Golden Gate kicks off their Juvenile Stakes schedule with the Gold Rush Stakes. This year a small field of six has entered, lacking the “big” names a few horses with some potential add intrigue to the radio.
The Skinny:
Broughton Kitten – The morning line favorite tries synthetic for the first time. Kitten’s Joy has been a productive influence on the poly and this horse has the right style for this race. With 2 races, both solid efforts and takes a small drop in class in this race. Needs to run closer to the pace to have a chance in this race. Hits hard down the lane.
Great Lou – Is the speed of the speed and may be the lone speed in this race. The Delmar race was a wire to wire romp and finished drawing away. The pedigree leans towards speed, but should be solid on the synthetic. Big chance as the lone speed.
Stand and Salute – Russell the Muscle rides and should be heard from down the lane. Speed figures place him 3rd or 4th but his running style and pedigree should improve at the one mile distance. As with all races at the Gate – Dorf and Russell will have to be dealt with at some point.
Unblunted – Visually one of the more impressive maiden winners at the Santa Anita meet. Unblunted has a milers pedigree with Sharp Humor and Relaunch influence on his sire side. His debut race he had a great gallop out closing to lose by 1/2 length and then finishing full of run after the wire. Beat some bet down horses in last race. Was impressive, broke on top in the race, was involved in a 3-horse speed duel for a quarter-mile, then was eased back. Made a run 4 wide into the stretch and really finished with energy in that effort. Has a string of works since that race, including a couple of moves in company. Smokin Joe Talamo comes North to retain the mount.
The Choice: Class wise Broughton Kitten may have a slight edge. The potential of Unblunted is hard to toss in this race. He has been impressive in both races. Nominated for several stakes races across the country, he fits well in this spot. Smokin Joe Talamo going North is another plus. 7/5 is fair value on Unblunted, who has enough speed to keep Great Lou honest and should get first run on Broughton Kitten. Unblunted to win, Broughton Kitten to place.