Photo: MEC
Shackleford tracked pacesetter El Grayling and criused to a 2-1/4 length victory for entry level allowance runners in the third race at Gulfstream Park on Feb 5th.
The winner, a 3-year-old chestnut colt out of Forestry, sat a half length behind splits of :24.33 and :48.39. He engaged El Grayling after six furlongs in 1:12.22 and gradually extended his lead, completing his nine furlong journey 1:50.04. Shackelford, trained by Dale Romans and ridden by Jesus Castanon, paid $11.20.
Even money favorite
Casper's Touch did well to land the place. The Ken McPeek runner raced rank for much of the going along the inside under Julien Leparoux. He was set down turning for home but was bumped soundly by Shadow Warrior. He regrouped and finishing strongly to snatch the place away from El Grayling.
Do you think any of these horses will make an impact on the Derby trail? Casper's Touch seems worth following and you can cast your votes on the
2011 Kentucky Derby contenders page.