Beyond the Crown: Derby Winner Gears Up

Mine That Bird returned to the worktab with a solid four furlong move in :49 and change at Churchill on July 7th. He galloped out strongly and is on course for the Grade 2 West Virginia Derby on August 1st. He will reunite with Mike Smith for at least his next few outings.

Rachel Alexandra had her first morning activity since her facile Mother Goose tally. Clockers caught the daughter of Medaglia D’Oro in an easy :50 and change over four panels. The work was recorded over the Oklahoma Training track at Saratoga, and her next start is undetermined.

Quality Road also showed up on the Spa worktab for new trainer Todd Pletcher. He went four furlongs in :49 and change but is running out of time to make the Jim Dandy (G2). Connections are looking at the 6.5 furlong Amsterdam (G3) on August 3rd as a possible comeback spot.

The Haskell lost a big name as Musket Man has been sidelined for the year with a bone bruise.

Belmont hero Summer Bird has left the friendly confines of Louisiana Downs and has arrived at the Jersey Shore. Joining him on the grounds is Papa Clem, who is using the July 11th Long Branch as his local prep for the big dance on Aug. 2nd.

Kensei earned a quality speed rating in Dwyer (G2) upset on the 4th of July. Warrior’s Reward could not overcome a troubled beginning and had to settle for the show under Calvin Borel. The latter is expected to return in the Jim Dandy on Aug. 1st.

Image: Newscom