HASKELL HEATING UP
Trainer Bob Baffert is revved up about running Preakness winner Lookin At Lucky in the IZOD Haskell Invitational Sunday at Monmouth Park, writes bloodhorse.com’s Steve Haskin.
"He’s such a gritty little horse and tries so hard," Baffert said. "He’s always showed signs of greatness…he looks fantastic now and is really in the zone."
Baffert wouldn’t commit to future plans beyond the Haskell, saying he’s unsure about the Travers. "Right now we’re planning on it, but the goal is the Breeders’ Cup Classic and I want to see how he runs here and how he comes out of it." He did add Lookin At Lucky’s owners want to run the Smart Strike colt as a 4-year-old.
WinStar Farm racing manager Elliott Walden is also optimistic about Super Saver’s chances in the Haskell, saying the Kentucky Derby winner is training as good as ever for Todd Pletcher.
"Todd has given him time off and his works have been great, and his fitness level is excellent, so we’re looking for a big effort," said Walden.
Tags: blood-horse, Bob Baffert, breeders' cup classic, elliott walden, haskell invitational, IZOD, kentucky derby, lookin at lucky, monmouth park, smart strike, Steve Haskin, Super Saver
July 27th, 2010 at 7:02 pm
Seven stakes races are scheduled to be drawn on Thursday for the Haskell card Sunday.
Yep. That will boost the average purses / card and pacify those who are complaining.
“It’s a great group of horses,” Baffert said. “Anytime you get the Derby winner
(Super Saver) and Preakness winner that’s huge for our industry. That’s what it’s all about,
getting all the stars together. You’ve got First Dude and Ice Box, and Trappe Shot
looks like an up and comer. This is probably the toughest Haskell field we’ve faced yet.
“I’ve always done well there; Monmouth is one of my favorite tracks. The fans really get into it.
All I know is he looks great and I’m really looking forward to it. He’ll ship in Thursday.”