The Swale Stakes- Grade III
GP Race 8 7F Dirt
Purse $200.000 For
Three Year Olds
A nice field of 8, all of which are homebred, go to the post here in the Swale. I imagine some of these are trying to get their EPR up for a chance at the Derby and others just find the distance and competition more to their liking. In any event let’s go through the field and see what we have.
1 Chunnel, trained by D J C Racing Stables
Consistent sort that has finished in the money in 5 of 6 races. His last two efforts were in state bred stakes races where he ran well but was unable to get a win despite getting good trips. He draws the rail here so will probably be able to work out another good trip and while not my first choice would not be a major surprise.
2 Pretty Ferro, trained by Estero Farms
Has really responded since being gelded winning 3 of 4 including the Limehouse over this track in his last outing. Has been lighting up the track in the morning including a recent work at today’s distance that should put to rest any fears on whether he can get 7F. With a good post and jockey he should be a major player.
3 Edge of Chai, trained by Mb Stables
First of two entries from Mb is certainly the bigger name. After smashing wins in a maiden special weight and a state bred stakes he was thrown in the deep end of the pool. He ran a game 2nd in the Grade 1 Hopeful and then another 2nd in the Grade 1 Breeders Futurity. Has not fared as well in his three most recent efforts which were all graded stakes. The cut back in distance should benefit him but his grueling campaign and less than ideal conform seem to be taking their toll as his works have slowed a bit. He could dig deep and find his old form but I think his stablemate is now the better bet.
4 Curse, trained by Mb Stables
Right next to his stablemate is the second Mb entry. He has been brought along slowly and is 2 for 2 in his brief career including a win over this surface in a $75.000 stakes race. Good post, great trainer, great jock so if he improves a bit off his last race will be a significant player.
5 One Dance, trained by Gdp, Inc
Convincingly beat a good NY bred stakes field in his last outing after being gelded. Was a very game 2nd in his only race at today’s distance and seems to have found another gear in the morning since being gelded. Should be one of the favorites and may be able to work out a good stalking trip from this spot.
6 Trojan Defense, trained by Treaux Farms
Our next entrant is another lightly raced colt having won 2 of 4 lifetime starts. Both of his wins are in LA bred races and although one was a stake it was a small 4 horse field. His most recent 6-furlong work was a good bit slower than the main contenders here, so I think a minor share is his best hope.
7 Silver Panther, trained by Axeman
Broke his maiden on his 6th try last out in a ON bred field. Speed ratings are significantly lower than the rest of the field and most works are slower as well. With an outside post I cannot envision him being able to get home first.
8 Rootin Tootin, trained by TwinTowersRacing
Has only won once in eight tries but was racing in some of the most prestigious 2 year old events. Disappointed as a heavy favorite in a four-horse field last time where he had no excuse. Works are not very impressive and from the far outside would be a big surprise.
Summary
With no confirmed front runner in the field it will be interesting to see who sets the pace and how fast they go. I will look for Trojan Defense to move out to the lead with Pretty Ferro and Curse not far behind. Those two should take the lead at the top of the stretch and be looking to hold off Chunnel, Edge of Chai and One Dance who will be closing.
4-2-5-1
Categories: Grade III, STAKES ARTICLES
