ROCK HARD TEN

Horsephotos

The Skinny
I was kind of shocked when this big, beautiful son of Kris S. threw a fit prior to the Preakness as he was very professional out in Southern California. Perhaps it was the large crowd that got to him, and if that was the case, then he might be in trouble with a record attendance expected at Belmont. Raced wide for most of the way in Baltimore, but angled over to the rail turning for home, and was easily second best. Considering it was only his fourth lifetime start, it had to be considered an excellent performance. Shows some quick works over the Belmont strip, and figures to sit a stalking trip while in the clear. Lightly-raced runner still has a world of untapped potential, and he could be sitting on a breakout performance in the Belmont. Intriguing contender should definitely get the distance, but make sure he behaves in the paddock and post parade before taking the mutuel plunge.

- Dan Illman