Batten Down (USA)

Batten Down made his debut in January of 2024 finishing unplaced in a Maiden Special Weight at Gulfstream Park. His next two runs saw him place as runner up and third at Gulfstream and Keeneland respectively. His maiden win came at Churchill Downs over 10 furlongs where he posted an eight and three-quarter length winning margin.

Trainer Bill Mott was considering the Gr.1 Belmont Stakes as his next assignment but ultimately decided to aim him at the Gr.3 Ohio Derby on 22nd June instead. Batten Down took the lead from the break and was never headed, holding off his challengers to win by a length and a quarter. Following a pair of competitive efforts in the Grade 2 Jim Dandy Stakes and Grade 1 Travers Stakes Batten Down returned to the winners circle with a success in the Bourbon Flight Stakes at Churchill Downs in September.

Batten Down is one of nine foals born from Champion Older Mare Close Hatches. He is a full brother to multiple Graded winner and Grade 1 placed Tacitus and Grade 3 winner Scylla.