Travers Stakes

   So far it seems like no horse can put two big races back to back. I had been high on Stay thirsty since way back and he finally showed what he can do. The question is, can he do it again? He has a classic pedigree and should have no problem with the distance.
   I was also impressed with J W Blue's breeding and after the AK Derby in which he had a bad post and wide, rough trip, I had posted that you would hear from him down the line. He's lost two tight finishes in a row but I think he will really like the added distance. Will be closing and if he doesn't run into trouble I expect him to be there at the finish.
   Coil doesn't seem to have a really classic pedigree but it looks good enough to put him up there. He actually has speed but has shown he can come off the pace.
   I don't think Thirsty or Coil and maybe someone else is going to let Shack get away with backing the pace down. He may last for a part if he can hold off Ruler but doesn't have the breeding for this distance.
   Ruler On Ice is very steady and usually throws a good race. Breeding is so-so.
   Raison D'etat is nicely bred and can probably handle the distance. Rattlesnake Bridge is another with a lot of points in his pedigree and should get the extra distance.

Going mostly on pedigree this is how I see it; I am revising my first thoughts.

Stay Thirsty........will probably stalk Shack and be in good position in stretch...only one with big win this year
Coil....................will lay off the pace but not as far back as last time
J W Blue............makes a big run ala Dialed In and Animal Kingdom...could win if pace is fast
Shackleford........may be forced to set pace again but must back it down in order to last
Raison D'etat......shouldn't be far off the pace
Rattlesnake Bridge...could move up more with an off track
Ruler On Ice.......needs to stay close


If the track comes up sloppy I will make a change to:
Stay Thirsty
Coil
Shackleford
J W Blue
Rattlesnake Bridge
Raison D'etat
Really a tough race and it all hinges on whether Thirsty shows up with his game suit on.

Backstretch