The longshot Kentucky Derby (G1) winner will have plenty of new faces to battle at Pimlico, but Canadian-bred Messier is not one of them.

One of the best BC-breds of all time, the Sungold mare trained by Barbara Heads will look to make her 2022 debut in early June.

The also-eligible Rich Strike who drew into – and won – the Kentucky Derby has a Manitoba connection that sparked a lot of excitement.

The purse money was spread out over three racing days at Woodbine last week, while Barber and Casse won another stakes race.

The 2022 Hastings racing season began in Vancouver on May 7 with a large crowd, sunshine and some popular winners.

Rich Strike, claimed for $30,000 in September at Churchill Downs, upsets the 148th Kentucky Derby at 80-to-1.

The Sunday headliner at Woodbine will include the winner of last year's Thunder Bay and Ashbridges Bay Stakes.

The rain held off until right after the Oaks which was just fine with the big, tough filly Secret Oath who powered to victory.

Sylvain and Terri Pion will have a close eye on Kentucky Derby starter Barber Road, as they have his half-sister in their barn.

Who do you like? This is one of the best handicapping editions of the Derby with so many possible winners in the 1 1/4 mile classic.