Giacomo

[Pedigree Ann]

I've said it before and I'll say it again - Giacomo is a good one-paced horse who depends on keeping on past tired horses. The only way he beats first class horses is if they go bonkers on the front end and kill each other off, ala the Kentucky Derby of 2005. The Pacific Classic last year would have been perfect for him, but he wasn't there and Borrego fulfilled the role of 'closer' taking advantage of an insane pace.

[2Hot4TV]

Giacomo is a plodder not a closer. I respect him as a past Derby winner and give him no chance in the Classic.

[GenuineRisk]

What makes some of you think there will be a hot pace up front? What do you see unfolding?

[Pointg5]

There will be a hot pace because of LM, that horse will go and go, until nothing is left...Not to mention PVal on LR, that is a surprise to me, they are trying to rate him, but put a speed ball jock on him...I predict a lightening fast pace...

[Cajungator26]

Originally Posted by Pointg5

There will be a hot pace because of LM, that horse will go and go, until nothing is left...Not to mention PVal on LR, that is a surprise to me, they are trying to rate him, but put a speed ball jock on him...I predict a lightening fast pace...

Call me nuts, but I see Brother Derek out in front too.

[GenuineRisk]

Originally Posted by Cajungator26

Call me nuts, but I see Brother Derek out in front too.

I don't think you're nuts at all. I am surprised about the jockey decision on Lawyer Ron, since I figured they were trying to teach him to rate-- do you think Pletcher gave JV the choice of who he wanted to ride?

I'm skeptical that Lava Man would be sent out to a blistering pace, but hey, call me nuts, too. I don't mind.

[Pedigree Ann]

Lava Man doesn't have to be on the lead but he does like to be in the clear - he doesn't care to run behind horses. Being caught 2 or 3 wide on the turn is less of a problem for him than getting dirt in his face. That's why his Hollwood Gold Cup was so impressive - he won despite having to run behind horses early.