So much for my special interview with Santa Anita Derby winner Practical Move. The man didn't desire breakfast Thursday, increased a fever and will not run in Saturday's Kentucky Derby.

I attempted to connect for comment from the Tim Yakteen-trained colt, however I didn't get far. All I might collect was he'll be treated with prescription antibiotics and should be great in a couple of days. Luckily the ailment was caught early and he didn't race at less than 100% in the Derby.

This must be my week, however, due to the fact that I was lucky sufficient to catch up with 3-1 morning-line favorite Forte, who's won six of 7 lifetime races and will take advantage of Practical Move's lack.

Don't tell Forte that.

" Practical who?" the Florida Derby winner and in 2015's 2-year-old male champion stated outside his barn. "I indicate, seriously, the next time he leaves his cozy little barn in California will be the very first. I've won in Florida, Kentucky and New York. I want him well, but he was just going to get in the method Saturday."

Strength was gracious sufficient to respond to a couple of more questions while sifting through a copy of the Daily Racing Form.

Inquisitive reporter: So who are you stressed over Saturday? Who can give you a run for your cash?

Strength: (Laughing hysterically) Dude, have you seen my résumé? I've won three Grade I stakes (puffing out chest), beat that (Bob) Baffert pretender Cave Rock at Keeneland and I'm unbeaten this year. He was all out to beat Verifying, whose next graded-stakes win will be his.

Horses with more talent than you have lost the Derby. He ended up fifth in the Derby and then went on to win the Preakness, Belmont, Haskell and Travers. The Derby is no picnic in the park.

Specialty: (Rolling his eyes) Who did you state you write for? The Cambria Courier?

Reporter: The Southern California News Group.

Strength: Get a clue, buddy. I'm not going to be lagging far behind with some of those tomato cans. I assume you're going to bet on me, Mr. News Group?

Press reporter: Don't know. You appear to know a lot. Did you understand he was the only Derby horse to have more than one Beyer Speed Figure of 100 or more (2)?

Strength: (Doubling over with laughter) I didn't even understand they had horse racing in Japan. Man, seriously, Derma Sotogake?

Press reporter: Well, he did win the UAE Derby by 5 1/2 lengths.

Strength: The UAE Derby? If you wan na throw away cash, toss it my way so my trainer (Todd Pletcher) can purchase me some mints and other goodies.

Reporter: OK, you've convinced me. I am going to lay a few dollars on you and pick you to win Saturday. You seem extremely confident. I understand Todd has let you see all the Derby preps and you appear to know more than I do about this race.

Forte: (Chuckling) Dude, a blind monkey understands more than you do. Do as I tell you. Load up on me Saturday, go gather and you can thank me later.

Press reporter: Good luck, Forte.

Specialty: Luck? It's the other 19 horses that are going to need luck. I'm currently looking forward to the Preakness.

Follow Art Wilson on Twitter @Sham73