Class drop key for Itswhatwelivefore

EDMONTON, Alberta - A drop in class could help get Itswhatwelivefore back on track when he runs in Wednesday's feature race at Northlands Park. The 6 1/2-furlong sprint for 3-year-olds running for a $25,000 claiming price drew seven horses and goes as the fifth race.

Itswhatwelivefore has won two of his four starts at the meet and he should appreciate the class relief after forcing the pace before fading in the $50,000 Western Canada Handicap on July 1. Trained by Robertino Diodoro, Itswhatwelivefore scored a front-running win in a first-level allowance race in his previous start and could be dangerous if he shakes loose early with Rickey Walcott aboard.

Trained by Rod Cone, Charlestown Chief also has some speed and should appreciate the move back to a sprint. His last win came in a $25,000 claiming race at 6 1/2 furlongs on June 20, and that was the last time he went around two turns. In three subsequent races at a three-turn one mile, Charlestown Chief's best finish was a third for this price Aug. 14.

Cone also has entered Shaw's Honor who, along with Lindsey's Storm, has the best last-race Beyer Speed Figure of 67.