Gierkink: Woodbine horses to watch for week of May 1
Diamonds and Roses
Trainer: Mike DePaulo
Last race: April 28, 7th
Finish: 3rd by 2 3/4
Beyer: 72
Following an extended layoff in just his second start going seven-eighths, he lacked a clear path in the stretch before checking in third behind the heavy favorite and the pacemaker. This son of Flower Alley is bred to run on, and to like the grass.
Royal Katy
Trainer: John Ross
Last race: April 28, 4th
Finish: 3rd by 2 1/4
Beyer: 42
After breaking a tad slowly, she was blocked behind the leaders on the turn and then flattened out a little before galloping out strongly on the drop from maiden special to $32,000 maiden-claiming company.
Afleet Connection
Trainer: Mark Casse
Last race: April 29, 6th
Finish: 3rd by 1 1/4
Beyer: 44
After missing the break by about five lengths, she mounted a steady wide bid from seven lengths back at first asking in a five-furlong maiden special. This daughter of Northern Afleet is bred to be a miler, should welcome a stretch-out in distance.