The 20th Running of The Mohawk

Sunday, October 30, 2022

AQU Race #9 $200.000 8.5-Furlongs (Inner Turf)

NY-Bred 3+ 121/124 Lbs (plus penalties)

Course Record-1:39.11 (Just A Horse-2022)

Stakes Record-1:38.81 (A W Trooper-2012)

#1 Andes (Threshold/R.M. Hernandez 126): Gelding shared the $150.000 CD victory and has been been close at the graded level twice this season.   Interestingly, the lone victory this season is the only time we’ve seen him ridden aggressively from the start.  Different pace scenario here at the much shorter trip, but he is pretty good when he brings his best to his races.  The weight penalty doesn’t help his chances, but he’s drawn well.

#2 Puffman (Nakamura Stables/J. Lezcano 124): He’s been a “show” pony with his 5-0-0-3 record this year.  Willing to forgive the latest effort over the soft course, but he’s yet to give an effort this season good enough to win this.  He doesn’t appear to be the easiest horse to spot, but have to trust this barn.

#3 Head Over Frock (Night Rider Stables/J.J. Castellano 121): First of two 3yos in here, he’s been pretty consistent this season.  Last race was an improved effort and if he can continue on that track, he stands a shot in here.  Think he’ll be close enough to the pace that he should be in contention when the real running starts.

#4 Whatchagonnado (Nakamura Stables/D. Davis 124): Barn’s second entrant looks to be the stronger half of the entry.  This 8.5-furlong trip looks to be his sweet spot as he’s done some good work in a couple of lucrative spots.  He’s taken four cracks at NY-bred stakes runners and has come up empty each time, so this may be one of his best chances to get over that hump.

#5 Show Me How To Live (Mo Mentum Farm/M. Franco 121): Sprinter has been unsuccessful in two starts going a route of ground.  3yo has kept good company since breaking his maiden three back, but all of that work came going 6.5 and shorter.  Definitely thinks he’s going to be involved early, but legitimate questions loom in regards to the distance.

#6 Chord Change (Gdp Inc/L. Saez 124): Hard-knocking, 5yo gelding is easy to root for.  He’s been competitive in the claiming/allowance ranks, but this will be the best field he’s faced this season.  Think he has the speed to press; however, and with this draw in mind, he’s shown that he can rally from further back in the pack.  That 6f turf move adds to his appeal.

Final Analysis: Tough race for the author to figure, but we’ll go 1-4-6 in The Mohawk.  Good luck everyone! 

Categories: STAKES ARTICLES