Molson Recap; Two Year Olds Too Soon?

Won The West won the Molson Pace in a blistering 1:50.2 at Western Fair last night, nailing stablemate (and half mile specialist) Foiled Again in a three way photo finish.  WTW was able to follow his stablemate Foiled Again around the track but almost got collared by Stonebridger Terror who was flying late.  My upset choice, Hypnotic Blue Chip did make a move heading towards the three quarter pole but was too far back to substain the drive and subsequently made a break before finishing fifth.   


 

With June approaching, it is time for the two year olds to hit the track.  While many owners will be anxious to see how their charges turn out, we would be better off if we were not racing our two year olds this early.  While I recognize the economics and desire to recoup some of the expense, we would be better served if we limited our two year olds to a short season without big money stakes.  I would suggest seeing our two year olds hit the track no sooner than July 1 and limit each of them to no more than ten starts in state-restricted races.

By limiting the two year olds to state-restricted races, our babies will have the opportunity to earn money without having to go extreme miles.  This will allow enough opportunity for owners and trainers to evaluate the stock they have but keep them fresh for the following year.  Also, by not having the big money events on their calendar, it will be easier for trainers to turn out two year olds who need additional time to mature as there won't be missing the big money events.  And yes, we would be putting the big money events where it belongs, in three year old and up races.

This weekend is the finals of the Empire Breeders Stakes at Tioga and Vernon Downs.  They will be discussed in my next post.  In the meanwhile, for those taking advantage of the lowest takeouts in North America, here are my selections for Tioga Downs tonight.

Tioga Downs, Saturday May 29
1st - Somersault, Video, Upside Blue Chip (1-3-8)
2nd - True Magic, Hose Me Down, Malachy (3-4-2)
3rd - Kash N Credit, Mrs Ice Man Ike (1-5-3)
4th - Peteantnart, Radiant Hall, Blissfull Doll, Lovely Magic (3-7-8-2)
5th - Oceans Motion, Hank's Queen, Moving Art (3-4-1)
6th - Hugs Again, Oh Pretty Leigh, Buy Art (5-2-1)
7th - Impressive Char, Princess Michi, Infinite Desire, Allamerican Celeb (9-4-3-8)
8th - Caviart Kiss, Sugarcoated, Rintintin (3-8-5)
9th - Just Listed, Carrythemail Devie, Nystateofmind (8-6-9)
10th - Silverdollar Shark, Canaco Piment, Carolina Storm, Miss Chris (7-8-3-9)