The Risen Star was kind of a weird race. It was a bit of a merry-go-round, as the first 4 out of the gate were the first 4 home. Aside from El Padrino wresting the lead at the top of the stretch, the only other significant move in the race was Mr. Bowling going backwards.
A look back at previous years, and it seems like the Risen Star and Louisiana Derby tend to have this type of result. Never really noticed it before (maybe I should have), but it looks like speed carries fairly well there.
In that respect, Mark Valeski's effort in the Risen Star may have been a bit dressed up. He certainly looked like he was going well throughout, but then again, he was tracking an 80-1 shot who ultimately held on for 4th. His pedigree seems geared toward one turn and he was barely making his two-turn debut in the race.
As he has talent and he's staying put at Fair Grounds, he could easily win the Louisiana Derby (especially if it comes up light). However, he feels like a Discreetly Mine or Mission Impazible type of horse. Talented but late to the scene, and ultimately meant for middle distances.
|
03-13-2012, 10:14 PM
Hybrid Mode
