A big threat in Sunday allowance, Weisser has come a long way

Weisser learned his lessons well. Defeated 20 lengths by Strike Power in his career debut in December, Weisser returned to action nearly five months later and now has three solid efforts under his belt.

Trained by Stan Gold for owner-breeder Arindel, Weisser is one of the main players in a $47,000 allowance that anchors an 11-race Sunday card at Gulfstream Park in South Florida. Eight 3-year-olds and upward are in the one-mile race, which goes as race 9 on a card that starts at 1:15 p.m. Eastern.

Weisser most recently was second for the same first-level condition that governs the Sunday feature. It was his first try in open company following back to back romps versus fellow Florida-breds, with all three efforts grading out to a 77 Beyer Speed Figure. Seen altogether, it’s quite a commendation on the progress the colt has made under Gold’s tutelage.

Among Weisser’s opposition is Quenane (post 1, Jonathan Gonzales), who has knocked out a nice living in starter races over the last nine months; Manolete (post 2, Romero Ramsay), who shows a steady work slate after last competing in a minor stakes; and First Mondays (post 4, Roberto Alvarado Jr.), an impressive debut winner last month for trainer John Servis.

The feature is part of a Rainbow 6 sequence that spans races 6-11 and had a carryover jackpot of $481,575 when racing began Friday. The other 10 races on the Sunday program are all maiden or claiming events.

After Sunday, Gulfstream goes dark for three days before another four-day race week resumes Thursday.

KEY CONTENDERS

Weisser, by Brethren
Last 3 Beyers: 77-77-77

◗ After the drubbing from Strike Power, who won the Grade 3 Swale in his next start, this homebred colt took some regrouping before starting to put things together, as evidenced by how remarkably consistent his race record has been.

First Mondays, by Curlin
Beyer: 78

◗ One of the first notable winners for Servis since the Kentucky Derby-winning trainer established a year-round division in Florida, this $450,000 yearling purchase will try to show that eye-catching June 28 debut at six furlongs was no fluke.

Quenane, by Algorithms
Last 3 Beyers: 82-79-83

◗ Since mid-November, this Florida-bred gelding has won for starter conditions four times, all for trainer Tamara Levy, invariably with an effective off-pace rally that makes him a major threat at this level.

Manolete, by Mineshaft
Last 3 Beyers: 55-73-81

◗ Representing the family Maragh, he’s one of two starters in here (with Pair Pair Tie) made eligible for this race by way of a $16,000 optional-claiming tag.