Papa Clem, who in his last two starts played runner-up to top Kentucky Derby candidates Pioneerof the Nile and Friesan Fire, picked up a major prep win of his own on Saturday when he drove past pacesetter and even-money favorite Old Fashioned to win the Grade 2, $1 million Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park.

Papa Clem earned $600,000 for his win Saturday, which was more than enough graded money to secure him a spot in the starting gate for next month’s Kentucky Derby. The race has been a goal for the horse, who is named for the late California racing giant Clement Hirsch.