For some, this week could represent the crowning achievement of a long career; for others, this week represents one last shot at an elusive spot in the starting gate for the Breeders\u2019 Bowl Distaff.\u00a0 <\/SPAN>For still others, a final but nonetheless dangerous prep for the big dance two weeks hence, for while running 2 weeks before the biggest race of the year could bring these mares into the Breeders\u2019 Bowl razor sharp, it could also drain them, leaving them sapped when called on in the more important contest to come, or precluding them from starting altogether.\u00a0 <\/SPAN><\/FONT><\/P> Here\u2019s what we know: with the exception of co-favorites Dangerous Reward<\/B> and English Bark<\/B>, the majority of the field is looking for either their first success at the highest level, or at least their first success in a very long time at this level.\u00a0 <\/SPAN>We know that Dangerous Reward and English Bark, despite their lofty rankings (they are the #5 and #7 dirt classic fillies), each have fallen on rough times as of late, and will need a special effort here combined with a favorable condition upon their return to justify a starting spot in the Breeders\u2019 Bowl.\u00a0 <\/SPAN>Finally, only two of the 14 runners look like they have no shot, leaving twelve serious contenders to vie for a $500,000 purse over 9 furlongs in Three Smokestacks Stakes<\/FONT><\/SPAN><\/B> Top of Form
Grade I
A mile and one eighth
Fast Dirt
$500,000
Fillies and mares, 3 years old and up