Early Belmont look...

It's still five days away from the running of the Belmont Stakes and although the main attention seems to be going to Classic Empire...let me assure you that this is not a one-horse race.

The guess is that 13 will compete for the final jewel in the triple crown. Let's take a look at four that could content for that rock...beside Classic Empire.

1) SENIOR INVESTMENT.  I'll make no bones about it...he's my pick for the Belmont. I liked the way he came flying down the stretch from dead last to capture show money at Pimlico in the Preakness. The stretch at Belmont Race Course is significantly longer and if he can get a little bit of a closer position as they enter that final stretch, I like his chances.

2) IRISH WAR CRY. The New Jersey bred won't have to fly in for this one...a short van ride from Fair Hill training facility in Maryland. He won the Wood in front running style at Aqueduct but those plans didn't quite come to fruition at the Derby. Rested up after skipping the Preakness, it'll be interesting whether he's sent by Rajiv Maragh to contest the pace at Belmont. Expect to see him up near the front as they take the turn home.

3) TAPWRIT. This Todd Pletcher runner is one that comes from the back to swoop at the end. Plenty of stretch to perform that in the Belmont and he's rested after the Derby...where the ride was somewhat puzzling....but a sixth place finish. A disappoint horse of sorts...especially at Keeneland...but sparkled at Tampa Bay. Class indicate he has a shot.

4) HOLLYWOOD HANDSOME. The mystery horse...he got his nose up just in time to win an allowance race at Churchill over 1 1/16th last time out. As the even money favorite. Nothing in his stakes campaign to indicate that he'll relish 1 1/2 but Dallas Stewart knows horses, Florent Geroux is eager for the chance to ride again and at...40-1 probably...he could be that shocker horse who decided he likes going long.


We'll see...and hopefully be back for more success results and handicapping in a few days. I am scheduled for hip surgery on Thursday the 8th...two days before the race...but hope to get the fellas picks recorded Saturday morning....pending Doctor's approval...via phone and recorder.


paulie
xxxxx