| 3+
Winner USD $88,830 - 12 runners
8.5f
Going:
Surface: T
Group 2 placegetter HAYES STRIKE (12) is a genuine type with two minor placings from three starts this campaign. Gave away a big start before working home in good style to finish 0.3 lengths from the winner in second last start over 1m1/2f at Keeneland (Dirt). Looks well placed so expect another big run. Group 3 placegetter JOHNY'S FIREBALL (4) was safely held last time when 13th over 1m1f in the G2 Mervin H. Muniz Jr. Memorial Handicap at Fairgrounds (Turf) albeit against tougher opposition. Can bounce back to best form. CHASING THE CROWN (11) is having his first run since February 17. Has a strong record when fresh with two wins from four runs, the most recent over 1m at Fairgrounds at the start of last prep. Expect him to pose a serious challenge. Group 3 placegetter FORT WASHINGTON (2) returns from a lay-off of four-and-a-half months. Was safely held at the only appearance last prep when sixth over 1m1f in the G2 Fort Lauderdale Stakes at Gulfstream Park (Turf). Yet to miss the frame from seven starts at this journey, including three wins and deserves respect.