Woodbine Sunday, October 14, 2012 "Pattison International Preview"
(Post Time: 5:44 p.m.ET) Surface: Turf,
1 1/2 Miles, Open, 3 Year Olds And Up, G1 STAKES, Purse: $1,500,000
LAY TIME is also entered in the EP Taylor Stakes and that looks like a
better spot for her. She doesn’t seem up to the task of tackling this
level of competition. Her best races have been in Group 3 company. Jimmy
Fortune will ride the Galileo filly for Andrew Balding.
DANDINO just missed beating the vaunted Sea Moon back in May and since
then has collected a win in the Group 3 September Stakes at Kempton. The
form between those two races was spotty. The son of Dansili has back
class that makes him competitive, but it’s anyone’s guess if he can
summon it. Jim Crowley will ride for James Fanshawe.
FORTE DE MARMI has a lot going in his favor if you are willing to look
closer. Today, he will race third off the shelf. He picks up arguably
the best jockey in the world in the form of John Velazquez. He also gets
to go today’s trip for the second time. When last seen he was beaten 1 ¼
lengths in the Grade 1 Northern Dancer Stakes. He could make a big
enough move forward to win this race at a juicy price for trainer Roger
Attfield.
SCALO hasn’t been able to reproduce his strong European form yet. He
won a pair of Group 1’s across the pound, but in two North American
races he has finished third and fourth. Blinkers go on today and that
might be the trick to getting a better effort from him. Andrasch Stark
is listed to ride for Andreas Wohler.
Grade 1 winner PRINCE WILL I AM had a long time away from the track
because of an injury. He was finally able to get back last month to be
last of six in the Grade 2 Bernard Baruch at Saratoga. He was beaten
five lengths that day. It’s easy to forgive that race as he had been
away for so long. Ramon Dominguez has finally made the trip to ride and
crazier things have happened than this guy winning the Pattison.
Michelle Neihei is the trainer.
Undefeated in two tries at Woodbine is WIGMORE HALL. Both of his wins
came in the Northern Dancer Stakes. His European form isn’t so great,
but he seems like an animal that relishes racing with lasix. Of all the
horses in this race he has the least questions to answer. He can handle
the surface and distance and has class oozing out of his ears. Jaime
Spencer is in to ride for Michael Bell.
RELIABLE MAN hasn’t won in over a year, but has faced top notch
competition. He was fourth behind Danedream in the Group 1 King George
VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes and was only 1 ¾ lengths back in that field
of ten. If he can work out a clean trip he is going to be one of the
horses to beat for world class jockey Olivier Peslier and trainer Alain
Dupre-De Royer.
JOSHUA TREE was second to Sarah Lynx in this race one year ago and won
the Pattison two years ago. Since his last trip to Woodbine he has won
the Group 2 Darley Prix Kergorlay and finished third behind Orfevre in
the Group 2 Prix Foy. We know he loves this track and distance and that
alone makes him a threat. Frankie Dettori rides for Marco Botti.
Somehow AL KHALI was favored when last seen in the Northern Dancer
Stakes. He only lost a neck that day, but it is hard to love him at a
short price given that his only win in the past two years came against
allowance horses. He is 0 for 8 record at the distance. Garrett Gomez will ride for Bill Mott.
IMPERIAL MONARCH is the race favorite for trainer Aidan O’Brien. The
young Galileo colt has three wins from four starts and his only loss saw
him race through a horrid trip in the French Derby. The form of his
older foes looks as good or better than his, so this might be a time to
take a shot against him. Ryan Moore picks up the mount as Joseph
O’Brien, Aidan’s son, appears to be getting too heavy to ride much
longer.
Shug McGaughey, America’s best turf trainer, brings AIR SUPPORT to this
race. The one run closer was last seen taking the Grade 2 Bowling Green
Stakes at Belmont Park. Earlier this year he was second in the Grade 1
United Nation Stakes. If they get going quick up front his chances will
improve immensely. JJ Castellano is listed to ride.
Keeneland Saturday, October 13, 2012 "Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup Preview"
(Post Time: 5:21 p.m. ET) Surface: Turf,
1 1/8 Miles, Fillies, 3 Year Olds, G1 STAKES, Purse: $400,000
BETTER LUCKY hit the big time with a splash when she won the Grade 2
Sands Point Stakes by a nose at Belmont Park. After that she was an
unlucky second in the Grade 2 Lake George Stakes and didn’t bring much
run while fifth in the Grade 2 Lake Placid Stakes. The extra distance
might not be in her best interest. Shaun Bridgmahon rides for Thomas
Albertrani.
TANNERY came running when last seen in the Grade 1 Garden City Stakes,
but ran out of track while finishing 1 ¾ lengths back in third. She is a
Group 3 winner in her native Ireland. The daughter of Arc winner Dylan
Thomas should be much stronger in her second U.S. outing for Alan
Goldberg and Elvis Trujillo. Don’t count her out of this.
Al Stall’s TREASURED UP has a bad habit of coming on too late. If new
jockey Brian Hernandez can get her in the mix of things earlier, she
stands a shot of winning. Her resume has late running finishes to be
third in the Grade 3 Regret Stakes and fourth beaten only ¾ lengths when
last seen in the Grade 3 Pucker Up. It will take a move forward for her
to visit the winner’s circle, but that is within the realm of
possibility.
CENTRE COURT might be the best horse in the race. The Rusty Arnold
pupil is flexible enough to win from anywhere on the track and can win
going various distances. Julien Leparoux is likely to have her closer to
the front in this race. It will be her goal to hold off Stephanie’s
Kitten, something she couldn’t do last out in the Lake Placid Stakes.
Before that race she won the Lake George Stakes and Regret Stakes.
We possibly have not seen her best shot, until today.
STEPHANIE’S KITTEN is a Breeders’ Cup champion as she won last year’s
Juvenile Fillies Turf. Since then, she owns victories in the ungraded
Edgewood Stakes and the Grade 2 Lake George Stakes. It looks like the
bay filly performs best when within a few lengths of the early pace, so
look for John Velazquez to keep the pace setter in his cross hairs.
Wayne Catalano is the trainer.
It looked like SOMALI LEMONADE had seen better days, but she surprised
some of us by bringing a big late rally to be second in the Grade 1
Garden City Stakes. She will need help in the pace and traffic
departments, but if she gets them she is as deadly as anyone else.
However, she isn’t worth risking money at single digit odds. Michael
Matz trains this one and Joe Rocco Jr. will pick up the mount.
Chad Brown is winning everything in sight and he brings SAMITAR to this
race. The Martin Schwartz owned daughter of Rock of Gibraltar is a Group
1 winner in Ireland and was last seen winning the Garden City Stakes at
Saratoga. She registered a head victory under Ramon Dominguez after
racing in fourth much of the way. The field she beat wasn’t too
impressive despite the Grade 1 status of that race.
DAYATTHESPA has only lost twice in a seven race career that includes
two Grade 3 wins, one of which came over this Keeneland turf course.
Trained by Chad Brown, she figures to find herself on the lead in this
spot. JJ Castellano will retain the mount. She has won at today’s
distance, but that was against lesser foes. Is she ready to hold off
this caliber of competition?
Keeneland Saturday, October 06, 2012 "Shadwell Mile Preview"
(Post Time: 5:21 p.m. ET) Surface: Turf,
1 Mile, Open, 3 Year Olds And Up, G1 STAKES, Purse: $750,000
SKYRING is a good Grade 3 horse, but is likely biting off more than he
can chew here. He made a big lead last out in the Saranac Stakes against
a good group of horses before stubbornly holding on to be second by a
half length. Unfortunately for trainer D Wayne Lukas, this field is
twice as good as that one. Rajiv Maragh picks up the mount.
DOUBLE’S PARTNER will make his first start for Todd Pletcher since May
5. The horse has performed well on a long rest before. His only try at
Keeneland saw him finish a troubled third in the Makers Mile. JJ
Castellano is in to ride the son of Rock Hard Ten and they figure to
race mid pack.
CORPORATE JUNGLE has had only one race that wasn’t at a mile. He owns a
very good record at the distance and was last seen finishing second to
Wise Dan in the Four Star Dave Handicap. Paco Lopez rides for Chad
Brown.
The connections of WILLCOX INN have a tendency to run this horse over
his head. He was last seen finishing eighth in the Arlington Million. He
has finished no better than fourth in his last three tries against
Grade 1 horses. Approach the Michael Stidham pupil with caution. James
Graham is listed to ride.
The final boss of this group is WISE DAN. The gelding has gotten so good
this year that it is almost unbelievable. If I had not seen it then I
would not have believed it. His last trip to the track was in the
Woodbine Mile where he smashed a good group by 3 ¼ lengths. Before that
he won the Four Star Dave at Saratoga with an equal amount of ease. If
he brings his “A” game then none of the others have a chance. John
Velazquez will be in New York riding for Todd Pletcher, so Jose Lezcano
picks up the ride.
WORTHADD (IRE) shipped across the pond to contest the Woodbine Mile, but
couldn’t make an impact on that race. A good Group 2 horse overseas, he
fits with this bunch. Typically a good Group 2 horse would be the
favorite in a race like this, but the American turf milers are a tad
stronger than usual. Luis Contreras will retain the mount for new
trainer Bryan Lynch.
DATA LINK had his coming out party at Keeneland in the spring. He ranged
up on the outside to capture the Maker’s Mile in breath taking fashion
for Shug McGaughey. Since then he has won Monmouth Stakes and finished
second in the Bernard Baruch Handicap. His chances are strong, but like
everyone else, he has to beat Wise Dan. Alex Solis returns to the irons.
SLIP AND DRIVE enters this race after two allowance wins at Delaware,
but is probably over his head. McLean Robertson trains and Alex Cintron
will ride.
The same can be said for OL ARMY. The gelding has two wins in a row, but
both came against much lesser foes. Jesus Castanon will ride for Chuck
Peery.
SILVER MAX reeled off seven magnificent turf wins in a row before
failing to keep the streak going when last seen in the Secretariat
Stakes. In his streak of wins he took down races like the Transylvania
Stakes, American Turf and Virginia Derby. He figures to be rolling along
on the lead. How far he can take such a quality group? Robby Albarado
will ride for Dale Romans.
DOMINUS scored an easy win in the Bernard Baruch, his first time
stepping on the turf course. The Todd Pletcher pupil likes to go to the
front, but will have a hard time doing so with Silver Max looming to the
inside. Julien Leparoux is likely to take hold of the son of Smart
Strike and make a run from mid pack.
SWIFT WARRIOR has always seemed like a good horse and he is finally
showing that. Unfortunately, he couldn’t have caught a group any tougher
than this. He has a puncher’s chance under Jose Espinoza for trainer
John Terranova.
Keeneland Friday, October 05, 2012 "Alcibiades Stakes Preview"
(Post Time: 5:21 p.m. ET) Surface: All Weather Track, 1
1/16 Miles, Fillies, 2 Year Olds, G1 STAKES, Purse: $400,000
PURE INDY won her Del Mar debut as the favorite, rallying from last
going 5 ½ furlongs. She was at a disadvantage in her next start, the
Barretts Debutante, a 6 ½ furlongs sprint over the Fairplex bull ring.
She checked in fifth that day, after breaking poorly on a track that
favors front runners. It’s encouraging to see them ship across the
country for this Grade 1 event while bringing jockey Victor Espinoza
along for the ride. If things get going too fast up front she has the
stamina and ability to finish well.
Ken and Sarah Ramsey have had success in this race. They won it last
year with Stephanie’s Kitten. This year, they bring KITTEN’S DUMPLINGS, a
first out winner at Saratoga. She took that debut effort despite having
to rally from behind and twice bumping hard at the start. Her second
race, the Grade 2 Natalma, saw her come running as far back as 13th to
finish fourth by 2 ¼ lengths. Today, the Michael Maker trained filly
gets a rider upgrade as JJ Castellano returns to the irons. This is the
most complete horse in the race.
ROSE TO GOLD was purchased for just $1.4k as a yearling. The daughter of
Friend’s Lake has won her first two races, both stakes races, by a
combined 26 ½ lengths. Granted she didn’t face much that is still
impressive. Today the Sal Santoro pupil will get the acid test. Jesus
Rios has made the trip to ride.
ALMOST AN ANGEL boasts a strong pedigree for synthetic. Wes Ward excels
at Keeneland and will be returning his pupil to filly foes as she faced
open company in the With Anticipation last out. Her lone win came in a
six furlongs turf sprint at Belmont. The daughter of Artie Schiller will
be ridden by Elvis Trujillo.
Trainer Ken McPeek has had plenty of Keeneland success and was second in
this race last year with Putthebabiesdown. This year he brings $425k
purchase FULLY LIVING. She won her debut like a good thing in late May
at Belmont, but has failed in three stakes tries since. She was last
seen in the wake of Dreaming of Julia, 16 ¼ lengths back in second.
D Wayne Lukas used to dominate the stakes scene, but hasn’t been the
same in recent years. He isn’t all the way gone though and will look to
secure a trip to the Breeders’ Cup with BROKEN SPELL. The daughter of
Broken Vow was last seen just missing in the $100k PG Johnson Stakes at
Saratoga. An improvement on that race might be good enough to win this
Grade 1 event.
GOLD EDGE is an undefeated Grade 3 stakes winner, the only lass in this
group that can say that. Chris Emigh gave her a masterful ride in the
Arlington-Washington Lassie, relaxing her off the lead only to come
again and score the win on the wire. Lon Wiggins is the trainer and
Emigh will retain the ride.
LA SONG almost scored a 37-1 upset in the Arlington-Washington Lassie
after free wheeling on the lead, but was caught by the aforementioned
Gold Edge. She should make the front again under jockey Jeffrey Sanchez.
Wayne Catalano trains the daughter of Unbridled’s Song.
Mark Casse’s SPRING IN THE AIR was an emphatic 10 ½ length maiden winner
going six furlongs on Woodbine’s synthetic surface. After that, she
rallied from 11th to end up second in the Grade 2 Natalma Stakes on the
grass. A switch back to Poly Track figures to help move her up. Patrick
Husbands, who rode her in the maiden score, is making the trip to ride.
TARA FROM THE CAPE has two races for Todd Pletcher after breaking her
maiden at first asking for Ricky Griffith at Woodbine. Those races were a
win in an overnight stakes event at Delaware where she was the heavy
chalk and a third place effort in the PG Johnson after pressing the
pace. Ramon Dominguez will retain the mount.
Todd Pletcher will also saddle Glencrest Farm’s SKYFALL. She won her
debut at Saratoga in a race that came off the grass before being
trounced in the PG Johnson Stakes. John Velazquez will pick the mount
back up after riding her in the debut.
SPEEDINTHRUTHECITY was twice second to the monster Executiveprivilege
before finishing third by a neck in the Juvenile Fillies Turf Stakes at
Del Mar. She was defeated by only a neck that day in a very close photo
finish. Moving back to a synthetic surface could help her and she
figures to have enough stamina through Thunder Gulch on the dams side to
get today’s distance. Julien Leparoux picks up the mount for Peter
Miller.
MAGICAL MOON sped thru 5 ½ furlongs on the Saratoga lawn while drawing
clear by 10 ¼ lengths. That massive effort will make her one of the
favorites in this race. Anna Napravnik retains the mount on the bay
daughter of Malibu Moon out of the Lord at War mare Lady Dora. Al Stall,
who has had success in Keeneland’s juvenile stakes races, will saddle
her.
Larry Jones will bring Arlington Washington Lassie third place finisher
DANCINGINTHECIRCLE to this Grade 1 race. If not for a bump at the break
she might have won that race. Robby Albarado will pick up the mount on
this girl who rounds out the field.
Belmont Park Saturday, September 29, 2012 "Jockey Club Gold Cup Preview"
(Post Time: 5:46 p.m. ET) Surface: Dirt, 1 1/4 Miles, Open, 3
Year Olds And Up, G1 STAKES, Purse: $1,000,000
RON THE GREEK is a grinder that will be moving late, should he break
well and find himself chasing a solid pace. The Bill Mott pupil has
really come on this year with victories in the Santa Anita Handicap and
Stephen Foster Handicap. Jose Lezcano retains the mount on this 5-2
favorite.
STAY THIRSTY has fared well at Belmont, but is winless in five tries.
Throw in the fact that he hasn’t won since annexing the 2011 Travers and
he would really need to move up to compete here. Todd Pletcher
conditions this colt and Ramon Dominguez will ride for the first time
since last year’s Kentucky Derby.
Like Stay Thirsty, RULER ON ICE has been a slumping four year old. He
just cant seem to find the stride that sent him to the winners circle of
last year’s Belmont Stakes. When last seen he stalked his way to a
second place finish against optional claiming company. Will the magic
return? Alan Garcia picks up the mount for Kelly Breen.
HYMN BOOK has a tough time working out a good trip, but he’s sharp when
he does. He finished up strongly to win the Donn Handicap earlier this
year and he also owns a runner up effort in the Suburban Handicap.
Today’s distance is a question, but he is bred to handle it just fine.
John Velazquez stays aboard for Shug McGaughey.
Arguably the best horse in the race, FORT LARNED made short work of his
foes when last seen in the Whitney Handicap. He won from just off the
pace and was under a hand ride late by Brian Hernandez, who will ride
him today. Prior to that win he free wheeled to a triumph over
Successful Dan in the Cornhusker Handicap. Ian Wilkes trains the bay
runner.
Overmatched against his own age group, ATIGUN will try even deeper
waters for trainer Ken McPeek. Probably not a wise placement, but hey,
maybe the colt will shock us. When last seen he finished fourth in the
Travers. It was a career best effort. Mike Smith will ride.
FAST FALCON loves to finish late and has the pedigree it takes to thrive
in this race. He came home quick to be third by just a neck in the
Travers last out. Corey Nakatani will get the ride from the injured
Junior Alvarado. Nick Zito is the trainer.
Todd Pletcher’s best chance is with SAN PABLO. A lightly campaigned
junior colt, he owns seven wins from 12 starts and rides a two race win
streak into this event. Look for him on or near the pace under JJ
Castellano.
FLAT OUT won this race a year ago and finds himself among the favorites
this time around. He is winless in six tries since last year’s race, but
could be sitting on a breakthrough effort. New trainer Bill Mott has
led him up to this race beautifully and the setup looks to be in his
favor. New rider Joel Rosario should do wonders for him.
GAME BALL was defeated 13 ¾ lengths when last seen in the Sword Dancer
Invitational. It looks like he is overmatched once again. Rajiv Maragh
will try to rally from off the pace for trainer Naipaul Chatterpaul.
Del Mar Sunday, August 26, 2012 "Pacific Classic Preview"
(Post Time: 8:18 p.m. ET) Surface: All Weather Track, 1 1/4
Miles, Open, 3 Year Olds And Up, G1 STAKES, Purse: $1,000,000
RAIL TRIP (Jump Start x Sweet Trip by Carson City) : This ol’ boy is
back on his game after a failed stint in New York. When last seen he
pressed the pace on his way to a victory in the San Diego Handicap. Some
of his best races have been at today’s trip. Jose Valdivia Jr. rides
back and will likely send from the inside. Ron Ellis trains the bay
gelding for Jay Em Ess Stable.
AMANI (Morning Raider x Just Fine by Doneraile Court) : Magnificent
bay filly dominated her competition in Chile before finishing a hard
charging third in the Clement Hirsch Stakes behind Include Me Out. She
bobbled the start in that race. Trainer Neil Drysdale has decided to
equip lasix for the first time. Jockey Garrett Gomez finds himself on a
filly that likes to make one run. That could be bothersome as she
doesn’t project to get too much pace. One the bright side, she is classy
as they come and will love the extra ground provided by the Pacific
Classic.
RICHARD’S KID (Lemon Drop Kid x Tough Broad by Broad Brush) :
Seven-year-old will seek to become the first three-time winner of the
Pacific Classic. He looked to be headed the wrong direction in Dubai,
but found new life when returning to the United States. He dominated the
Prove It Stakes by 7 ¼ lengths before rallying to be second beaten 1 ½
lengths in the Hollywood Gold Cup. After that, he broke the track record
en route to a win in the 1 ½ miles Cougar II Handicap. New jockey
Victor Espinoza will ride for the first time since missing by a nose on
Richard’s Kid in the 2009 Cougar II Handicap.
WHERE’S STERLING (Northern Afleet x Twinkler by Benny The Dip) : Late
mover has won two races in a row at Calder, but will step way up in
class this time. He has faced good horses in the past, finishing second
in the Hawthorne Gold Cup and a close fourth in the Donn Handicap. It’s
encouraging to see a work over the Del Mar track. Paco Lopez will make
the trip to ride for high percentage trainer Luis Ramirez.
DULLAHAN (Even The Score x Mining My Own by Smart Strike) : Half
brother to Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird has done his best
running on synthetic surfaces where he owns a perfect record with both
wins coming in Grade 1 races. It’s great to see the connections
committing to a big time synthetic race like this one. It’s important
that jockey Joel Rosario doesn’t lose touch with the field. He can close
with the best in the country, but even the greatest closers are at the
mercy of the pace. Dale Romans, who seemingly wins every big race of
late, is the trainer.
AKKADIAN (Tiznow x Papa Sids Girl by Souvenir Copy) : Wow, what a
work on August 16! He got through six panels in 1:10 and change over the
Del Mar main track. That’s motoring anywhere, but especially over a
surface like this one. The form isn’t quite there, but it’s hard to
dismiss Julio Canani in a big race. He won the Santa Anita Handicap at
triple digits odds with Martial Law in 1989. Martin Garcia is the
jockey.
JAYCITO (Victory Gallop x Night Edition by Ascot Knight) : It was nice
to see this Zayat colt score an allowance win last out. The Grade 1
winner has struggled since his juvenile season, but is showing flashes
of his former brilliance. Despite that, he has caught a very deep field
and might not be ready just yet. Two things in his favor are jockey
Rafael Bejarano and the distance. This guy is bred to run for days and
Bob Baffert has him working strongly.
SUGGESTIVE BOY (Easing Along x Suffrage by Horse Chestnut) : Ron
McAnally has been raving about this colt for weeks. The Argentinean bred
and raced son of the Storm Cat stallion Easing Along won four of six
races in his native land. Since arriving in the U.S. he finished a good
second in the Shoemaker Mile behind Jeranimo despite having been off for
nearly nine months. The third place finisher in that race, Little Mike,
returned to score the Arlington Million. He followed that effort up
with a win in the Wicker Stakes. Joe Talamo retains the mount on this
bay colt that figures to run a career best race.
GAME ON DUDE (Awesome Again x Worldy Pleasure by Devil His Due) : Good
luck finding a knock on this gelding. He has won four of his past six
races with two of those races coming against Grade 1 company. He was
also second in the Breeders’ Cup Classic in that span. His game has
always been clear; go to the lead and try to hold everything off. It has
worked quite well as his heart as big as they come. He loves to throw
down and duel and is the one to beat. Chantal Sutherland stays aboard
for trainer Bob Baffert.
RIVETING REASON (Fusaichi Pegasus x Love and Marry by Known Fact) :
Trainer Myung Kwon Cho can pop up with a live long shot from time to
time, but this one looks to be over his head. He is an important entrant
nonetheless as he figures to hook the favorite early. If that happens,
it improves the chances of every other horse in the race. David Flores
retains the mount.
The Midsummer Derby, better known as the Travers Stakes, boasts a purse
of $1 million. The 1 ¼ miles race has what appears to be a depleted
field after the defections of Bodemeister, Hansen, Union Rags and
Paynter. Nonetheless, 11 stalwarts of the three-year-old division are
ready to stake their claim to the throne.
SPEIGHTSCITY (Speightstown x My American Girl by Quiet American) : The
connections will send hard from the inside and hope to hold on for a
piece. That isn’t likely given his questionable pedigree for the
distance and the fact that he hasn’t raced since February 4. Irad Ortiz
is good, but it would be one of the biggest coups in racing history if
he were able to win this race. Gary Contessa is the trainer.
FIVE SIXTEEN (Invasor x Third Street by Salt Lake) : His only win came
against a horse that took 10 tries to break its maiden. Since then, he
finished far back in an allowance and the Belmont Stakes before coming
out of nowhere to be second in the Curlin Stakes over a sloppy track.
It’s tough to see him having a shot against horses of this caliber. Anna
Napravnik rides for Dominick Schettino.
GOLDEN TICKET (Speightstown x Business Plan by Deputy Minister) : Not
really sure what Ken McPeek is thinking here. His runner has stamina on
the back end, but asking a Speightstown to stay this distance is like
asking Kim Kardashian to stay married for more than a month. Yea, like
that’s going to happen. David Cohen is listed to ride.
STEALCASE (Lawyer Ron x Steal the Show by Cat Thief) : Hit the gate and
broke quite awkwardly in the Grade 1 Haskell Invitational. Despite
that, he still rallied to gather up a third place finish. Before that he
was a rank second to Neck n’ Neck in the Grade 3 Matt Winn Stakes. He
figures to sit a good trip under Shaun Bridgmahon for trainer Mark
Casse. In the end, this guy is much more live than his odds indicate.
STREET LIFE (Street Sense x Stone Hope by Grindstone) : Finished
strongly to win the Curlin Stakes when last seen, but didn’t beat much
at all. His previous forays against this sort of company have resulted
mediocre efforts. The dark bay figures to be an underlay at his morning
line price based on his credentials.
ALPHA (Bernardini x Munnaya by Nijinsky II) : This colt has plenty of
good qualities; that is why he is the favorite. First, he has tactical
speed. Ramon Dominguez will not have any problems placing him on or off
the pace. Second, he is bred to get any route distance you could throw
at him. 1 ¼ miles wont pose a single problem for the bay colt. A last
out win in the Grade 2 Jim Dandy Stakes tells us he appreciates the
surface. This Kiaran McLaughlin pupil is the one they will have to beat
to win the Travers.
ATIGUN (Istan x Rimini Road by Dynaformer) : Probably not placed very
well in this spot. He just isn’t very good. A third place finish in the
Belmont Stakes was a fluke in a race that often produces odd results. He
will have to prove he fits with this bunch. Mike Smith rides for Ken
McPeek who has won just three races at the meet, two coming in maiden
claiming events and another in a maiden special weight.
NECK ‘N NECK (Flower Alley x Bootery by Storm Boot) : Suffered behind a
slow pace in the Jim Dandy where he was unable to reel in Alpha while
finishing second. An extra furlong as well as what projects to be a
livelier pace will work to his benefit. The talent is there and was on
obvious display when he romped home by 7 ¼ lengths in the Matt Winn.
Before the Jim Dandy, which was on a sloppy track, he ran two huge races
over fast racetracks. A fast strip in the Travers makes him a sharper
contender. There is a lot to like with Leandro Goncalves up for trainer
Ian Wilkes.
LIAISON (Indian Charlie x Galloping Gal by Victory Gallop) : It would be
a huge salute to the late Indian Charlie if this guy were able to annex
a Grade 1 race at the 10 furlongs distance. He has been on the cusp in
recent tries, but just can’t seem to put it all together. If things get
crazy on the front end, look for him to come charging hard under Rafael
Bejarano. Bob Baffert is the trainer of this colt that won the Grade 1
Cashcall Futurity as a juvenile.
NONIOS (Pleasantly Perfect x Stylish Manner by Touch Gold) : Jerry
Hollendorfer trained dark bay colt keeps moving forward. Has he reached
his ceiling yet? That is the million dollar question. When last seen he
finished second behind Paynter in the Haskell. If that colt were in this
race he would likely be a 4-5 favorite. The extra distance shouldn’t
hurt him at all and he has proved he likes to run on dirt. John
Velazquez picks up the mount.
FAST FALCON (Awesome Again x My Chickadee by Pleasant Tap) : Late entry
for Nick Zito ran second in the Easy Goer and Grade 2 Dwyer Stakes
behind Teeth of the Dog. After that he failed to fire in the Jim Dandy
Stakes, a race where he was seventh. The hot riding Junior Alvarado
picks up the mount.
Saratoga Friday, August 24, 2012 "Ballerina Stakes Preview"
(Post Time: 5:30 p.m. ET) Surface: Dirt, 7 Furlongs, Fillies and Mares, 3 Year Olds And Up, G1 STAKES, Purse: $500,000
The seven furlongs Grade 1 Ballerina Stakes could prove to be a
harbinger for the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint at Santa Anita
later this year. 2007 winner Maryfield would go on to take the inaugural
running of the Filly & Mare Sprint. This year’s field is as scrappy
as any in recent memory.
ISLAND BOUND (Speightstown x Indy Mood For Luv by AP Indy): Less than a
year ago this girl was racing in a $30k non winners of two lifetime
claiming race. Since then, she has won the Grade 3 Winning Colors Stakes
and finished second beaten a neck in the Grade 2 Honorable Miss
Handicap. Quite a move up in class, but it is class that could prove to
be a problem. As much as she has improved, these Grade 1 foes look
tough. Ian Wilkes trains and Julien Leparoux will ride.
ALL DUE RESPECT (Value Plus x Aunt Due by Devil His Due): This lass is
better than she appears at first glance. Not sure what the connections
were thinking by trying her on turf, but you can toss those races. Her
form before that saw her finish behind top horses like R Holiday Mood,
Lovely Lil and Blind Luck. Today’s distance figures to suit her very
well. It’s good to see a strong jockey with a good clock in his head
like Joel Rosario listed to ride. Don’t be surprised if Rick Dutrow’s
filly wins this race.
IT’S TRICKY (Mineshaft x Catboat by Tale of the Cat): Has finished worse
than second only once in her career and has won three races in a row.
One of her two Grade 1 victories came at Saratoga as she took last
year’s edition of the CCA Oaks. While she is an effective router, it is
clear that she does her best work around a single turn. Her works are
sharp and trainer Kiaran McLaughlin does very well with those racing off
a rest.
BELLE OF THE HALL (Graeme Hall x Vines of Justice by Judge T C): Came
home quick while chasing a torrid pace in the Honorable Miss last out,
finishing fourth beaten two lengths after being as many as 12 lengths
behind. She might need a drop in class to do her best work. Thomas
Albertrani trains and Irad Ortiz gets the call to ride.
NICOLE H (Mr. Greeley x Hot Chipotle by Victory Gallop): Back in New
York after a good try to be second by a ½ length in the Grade 1 Princess
Rooney Stakes when last seen. She is a Grade 2 winner at the distance.
The dark bay is near perfect with jockey Ramon Dominguez in the irons.
There is a lot to like about the Michael Hushion pupil.
TURBULENT DESCENT (Congrats x Roger’s Sue by Forestry): The vaunted
favorite will be making her first start for Todd Pletcher. Although she
is a phenomenal runner on the west coast, she is no stranger to winning
on the east coast. Former trainer Mike Puype and jockey David Flores
guided to her to a win in the Grade 1 Test Stakes over this track last
year. Her form appears to be as strong as ever and it would make sense
if she improved while in the hands of a guy like Pletcher. John
Velazquez will play the role of pilot.
DERWIN’S STAR (Wildcat Heir x Powerful Package by Star De Naskra): She
rocks at the seven furlongs distance as proved by an awesome record. Two
races back she was an easy winner of the Grade 3 Bed o’ Roses Handicap.
Steve Klesaris could be sitting on the best long shot possibility in
the race as she figures to be overlooked after a poor effort in the
Grade 2 Molly Pitcher. David Cohen picks up the mount.
Arlington Park Saturday, August 18, 2012 "Arlington Million Preview"
(Post Time: 6:44 p.m. ET) Surface: Turf, 1 1/4 Miles, Open, 3 Year Olds And Up, G1 STAKES, Purse: $1,000,000
The Grade 1 Arlington Million is one of the most prestigious and
cherished races in the world. It is the first race in racing history to
deliver purse money of at least $1 million with the legendary John Henry
annexing the inaugural race in 1981. Recent winners include the likes
of Cape Blanco and Gio Ponti. This year, a field of 11, including five
European raiders, will compete for the top spot.
RAHYSTRADA (Rahy x Ministrada by Deputy Minister) : What a salute it
would be to the late Rahy if this eight-year-old gelding were to win the
Million for the first time in his third try. He finished fourth and
fifth, respectively, in his previous attempts. Like in those tries, he
enters this year with a last out win which, this year, came in the Grade
3 Arlington Handicap. Rahystrada has good record at Arlington and at
today's distance. He’s versatile enough to go wire to wire or rally from
mid pack. That is an asset that jockey Julien Leparoux will have to
utilize to get good position from the rail. Byron Hughes is the trainer.
BOISTEROUS (Distorted Humor x Emanating by Cox’s Ridge) : It is a tad
bit odd to see this one as the favorite despite the fact that he does
not own a Grade 1 triumph. Four others in this race can stake that claim
and seem more likely to be favored by the public. That said, the Shug
McGaughey pupil is no slouch and he loves to finish with a flurry of
speed. He has had trouble bearing down against top notch competition
though. There are too many appealing options to side with this one at
such a low number. Jose Lezcano picks up the mount from Alan Garcia.
AFSARE (Dubawi x Jumaireyah by Fairy King) : First a note on the
trainer, Luca Cumani. He is noted as one of the best throughout Europe
and has trained an endless list of top horses. Top American conditioner
Christophe Clement learned many of the tricks of his trade working as an
assistant to Cumani. The talented horseman is shipping in an equine
that owns a good record at the 1 ¼ miles distance. The gelding is a
listed stakes winner, but owns second place finishes in Group 1 & 2
company. Cumani has employed regular stable rider Kieran Fallon to ride
this race. Fallon won the Million in 2005 on Powerscourt.
LITTLE MIKE (Spanish Steps x Hay Jude by Wavering Monarch) : Little he
is not; this gelding becoming a Grade 1 winner two back when he took
the field all the way in the Turf Classic at Churchill Downs. Speed is
his game and he is going to go as far as he can. A discouraging point is
that Joe Bravo decided to head to New York to ride in the Grade 1 Sword
Dancer Invitational instead. Ramon Dominguez picks up the mount, so it
isn’t all bad. This is a bit further than he is used to traveling, but
if the field allows him to race easily on the lead then he might
surprise everyone. Dale Romans trains this gelding whose sire is a full
brother to Unbridled’s Song.
COLOMBIAN (Azamour x Clodora by Linamix) : Could not keep up last out
against top company that included the likes of So You Think and Carleton
House. Three races back he was a Group 3 winner over the likes of Poet
and Twice Over. The competition he faces today is probably more similar
to the group he beat than the group that beat him. Jockey William Buick
won this race two years ago aboard Debussy. He seems as likely a winner
as any in this race for the extremely capable John Gosden.
TREASURE BEACH (Galileo x Honorine by Mark of Esteem) : Perhaps the
best horse in this race, he just hasn’t been himself in recent trips to
the track. He looked to have the field over a barrel two back in the Man
O’ War at Belmont, but couldn’t pick his feet up in the stretch.
Trainer Aidan O’Brien shipped him back home where once again he couldn’t
get the job done in the Group 3 Ballyroan Stakes. He makes for a tough
decision, because you know that trainer Aidan O’Brien hasn’t shipped the
2011 Irish Derby winner here just to play around. Jamie Spencer is in
to ride this colt that won the Grade 1 Secretariat Stakes just a year
ago.
WILLCOX INN (Harlan’s Holiday x De Aar by Gone West) : Last year’s
Grade 2 American Derby winner loves it at Arlington Park, a track where
he owns a great record. He doesn’t seem to appreciate the distance so
much, as he failed in last year’s Secretariat Stakes as well as the
Hollywood Derby. He enters this race with just a single prep, a win in a
one mile allowance optional claiming race. It’s tough to side with him
here given so many better options. James Graham rides for Michael
Stidham.
WIGMORE HALL (High Chaparral x Love And Laughter by Theatrical) : This
one seem to be a different animal when in North America. While his
resume across the pond is just so-so, he owns a second place finish to
Paddy o’ Prado in the 2010 Secretariat Stakes. The following year he won
the Grade 1 Northern Dancer Stakes at Woodbine after finishing fourth
in this race in which he suffered a terrible trip. Lasix could be the
answer; banned overseas, the drug was used in each of his strong North
American efforts. He will have lasix again today. Michael Bell trains
and the mount goes to the very capable Haley Turner.
CRACKERJACK KING (Shamardal x Claba di San Jore by Barathea) : Trainer
Michael Botti brings what is likely the best member of the European
contingent. He owns an awesome career record with one of his two losses
coming last out to the highly touted Nathaniel in the Group 1 Eclipse
Stakes. His form isn’t as sharp as it might appears because the
competition in Italy isn’t nearly as fierce as places like England or
France. Despite that, it’s hard to find knocks on a horse like this one.
Colm O’Donoghue will be in the irons.
CHEROKEE LORD (Sir Cherokee x Sequins n’ Lace by Mari’s Book) : This
guy has little chance of winning the Arlington Million. He just isn’t
fast enough at any point in his races to suggest he could pull off this
coup.
VERTIFORMER (Dynaformer x Tempo West by Rahy) : It’s tough to get a
read on a horse like this one. He is bred in the purple and owns a fair
record of 9-4-0-0 on his career. He wasn’t disgraced last out in the
Grade 3 Arlington Handicap where he rallied for a fourth place finish
after a poor beginning. A win could be out of the question, but he could
make for a juicy trifecta or superfecta if he can round out one of
those tickets.
The Grade 2 Saratoga Special is just that; special. The premier race for
two-year-olds at the Spa boasts a purse of $200k and that helped to attract
seven strong entrants. Each will seek to add his name to a list of winners
that includes Favorite Trick, City Zip, Jump Start, Henny Hughes, Kodiak
Kowboy, Kantharos and Union Rags.
IN HARM’S WAY (Hook and Ladder x New Harmony by A.P. Indy) : Michael
Hushion pupil goes from NY-bred company to the deep waters of a Grade 2
race. He lost his debut despite being favored, but rectified the situation
by drawing away to a 4 ¾ length score second time out. The sire produces a decent %
of winners in two-year-old races. The mare did not race and has one other
runner, the $75k earner Strike Accord. Edgar Prado will likely stalk from
the inside and hope to have enough left to pounce in the late stages.
HE’S SO FINE (Purge x World Event by Quiet American) : Likes to move
from the back as he proved in a second out maiden claiming score. This race
is an enormous class test for the juvenile. He might be better suited for
trainer Ken McPeek’s Ellis Park contingent.
SPURIOUS PRECISION (High Cotton x Scarlet Combo by Scarlet Ibis) : Wow,
that first race was a dandy. He charged through quick fractions and still
had enough left to pull clear for a 3 ½ length win over this surface.
Trainer Richard Violette is a master with juveniles and could have his next
big star with this one. Alan Garcia retains the mount.
SOUTHERN HONOR (Yes It’s True x Pontiana by Deputy Minister) : Trainer
Anthony Dutrow has already shipped in to win a graded stakes race at
Saratoga. He looks to have a shot at doing it again with this quick and
precocious colt. His maiden win at Parx saw him skip away by 7 ¾ lengths and he did it easily.
Ramon Dominguez figures to be sitting on the horse with the best gate speed.
Look for him to take advantage of that.
DAN THE TIN MAN (Songandaprayer x Mrs. M by Mecke) : The sire of this one
is among the best in the country, but gets very little respect. In 2011, he
led all stallions in winners and repeat winners. His win rate with
juveniles is as good as it gets. The dam was Grade 3 placed, so this one has
everything it takes to be a good one. The second out win at Woodbine saw him
drive clear by 5 lengths after brushing at the beginning of the race. JJ
Castellano will have to hope things get hot and heavy up front as his live
contender seeks to move from the back. Ricky Griffith is the trainer.
SHANGHAI BOBBY (Harlan’s Holiday x Steelin’ by Orientate) : First of two
entries for Todd Pletcher was an easy first out winner at Aqueduct all the
way back in April. He followed it up with a wire to wire score in the Track
Barron Stakes at Belmont as the 1-2 favorite. He spots 4 pounds to each of
his rivals as jockey Anna Napravnik retains the mount. She looks to have
options in the way she rides him and that makes him even deadlier as the
favorite in this race.
DRUM ROLL (Majestic Warrior x Sparkling Forest by Forest Wildcat) : Not
very often that John Velazquez (now a Hall of Fame rider, we might add!) is
on the “other” Pletcher entry. This guy went wire to wire as the favorite in
his Monmouth Park debut. His owners Mr and Mrs. John Tabor scooped him up
for $300k at OBS in March. The breeding says he should enjoy two-year-old
stakes races.
The Grade 2 Fourstardave Handicap is a Grade 2 race in name only. The
nine entrants combine to form a field that is of Grade 1 quality. That’s
not hard to believe when you consider the $500k purse and prestige that
comes with winning at Saratoga. Forecasts tell us the turf course could
be anywhere from firm to soft, but the likelihood of the race coming
off is very slim.
DATA LINK (War Front x Database by Known Fact) : Trainer Shug McGaughey
really is one of the best in America and he has shown it with this colt.
He started the year with a third place effort in the Grade 3 Canadian
Turf where he was beaten only 1 ½ lengths. That race proved to be a good
springboard as he would win the Grade 1 Makers Mark Mile in his next
start. He was seen next in the Grade 1 Turf Classic at Churchill Downs,
an oddly run race that saw him finish fifth beaten 4 ½ lengths. He
avenged the loss with a next out win in the Grade 2 Monmouth Stakes over
Get Stormy and next out winner Get Serious. It was an impressive effort
as he ran fast the whole way and still came home real fast. Alex Solis
should be sitting on a ton as they turn for home.
WISE DAN (Wisemen’s Ferry x Lisa Danielle by Wolf Power) : Horse players
are likely to see the big figures this one has and flock to him en
masse. He had a tough trip last out when losing the Grade 1 Stephen
Foster Handicap against a tremendous field. With a clean trip it is
likely that he would have won. However, the same could be said for Fort
Larned who ran poorly in that spot and returned to win the Grade 1
Whitney Handicap two starts later. His two turf races saw him beat a
marginal field in last year’s Grade 2 Firecracker Handicap and finish
fourth in last year’s Grade 1 Shadwell Turf Mile. Charles Lopresti is a
master conditioner and has brought him into this race with a lot of care
and precision. The turf works are razor sharp and he was last seen
blasting five furlong on the Saratoga grass in :58 2/5 B, the best of 52
moves that day. If he won this race it would not surprise a single
person. John Velazquez retains the mount.
GET STORMY (Stormy Atlantic x Foolish Gal by Kiri’s Clown) : This horse
is as classy as they come and gains a major advantage against the two
horses inside of him as he owns a great record over this turf course and
won this very race in 2010. He typically does his best work on the
lead, but Eddie Castro got him to effectively rate last out in the
Monmouth Stakes, despite being passed by Data Link in the stretch. The
three time Grade 1 winner runs well fresh and has been lighting up the
turf training track as evidenced by a five furlong move in :57 2/5 B,
best of 41 works. He rates a little lower than Data Link, but trainer
Thomas Bush has plenty of reasons to think he can win this one. Eddie
Castro stays in the irons.
GUY’S REWARD (Grand Reward x Beach View by Mr. Greeley) : Corey Lanerie
will make the trip up from Kentucky to ride this five-year-old that has
won three in a row, including the Grade 2 Firecracker Handicap when last
seen. The biggest knock on him is that six of his seven wins have come
at Churchill Downs. He is a different horse when shipping outside of the
bluegrass state. Dale Romans is the trainer.
RIGHT ONE (Anabaa x Riziere by Groom Dancer) : This one was highly
regarded once upon a time, mostly on the basis of his third place effort
in last year’s Grade 1 Woodbine Mile. He hasn’t been the same since,
with his best effort coming two back to be second in the Grade 3 Jaipur
Stakes. It’s probably going to take a drop in class for him to get a
win. On the bright side, it’s rare to get Christophe Clement and Julien
Leparoux at such a generous price.
SURFRIDER (Dansili x Ecoutila by Rahy) : Was a Group 3 winner last year
in France, but hasn’t found the same form in North America. In his
defense, the races have probably been a little too short. This will be
his first time going a mile since shipping across the pond. He’s got a
puncher’s chance for Eddie Kenneally and Jose Lezcano.
CORPORATE JUNGLE (Giant’s Causeway x Lady Carson by Carson City) : His
only try over this turf course was a maiden victory. He was last seen
finishing fifth beaten three lengths in the Grade 1 Shoemaker Mile at
Hollywood Park. The west coast didn’t seem to agree with him. JJ
Castellano picks up the mount and will find himself on a runner that
finishes well despite being near the pace. It will be his job to hold
off the late moves of the closers. Chad Brown conditions the dark bay.
UPGRADE (Saint Liam x Emily Ring by Fit to Fight) : He has finally found
his niche; turf sprinting. Trainer Michelle Nehei made a great claim to
grab this guy for $35k and has won 2 of 3 races with him, including the
Grade 3 Jaipur. This might be a little too far for him. Joel Rosario
picks up the mount.
YIELD BOGEY (Langfuhr x Upper Noosh by Red Ransom) : Classy
eight-year-old finds himself facing some stiff competition. Maybe when
he was a tad younger he could have had a better chance to compete here.
Count him as a pace factor. Edgar Prado rides for Patrick Kelly.
The Grade 1 Vanderbilt Handicap is the premier race for sprinters at
Saratoga. The $400k six furlong race has attracted a field of eight
horses this year. Notable winners include Speightstown, Pomeroy, War
Front, Fabulous Strike and Majesticperfection.
SHACKLEFORD (Forestry x Oatsee by Unbridled) : Last year’s Preakness
Stakes winner looked to be finished, but has found new life in one turn
races. Trainer Dale Romans turned him back in the Carter Handicap where
he finished third. After that he put in a gutsy performance to beat
Breeders’ Cup Sprint winner Amazombie in the Churchill Downs Stakes.
While those were both strong efforts, it was his try in the Met Mile
that left jaws on the floor. John Velazquez, riding for the injured
Jesus Castanon, shot right to the lead and never looked back. He held on
for a nose victory over Caleb’s Posse while stopping the clock in
1:33.30. It was likely the best effort of his life. He might be
vulnerable on the turn back to six furlongs, but it will take a
monstrous effort to defeat him. Johnny V will keep the mount.
EMCEE (Unbridled’s Song x Surf Club by Ocean Crest) : Incredibly
talented individual won his first two races by a combined 10 ½ lengths.
After that, he finished third beaten a length in the Toboggan after a
bad start. He was last seen scoring an easy optional claiming win at
Belmont. It was a good prep for this event. Look for Alan Garcia to set
up shop right behind the favorite. Kiaran McLaughlin is the trainer.
JUSTIN PHILLIP (First Samurai x Avaknowsthecode by Cryptoclearance) :
Not a bad price for a colt that is Grade 1 placed over this track. He
put in a bang up effort to lose by just ¾ lengths in the True North
Stakes two races back. He looked home free in the stretch, but Caixa
Eletronica came with a furious rally. His record of 6-2-1-1 at the
distance isn’t bad and leading rider Ramon Dominguez keeps the mount.
There are worse bets than this one. Steve Asmussen is the trainer.
ROTHKO (Arch x Raspberry Eggcream by Time for a Change) : We knew this
was a good colt when he finished second in the Malibu Stakes last year.
He finally got his first stakes win when he took the Aristides two back.
That effort was followed up with a second in the Iowa Sprint Handicap
where he was a prohibitive favorite. If they go too fast he could
benefit, but it’s going to take a career best effort to reach the
winner’s circle. Steve Asmussen trains and Julien Leparoux will ride.
POSEIDON’S WARRIOR (Speightstown x Poised to Pounce by Smarten) : There
are a lot of things to like about this long shot. First, he has the back
form to win this race. Second, he is racing third start of his form
cycle. Third, he could outhustle the favorite for the early lead. If he
does that and comes ready to run he is capable of springing a shocking
upset. Irad Ortiz rides for trainer Robert Reid.
SLOANE RANGER (Parker’s Storm Cat x Toppenish by You and I) : Gelding
has improved leaps and bounds in his last few starts. A change of
tactics is probably responsible because when his riders started getting
him on or near the lead, he started winning more races. This is a salty
group and he’s got a puncher’s chance, but he will need the best race of
his life to win. Jose Lezcano rides for trainer Martin Ciresa.
JERSEY TOWN (Speightstown x Jersey Girl by Belong To Me) : Grade 1
winner has had bad luck since winning the Cigar Mile. He has raced only
five times since that late 2010 race and has failed to win in those
races. He enters this event on a long layoff and it’s hard to see him
beating this group under the circumstances he faces. Edgar Prado is
listed to ride for trainer Barclay Tagg.
HAMAZING DESTINY (Salt Lake x Ms Proud Destiny by Artax) : He looked to
be improving after a win in the Maryland Sprint Handicap on the
Preakness undercard and did not disappoint with a next out fourth in the
True North. He was defeated only 2 ¼ lengths for the win. New rider
Joel Rosario figures to take him off the pace. That could be a good move
for a horse that rallied to be second in the 2010 Breeders’ Cup Sprint
at 24-1.
The 2012 Whitney Handicap (Gr. 1) is worth $750k and will be contested
at 1 1/8 miles over the main track at Saratoga. Last year’s winner,
Tizway, was a finalist for the Eclipse Award for Champion Older Male. In
2011 we saw Blame run down Quality Road in a stirring rendition of the
race on his way to Horse of the Year honors. Nine horses will try to
take the top spot this year.
RULE (Roman Ruler x Rockcide by Personal Flag) : This lightly raced
five-year-old was last seen taking the Grade 2 Monmouth Cup over Flat
Out. He contested pedestrian fractions before drawing away in his first
race since last October. His only win at today’s distance was against a
horrid field in the Birdstone Stakes last year. Joe Bravo rides for
Todd Pletcher.
HUNTER’S BAY (Ghostzapper x Smok’n Frolic by Smoke Glacken) : For the
price, you have to like this Reade Baker pupil. He is riding a three
race win streak and owns a pair of Grade 3 wins in his last two trips to
the track. His running style should have him in a good spot behind the
speed and he has proven he can get today’s trip. Baker shipped in
Moonshine Mullin to a second place finish in last year’s Travers Stakes,
so he knows how to get a bomb to run big at Saratoga. Emma Jayne-Wilson
should be underneath a ton of horse turning for home.
CAIXA ELETRONICA (Arromanches x Edyta by Skip Away) : This ol’ boy just
can get any respect. He won the Grade 2 Charles Town Classic, a race
worth $1 million and followed it up with a win in the Grade 2 True North
Handicap. Today’s distance and prospective pace setup will work to his
advantage. He could run a career best number under these circumstances.
For a horse with a 5-2-0-0 record at Saratoga he deserves to be a lower
price than the morning line. JJ Castellano will be in the irons for
trainer Todd Pletcher.
ENDORSEMENT (Distorted Humor x Charmed Gift by A.P. Indy) : Draw a line
through his last race which was the Grade 2 Suburban Handicap. He was
hot and sweaty in the post parade and never looked comfortable. Before
that he ran a bang-up third to be third beaten just a length in the
Grade 3 Pimlico Special. Trainer Eoin Harty and jockey Joel Rosario will
likely agree on having the horse close to the pace. That isn’t the best
style for him because he isn’t fast enough to outgun the quickest two
or three horse early on this race.
TRICKMEISTER (Proud Citizen x Afternoon Trick by Afternoon Deelites) :
This colt is the speed of the speed. Ramon Dominguez will have him a
length or two clear and try to go all the way. He is an improving type,
but if he gets pressured the way he figures to be pressured he will be
fried in the stretch. Richard Dutrow is the trainer.
RON THE GREEK (Full Mandate x Flambe’ by Fortunate Prospect) :
Benefitted from some chaos to win the Grade 1 Stephen Foster Handicap.
Before that he was second in the Grade 2 Oaklawn Handicap. His other big
win came three back in the Grade 1 Santa Anita Handicap. He is a
grinding type and should like will be in the mix late. Jose Lezcano is
listed to ride.
FLAT OUT (Flatter x Cresta Lil by Cresta Rider) : This is not a horse
that runs well on long rest so the second place finish in the Monmouth
Cup was encouraging. He should move up a little this time, but his best
races are going to come in his third and fourth starts of the year.
Throw in the fact that he is a better one turn horse than he is a two
turn horse. Anna Napravnik retains the mount for Bill Mott.
HYMN BOOK (Arch x Vespers by Known Fact) : This is an underrated horse.
He almost always fires with a good shot. The Grade 1 winning gelding
had a poor beginning last out in the Suburban, but still came on to be
second against what was a stellar field. If things get hot and heavy up
front, which they likely will, he becomes the one to beat. John
Velazquez will get back up for trainer Shug McGaughey.
FORT LARNED (E Dubai x Arlucea by Broad Brush) : Set an easy pace and
drew off for a three length win over Successful Dan last out in the
Grade 3 Cornhusker Handicap. He is a speed type, but trainer Ian Wilkes
says he can score from just behind the lead too. He’s going to have to
do that to win this race. Brian Hernandez has a good and improving horse
on his hands.
Monmouth Park "Haskell Invitational Preview" Sunday July 29, (Post Time: 6:17 pm ET) Surface: Dirt,
1 1/8 Miles, Open, 3 Year Olds, G1 STAKES, Purse: $1,000,000
The Grade 1 Haskell Invitational boasts a purse of $1 million. It is one
of the best races on the calendar for sophomore colts. The Monmouth
race is contested at 1 1/8 miles and has gathered a field of six horses.
Recent winners include Big Brown, Rachel Alexandra and Lookin At Lucky.
Trainer Bob Baffert has won the last two editions of the race and will
saddle Paynter as the 3-2 favorite this year.
NONIOS (Pleasantly Perfect x Stylish Manner by Touch Gold): Winner of
the Grade 3 Affirmed Handicap has never raced on dirt, but trainer Jerry
Hollendorfer told Blood-Horse that he trained well at Pleasanton as a
juvenile. He was last seen finishing second in the Swaps Stakes,
rallying into a slow place to lose by ¾ of a length. The Swaps has been a
good prep for this race and produced last year’s winner, Coil.
DULLAHAN (Even The Score x Mining My Own by Smart Strike): Belmont
Stakes favorite failed to fire in that race and before that was a hard
closing third in the Kentucky Derby. His best career efforts have been
on synthetic tracks. It’s too early to write off his dirt ability, but
he clearly is better on synthetic. He fired a quick :59 4/5 B five
furlong bullet on July 21 and will be reunited with jockey Kent
Desormeaux.
PAYNTER (Awesome Again x Tizso by Cee’s Tizzy): The talk of the town,
this colt was last seen relenting in the Belmont Stakes to finish
second, a neck behind Union Rags. He is the speed of the speed and the
one they will have to catch. His talent level is high and clearly
visible, but there are still questions for him to answer. He catches the
best
field he has ever faced here. Rafael Bejarano rides for Bob Baffert.
GEMOLOGIST (Tiznow x Crystal Shard by Mr. Prospector): Todd Pletcher and
WinStar Farm were shocked that this guy ran so poorly in the Kentucky
Derby where he finished 16th. It turns out he sustained a minor injury
in the race that required some time off, but now he is ready to go.
Previously undefeated, it is hard to find a knock on him. A five furlong
work in :58 2/5 B which Pletcher thought was spectacular tells us he is
sitting on a big effort.
HANDSOME MIKE (Scat Daddy x Classic Strike by Smart Strike): This Doug
O’Neill pupil was a fringe contender for the Kentucky Derby, but
couldn’t make the race. His best effort to date saw him finish third in
the El Camino Real Derby at Golden Gate behind Daddy Nose Best and Lucky
Chappy. After that he was taken off the pace and rallied to be fourth
in Turfway Park’s Spiral Stakes. His works are strong and Mario
Gutierrez is making the trip to ride. Anything is possible for this dark
bay.
STEALCASE (Lawyer Ron x Steal The Show by Cat Thief): Another fringe
contender in the Kentucky Derby, Stealcase woke up just a little too
late. He ran third in the Derby Trial, only a neck behind Paynter. After
that he ran off to a four length allowance win over Morgan’s Guerrrilla
and Seven Lively Sins. His last venture to the races was a second place
finish behind Neck n’ Neck in the Matt Winn Stakes. Shaun Bridgmahon
rides for Mark Casse.
You know it is really summertime when the $600k Grade 2 Jim Dandy Stakes
rolls around. The Saratoga race for sophomores is contested at 1 1/8
miles and is a great harbinger for the Grade 1 Travers Stakes the
following month. Five of the last 10 Travers winners (Medaglia d’Oro,
Flower Alley, Bernardini, Street Sense and Stay Thirsty) used the Jim
Dandy as a springboard.
ALPHA (Bernardini x Munnaya by Nijinksy II): Handicappers should put a
line through his Kentucky Derby race. He was very anxious in the paddock
and looked unsettled while sweating badly on the track. Throw in a poor
start and he never really had a chance while finishing 12th. Before
that race he looked like one of the best three-year-old colts in the
country when he missed in the Wood Memorial by just a neck to the then
undefeated Gemologist. This Kiaran McLaughlin pupil has the pedigree to
love long route races and his latest works indicate he is ready to run a
career best race under Ramon Dominguez.
FAST FALCON (Awesome Again x My Chickadee by Pleasant Tap): Nick Zito
has really come out of nowhere with this colt. He looked to be
overmatched in his first two races at Gulfstream before shipping to
Pimlico for an easy maiden breaking victory over second and third string
horses. After that race he posted a 28-1 second place finish in the
Easy Goer Stakes at Belmont Park. His last out second in the Dwyer where
he missed by just a neck solidified that form. Rosie Napravnik retains
the mount and should be moving from the back of the pack.
ATIGUN (Istan x Rimini Road by Dynaformer): He was easy to like in the
Belmont Stakes when players considered his long odds combined with
improving form and ability to stay the distance. However, the Belmont
Stakes is a goofy race that creates special circumstances. He will not
be so easy to like in the Jim Dandy. The Ken McPeek trained bay colt
hasn’t shown he can run fast enough to beat the best this race has to
offer. His strong last out effort means he is likely to be an underlay
in this spot. Julien Leparoux, who put in a great ride last out, will
keep the mount.
NECK ‘N NECK (Flower Alley x Bootery by Storm Boot): Seemingly “woke
up” two races back in an allowance race at Churchill Downs where he drew
off for a 6 ½ length win. Of the five horses to race out of that event,
three won next out, and a fourth won in his second try. This shows us
that it was a live event. He demolished a good horse called Stealcase by
7 ½ lengths in his next race, the Matt Win Stakes. The tactical speed
he displays will be a big advantage for jockey Leandro Goncalves. The
only real question is his ability to get the distance. His sire won this
race as well as the Travers, but the damsire is a bit questionable.
Overall, he has too many positives to let one negative get in the way.
Ian Wilkes conditions this colt.
MY ADONIS (Pleasantly Perfect x Silent Justice by Elusive Quality):
Bay colt showed tons of promise early this year, but hasn’t really lived
up to it. He won the Long Branch Stakes last out, but did so after
setting dawdling fractions. He will not have that luxury in this spot.
It’s going to take a career best effort for JJ Castellano to get him to
the winner’s circle. Kelly Breen is the trainer.
TEETH OF THE DOG (Bluegrass Cat x Deputy Reality by Deputy Minister):
Smart ride by Joel Rosario to utilize some of his early speed to get to
the front of the Dwyer Stakes. He never looked back after doing so.
Before that the bay runner took the Easy Goer Stakes by 3 ¾ lengths. His
recent form is strong and he is improving. However, he will have to
bring his “A” race to win for Michael Matz.
LIAISON (Indian Charlie x Galloping Gal by Victory Gallop): Grade 1
winning juvenile hasn’t found the winner’s circle in six tries as a
sophomore. His most recent effort saw him rally to lose just ¾ of a
length in the Swaps Stakes. Many were impressed with his latest work in
1:12 2/5 H over the Del Mar synthetic main track. Jockey Martin Garcia
loved it so much that he decided to make the cross country trip to ride.
It’s hard to knock Baffert in a race like this, but I’ve got a feeling
this colt’s best days are behind him. He just doesn’t seem to have the
punch he used to have.
PROSPECTIVE (Malibu Moon x Spirited Away by Awesome Again): Last out
Ohio Derby winner also owns a win in the Tampa Bay Derby. After a poor
effort in the Kentucky Derby where he lost all chance at the start, it
looks as if he could be coming into his own. Jockey John Velazquez sees
fit to pick up the mount for jockey Mark Casse.
Belmont Park "2012 Man o' War Stakes Preview" Saturday July 14, (Post Time: 4:34 p.m. ET), Surface: Turf,
1 3/8 Miles, Open, 3 Year Olds And Up, G1 STAKES, Purse: $600,000
Last year saw European trainer Aidan O’Brien stage a slight coup to win the Grade 1 Man o’ War Stakes with Cape Blanco.
This year, his charge will be favored.
Ken McPeek brings 15-1 chance TAHOE LAKE to the races. He was last seen
finishing up the track in an optional claiming race. A chance against
softer company would probably do him some good. Eddie Castro is listed
to ride.
POINT OF ENTRY will receive plenty of support from bettors as he is the
5-2 second choice on the line. The son of prolific sire Dynaformer is a
winner of three of his last four outings including the Elkhorn in his
last trip to the track. Jockey Jose Lezcano is picking up the mount for
trainer Shug McGaughey. He figures to sit in the back of the pack and
make one big run near the end of the race. Recent form says he is
clearly a top contender.
NEWSDAD could win this event if he runs one of his “A” type races. The
4-1 shot has shown tremendous talent on the turf and was rewarded with
his first graded stakes win two back in the Grade 2 Pan American at
Gulfstream Park. He followed that effort up with a flop in the Elkhorn
at Keeneland. We should forgive that effort because he found himself in a
somewhat unnatural spot on the lead. New jockey Junior Alvarado figures
to keep him behind horses in this race. Bill Mot trains the son of
Arch.
The vaunted TREASURE BEACH is back in North America in hopes of securing
his first victory since last year’s Secretariat Stakes at Arlington
Park. The son of Galileo finished a good fourth in the Dubai Sheema
Classic two back before failing in Sha Tin’s Queen Elizabeth II Cup. He
scored a career best win in last year’s Irish Derby and his earnings of
$2,267,749 dwarf those of any other horse in the race. European turf
horses typically prove to be inherently better than their American
counterparts. It will take a special effort to take down Treasure Beach
in this spot. Jamie Spencer is making the trip across the pond to ride
the 9-5 favorite.
Todd Pletcher’s HUDSON STEELE could be the biggest threat to the chalk
at morning line odds of 5-1. Two back he was a stalking winner of the
Dixie Stakes. He followed that effort up by finish fourth in the
Manhattan Handicap after making the lead. The gelding figures to make a
lonely lead once again and that would make him dangerous. Joe Bravo is
listed to ride. Pletcher and Bravo are doing very well as a team in
graded stakes company this year.
CENTER DIVIDER, GAME BALL and PHILLY ACE round out the field.
Hollywood Park "Hollywood Juvenile Championship Preview" Saturday
July 14, (Post Time: 4:31 p.m. ET), Surface: All Weather Track, 6
Furlongs, Open, 2 Year Olds, G3 STAKES, Purse: $150,000
The Grade 3 Hollywood Juvenile Championship can be a harbinger for the
big races later in the year. Historical winners include Squirtle Squirt,
Came Home and Dixie Union. They all went on to become Grade 1 winners.
Does this year’s field have a horse? There is only one way to find out!
DIRTY SWAGG (Street Hero x Diversa by Tobasco Cat): 10-1 homebred is by
the owner/trainer’s homebred Grade 1 winning stallion. The dam has also
produced Grade 1 winning filly LoveTheway Youare. He rallied into an
intensely slow pace in his debut and was defeated just 3 ½ lengths in
fifth despite being as far back as 15 lengths. It takes serious talent
to make a move like that even if he did not hit the board. Look for a
much sharper effort under Garrett Gomez.
CONFEDERATE RECON (Salute The Sarge x Building Bridges by Indian
Charlie): Stallion won this race in 2007. Unfortunately, after three
starts he looks to be a tad bit overmatched. It would take a monumental
effort for him to win. Agapito Delgadillo rides this 15-1 chance for
Eric Guillot.
CARSON’S CROWN (Harlan’s Holiday x Delicatessa by Dare and Go): Posted a
good first out maiden win on June 14 where he split foes to score the
win near the wire. His works since are very strong and include a move
on July 8 which ranked 2/88. Martin Pedroza keeps the mount for trainer
John Sadler.
JUST CALL ME AL (Redattore x Alarcity by Allen’s Prospect): Looked good
in the maiden breaking win, but that was going just 4 ½ furlongs. He
failed to impress in the William Proctor Memorial Stakes. It would take a
big move forward at 10-1 for this guy to win. Martin Garcia rides for
Mike Harrington.
SCHERER MAGIC (Doneraile Court x She’s a Nasty One by Touch Gold):
Caught tons of steam in the debut as he was bet down to 6/5 odds. He did
not disappoint as he posted an easy as pie 7 ¼ length win. John Sadler
claimed the gelding and is making a big jump in class. The top
conditioner is 33% first race after a claim. Joe Talamo keeps the mount
on the 3-1 shot.
AMARISH (Scat Daddy x Issues by Awesome Again): This one makes for an
imposing favorite as indicated by his 6-5 morning line price. He crushed
the competition in his debut, stopping the clock in :50.98 for 4 ½
furlongs and drawing clear by 7 ¾ lengths. After that he romped in the
William Proctor Memorial. If he runs either one of those races he is
probably going to win in this spot. Edwin Maldonado rides for trainer
Jeff Bonde.
STRONG WIND (Tribal Rule x Chalk Face by Memo): 10-1 shot is moving
from California bred company to graded stakes company. The size of this
jump cannot be overstated. It would be very impressive to see him win
this event based on his first three races. Kevin Krigger trains for
Steve Knapp.
Hollywood Park "2012 Hollywood Gold Cup Preview" Saturday July 7 (Post Time: 8:24 pm ET) Surface: All Weather Track,
1 1/4 Miles, Open, 3 Year Olds And Up, G1 STAKES, Purse: $500,000
The 10 furlongs Grade 1 Hollywood Gold Cup is typically one of the finest
races on the calender each and every year.
The filly LOVE THEWAY YOUARE gets 12 pounds from the favored Game On Dude
despite entering this race on the strength of a win in the Grade 1 Vanity
Handicap. She was 18-1 in that race and beat Grade 1 winner Include Me Out
by two and two parts of a length. The daughter of Arch will be launching a
bid from well back under Alonso Quinonez.
Should an upset occur it is likely to come from stablemate RICHARD'S KID.
The seven-year-old is no slouch and owns a pair of wins in the Grade 1
Pacific Classic. A stint in Dubai saw him do much less than his best
running, but upon return to America, he won an overnight stakes event by
seven and one part of a length. Rafael Bejarano will ride the Maryland
bred dark bay horse.
Trainer John Sadler couldn't win this race with Twirling Candy in previous
years, but will try to do so with KETTLE CORN. The Grade 3 Native Diver
Handicap winner was last seen finishing well behind Game On Dude in the
Californian. He will need that one to have a bad day in order to have a
shot at the win. Garrett Gomez picks up the mount from Joel Rosario who
has moved his tack to New York.
SPUD SPIVENS likes to go two turns on synthetic
surfaces as proved by his last out optional claiming win and the fact that
his last win before that one was under similar circumstances. He will race
mid pack under Victor Espinoza for trainer Henry Moreno.
ANTHONY'S CROSS will be racing with blinkers on after having them removed
in his last race. His best career effort was a win in the Grade 2 Robert
Lewis Stakes. He hasn't really been the same horse since that race, but
there are glimmers of hope in his recent form. Look for jockey Kerwin John
to get him involved early on in the race for trainer Eoin Harty.
The field of seven is led by the imposing GAME ON
DUDE, a dual Grade 1 winner that missed by just a nose in this event
last
year to stablemate First Dude. The gelded son of Awesome Again has
brutal early speed and can stay on
even after setting swift fractions. Jockey Chantal Sutherland guided him
to a seven and one part of a length victory last out in the Grade 2
Californian Stakes. That field was better than it appeared as it
included
graded winners Morning Line, Prayer For Relief and Kettle Corn. No one
in this race has enough early zip to keep him honest and barring a
bad day the Bob Baffert pupil is very likely to add this race to his
collection of stakes victories.
Kentucky Derby winning trainer Doug O'Neill will saddle THIRTYFIRSTSTREET.
Last year's Lone Star Derby winner was last seen finishing fourth in the
Grade 2 Mervyn Leroy Handicap. The extra distance of this race is likely
to help his cause. The young Eswan Flores gets the call to ride.
Belmont Park "2012 Suburban Handicap Preview" Saturday July 7 (Post Time: 5:06 pm ET) Surface: Dirt,
1 1/8 Miles, Open, 3 Year Olds And Up, G2 STAKES, Purse: $350,000
The nine furlongs Grade 2 Suburban Handicap features a well matched
group of eight horses set to compete for a $350k purse. Last year's
edition of the race saw Flat Out score at a nice price before going on
to be a force in the older horse division.
ENDORSEMENT (Distorted Humor x Charmed Gift by AP Indy) is deserving of
support. He ran a game race last out to be defeated just a length in the
Grade 3 Pimlico Special, a race that was more like a Grade 1. Before
that he waited patiently in fourth before taking the Grade 3 Texas Mile
at Lone Star. His only try at today's distance was an easy win in the
Sunland Derby. Martin Garcia keeps the mount for trainer Eoin Harty.
Likely to receive strong support is STAY THIRSTY (Bernardini x Marozia
by Storm Bird) from the barn of Todd Pletcher. He made his 2012 debut on
May 17 when he finished second in an overnight stakes race behind the
once beaten Trickmeister. Last year saw him win the Grade 2 Jim Dandy
Stakes and Grade 1 Travers Stakes before grabbing the show spot in the
Grade 1 Jockey Club Gold Cup. JJ Castellano stays aboard for owner Mike
Repole.
Repole has also entered CAIXA ELETRONICA (Arromanches x Edyta by Skip
Away). This one took the six furlong Grade 2 True North when last seen.
Three back he was a winner in the $1 million Charles Town Classic at
today's distance. Eddie Castro picks up the ride.
BUFFUM (Bernardini x Storm Beauty by Storm Cat) completes a trifecta of
entries for his sire. The $1.2 million auction purchase has raced
sparingly, but has been devastatingly face when he has. This will be his
second start since September. He won an optional claiming race by 8
lengths on May 28.
HYMN BOOK (Arch x Vespers by Known Fact) scored his first Grade 1 win
when taking the Donn Handicap back in February. Since then he has
finished fourth in the Grade 2 Oaklawn Handicap and fifth in the Pimlico
Special. He didn't have the greatest set up in either race and the
gelding experienced a troubled trip in the Pimlico Special. A cleaner
trip and fast pace will have him in the thick of the finish in this
event. Alan Garcia picks up the mount from John Velazquez for trainer
Shug McGaughey. Garcia rode this six-year-old to a second place finish
in last year's Cigar Mile.
TRICKMEISTER (Proud Citizen x Afternoon Trick by Afternoon Deelites)
does nothing but win races as proven by his lifetime record.
Unfortunately, he doesn't get out much. This will be his first race
since easily dispatching Stay Thirsty last out in wire to wire fashion.
Ramon Dominguez stays aboard for trainer Rick Dutrow.
Mike Smith is in to ride MUCHO MACHO MAN (Macho Uno x Ponche De Leona by
Ponche) for trainer Kathy Ritvo. Touted by many as the best horse in
the country, he failed to fire when finishing third in the Grade 2
Alysheba Stakes at Churchill Downs. He will look to rebound here and
three bullet workouts tell us that he means business. Should he win,
this will be the third graded stakes win of his career with all three
victories company against Grade 2 company.
TO HONOR AND SERVE (Bernardini x Pilfer by Deputy Minister) is likely to
be sent off as the favorite. The Grade 1 winner owns a victory in the
Grade 3 Westchester as well as a third place effort in the Grade 1
Metropolitan Handicap thus far in 2012. His last few races have been at a
mile, but he is bred to enjoy route racing. The Bill Mott pupil has an
excellent record at Belmont Park and at the distance. Jose Lezcano
retains the mount.
"2012 Bed o' Roses Stakes Preview" Sunday July 1, (Post Time: 5:06 pm ET ),
7 Furlongs, Fillies and Mares, 3 Year Olds And Up, G3 STAKES, Purse: $150,000
Belmont Park
CATCH A THIEF (Flatter x Nabbed by Red Ransom): Maryland bred filly
turned in a good effort to be third in the Grade 3 Dupont Distaff last
out. The second place finisher in that race, Love And Pride, returned to
win a stakes race. Before that she won an overnight stakes at Aqueduct.
Her record at Belmont Park stands very well. Eddie Castro will ride
from off the pace for trainer Timothy Hills.
ISLAND BOUND (Speightstown x Indy Mood For Luv by A.P. Indy): This lass
has really come a long way. In November of last year she was racing for
a $30k tag. Last out she was a winner in the Grade 3 Winning Colors
Stakes at Churchill Downs. She collected checks in three stakes races in
between. This will be her first trip to Belmont Park. Look for jockey
Leandro Goncalves to make a move from the back for trainer Ian Wilkes.
TWICE THE LADY (Quiet American x Catherine’s Crown by Chief’s Crown):
Trainer Anthony Dutrow brings this one to the races after a six length
romp against allowance optional claimers at Penn National. Before that
she was a good second in the same type of race at Aqueduct. Today, she
will race third off the layoff while being reunited with jockey Javier
Castellano.
DERWIN’S STAR (Wildcat Heir x Powerful Package by Star De Naskra):
Finished wide for the show spot in the My Juliet Stakes last out where
she was beaten just ¾ of a length for all the cheese. Before that she
was a 13 ¾ length winner in a starter allowance. Her other stakes
experience includes a third place effort in the Grade 2 Delaware Oaks.
She looks to be in sharp overall form for trainer Steve Klesaris. Top
New York jockey Ramon Dominguez will pick up the mount.
HONCHIS’N PONCHIS (City Zip x Kelli’s Song by Dixieland Band): Dale
Romans owned and trained filly won an allowance optional claimer at
Aqueduct in January. After that she reeled off three second place
finishes in stakes company against top fillies like Nicole H. Today, she
will face much softer competition, but has to contend with a three
month layoff. Jockey Rajiv Maragh has been given the mount in an attempt
to shake her up.
CATINATREE (Forestry x Golden Knolls by Seeking The Gold): After moving
to the barn of Michael Hushion, she romped in a second level optional
claimer at Parx, scoring a 7 ¼ length victory. That win is important
because it was one of the best in her career and in wire to wire
fashion. With a lack of speed in this race she is a true threat to take
this Grade 3 group all the way. Mike Luzzi picks up the mount.
C C’S PAL (Alex’s Pal x Roca by Noactor): Fast filly has come to life
since moving to Richard Dutrow’s barn. She scored a career best win last
out in the Grade 2 Vagrancy Handicap. She is tactical enough to go wire
to wire or win from just off the pace. That will come in handy as she
appears to be one of the only potential pace horses in this race. Junior
Alvarado retains the mount.
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