Pacific Classic Update
August 18, 2008
Mast Track took the fast track in the Hollywood Gold Cup.
Within the next week some of the most important key races for the Breeders Cup will take place. The Pacific Classic, Travers, Kings Bishops, Personal Ensign, and Ballerina are all Grade 1 events that will run over the weekend. I’m looking forward to the Pacific Classic the most. I believe the race will be key for the Breeders Cup Classic.
Mast Track, winner of the Hollywood Gold Cup is one of the leading contenders for the Pacific Classic. Under the care of Robert Frankel, with jockey Rafael Bejarano, Mast Track should be very contentious. On Monday morning he worked an easy 5 furlongs in :59.20 and galloped out 6 furlongs in 1:11.40, under the guidance of exercise rider Jose Dominguez. I would also like to note that Frankel not only trains Mast Track, he owns him.
Frankel also has turf star, Out Of Control, in the race. He is coming off of consecutive 2nd place finishes in Grade 1 turf events. In those races he lost to Dancing Forever, and Einstein, both who are top contenders for the Breeders Cup Turf. Edgar Prado will be in the irons. Frankel has an astonishing 6 victories in the Pacific Classic, more than any other trainer.
Leading trainer John Sadler will send out Zappa, who recently claimed victory in the Cougar II Handicap at 1 ½ miles. He toyed with the field, winning by 6 ¾ lengths, and dismissing Big Booster in the process. Others being considered for the race are Well Armed, Student Council, Go Between, Surf Cat, and Barcola.
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