As elusive as a snow leopard, as mythic as a unicorn, the colt that many consider the most promising and thrilling Kentucky Derby prospect, who disappeared after destroying competition last summer at two -years-old, Instagrand, has reappeared. After winning the August 11, 2018 running of the Grade 2 Best Pal S. at Del Mar, Instagrand went into hiding, with Jerry Hollendorfer, his trainer, being as closed-mouthed as usual about when he would next start, and his whereabouts. We may never know what transpired to make this stunning colt vanish so completely.
But Monday, February 25, 2019, he showed up at Santa Anita for a timed work, with Javier Castellano, not your usual exercise rider, in the irons. Instagrand worked seven furlongs in 1:26.60, and looked exquisite, his rippling muscles and shining coat just as we fans remember him.
The Into Mischief colt is back. We have waited way too long to see him again. Given Justify’s unique path to the Kentucky Derby, it’s nearly impossible to question whether Instagrand will be ready for whatever his future holds. We will await Jerry Hollendorfer’s announcement of his plans with bated breath.
— Roberta Smoodin