Ruler of Dubai gets tested for class and endurance in Saturday’s
Grade I Norfolk Stakes for 2-year-olds at 1 1/16 miles, but Mike Smith
gives the California-bred son Tribal Rule a speedster’s chance.
“He ran very well (winning the six furlong I’m Smokin Stakes at
Del Mar on Sept. 5),” said the Hall of Fame jockey who was aboard for
the 3 1/4-length win. “He deserves a chance to step up and see what
we’ve got. He’s stepping up but he’s trained well and he’s coming off
two stakes (a head win in the Graduation at Del Mar on Aug. 3). I know
it was against Cal-breds, but still, he’s doing it.
“He was impressive last time out, so I’ve got to give him a chance on Saturday.”
The field for the Norfolk, which is the fifth race: Super Candy,
Hector Berrios; Loukas, Patrick Valenzuela; Ruler of Dubai, Mike Smith;
Creative Cause, Joel Rosario; Drill, Martin Garcia; and Basmati, Joe
Talamo.
Each carries 122 pounds.