Calder: Big Drama eyes comeback spot

Big Drama, the reigning sprint champion who has been idled since his record-setting performance in Gulfstream Park’s Grade 3 Mr. Prospector on Jan. 15, could launch his comeback over his home base at Calder on Sunday in the 6 1/2-furlong Whippleton Handicap.

The Whippleton, an overnight handicap, originally had a purse of $55,000 that included $5,000 in Florida Owners Awards, but management has increased the purse to $75,000 to help the race fill.

The Whippleton closed with nine nominations, including both Big Drama and Giant Ryan, who won the Grade 2 mile Handicap on July 9. Entries for the Whippleton will be drawn on Thursday.

“I’m running out of time with him if I want to get him back to the Breeders’ Cup,” said trainer David Fawkes. “I’d love to start him back over his home track, but if the race at Calder doesn’t go I’ll probably send him to the Icecapade at Monmouth Park on Monday.”

– Mike Welsch