Race 5 – Belmont Oaks Invitational, Grade 1 (1 1/4 mile, turf) for three year old fillies
#1 Setting the Mood – This will be the first stakes race for this Pletcher trainee. She has competed at the allowance level 3 times and has two second place finishes. Will likely prove to be race filler.
#2 Magic Attitude (GB) – Set for her US debut this daughter of Galileo has a Group 3 win in France as well as a Group 1 placing. She has been in the capable hands of Arnaud Delacour and is a viable contender.
#3 Key Biscayne – She ran third in the Sartoga Oaks last out and comes in off a bullet work. She has continued to improve each race. If you are looking for a longshot play in this race, this is your horse.
#4 Neige Blanche (FR) – She is making her second US start after running 4th in the Del Mar Oaks. She does have a Group 3 win in France and looks to have a great late kick.
#5 Antoinette – Fresh off a bullet work after winning the Saratoga Oaks she is in good form for Bill Mott, and is the horse to beat.
#5 Antoinette will likely be trying to hold off the two French Group 3 winners, but should get a favorable trip. #1 Setting the Mood will likely go with her and could burn some energy, but the class should come out and put her away. Will be interesting to see if #2 is the real deal being that she has had some hype and is even money on the morning line. Small field, but nice race. Looking for Antoinette to hold on.
Selections: 5-2-4