Notes on Saturday’s Graded Stakes
July 2nd, 2010By Jude T. Feld
Is Regal Ransom ready to show his championship form? We’ll find out in Belmont’s Suburban (G2).Godolphin Photo
Summer racing is the absolute best and this weekend kicks off what looks like a much better than average season of Thoroughbred sport. Pay attention, watch the replays if you miss a race or two and makes some notes…the Breeders’ Cup will be here before you know it.
BELMONT 9 – SUBURBAN (G2)
Two of last year’s Kentucky Derby (G1) hopefuls make their comebacks in the Suburban (G2) – I WANT REVENGE and REGAL RANSOM. This probably isn’t the spot to plunk down pantloads of cash, as both have been training well and either could win but both of them could be rusty too.
MONMOUTH 10 – BETFAIR-TVG UNITED NATIONS (G1)
WINCHESTER has always had a ton of ability but it has taken him a while to show it consistently. Trainer Christophe Clement has the son of Theatrical in peak form right now and his recent victory in the Woodford Reserve Manhattan (G1) was visually impressive. There is plenty of speed entered here to set up his closing charge.
ARLINGTON 9 – ARLINGTON OAKS (G3)
Given too much to do by jockey Freddie Lenclud, SNOW TOP MOUNTAIN just missed winning the Regret (G3) at Churchill Downs in her last start. Trainer Tom Proctor named his “go-to guy,†J.L. Castanon, to ride the Najran filly in the Oaks, hoping for a better result. It is important to note that she is proven at a mile and an eighth and owns a Polytrack victory as well.
CHURCHILL DOWNS 10 – BASHFORD MANOR (G3)
LOU BRISSIE has always been highly regarded by sharp trainer Neil Howard. The son of Limehouse has done nothing to dispel that confidence in two lifetime starts, including a victory in the Kentucky Juvenile (G3). His pressing style should be even more effective at six furlongs, so a big effort can be expected.
HOLLYWOOD PARK 8 – AMERICAN OAKS (G1)
Three-year-old fillies going a mile and a quarter for the first time makes this race a bit of a puzzle. CITY TO CITY looked good rallying in the Honeymoon (G2) and she put in a big finish to win the Providencia (G3), both at a mile and an eighth. Jockey Joel Rosario should have her flying in the stretch.
