Sir Smart Alex tracked the pace, hit the front in the stretch, and found plenty to light up the tote board at 23-1. Pontiff had some run, and looked like he might run down Sir Smart Alex, but stalled and didn’t have nearly enough to win.

Questions Answered:

Will Pontiff realize his early potential?

The jury is still out on this one.  He didn’t respond to the blinkers with more early speed and seemed to be struggling, despite his second place finish.  He certainly can win at this level, but his future as a stakes horse is very much in doubt.

How hot will the pace be?

The pace wasn’t too hot, mainly due to Pontiff not joining the fray. Again, pace is a much better factor to explain a poor performance than to predict one.

Will Spotsback enjoy the stretchout?

He ran well, but did not have the stamina to win here.  He should do better in a return to sprinting in the maiden claiming ranks.

Chart (provided by Equibase)