Pavlovian, a California-bred horse trained by Doug O’Neill, is gearing up to compete in the Kentucky Derby 152 at Churchill Downs on May 2, 2023. After a gutsy second-place finish in the Louisiana Derby on March 21, where he lost by just a head to Emerging Market, Pavlovian has demonstrated both maturity and resilience. Historically, longshots have had success in the Derby, with 12 horses winning at odds of 10 to 1 or better since 2000, including four at 50 to 1 or better. O’Neill, who has trained two Derby winners, believes Pavlovian has a significant chance, stating he is a horse on the rise. With ten races under his belt, including two wins and four second-place finishes, Pavlovian's experience could be a crucial factor on Derby day. O’Neill emphasizes the importance of a good start in the race, and with rider Edwin Maldonado aboard, Pavlovian is expected to perform well.