Channel Maker works for BC Turf, vans to Kentucky for California flight

ELMONT, N.Y. – Channel Maker, runner-up in the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic, worked a half-mile in 50.40 seconds on Friday morning over the Belmont Park training track.

Channel Maker broke off just in front of a team trained by Danny Gargan that included Jim Dandy winner Tax. Channel Maker was kept in hand by his exercise rider while Tax outfinished his workmate Geta Lode of Lucky by two lengths.

Channel Maker left Belmont Park Friday afternoon by van for Kentucky where he will meet up with Bill Mott-trained stablemates Elate and Yoshida to fly to Southern California on Sunday. Channel Maker is being pointed to the Breeders’ Cup Turf.

Meanwhile, Tax will be considered for Sunday’s $100,000 English Channel Stakes at Belmont on turf, the Grade 3 Commonwealth Stakes on turf at Churchill on Nov. 9, or will train up to the Grade 3, $200,000 Discovery on dirt at Aqueduct on Nov. 30.

◗ Pure Sensation, pointing to the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint, worked four furlongs in 47.94 seconds Friday morning over the Belmont main track.