Expectations high for Liam’s Map

OZONE PARK, N.Y. – Following his 9 1/2-length maiden win Sept. 26 at Belmont, Liam’s Map seemed a logical contender for the Grade 3 Discovery at Aqueduct on Nov. 1.

But his connections, owners Teresa and Vincent Viola and trainer Todd Pletcher, opted for the more conservative route. Instead, Liam’s Map figures to be a short-priced favorite in a first-level allowance race Sunday at Aqueduct that goes as race 6.

The race is run as a one-turn mile, the same configuration as his maiden win, in which he ran a mile in 1:34.72 and earned a Beyer Speed Figure of 98.

“It was only his second start,” said Pletcher. “We think he’s a very talented horse. Speaking with the Violas, they’ve been very patient with him and wanted to continue to be patient. After this race, we could very well be looking at a stake if he runs as well as we hope.”

Liam’s Map, a son of Unbridled’s Song, won his maiden race after losing by 2 1/4 lengths to Three Alarm Fire on Travers Day at Saratoga.

“I was surprised he got beat first time out,” Pletcher said. “The horse had trained exceptionally well, so the second race was what we anticipated he might do.”

Round and Finn’s Quest loom the biggest threats to Liam’s Map.