Speed versus class is certainly not a new handicapping argument when horseplayers get together but it’s an issue that remains constant.
And nowhere is the comparison more apt than to compare favorite Bentornato (2-1) and second favorite Dickens in the co-featured Dr Fager division of Florida’s Stallion series in Hallandale Saturday afternoon.
There’s no question undefeated Bentornato is the faster of the two–the fastest in the nine colt lineup.
Further, he visually impressed because he broke maiden from off the pace then returned and mid-moved to open a lead in the Proud Man, took on a host of challengers before drawing out by 4-1/4 and has worked well since twice.
Trailing him by about five-six lengths on the Thoro-Graph scale is Dickens, who took the lead in the G3 Sanford at Saratoga, fought off the early pressure but could not hold Yo Yo Candy and the troubled odds-on favorite Gold Sweep late.
The second choice, in addition to the stouter company line, has more favorable spacing into this, has five strong works since but this time he will run out of his own stall. Edgard Zayas shipped to the Spa to ride, has his choice of Juan Alvarado mounts and chose him.
Taking Dickens to win at 5-2 or greater and an exacta box with the favorite.
