While the field is small, it features several accomplished stakes runners with legitimate Travers aspirations. Here’s a closer look at the contenders and how the race could unfold.
Pace Scenario
One of the biggest handicapping angles in this race is the projected pace.
There isn’t an abundance of early speed, which could give Chip Honcho a tactical advantage from the rail. After showing improved maturity in recent starts, he no longer needs the lead but has enough natural speed to establish position early. If left alone on the front end, he could prove difficult to reel in.
Commandment figures to sit just outside the leader, while Renegade is expected to settle toward the back before launching his customary late rally.
With only five horses entered, positioning will likely be every bit as important as raw talent.
Horse-by-Horse Analysis
#1 Chip Honcho (3-1)
Chip Honcho enters off a victory in the Grade 3 Ohio Derby, where he tracked the pace before finishing strongly to win by a length. His recent races suggest he’s becoming more versatile, relaxing early instead of insisting on the lead.
The inside draw should allow him to secure excellent early position, and in a race lacking abundant speed, he could control the tempo. The question is whether his Ohio Derby form translates against a stronger group of rivals.
#2 Asked and Answered (30-1)
Asked and Answered remains a maiden after six starts and appears badly overmatched.
His speed figures fall well short of what will likely be required to compete at this level, making him the longest shot in the field.
Read more at Today's Racing Digest
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