Silent Tactic, Counting Stars, and Search Party Complete Key Works Before Kentucky Classics
Hot Springs, Ark. — April 12, 2026.
It was a busy Sunday morning at Oaklawn Park, as major contenders for both the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oakstuned up for their upcoming starts. Trainer Mark Casse oversaw timed workouts for three of his top horses — Silent Tactic, Counting Stars, and Search Party — all of whom remain firmly on track for their respective targets later this month.
Casse described the morning’s routine for the GI Kentucky Derby hopeful Silent Tactic as a maintenance move — a smooth, steady breeze intended to keep the colt sharp without pushing for speed. The work came two weeks after Silent Tactic’s strong finish in graded stakes company that cemented his Derby credentials.
“He’s exactly where we want him to be,” Casse said following the breeze. “He’s holding his form, he’s happy, and we didn’t need to do anything flashy today.”
Meanwhile, Counting Stars and Search Party, both targeting the GI Kentucky Oaks, also worked under controlled conditions. Each filly completed a solid half‑mile drill in company, galloping out strongly to signal readiness as they near the start of their three-year-old season’s grandest challenge.
The trio is scheduled to ship to Churchill Downs on Wednesday, where they’ll settle in for final preparations leading up to Oaks and Derby week. Casse noted that all three horses exited their works in excellent shape and remain on course for their respective races.
Each of the Casse trainees brings a distinct profile into Derby and Oaks weekend:
- Silent Tactic — steady, improving colt with tactical versatility;
- Counting Stars — consistent filly with a strong late kick;
- Search Party — developing Oaks runner with increasing maturity.
“It’s exciting to have all three moving forward at the same time,” Casse said. “We’ve managed their schedules carefully, and now it’s just about keeping them healthy and happy heading into Louisville.”
The Kentucky Derby is set for Saturday, May 2, with the Kentucky Oaks preceding it on Friday, May 1, both at historic Churchill Downs.
