, and Oxley homebred Strategic Risk poured it on late, drawing off to a decisive 4½-length victory and earning 10 Kentucky Derby points. Following closely behind was Silent Tactic, also owned by Oxley, who finished a strong second to complete the Casse/Oxley 1-2 and add Derby points of his own.