Connections of Stark Contrast (c, 3, Caravaggio–Catch the Eye, by Quality Road), second in the GIII Jeff Ruby Steaks Mar. 21 behind scratched GI Kentucky Derby contender Fulleffort (Liam's Map), could have entertained a Derby bid but opted for the GI American Turf Saturday on the Derby undercard at Churchill Downs. And boy, did it pay off for the Amerman homebred, who took home his first Grade I score.Last year's GIII Zuma Beach Stakes winner and GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf runner-up raced midpack after hitting traffic while GSP Honey Dutch (Knicks Go) had his way upfront through :23.20 and :47.13 fractions. With Honey Dutch about four lengths in front off the turn, Stark Contrast set his sights on the leader and barreled down the stretch, going right by at 6-5. Previously unbeaten GSW and 'TDN Rising Star, presented by Hagyard' Remember Mamba (Kitten's Joy) came flying, but it was too late, as Stark Contrast held him off and got the 1 1/16 miles on the lawn in 1:40.31. Honey Dutch held for third.O-Amerman Racing LLC; B-Mrs. Jerry Amerman (Ky.); T-Michael McCarthy; T-Flavien Prat.STARK CONTRAST at 6/5 kicks clear to get the G1 win in the American Turf for trainer Michael McCarthy.Jockey Flavien Prat scores a hat trick on Kentucky Derby day!#TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/EWUDhLezJU— TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) May 2, 2026The post Stark Contrast Bypasses Kentucky Derby, Wins American Turf appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.