Weekend Graded Stakes Action – Defrancis Dash Heads Light Slate
Vineyard Haven, one of the top 2-year olds of 2008, has apparently found his niche sprinting. Entered in the Grade 1 Kings Bishop at Saratoga after a half-year layoff, Vineyard Haven gave a good account of himself finishing ahead of Capt. Candyman Can and Munnings, though he was disqualified and placed 2nd for interference in that race. That effort and a little rest should have him tight enough to beat this field, with one Grade 2 win amongst the rest of the field. Adding to an already strong crop of 3-year olds, the Goldophin colorbearer takes on 8 older challengers in the $300,000 Grade 1 Frank S. Defrancis Dash on Saturday at Laurel Park.
The other big race of the week is the $300,000 Grade 2 Lexus Raven Run Stakes for 3-year old fillies. A large, evenly matched field is set to face the starter for, this 7 furlong test on the Keeneland Polytrack. Heading the field is another Godolphin runner, Flashing, winner of the Grade 1 Test Stakes at Saratoga at this same distance, and the consistent Just Jenda. Those looking for longshots might consider Pretty Prolific, and the improving Sky Haven.