Travers (1314 Views)
Posted by:
jbelfior (IP Logged)
Date: August 24, 2005 08:28AM
Preliminary thoughts on the Travers:
Saratoga races at 1 1/4 are very demanding. Not the type of race that can easily be won on the front end. This was in evidence as recently as last year when LION HEART and PURGE both faded badly despite the non-demanding pace.
Historically, horses that have run well in the Belmont Stakes have fared quite well in here. An ability to finish at 1 1/2 at Belmont bodes well for the ability to finish in here.
My thoughts are that FLOWER ALLEY is too aggressive early and his pattern (Pletcher trained) does not suggest improvement. I do not like him at the distance....ditto Roman Ruler.
IMO, BELLAMY ROAD is to Zito in here what COMMENTATOR was to him in the Whitney. Run with him early and you're cooked,let him go and he may wire the field. The exception here is that BR has not raced in 3 months and is unlikely to win this on or off the pace.
Perhaps ANDROMEDA's HERO gives Zito back to back Travers wins at 5-1. Then again he always likes to be left with too much to do.
Good Luck,
joe B.