Belmont Stakes Preview (June 2nd): Denis of Cork’s final move; Big Brown to work Tuesday

Denis of Cork had his final Belmont Stakes breeze on June 2nd, logging four furlongs in :48.60. His maintenance breeze served its purpose, as he got his first quarter in :24.80 and galloped-out five furlongs in 1:01.60.

The son of Harlan’s Holiday seems to be in good shape and will depart for New York with Macho Again on Wednesday (June 4th).

Big Brown was out for a gallop on Monday as things continue to go smoothly following a quarter crack problem discovered on May 23rd.

In a slight change of plans, the undefeated Kentucky Derby-Preakness hero will not be wearing a fiberglass patch on his left front foot during his final Belmont breeze on June 3rd. The patch is expected to be fitted on June 6th, the day before the big event.

Casino Drive and his cronies (Spark Candle and Champagne Squall) walked and jogged around the track, a day after working a slow five furlongs in company. The Japanese way of doing things cannot be compared to the US training methods. If you like Casino Drive in the Belmont, the go for it, because recent history has told us that special three-year-olds overcome the inexperience factor in Triple Crown races. Bernardini won the 2006 Preakness in just his 4th lifetime start. Last year, Curlin won the Preakness with four starts under his belt, and Big Brown won this year’s Kentucky Derby following three facile victories in as many starts.

Photo Credit: Newscom