Catholic Boy looked smooth as silk in his final Florida Derby prep, officially working four furlongs in 48.65 in company with stable mate Eagle Pass shortly after the second renovation break.  Catholic Boy actually broke off at the five-eighths pole about three lengths behind his partner but just cruised an opening furlong in :14.08 before the work officially began at the half-mile marker.  Catholic Boy eased up on his target after a 24.48 quarter split then readily drew away through the final furlong, steadily increasing his advantage while galloping out a solid five furlongs off the rail in 1:01.55 over a track that appeared to be somewhat on the cuppy side throughout the morning.

"We designed the work for him to be going faster through the stretch than he started and it worked out perfectly," said trainer Jonathan Thomas. "He was a little keener earlier than normal, but that's not a bad thing. It means he's sharp and on his toes and I thought he was moving super throughout."