Preferred Power a solid favorite in the Grade I The Black Dread Awakens

A compact but talented field has signed in to dispute the Grade I The Black Dread Awakens, which is the feature this weekend in Ireland. This race is separated for horses, four year olds and up running over the firm turf at the classic distance of a mile and a quarter.

1. Brilliant (21-4-3-5) – Good horse, but in my opinions have some factors against. First of all, his best races have come over the dirt. Second, he has not won in over six months. And third, and most importantly, when stepping up to graded stakes compay, he has not fared well at all. I will pass for now.
2. Balerion (18-8-4-0) – Maybe the speed of the speed of this event. He drew a very favorable two hole, which is perfect for his style. Already a graded winner, he is one of the top candidates in this race.
3. Minesweeper (25-7-3-5) – He was doing off form over the last month and a half, but in his most recent effort, he scored, although this was in an allowance event. His SF, however, was very competitive and if he continues to improve, he can score here at 7-1.
4. Kepler of Rock (IRE) (27-14-5-0) – Horse clearly on the improvement trend. He comes off a win in a listed stakes race, his sixth lifetime. He likes to come from way off the pace, so he needs a contested pace up front to be able to win in the final stages. Good chance, because he likes to win, as his record says.
5. Savage Frontier (27-7-1-4) – Graded winner and very versatile horse. He is a nice router at either surface, somewhat better in the grass. His last two efforts have been a little disappointing, but he returns to a distance much more suited for him. Outside chance.
6. Rhodes Scholar (18-5-6-2) – He was doing pretty nicely at the end of last year, and was sent to the farm for a needed rest. He came back six weeks ago with a solid second in a listed stakes, which served him as a nice bolt tightener. Should be much fitter now and at 7-1 is my pick to win.
7. Swampy Sturm (13-5-1-3) – So far his best presentation card is a Grade III win at the middle of last year, and at this distance. Lately, he has not been able to repeat that effort. Coming from off the pace, he needs to recover his old form to have a chance here.
8. Preferred Power (33-15-7-4) – The most seasoned horse in this field, being a multiple Grade I winner. He should be in a stalking position from the start and is more than understandable the solid 2-1 Morning Line. Strong candidate!

The picks: Rhodes Scholar, Preferred Power, Balerion.

Good Luck!!!