Fair Grounds horses to watch: Week of March 1

ENDURING ERIN
Trainer: Hugh Robertson
Last race: Feb. 20, 5th
Finish: 3rd by 3 1/4
Beyer: 56
It was a race she probably needed after a break since August, and she had little chance to win after falling back to seventh early as the leader set a dawdling turf-sprint tempo. Two in front of her pressed the pace and got first run, and she had the best kick.

DECEPTIVE VISION
Trainer: Malcolm Pierce
Last race: Feb. 22, 4th
Finish: 1st by 2 1/4
Beyer: 95
I didn’t expect to see a Beyer this high, which might hurt her price next time. Next time should be a stakes, as this filly returned from a long layoff to win her turf debut impressively despite a touch of trouble. Big upside, especially with limited grass exposure.

INTENSE HOLIDAY
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Last race: Feb. 22, 10th
Finish: 1st by a nose
Beyer: 97
We’re not seeing many glowing accounts of this colt’s Risen Star Stakes win, but his performance actually was a breakthrough and came despite, and not because of, the circumstances. Unlike so many fashionable 3-year-olds, he had a great foundation at 2 and thus stands a good chance of holding form. I feel he qualifies as elite and isn’t yet being given that status, which could mean attractive odds next time out.

HOPPERTUNITY
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Last race: Feb. 22, 10th
Finish: 4th by 7
Beyer: 85
Was “supposed” to be in the second flight early in the Risen Star, especially with the slow pace, but fell far behind and had to rally from 10th. Still was seventh at the stretch call and probably finished as well as the winner. This was a big ask, coming back on three weeks’ rest and off only a maiden win in his second start. Still plenty of room to grow.