Pin Oak Stable’s Alternation, given a breather after the Hawthorne
Gold Cup last October, returned to the worktab Saturday, posting a
three-furlong workout in 38 4/5 under regular jockey Luis Quinonez. Last
season, the Distorted Humor horse swept Oaklawn’s Essex, Razorback (G3)
and Oaklawn (G2) Handicaps before extending his streak to four in the
Pimlico Special last May.
“He broke off a little slow, but then did :12 and :12 for the rest of
the work,” said trainer Donnie K. Von Hemel. “I thought he looked good
doing it. We’ll just let him tell us when he’s ready.”
Alternation won’t defend his title in the Feb. 2 Essex Handicap, but
could return in time for the March 9 Razorback, although the April 14
Oaklawn Handicap is the primary goal.