Taking advantage of a pace meltdown, Sandman launched a sharp rally around the far turn at Oaklawn Park to win the $1.5 million Arkansas Derby (G1) in decisive fashion.

Coal Battle and Cornucopian are leading contenders in the $1.5 million Arkansas Derby, a major Kentucky Derby qualifier, and Kentucky Oaks prospects will square off in the $750,000 Fantasy Stakes

In the absence of Secret Oath, who opted to tackle the boys in the Arkansas Derby (G1), Saturday’s $600,000 Fantasy (G3) has become wide open.

Malathaat overcame both a long layoff and an early bid from rival Pass the Champagne to win the $400,000 Ashland S.