Fierceness impresses his way into possible Champagne start

Fierceness, a 2-year-old colt by City of Light, made an eye-catching debut Friday at Saratoga, splashing his way to an 11 1/4-length victory over a sloppy track.

Owned and bred by Mike Repole and trained by Todd Pletcher, Fierceness was drawing comparisons to Uncle Mo – trained by Pletcher for Repole – who won his debut on Travers Day (Aug.28) 2010 by 14 1/4 lengths on his way to winning the Champagne and Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, and being crowned 2-year-old champion.

“I can’t think of too many who were as impressive as Uncle Mo in their debut,” Pletcher said. “Still, it was pretty impressive. He trained very well, we anticipated he was going to run well in his debut but it’s hard to project one who’s going to do that.”

Fierceness ran six furlongs in 1:09.56 and earned a 95 Beyer Speed Figure.

Pletcher indicated the Grade 1 Champagne at Aqueduct Oct. 7 “makes sense” for Fierceness’ next start.

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