The upcoming Grade II Fasig-Tipton Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds Race Course is shaping up to be an exciting race with a purse of $500,000 and a distance of one and one eighth miles for three-year-olds. Here’s a detailed strategic preview of the race:
Key Contenders:
- East Avenue (PP: 4, 9/5): Trained by Brendan Walsh and ridden by Tyler Gaffalione, East Avenue is the morning-line favorite. He won the Breeders’ Futurity (GI) as a two-year-old but stumbled at the start in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (GI), finishing ninth. He’s looking to bounce back and prove himself as a top contender.
- Jonathan’s Way (PP: 2, 4/1): Trained by Phil Bauer and ridden by Jose Ortiz, Jonathan’s Way won the G3 Iroquois Stakes and finished second in the G2 Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes. He’s another strong contender with a solid record2.
- Built (PP: 9, 5/1): Trained by William M. Catalano and ridden by Luis Saez, Built won the Gun Runner Stakes and earned 10 points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. He’s shown promise and could be a dark horse in this race.
- American Promise (PP: 1, 12/1): Trained by D. Wayne Lukas and ridden by Joel Rosario, American Promise has shown potential with a strong Equibase Speed Figure of 102 in his last race. He’s looking to improve on his performance in the Southwest Stakes.
- Vassimo (PP: 3, 8/1): Trained by Todd A. Pletcher and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., Vassimo is undefeated in two starts, including a win in his first two-turn race. He’s a horse to watch in this field.
Strategic Considerations:
- Post Positions: East Avenue has the advantage of breaking from post position 4, which is ideal for a horse with his speed. Jonathan’s Way from post 2 and Built from post 9 also have favorable positions.
- Jockeys: Experienced jockeys like Tyler Gaffalione, Jose Ortiz, and Luis Saez will be crucial in navigating the field and making strategic moves.
- Trainers: D. Wayne Lukas, Todd A. Pletcher, and Brendan Walsh are all top trainers with proven track records. Their expertise will play a significant role in the race outcomes.
- Pedigrees: The pedigrees of these horses suggest strong potential, with notable sires like Justify, Nyquist, and Medaglia d’Oro.
Race Dynamics:
- Early Speed: East Avenue and Jonathan’s Way are likely to set the early pace, with Built and American Promise close behind.
- Mid-Race Moves: Look for horses like Vassimo and Built to make moves around the far turn.
- Finish: The final stretch will be crucial, with jockeys needing to time their moves perfectly to secure a top finish.
