NM Classic Gulch Champ
ZIA   Race #7   1m   Dirt   Stake
Purse $180.000  For Three Year Olds And Upward Foaled In NM.

1 Mars, trained by Hawaiian Shirt Guy
This classy three year old has been suffering the four year old curse only managing one win from ten this year. An on pace runner he hasnt managed to fulfill the promise of his TC campaign last year but has still managed a few decent efforts this year. Two graded stakes placings this year proves he retains some ability and a nice draw may see him at advantage for a return to his glory days.

2 Th Watcher, trained by John Henry
This three year old has always promised a bit more than he has delivered but with great works times and a handy weight he once again comes into a race with a winning chance only he can throw away. The weight could well give him a winning chance that he shouldnt really have.

3 Akimbo, trained by End Run Farm
His form has tailed off pretty badly after showing plenty of promise at the start of the year. A great second in the TX Mile a reproduction of that would see him go very close but his last two starts have been terrible and he is not showing enough on the gallops to inspire confidence.
4 Clovis Ali, trained by Night Rider Stable
Another three year old with some good runs behind him he is working pretty well and may turn out to be a decent chance. A closing type in a race with plenty of pace as long as he can get close enough in the first half of the race he will be finishing best at the end and may just snatch a prize. The mile is the only question mark as it may be too sharp for him.
5 B R Express, trained by Drabfantasy
The entry from the trainer who specialises in these state bred races he was a convincing winner of the Land Of Enchantment last time with Akinbo 11 lengths behind but that win may be flattered by the off track and shouldn’t be relied upon unless this track comes up wet. Having said that he has good enough dry track form to suggest he will run a strong race but the 125Lbs may be enough to stop him.

SUMMARY
A nice little race and a great opportunity for Mars to pick up a win. Favoured by the weights and the draw as long as he doesnt go too hard early his class may be enough to see him win. Th Watcher may chase him home with Clovis Ali and BR Express closing hard.

Categories: STAKES ARTICLES, Ungraded