American Classic at his peak

American Classic did not launch his racing career until he was 5, but it did not take him long to get comfortable in the winner's circle. Since his debut in January 2009, he has compiled a 5-of-10 record, culminating in his first stakes win last month at Sunland Park.

Saturday, American Classic looks like a strong choice to make it two stakes in a row. He will head a field of nine older horses for the $50,000 Bill Thomas Memorial at 6 1/2 furlongs at Sunland. The race also drew multiple stakes winner Song of Navarone.

American Classic was up for a head win in the $50,000 Budweiser at five furlongs in his last start Feb. 6. He stalked the pace and earned a Beyer Figure of 96, the best last-race number in the Bill Thomas. American Classic could get a similar trip Saturday, perhaps tracking the front-running Sky Jedi. Adding to American Classic's cause, he is moving back to a distance over which he is 2 for 2.

Agapito Delgadillo has the mount for owner Brian Mundell and trainer Jon Arnett. American Classic is a 6-year-old by Distorted Humor.

Song of Navarone will be cutting back to one turn for the first time in over a year. He was third last out in the $50,000 Curribot at 1 1/16 miles at Sunland on Feb. 14. He will be making his first start for trainer Todd Fincher and will be ridden by Isaias Enriquez.