Shackleford, the most likely winner of Forego Stakes at Saratoga
Trained by Dale Romans, Shackleford has won three graded events so far in his career, two of which he claimed this season. After two emphatic wins in May, he suddenly lost his direction, and was well beaten last time at Saratoga.
In the Grade 1 Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap, the son of Forestry completed the order of finish. The surface was muddy last time, and Shackleford was completely unable to adjust his game according to the conditions.
Owned by Michael Lauffer, W. D. Cubbedge & Phillips Racing Partnership, the 4-year-old prefers fast ground, which is available in the Grade 1 Forego Stakes, going down at Saratoga on Saturday, September 1st.
The 7-furlong meeting has attracted a field of eight high profile runners, who will hunt a huge purse worth $500,000. Almost every runner is in good shape, and determined to present something special, therefore an exciting clash can easily be predicted.
Shackleford made a couple of unlucky rides before putting his journey on the winning ways. He overpowered Amazombie and the rest to ensure a classy success in the Grade 2 Churchill Downs Stakes.
Despite a comprehensive success, Dale Romans’ charge was not declared favourite by the bookies, when he stepped up to the highest level at the end of May. In the Grade 1 Metropolitan Handicap, he surprised everyone by registering a close win over the likes
of Caleb's Posse and To Honor And Serve.
Bred by Michael Lauffer & W. D. Cubbedge, the dashing colt has performed well over different distances. So, this 7-furlong journey will not be a concern for him. Moreover, the fast going is a massive plus.
Out of others, Jackson Bend is being considered a major player. The 5-year-old, Nicholas Zito’s charge, was fourth in his previous appearance here. There is no doubt over his extraordinary racing abilities, but we consider Isn’t He Perfect the biggest danger
to Shackleford.
Richard Dutrow Jr ’s trainee has been performing consistently over the past few months. In the hands of
R. A. Dominguez, the 4-year-old was runner-up in the Birdstone Stakes here. If he continues in the same fashion, he can cause a major upset today. Good luck to all the runners.
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