2-9. We got off to a hot start, winning the early double [1st, $7.30; 2nd, $7.60], and whenever that happens hopes run high that we could be sitting on a break-out day -- but it wasn't meant to be. We chased throughout the rest of the afternoon. We did manage a cold exacta in the opener, a jump race [$15.40/$2]. And, of course, the early double [$30.80].
18,465 attend. Yet another fine day weather-wise with sunny skies and comfortable temps. Celebrity-chef and racehorse owner Bobby Flay was a trophy presenter after one of the stakes.
The 11th Annual Battle of the Brews takes place in the backyard between noon and 5pmET.
FIRST RACE
Jumponthebandwagon...Been knocking at the door since moving into the Pecoraro barn. Should fit with these.
Globalization...Could be finding some class relief in here.
High Brass...Woke-up in latest and sometimes when they get good...
Stone Bird.
SECOND RACE
Weekend Strike...Well-bred firster from Pletcher.
Dream Empress...Trainer has them cranked for their second start.
Dynaslew...Should be live for debut.
Warm Shower.
Cat Grace.
THIRD RACE
Mutakaway...Claimed for $16K last time and now moves up -- but it looks like maybe they were trying to sneak in under the radar last time off the layoff. Should fit here and be tighter today.
Tight Storm/Speedstorm...Tight Storm preferred. Back on dirt. Back to sprint. And dropping.
Tzipi...Should be prominent early.
Sugarless.
FOURTH RACE
Elusive Moment...Expect a rebound with the return to sprint.
Onoitsmymothernlaw...Showed good speed going longer last time. Post is no bonus however.
Artistic Talent...Was OK sprinting on turf in SoCal.
Cocktail Attire.
FIFTH RACE
Captain Sword...Debut was promising. Claimed and comes right back at same level.
Slick Wheelie...Last looks like a toss-out. Was showing good improvement prior.
Sophie's Splinter...Ran well on the track on 8/4.
Knife and Fork.
SIXTH RACE
Dancing Fern...Been competitive out of town against open company. Should go well vs NY-breds.
Critical Cathy...Last was impressive and off of that she's a danger to run right through this next condition.
Smokin Sarah...Won a similar class of race back at Belmont last time.
Say Toba Sandy.
SEVENTH RACE
Mogul Man...In good form right now. Just missed in a similar race last time. Adds blinkers and trainer is solid with that stat -- albeit with a small sample.
The Cuban Hawk...Might be interesting off the short rest if he gets in from the AE list.
Fitness...Third start back and improved start #1 to start #2.
Riz Sauvage.
Cinder Cone.
EIGHTH RACE
Duchess Royale...US debut was promising then was perhaps over-matched in G3 marathon.
Caprice...Also was promising in first start on this side of the Atlantic. Had trouble in that one and could easily improve.
Viva La Flag...All three races this year have been OK. Would be no surprise in here.
Goat Cheese.
NINTH RACE - Personal Ensign G1
Ginger Punch...Champ has been impressive this year. Only loss was to the ultra-talented Zenyatta.
Unbridled Belle...Second in this race last year. Looks to be coming in primed for a good effort.
Golden Velvet...Second to the top pick in June.
Indescribable.
TENTH RACE
C Street...First two races should have this one set and ready for today.
Good Request...Running well on turf and won here at this trip last time. A logical contender.
Constabulary...Beyers are improving with every start and seems as comfortable on grass as on dirt.
My Man Lars.