Governor's favorite looks strong

As a son of Maryland-based sire Deputed Testamony, 5-year-old Donald's Pride was eligible to run in the Maryland Million. Instead of chasing Presidentialaffair in the $250,000 Maryland Million Classic, as he did last year as the distant fourth-place finisher, Donald's Pride has landed in a softer spot.

An easy winner under similar conditions in July, Donald's Pride should be a strong choice going 1 1/8 miles in Sunday's $50,000 HBPA Governor's Cup Handicap at Charles Town.

Two starts ago, scored by three lengths going 1 1/8 miles in a restricted stakes, earning a 95 Beyer Speed Figure. He faces comparable horses to those he already beat in Sunday's Governor's Cup.

Donald's Pride is coupled in a Patty Burns-trained entry with , a 4-year-old gelding who has 3 wins and 2 seconds in 7 career starts at nine furlongs.

Those looking to try and beat the favorite ought to consider Miner Moss and Thankubellagio.

is 3 for 5 at 1 1/8 miles, including a seven-length win over $10,000 claimers in June. He was no factor against Donald's Pride when they met on July 31.

makes the second start of his current form cycle and shows two good efforts at nine furlongs last year, including an easy win with an 88 Beyer in the slop.

Cherokee's Boy and Off the Glass would be contenders if they run. Both were entered in Saturday's Maryland Million Classic at Laurel.