Several very fast sprinters have assembled for today’s Gulfstream feature and we’ve narrowed the group down to top Thoro-Graph figure Gold Magic (2-1), recent 7-furlong graduate Ticking (7-2) and Great Navigator (4-1) runner-up in the G3 Sanford in Saratoga.
While the first time have recency going for them, and while Ticking has a comprehensive winner at the trip, winning with something in reserve, it’s Navigator who rates the top call.
Under the gun throughout at Saratoga, he maintained rail position with company throughout, had two chance to be discouraged, pressured strongly to hold position at the turn and forced to await room in the straightaway, he altered course into the 4-path and finished strongly late for the place in fast time.
What traditional PPs won’t show is the name of the fourth finisher he best, a colt named Forte.
Working briskly for a barn that wins at a solid 18% with layups of greater than 90 days, and solid work-line since January, an outside slip and with Paco in the boot, he rates a chance to get his season off on a winning note.
Taking Great Navigator to win at 3-1 or greater, and key-boxing exactas with his rivals above/
