Gemologist Wins Wood Memorial, Securing Place in Derby Field Undefeated but not seriously tested in four career starts, Gemologist stamped himself as one of the best Kentucky Derby prospects on Saturday after he resolutely turned back Alpha in deep stretch to win the Grade I, $1 million Wood Memorial at Aqueduct. Gemologist swept to the lead as the field of eight straightened for the stretch run, and the jockey Javier Castellano looked over as they crossed over to the rail and passed The Lumber Guy and My Adonis. But Alpha, who had lost ground while pinched back during the first turn, stormed to nearly even terms with 100 yards left. Gemologist dug in, showing a determination he had not had to call on before, and was pulling away at the finish. Gemologist gave his trainer, Todd Pletcher, his second Wood Memorial victory - and some payback from last year. He won the race with Eskendereya in 2010, but last year Uncle Mo disappointed as the 1-10 favorite. Pletcher and owner WinStar Farm combined to win the 2010 Kentucky Derby with Super Saver, and they hold a loaded hand as they aim for another classic win on May 5 at Churchill Downs. Gemologist had to finish first or second to tally the required graded-stakes earnings to make it into the field of 20 for the Derby, and the $600,000 first-place check guaranteed their trip. The final time of 1 minute 50.96 seconds was not sensational, but it should not detract from the way Gemologist triumphed. He also validated the bettors who expected the bay son of Tiznow to rise to expectations, making him the 6-5 favorite. He paid $4.40 to win. Alpha also availed himself well, and his runner-up earnings of $200,000 will also pave his way to Churchill Downs. Longshot Teeth of the Dog finished three lengths behind Alpha in third.