A solid field of distance horses headline this year’s Pattison Canadian International Stakes. This traditional distance race, north of the border traditionally brings in a few Euro’s for the big purse.
The Skinny:
The Pizza Man – always gets the dough! This guy is 12 for 18 lifetime, but may have peaked at Arlington Park. His last effort kind of shined the light that he is not a G1 or G2 type horse, even though his speed figures may indicate that he is. His best race is on or near the lead, 10 furlongs in a G2 or G3 is really his class level, but the Pizza Man is always fun to route for.
Suntracer – is a Kitten, not named a Kitten! This cagey veteran picked up the win at Kentucky Downs in his last race, running wide and getting his nose down on the line over a tough luck Pyrite Mountain. Runs from behind and class is not really an issue, he just isn’t fast enough to out-run faster horses at 10-12 furlongs. Grinding style leaves him too much to do late.
Brown Panther – This is a race favorite and brings a 10 for 24 mark. Opts to not use lasix, and enters off a win at 1 3/4 quarter miles. His best races have been at longer distances and is a true Marathoner at 16 furlongs to over 2 miles. Wide course of Woodbine should help him, but I think he needs longer and may not appreciate the faster pace on Sunday. Think he is an underlay at 5/2 odds – but classy horse does like to win.
Dynamic Sky – Knocked on the door at 25/1 last race and may have been impeded down the lane in that race. Seems to be in form, probably not at the level of Big Blue Kitten and the Euro’s but may get over-looked and may hit the top 4.
War Dancer – Brings his track with him, has run all along the East Coast and Midwest the last 2 years of racing and usually fires a strong race.Seems to be in form and ran solid at Kentucky Downs while possibly making his move to soon. Luis Contras knows the Woodbine course well and may improve.
Hillstar – Snapped a Bridesmaid Streak in last race. Winning at 1 3/8 miles in a demanding course – took a long while to get going. Lasix is added for this race and trainer is a Superstar world-wide. Ryan Moore could be the top jockey in the world at this time. Lots to like and expect a big effort from this Sir Michael Stoute trained distance son.
Big Blue Kitten – Ran evenly in last race in the Turf Classic at Saratoga. Main Sequence is going well right now. Should like the distance and last year picked up some bid wins on the turf. Very live.
The Choice:
Hillstar is the classic distance horse, who gets a solid jockey and lasix. Big Blue Kitten is the 2nd choice on the rebound. War Dancer and Dynamic Sky are usable in Exactas under the Top 2.