Inexcess Again looks to start new win streak

Inexcess Again was very impressive in winning a $25,000 conditional-claiming race going 5 1/2 furlongs in his first start at Emerald Downs on April 16. He figures to be tough to handle when he comes right back at the same level in Emerald’s featured race Saturday.

Inexcess Again is clearly the one to beat in the 5 1/2-furlong sprint that drew six horses. His trainer, Blaine Wright, is on fire at the meet, and Inexcess Again is capable of stringing solid races together.

At Golden Gate Fields last year, he reeled off three straight wins for Wright. He began the streak with an easy four-length romp in a $12,500 maiden-claiming race on Sept. 24. His winning margin diminished to three lengths in his next two starts, as he led every step of the way in a $12,500 race for non-winners of two Oct. 31 and in a $16,000 conditional claimer Nov. 29.

In his sharp win at Emerald, he broke on top with Leslie Mawing aboard. After dueling with Raspberry Road through a rapid first quarter in 21.55 seconds, he took control of the race on the turn.

He’s probably gone if he breaks in a similar fashion from post No. 5 with Mawing retaining the mount.

Thisdewarsforyou is also coming off a sharp win going 5 1/2 furlongs, and in his last six starts, he hasn’t been worse than second.

Trained by Neil Knapp, Thisdewarsforyou set honest fractions and was able to hold off a determined bid by Party Pooper in a $15,000 claiming race for non-winners of three April 9. The race has produced a next-out winner, Hoody, and Party Pooper was expected to be a short price to win a $25,000 claiming race for non-winners of two Friday evening.

KEY CONTENDERS

Inexcess Again, by Snorter

Last 3 Beyers: 77-59-72

◗ The speed of the speed will be tough to run down if he breaks on top. He also showed that he can duel through fast interior fractions and keep rolling in his latest win.

Thisdewarsforyou, by Royal River

Last 3 Beyers: 79-72-55

◗ The versatile Montana-bred has improved dramatically since he was here last spring. He’s capable of stalking if he doesn’t get the jump on Inexcess Again and could move forward in his second start back.

Perfect Night, by Cahill Road

◗ He was no match for Inexcess Again, but he was making his first start this year and should improve with a race behind him.

◗ Trained by Howard Belvoir, he won and was the runner-up twice at this level last year. He could pick up the pieces if Inexcess Again and Thisdewarsforyou engage in an all-out duel.