Bernier: How I'd Play Belmont on Sunday, July 7, 2019

Sunday is the final day at Belmont Park before connections and fans head upstate for the 2019 Saratoga meeting, and several entrants on the card have their share of intrigue. Here are a few horses to consider if you’re playing closing day at Belmont Sunday.

RACE 4

It’s entirely possible that WILDCAT BELLE (3) can’t run anymore, but if she still has anything left, she’ll likely show it Sunday. Dropping to the lowest claiming level of her career, this six-year-old mare appears to still have her solid early foot – an asset in a race that seemingly lacks pace. Winless since April of 2018, this feels like as good a spot as any for Wildcat Belle to right the ship and get back to the winner’s circle; look for Ricardo Santana Jr. to send hard from the gate.

RACE 5

LOUGH NA MONA (5) figures to be relatively close to the front throughout in this maiden special weight affair, and her most recent race should be completely forgiven, as it came on the main track. The speed displayed in her effort two starts back was solid, and I think she’s interesting here at a square price for trainer Christophe Clement.

RACE 8 – STATE DINNER

CANDYGRAM (3) is 3 for 3 in his career when he’s able to secure the lead early, and, on paper, he appears to be the controlling speed in the State Dinner. Trained by Jimmy Jerkens, this son of Candy Ride will be trying stakes company for the first time Sunday afternoon, and his form suggests he could be up for the challenge. Other horses like the returning BACKYARD HEAVEN (1) and SUNNY RIDGE (6) would be interesting if it seemed as though there would be someone to keep Candygram honest early. Unless Backyard Heaven is sent off the bench, Candygram could be loose on the lead – and that could equate to a victory in the State Dinner.