[Kasept]

Surprised no one has an opinion to share on this race. Very solid edition of the Count Fleet with some well-regarded sophs:

Schosberg's undefeated Giant Moon (#7) appears the one to beat sporting the Funny Cide Juvenile sweep (MDN debut/Sleepy Hollow/Runyon) pattern. Will have his hands full with the pair inside him, but sharp conditioner believes he's got a rare talent in this Giant's Causeway bay, and we will get the chance to see a how rare in this sophomore bow. Homebred connections campaigned route-loving dam who banked $250k and first foal will need to raise game in first open company test.

Barrier Reef (#5), a Darley that's still in the US, comes from Tom Albertrani who kicked off what could be an "I'm back!" weekend Friday when Host annexed the Canadian Turf at GP. $350k at Barrett's 2yo sale last March, Mizzen Mast grey dusted maiden foes in 2nd start after troubled debut 3rd behind the very nice He's Solid Gold. Late style not exactly best this oval, and lack of early pace could compromise chances, but a serious soph to keep on watch lists.

Empire Maker bay Roman Emperor (#6) has steadily progressed under super savvy helmsman Klesaris, crushing PHA foes after finding Cool Coal Man far too tough in his unvieling at DEL Park. Half brother of Doc Cheney showed gameness in ALW win last overcoming early trouble, and appears capable of adjusting to pace scenarios under Afleet Alex pilot Rose. Likely ready to fire.

Sprint-oriented pedigree looms question mark for Pletcher state-bred Spanky Fischbein (#2) who didn't miss an exacta in half dozen juvy starts. Fruitlessly chased 'Moon' in Runyon (two turn debut), and will likely find these waters even deeper.

Aptly-named Tony Dutrow chestnut Red Reef (#1) may be overlooked in this race off trio of highly similar sprint efforts that produced 2-0-1 mark. FL-bred son of Red Bullet bested Matz' impressive GP ALW winner Visionaire (1/4/08) in career debut, but had no answer for Hutcheson entrant Grand Minstrel in 12/12 Capote this oval. Two turns should suit stalker-closer type, yet another running in the increasingly familiar powder blue of Ahmed Zayat. Upset chance at a price with forward move and an exotics must use.

Ritvo candidate Run With Me (#3) has already developed quite a bit, and note placement last behind Hutcheson upset chancer Smooth Air while still Miami-based. Needs best try yet and concerned that Delaware Township get won't relish second turn.

Philly gelding Atta Boy Andy (#4) makes trip up turnpike and appears to be bringing knife to gunfight. Broke maiden this trip at Bensalem, but would be inclined to look for son Atticus on lawn come spring.

Selections:

1. #6 Roman Emperor (4-1)
2. #7 Giant Moon (5-2)
3. #1 Red Reef (6-1)
4. #5 Barrier Reef (7-2)