The 150th edition of the Kentucky Derby (G1) will see the top two contenders positioned at opposite ends of the gate. Fierceness, the morning-line favorite at 5-2 odds and winner of the Florida Derby (G1), draws post 17, while Sierra Leone, the second choice at 3-1 odds and victor of the Blue Grass Stakes (G1), starts from post 2 among the expected field of 20 horses at Churchill Downs on May 4th, around 6:57 p.m.

Trainer Todd Pletcher, aiming for his third Kentucky Derby victory, expressed contentment with Fierceness's post position, stating, "I'm fine with it." Pletcher elaborated that they preferred an outside draw, and post 17 was one of the better options available. He emphasized the importance of minimizing the time spent in the gate before the race begins.

Pletcher plans to strategize with jockey John Velazquez in the coming days, building on Fierceness's previous successes, including a front-running triumph in the Florida Derby (G1), where he established a commanding 13 1/2-length lead, showcasing his potential for the upcoming Derby.

Fierceness, a Repole Stable homebred, is slated to start from the lone post that has never seen a Derby winner. Owner/breeder Mike Repole, familiar with Derby week's unpredictability, views this as an opportunity rather than a concern, relishing the chance to break new ground.

Meanwhile, Sierra Leone, known for late surges, will aim to navigate traffic from post 2, following a remarkable victory in the Blue Grass Stakes. Trainer Chad Brown acknowledges the post's proximity to the rail, expressing preference for an inside draw to facilitate maneuvering into the first turn.

With both top contenders positioned across 14 gates, trainer Danny Gargan faces a stark contrast with his two entries: Dornoch, starting from the inside post, and Society Man, on the far outside. Despite the historical challenge of the inside post, Gargan remains optimistic, considering the advantages of Churchill's new 20-stall gate configuration.

Brad Cox, eyeing his second Derby win, assesses his trio's post positions favorably, particularly emphasizing Catching Freedom's need to establish a rhythm early in the race.

Japan-based contenders Forever Young and T O Password draw adjacent posts, while veteran trainer D. Wayne Lukas emphasizes the importance of securing a favorable position early on, with his entrant, Just Steel, set to break from post 6.