Winter trickles along, decent racing weekends here and there, then suddenly it’s March. Derby preps pop up weekly. Keeneland right around the corner, just behind it, Churchill Downs, the Triple Crown. Buckle up.
Tampa Bay Derby
Were Horse of the Year Thorpedo Anna not making her comeback at Oaklawn, Tampa Bay would attract all the eyes Saturday. Every stakes on their card holds appeal, an excellent program culminating in the meet’s most important race.
GENTLEMEN’S CLUB
Trainer: Craig Lewis
Last race: March 1, 1st
Finish: 2nd by 3 1/2
Beyer: 77
California-bred 4-year-old improved as first-time gelding. Lagged near rear, rallied three wide, finished well, best race of his career. Fits in statebred N1X or N2L starter.
There’s too much to say about these races to meander through a preamble. Let’s get to it.
Fountain of Youth
Trainer Ian Wilkes this week said he believed rising 3-year-old Burnham Square would benefit from – gasp! – a regular monthly racing schedule this winter and spring.
Mr. Wilkes! Such things are not done!
IL BELLATOR
Trainer: Jose Bautista
Last race: Feb. 21, 6th
Finish: 2nd by head
Beyer: 84
Veteran stakes winner ran super making his first start in six months. Forwardly placed three wide, challenged odds-on front-runner quarter pole, second-best, fine comeback.
