Belmont: Jackson Bend on course for Kelso

Trainer Nick Zito has a healthy respect for Uncle Mo, last year’s 2-year-old champion, but he said neither he nor his mighty mouse of a colt Jackson Bend will be afraid to take him on in Saturday’s Grade 2, $200,000 Kelso Handicap.

“Uncle Mo is still Uncle Mo, he’s a terrific horse, but Jackson Bend is no slouch,’’ Zito said Friday from Saratoga. “Jackson doesn’t get intimidated.’’

Jackson Bend is coming off two dominant victories in one-turn races at Saratoga, and Zito hopes he has two more left – the Kelso and the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile.

BREEDERS’ CUP CHALLENGE: Racing schedule, replays, and past winners >>

The Kelso, a Win and You’re In race for the Dirt Mile, is also expected to draw Jersey Town, Rodman, Sangaree, and possibly Bold Warrior, Flat Bold, and Golddigger’s Boy.