Seven Horses Take on Only Bow Challenge
Marathoners will be going at it in
Smart Nijinsky Vokey 7/2 4yo son of Smart Strike has found an unusually tough field in this long-distance event. A horse with lots of early turn of foot, he has won his last two stakes. Would need to go a bit faster than usual to take this one, but he’s a proven horse with an awesome jockey aboard. Almost certain to get a piece of the action, though I have doubts about his ability to win this time.
Domitian Lenasdream 99/1 A maiden whose best speed fig in 13 starts is a 69, she just doesn’t belong here. She’s never gone this long on the dirt before, but there’s just no reason to believe she’d perk up anywhere near enough.
Perfect Motion Lizbizkit 3/5 Heavy favorite, but he’s more of a miler. A nice consistent horse at shorter distances, he’s flopped enough times at 12 furlongs for me to write him off in this race. Nice colt, but I don’t expect this to be his best day.
Communal Tuner Ottox 11/1 Consistent plugger who usually hits the board in allowance fields. This is a step up for him, but he could still hit the board with a big race. Jock is pretty lousy, though.
Fragrant Son Kevoman4 8/1 My favorite and a bargain at 8/1. 3yo has won his last three races, all 12-furlong stakes. This is his first race against his elders, but there is every indication that he should be able to handle them. Can win from on or slightly off the lead and has a skilled jock to help him find just the right position.
One Bad Boy Qwikvett1 9/1 Does okay in allowances at this distance, but is taking a step up here and that may prove to be too much for him. A useful horse who may still pick up a paycheck, but he’s outclassed by the best here.
Enter the Beast Qwikvett1 5/1 Bred to go long, this race may actually be a bit short for this guy. His most impressive races have been at 16 furlongs, a hard distance to find on the card. Does decently at 13 furlongs, but I don’t expect a win out of him. One of several who could take second or third. Will benefit from a very good jockey.
I think Fragrant Son will be awfully tough to beat, but there should be some good competition for second and third in this race. Good luck to everyone!