Q+a [bob Baffert]

The trainer of three Kentucky Derby winners—Silver Charm, Real Quiet and War Emblem—will saddle up Kafwain and Indian Express in the 129th running this Saturday.

SI: You once said winning the Kentucky Derby is better than sex. Is that true for the Preakness and the Belmont?

Baffert: Only the Derby [laughs']. Only the Derby.

SI: Is there one quality that all champion thoroughbreds possess?

Baffert: They have a certain air. Some horses, when you raise your hand, jump to the back of the stall. But the great ones don't move. They're tough. And they know they're good.

SI: What was your alltime favorite horse to train?

Baffert: Silver Charm. A very noble horse. Tough. You could not faze him. He was like Jerry Rice.

SI: You told GQ that you like a horse "with a big, good-looking ass like J. Lo." What would you say about a horse built like Calista Flockhart?

Baffert: I'd say that was an Arabian horse. They don't have any butt at all.

SI: What are you looking for at a horse auction?