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Got back to graded company for the first time in a while last out and tired to be sixth in the TS Turf Sprint (GIII) over the CD lawn.  That was a rapid race but the extra furlong may pose a bit of an issue unless he goes back to an alternate style of running.  It wouldn’t surprise me to see him in the middle of this one but it won’t be with my $2 on him.

Three wins from five starts this season so you know he’s in good form right about now.  His two off the board races were v. graded company, so it’s kind of hard to get excited about his chances here.  He’s been racing at a mile or more so the distance won’t be an issue, and that could prove to be a good thing.  He’s going to need a good trip though.

Closed well to be second in that TS Turf (GIII) at CD and he certainly has the class to run with any type.  Second in the Shaker (GII), only a length back when fourth in the Kilroe Mile (GI)…  you get the idea, he’s nice and he knows how to get to the winner’s circle.  This could be a spot for him to get back on-track.

Only beat one in the Commonwealth (GIII) at KEE in Apr but has a win and a second from his other two seasonal starts.  His best work has come on the main track, but he’s also shown some ability on the grass and should be able to be a major factor in this one.  He could pull it off with some odds.

His only seasonal win came at GP back in Feb getting 5f in fast time and he was also close in the Shaker (GII) only getting beat a length… but that race at GG last out was alarming.  Granted it was at a mile, but he just didn’t pick his feet up that day.  Was the instructions what did him in and can he bounce back here?

Back to back wins to kick off the ’16 season and his two graded efforts were not exactly what the barn was looking for.  He’s kind of bounced around from sprints to 2-turn and even has a main track effort in there.  His best might get him a part of this but I’m just not sure he’s running his best right now.

This one certainly knows how to find the winner’s circle… he’s won five of his last six starts and loves this distance.  He doesn’t show any graded efforts but he certainly seem capable of running with them.  He will have to overcome the post position, which I’m sure has the barn on tilt, but I’d put him in for part of this.

            Willie’s Green Card    3  /  7

Categories: Grade II