Race Details
- Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
- Time: 4:40 PM ET
- Venue: Belmont at the Big A
- Distance: 6 furlongs (Dirt)
- Purse: $175,000
- Eligible Horses: 4-year-olds & up
The John A. Nerud Stakes is a Grade III sprint that attracts top older horses specializing in short-distance races. This year’s field features six contenders, each bringing unique strengths and racing backgrounds.
Contenders Overview
1. Full Moon Madness (KY)
- Sire: Into Mischief
- Dam: By the Moon (Indian Charlie)
- Trainer: Michelle Nevin
- Jockey: Manuel Franco
- Age: 5
- Weight: 124 lbs
- Recent Form: 7th in the Grade II Carter Stakes
Full Moon Madness is a proven sprinter, having won the Grade III Tom Fool Stakes earlier this year. His pedigree suggests speed, with Into Mischief known for producing elite sprinters. Trainer Michelle Nevin believes the cutback to six furlongs will suit him better after struggling at seven furlongs in his last race.
2. Silver Slugger (KY)
- Sire: Cairo Prince
- Dam: One More Wild Ride
- Trainer: Juan Carlos Avila
- Jockey: Junior Alvarado
- Age: 5
- Weight: 118 lbs
- Recent Form: Three consecutive wins at Tampa Bay Downs
Silver Slugger enters in red-hot form, winning three straight races at Tampa Bay Downs. His trainer acknowledges the step up in class but believes he is ready for the challenge. Owned by retired MLB star Victor Martinez, Silver Slugger has shown steady improvement and could be a surprise contender.
3. Whatchatalkinabout (NY)
- Sire: Dialed In
- Dam: Super Savvy
- Trainer: Wesley Ward
- Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr.
- Age: 4
- Weight: 118 lbs
- Recent Form: 8-length victory in a state-bred optional claiming race
Whatchatalkinabout has displayed raw speed, earning a field-best 106 Beyer Speed Figure in his last race. His pedigree suggests stamina, but his recent performances indicate he thrives in sprints. With Ortiz Jr. aboard, he could be a serious threat.
4. Surveillance (KY)
- Sire: Constitution
- Dam: Majorelle
- Trainer: Linda Rice
- Jockey: Kendrick Carmouche
- Age: 8
- Weight: 124 lbs
- Recent Form: Stakes-placed sprinter with multiple graded stakes appearances
Surveillance is a seasoned veteran, having competed in numerous graded stakes. His experience could be an advantage, especially in a race where tactical positioning matters.
5. Anarchist (KY)
- Sire: Distorted Humor
- Dam: Vicarious Won
- Trainer: Doug O’Neill
- Jockey: Joel Rosario
- Age: 6
- Weight: 118 lbs
- Recent Form: 3rd in the Grade III Count Fleet Sprint Handicap
Anarchist is a well-traveled sprinter, having competed in graded stakes across multiple tracks, including Del Mar and Woodbine. His pedigree suggests versatility, and Rosario’s riding style could help him secure a strong finish.
6. O’Conner Sunset (KY)
- Sire: Curlin
- Dam: Miss Sunset
- Trainer: Michael E. Jones Jr.
- Jockey: J.D. Acosta
- Age: 5
- Weight: 118 lbs
- Recent Form: Stakes-placed performer
O’Conner Sunset has shown flashes of talent, but he will need to step up against this competitive field. His pedigree suggests stamina, but he has performed well in shorter distances.
Race Prediction & Strategy
- Full Moon Madness appears to be the strongest contender based on pedigree and past performances.
- Whatchatalkinabout could challenge late, given his impressive speed figures.
- Anarchist has the class to contend, but his ability to handle the pace will be key.
- Silver Slugger is the dark horse, entering with strong momentum.
