Her chief rival will be Belmont Stakes winner Summer Bird, who famously upset the "other Bird" Mine That Bird in the Test of Champions. Arkansas Derby winner Papa Clem is being pointed to the race, though you have to wonder what they'll do now with Rachel in the race, after their disappointing effort last weekend in the Long Branch.
This is a smart move by the connections of the filly. One, she is in great shape now, so why put off another meeting with the boys? If you've followed this game long you know how fragile these animals can be and sometimes you have to strike while hot. Also, the distance of 9-furlongs is ideal for her. Distance could be a great equalizer for her against the boys, but at 9-furlongs her speed should be able to hold.
Its nice to see that they are willing to test the filly with regularity. 20 length romps like her effort in the restricted Mother Goose last month, don't give anyone a real idea of just how good the filly is. If she is their heir to Ruffian like many believe, the Haskell should not be a problem. Luckily, they are giving her the chance to really prove her worth.
Posts
