The BG Stakes- Grade II

KEE Race 5 1 1/8M Dirt

Purse $1,000.000 For   

Three Year Olds

1^st Simple Request, trained by Saratoga Stud

Dropped to the back of the pack after the start in order to not be extremely wide around the first turn. Raced well off the rail down the backstretch, seven lengths from the front as the leaders set a quick pace. Swung out even further on the far turn to find a clear lane down the middle of the track. Closed strongly through the stretch, got to the front with about a furlong to go and drew off for an easy win.

2^nd On The Spot, trained by Mb Stables

Settled in five lengths from the lead two spots off the rail as they moved around the first turn. Maintained that position down the backstretch as he steered clear of any traffic. Slowly advanced on the leaders as they started to move around the turn and had a clear path to the front. Was unable to keep pace when challenged by Simple Request but was able to catch Regret Nothing for the place just before the wire.

3^rd Regret Nothing, trained by Estero Farms

Moved up after the start and was able to get into a good spot just behind the pacesetter as they entered the first turn. Tracked the leader all the way down the backstretch as the field stayed spread out. Moved up to challenge for the lead as they moved around the far turn and made the front at the top of the stretch. Established a clear lead but tired in the last furlong to finish third.

4^th Not Til Monday, trained by Mb Stables

Dropped to the rear in order to save ground and was eight lengths from the front down the backstretch. Tried to follow Simple Request when that one started its’ move but was unable to stay with him. Navigated his way through some traffic and was able to get up for fourth and a small prize.

Summary

In the preview we mentioned that Simple Request would probably have to take a step forward in order to win and he appears to have done just that. Caught wide around both turns he still pulled away for an easy win. This victory certainly punched his ticket for Churchill Downs and a run for the roses. On the Spot will have to convince his owner that he deserves one of the three spots allocated to his barn, and since he is not currently nominated, that may be a longshot. Regret Nothing ran a game race and had already punched his ticket while Not Til Monday will also vie for one of MB’s spots. These off tracks always make it hard to interpret the results, so not sure what we should expect from this group on Derby Day, but I know the trainers will be excited to watch it unfold.

Categories: Grade II, STAKES ARTICLES