Alternation prepares for the tough Stephen Foster Handicap
Pin Oak Stable’s 4-year-old colt, Alternation, on the back of a 4 race win streak, will have his work cut out for his next assignment, as the Donnie K. Von Hemel trained colt is vying for his 5th in as many starts when he takes on a star studded
field in the Grade 1 Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs on 16 June, 2012.
The 1 1/8 mile event under the Twin Spires has reeled in 9, 3-year-old and above horses, with the likes of, Wise Dan in the mix, it will not be an easy task for Alternation to sustain his winning form, and along with Ron the Greek, Nehro, Mission Impazible,
and Nates Mineshaft, it makes the job even more difficult.
Though, it doesn’t mean that the chances of the son of Distorted Humor are bleak, as he continues to prepare for the big event with an easy five furlong breeze over the fast main track of Churchill Downs in 1 minute and 5.40 seconds on 12 June, 2012.
Bred on Kentucky by Pin Oak Stud, Alternation was under exercise rider, David Contreras, when the duo went out on the track prior to the renovation break, as their work was broke down into fractions.
Quarter mile fractions were broke down into 14.20 seconds and 28 seconds flat, half mile fractions 41.20 seconds and 53.60 seconds. Alternation than galloped six furlongs in 1 minute and 18.20 seconds, while capping his work with a seven furlong gallop in
1 minute and 32.20 seconds.
Donnie Von Hemel didn’t mind Alternation’s slow work, which was recorded the slowed at the distance out of 12 works, and said:
“He started out slow, but then finished very nicely and galloped out very well,” Von Hemel said. “He came back to the barn full of himself.”
Out of Seattle Slew mare Alternate, Alternation has been undefeated in the 2012 season, and is 4 up in as many starts.
He started his winning streak with a victory in the Essex Handicap, Grade 3 Razorback Handicap, Grade 2 Oaklawn Handicap, as all of his 3 wins came at Oaklawn Park, but he moved to Pimlico to down his 4th race, the Grade 3 Pimlico Special Stakes.
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