Who’ll take the Slipper out of Kentucky ??
After the excitement of last week’s Derby behind us, the 2 year olds take centre stage this week at Kentucky for the running of the Kentucky Slipper over 6 furlongs on the Turf. There is little doubt that the winner of this race will go on to bigger and better things and the possibility of a rising star coming out of this race is very real. Lets take a look at the contenders.
JACOBITE A.P.C.D. (mithras) 17/1 ~ One of only two fillies in the race, this daugther of MASS MEDIA was terrible on debut on the dirt but then more than made up for it when she came from deep in the field to win easily last start over 1000m. The run was ultra impressive considering she posted a 75 SP and at odds of 17/1 here, she is great value to go on with it. Only query is how she will handle the boys.
CARBON (luckytoo) 25/1 ~ Another product from MASS MEDIA, this colt did similar things to the previous runner where he was well beaten on dirt on debut before being on the pace all the way and pulling away for a 1 length win over this distance on turf at his second start. At 25/1 he too is a very juicy quote in an open race, especially with a top jock in Haynes steering. From gate 2 he should get the run of the race so must be considered.
LUCKY’S SAM (naracing2) 7/2 ~ Nicely bred yougster from FUSAICHI PEGASUS who has also had a run on each surface and been more successful on the grass. His win came last start when he nagged the leader all the way before edging him out in the final stages over 1100m. Not the best value at 7/2 in early markets but looks to be a tough competitor.
AMAMBO DUANE (dowelly) 3/1 ~ Regally bred KINGMAMBO son out of former sim champion turf mare AMANDA JANE and looks to be above average going on his win at this track on debut last month. His 62 SP wasn’t flash but he did look to have a bit in reserve. Givins has retained the ride on the colt who is expected to be on pace like a few others. He’s a bit short at 3/1 but he is from a family of multiple grade and stakes winners.
LEXI’S SMILE (claybornfa) 8/1 ~ Like many others before him, this colt from Include turned things around after an average debut on dirt to win second up on turf over 1100m. He’s out of Grade 2 placed mare Winged Ransom who’s prevous colts were claiming types but this guy looks to be the real deal. Going on his win when he came form well back, the extra half furlong shouldn’t pose any problems. Great chance.
SCOVAZON (tull) 7/2 ~ This RAINBOW QUEST colt has been very busy already this season, having started three times with 2 wins and a 3rd placing and a number 20 turf ranking for his age. His last start allowance win over 1200m on the turf at New York earned him a 76 SP which puts him right in contention here. He came from a long way back on that occasion and with a fast tempo anticipated, it should suit this fellow perfectly for a final crack at them. Huge threat.
HOLLYMOOD (kingsworld) 20/1 ~ The 20/1 quote seems very generous for a last start allowance winner but this son of MIGUEL CERVANTES has certainly earned his spot. His Dam, Zain was a prolific winner of 11 turf races with most them being over the sprints so this guy shouldn’t be short of talent irrespective of is unfashionable bloodlines. His SP of 61 is a bit behind some of these but he’ll sit mid field and if the luck comes, he’ll be there when the whips are cracking.
CREDIT CAPITAL (oasis3) 6/1 ~ One start for one win and an SP of 70 – can’t ask for much more than that on debut from a 2yo. This handsome son of AGNES DIGITAL has all the hallmarks of being a talented individual considering he is from multiple stakes winning SOUITHERN HALO mare in CANTA EN ESPANOL. He won stylishly on debut by 2 1/2 lengths and it will take a good one to get past him in this race.
COMINGREADY OR NOT (airbiscuit) 12/1 ~ First starter, MORE THAN READY x POLISH PRECEDENT x MIESQUE’S SON. Obviously no exposed form but the trainer must be confident to be puting him into the acid test on debut.
SMELLS LIKE BLOOD (danno3) 8/1 ~ The second filly in the race and another with a perfect record of one from one. This WAR EMBLEM filly led all the way against the girls posting an SP of 64 and was entitled to knock up a bit after being over 3 lengths in front during the running. The expected speed duel may not aid her but she does look to be a talented type. It’s a big ask against the colts though.
Interesting race as all 2yo early races seem to be. Due to the expected speed in the race you would expect the back markers to be the more fancied runners in the race like SCOVAZON but you just never know. I think you will be able to throw a blanket over most of them at the finish line so all I will tip is an extemely close finish. Good Luck to all.