Derby pedigree analysis
 

Here's a link for some background that you may find useful.
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/truen...-examined.aspx

I'll start with Creative Cause by Giants Causeway o/o Dream Of Summer. Can he get the distance? I have reservations. His female bottom line (family) is, after Dream Of Summer, lacking in breadth and depth having produced only modestly throughout. The 2nd and 3rd dams are speed oriented. Can this be the beginning of a great family? It has to start somewhere but I'll pass on Creative Cause because I don't believe the pedigree foundation, specifically the family, is there to get the distance in this race, at this level.

I'd like to raise a flag on Gemologist as well. There are no reines de course in his family suggesting that classic runners are few... Furthermore, looking at his family's success it is noted that it is heavily dominated by female runners.

As far as that Smarty Jones pedigree IC, he is from black type lineage from LaTroienne. Solid family.

Gemologist

Undefeated Gemologist, like his sire Tiznow (TrueNicks,SRO), is gritty, speedy, and seemingly unfazed by added distance. His pedigree is in line with many recent Derby winners, who are ideally bred for 8-9 furlongs but get the extra furlong on class. TrueNicks

Go Gem Go

Done Talking has a speed influenced family. This is a negative for him getting the Derby distance in comparison to the rest, of course. Dullahan is 1/2 to Mine That Bird so you cannot toss him on pedigree. Alpha clearly has the classic pedigree.