Banker Bob seeks first stakes win in Aspen
Banker Bob has rapidly climbed the class ladder since being claimed for $3,200, and on Saturday, he can win the first stakes race of his career in the $40,000 Aspen at Arapahoe Park.
The Aspen, a six-furlong race for 3-year-olds and up bred in Colorado, drew a field of 12. The group includes past Aspen winners Wally Van, Magical Twist, and E F Five.
But it’s Banker Bob who figures to vie for favoritism. He has won four of his last five starts; his lone loss during the streak was a third against open company in last month’s Arapahoe Park Sprint.
Aspen (Race 8)
KEY CONTENDERS
Banker Bob, by Mr. Gehrig
Last 3 Beyers: 71-66-71
◗ He owns the field’s co-highest last-race Beyer Speed Figure for his effort in the Arapahoe Sprint. He got a shot at the stakes after winning four straight races, including an optional $10,000 claiming race at Fonner Park and an allowance at Arapahoe.
◗ He was haltered last July at Arapahoe out of a $3,200 claiming race in which he finished a troubled second. Banker Bob did not race again until February and finished third for a $5,000 claiming price at Fonner before winning for that same price in March to start his streak.
◗ Juan Ortega trains Banker Bob for his breeder, Mason A. King. The horse is to be ridden by Alfredo Triana Jr.
Dewey, by Perfectly Pleasant
Last 3 Beyers: 71-80-65
◗ He is moving back into the stakes ranks after winning a conditioned allowance May 3 at Sunland. It was his second straight win, and for the effort he earned what ranks as this field’s co-highest last-race Beyer.
◗ Russell Vicchrilli has the mount for trainer Jennifer Ries.