Closed well late when sixth in the BC Mile (GI) in his most recent.  He has four wins this season including a GI over this course while winning the Read Stakes (GI) back in July.  That was a soft course and he has a win and a second on a soggy strip, so his connections are probably doing a rain dance at this time.  He looks like the type that can run all day, so give him a look.

Had his three-race win-streak snapped when fourth in the Hirsch Turf Classic (GI) at BEL. That was a salty field and only being three lengths back in that one is certainly something to look at.  He won at this distance prior to that one, so you know he has the want-to.

Another that had a three-race win-streak snapped when seventh in the Shadwell Turf Mile (GI).  He did close some space late in that one but he doesn’t strike me as a marathon type.  He did win over this course at a flat mile, so maybe the home-cookin makes him a factor.

He’s certainly been sharp of late, winning three in a row including the Twiling (GII) at SA in his most recent.  He’s sold since that win (and for a pretty penny, non the less) and he does look like his best days may be in front of him.  He hasn’t been the distance, but looks like it should fit him and I think he may be the one to beat in this one.

Four for ten this year and he certainly like the run-all-day races.  This is an obvious step up in class for him, and catching the outside post did him no favors.  But, it’s a small enough field and he may get in front and just keep on going.

            Willie’s Green Card   4  /  2

Categories: Grade II