Imagine dedicating over 35 years to perfecting the art of Thoroughbred breeding, only to realize your ultimate dream might finally be within reach. For Lee Pokoik, that dream is the Kentucky Derby, and his ticket could be Commandment, the colt he bred who stormed to victory in the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) on February 28.
Commandment, a son of the renowned stallion Into Mischief, isn't just any racehorse. He's the product of Pokoik's meticulous breeding strategy, born from Sippican Harbor, a mare Pokoik raced and who herself claimed victory in the 2018 Spinaway Stakes (G1). Pokoik's approach is business-savvy: he breeds to sell, typically offering colts for sale while retaining top-quality fillies to strengthen his broodmare band. But Commandment's journey to the track wasn't without its twists. Despite being offered twice—first as a weanling at Fasig-Tipton's November Sale for $485,000 and later as a yearling at Fasig-Tipton's Saratoga Sale for $475,000—he failed to meet Pokoik's reserve. It wasn't until Keeneland's September Yearling Sale in 2023 that Case Clay Thoroughbred Management stepped in, securing the colt for $500,000 on behalf of Wathnan Racing.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is Pokoik's decision to retain fillies and sell colts the optimal breeding strategy, or does it limit his chances of keeping a potential Derby winner in-house? Let’s dive deeper.
Pokoik couldn't hide his pride after Commandment's Fountain of Youth triumph. 'That was some race,' he remarked. 'Commandment has everything going for him—he's got Into Mischief's bloodline, Brad Cox as his trainer, Irad Ortiz in the saddle, and a Grade 1-winning mare as his dam. What more could you ask for?' Pokoik's confidence isn't unwarranted. Commandment isn't just fast; he's smart, fearless, and possesses the stamina to handle longer distances. 'I don't think he'll have any problem going a mile and a quarter,' Pokoik added.
This isn't Pokoik's first brush with Derby-caliber horses. He bred Gunmetal Gray, who won the 2019 Sham Stakes (G3) and earned a Grade 1 placing as a juvenile under trainer Jerry Hollendorfer. Gunmetal Gray accumulated enough points to qualify for the 2019 Kentucky Derby, but an injury in late March sidelined him. 'I've had a couple good horses, even sent a few to the Breeders' Cup,' Pokoik reflected. 'But seeing Commandment at the Derby—and winning? That would be something else. I’ll definitely be cheering him on.'
And this is the part most people miss: Pokoik's success isn't just about breeding winners; it's about understanding the market. At 80, he remains sharp, constantly evaluating the value of his stock. For instance, he’s considering selling Sippican Harbor this fall if Commandment’s success continues to boost her value. She’s already set to be bred back to Into Mischief, meaning she’ll carry a full sibling to Commandment. 'She’s got a McKinzie due this month and a yearling filly by Elite Power that will be sold,' he noted.
When asked if he’d ever attend the Kentucky Derby, Pokoik initially cited the crowds and parking as deterrents. But with Commandment in the picture? 'Oh yeah, I’ll be there,' he said with a smile. 'Hopefully in the paddock, and hopefully in the winner’s circle.'
So, here’s the question for you: Do you think Pokoik’s breeding strategy of selling colts and retaining fillies is a missed opportunity, or is it a smart business move? And if Commandment wins the Derby, will it change how breeders approach their sales strategies? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
