1 Classy Ruler, trained by End Run Farm

Ran a good enough debut at SA but then disappointed a month later at GG. A gelding operation suggests that the trainer was trying to find some untapped ability and his works since have suggested that the medical procedure may have had the desired effect. With these early season juvenile races often being decided by works rather than racecourse performance you have to give him a big chance.

2 Chaiworld, trained by Team 7 Illusions

In contrast to the horse inside him he has done everything right on the racecourse so far following up a great second on debut with a fairly easy win at LA. Both his runs have been at this trip and his winning time in his last race was pretty good suggesting he will be well suited by going at it again. His work on this track was a few lengths off the maiden inside him but on racecourse evidence you would have to give him a big chance.

3 Ideal Pretender, trained by Barcelona Farms

A good debut winner over a quarter mile he looked a bit rusty when he returned to the track a few months later finishing fourth in the Birdonthewire Stakes. He showed early pace that day and weakened late over this trip but that run would’ve tightened hmi up and his works since certainly suggests that.

4 Honor Grades, trained by La Canada Racehorses

Unbeaten with two from two he certainly looks a live one but on his last showing I am wondering whether this trip may be too sharp for him. Winning an allowance at AP with a strong late run over six furlongs would suggest a step up in tri rather than a step back so it remains to be seen whether he can stay close enough in the race to mount a late challenge.

5 Surely Greasecan, trained by Night Rider Stables

Followed up a free track win with a good fourth in a CD allowance and created the impression that day over four and a half furlongs that this trip would suit. Its difficult to read his works but he looks like he is in the mix today and a tough race to judge.

6 Academy Danzer, trained by Riggins Racing

Took on a May PIM maiden on debut and looked pretty good in winning by a half length. Since then he has worked strongly but not as good as a couple of these so it is tough to read his chances and very often debut winners can struggle in their second start. Time will tell if this is another star to grace this successful stable.

7 Spend A Buck, trained by Kingelleinc

The most experienced in the field and that counts for a lot at this time of year he has picked up two wins in four starts. The outside draw will be tough to overcome and despite a strong work I worry that he isn’t quite up to some of these over this trip and from this gate.

SUMMARY

The inside gate and a freakish work are enough for me to go for the maiden in this race. Having said that it really is a pin job and you can make a decent case for all of them.

Categories: STAKES ARTICLES, Ungraded