The undefeated untested Shared Belief puts his record on the line in this traditional West Coast Breeders Cup Classic prep.
The Skinny:
Shared Belief – Freakish talent since day one. Has romped in all 3 races this year. Defeated older horses last race that may have been pace aided on the front end. The turn of foot has been instant. The acceleration smooth and push-button, This sounds like a Volvo commercial, but Shared Belief has been this good. Showed uncanny ability as a juvenile to stay focused when horses made multiple moves at him in the Cash Call Futurity. Make no mistake about it. His feet are tender, his legs are crooked, but has the heart of a champion. I’m not picking again him. The road to the Classic goes through the Jungle!
Fed Biz – Fits in this spot and last race, ran into a buzz saw in the form of Goldencents. His race off the layoff was solid and this guy has past races that puts him in the winner’s circle in this race. Shared Belief needs to bring his A game.
Mystery Train – This is the guy who dueled Game on Dude into retirement. Raw speed in Argentina with consistent sub 46 for the half mile and 1:10 for 6 furlongs – transferred to the Delmar Surface. This guy runs with a high stride with his knees coming up to his chest. He has shown no ability to rate. He could run huge or stop on the turn – odds will be right if you are taking the former. If you run with him early, he
Majestic Harbor – has already qualified for the Breeders Cup Classic. This has the feel of a true prep race to get him ready to fire his best race in the Breeders Cup Classic. I’m not sure either race suits him. He took advantage of a weakened Gold Cup that fell apart after a series of bad trips. He’s just not a Grade 1 caliber horse at 10 furlongs.
Imperative – ran a credible race in the Pacific Classic and has a win in the Chuck Town Classic back in April. Should like the distance and running style should suit the pace of this race. Has a small shot.
Footbridge – Has hinted at G2 ability in the past. Distance is perfect for him and has a string of works that should point him to his best race. Like him to land in the top 4 in this race and if Shared Belief doesn’t show up could be in the mix for a win.
Derbyologist Win Line: Fair Odds for a win bet:
Shared Belief 4/5
Fed Biz: 5/1
Footbridge 9/1
Mystery Train 15/1
The Selection:
Shared Belief has everything going his way. The Jungle fans will be out and if his feet are willing he wins this race. Should something drastic happen. Fed Biz and Footbridge are the logical alternatives.