New York Is Back
New York Is Back
By The NY Hot List Staff // Friday, June 5
After 80 days of inactivity, racing finally resumed in New York on Wednesday and there’s a big weekend of action on tap for fans who been starving for racing action from Beautiful Belmont Park. As much as there are thoughts of what could have been – since Saturday was when the Belmont Stakes was supposed to bring down the curtain on the Triple Crown – a package of four stakes will make for a very lively day of racing in New York.
The $250,000 Carter Handicap, Belmont Park, Saturday, Race 9.
Originally set for April, the rescheduled Carter Handicap was a welcomed edition to the opening weekend lineup. The horse to beat figures to be (2) Performer who has been patiently handled by Hall of Famer Shug McGaughey. He was ultra-impressive at three, winning four of five starts, including the Grade 3 Discovery, and he’s training brilliant for what should be the start of a big campaign. (5) Network Effect matured this winter at Gulfstream Park for Chad Brown and promises to be a big factor here. (10) Mind Control enters off a three-race win streak and will be a major force despite the three-month layoff. (1) Firenze Fire loves Belmont Park, as evidenced by three wins and a second in five tries. The big question is how he’ll run for new trainer Kelly Breen after racing for the indicted Jason Servis throughout his career.