Just like his winning debut, Mastery was in complete control throughout and easily swatted away seasoned CA-bred sprinter California Diamond. Pace frequently makes the speed figure and since there was none the final number came back a modest 86. We will learn much more when the Baffert trainee stretches out in the G1 CashCall Futurity at Los Al on Dec 10.
In the $1 million Delta Jackpot, post time favorite Gunnevera got pace help as expected in an easy last-to-first triumph over dueling early runner Hot Sean. The winning BSF came back 87 and since there was a contested pace it would have been nice to see a higher final number.
There are two Derby points races on the docket for Nov 26 beginning with the Grade II Remsen at Aqueduct. Much like the G3 Bob Hope, we have a flashy debut winner (Takaful) taking on a seasoned rival with stakes experience (No Dozing). There are other contenders in the 10-horse field but it would take a big effort to knock off the aforementioned dynamic duo.
At Churchill Downs, a dozen juveniles take center stage in the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes and all eyes are on undefeated McCraken. The well-bred colt should get more than enough pace help and looks tough to deny.
Jarrod Horak’s “Exceptional Eleven" Kentucky Derby 2017 Contenders (Updated 11-26-16)
#1 - MASTERY
#2 - Classic Empire
#3 - Three Rules
#4 - Gormley
#5 - Takaful
#6 - Beach Bum
#7 - Klimt
#8 - Theory
#9 - Royal Mo
#10 - Silver Assault
#11 McCraken
You can read my entire Kentucky Derby 2017 contenders update blog at The Runaway Horse.
* Churchill Downs photo by Stacy Edwards
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