Hoosier Park: Clark Township looks tough off last

Clark Township was a 30-1 outsider when he captured his debut in the early days of the Hoosier Park meet, but the quality of that win might thrust him into the favorite's role Sunday in the $45,000 Hillsdale, a 5 1/2-furlong stakes for Indiana-bred 2-year-old colts and geldings.

Clark Township, a son of the precocious Leelanau, was given a Beyer Speed Figure of 58 for his one-length win, the highest speed figure earned by any of the Hillsdale entrants. Clark Township was also flattered by the next-out victory of third-place finisher Sea of Stevens, who is also entered in the Hillsdale.

The Hillsdale field has several potential pacemakers, which would benefit a closer like Clark Township, but one, Robo, might be the quickest of them all. Robo cut out a first quarter-mile in 22 seconds last time but was eventually caught by Sea of Stevens, who registered a half-length win. Robo has the pedigree to be a good one, being a full brother to the filly Basin Banannie, winner of last week's Richmond Stakes.

Others of note in the Hillsdale include Honky Tonk Gold, a full brother to a Hillsdale winner, Bruce on the Loose; Made Your Moves, who won his debut gate-to-wire earning a Beyer Figure of 54; and Chow Wagon, one of the best-bred horses in the field, with three stakes-winning or -placed siblings, including Indiana Futurity winner Snack.

Moonshine Still, who rallied from off the pace to win his debut, is another who would benefit from a fast pace.