To put in perspective how difficult it is to run a 106 pace figure while chasing a run-off leader ... here is Fort Larned's performance in the Stephen Foster last year ... he and Wise Dan chased a 104 pace and both were defeated.
In Fort Larned's case, being bumped early and running a too fast for comfort 102 pace figure, was enough to result in a dismal performance.
Fort Larned came back two weeks later, relaxed early, and beat Successful Dan in a race that marked a 28 point Beyer improvement.