Laketon back off week's rest

CALGARY, Alberta - A case can be made for most of the eight older horses in Sunday's $19,200 feature at Stampede Park, a $30,000 claimer at six furlongs.

The most intriguing possibility is Laketon, who comes back off just one week's rest for trainer Don Gilkyson.

Laketon, a 7-year-old gelding, missed all of 2005 and ran just three times last year, yet makes his third start of 2007 for a trainer whose patience is legendary in these parts.

Not only is Laketon back off short rest, but Gilkyson chose to bump him up three notches off his convincing tally over $13,000 rivals, which came in a sharp 1:11.20 for six furlongs.

Catalone, another lightly raced 7-year-old gelding, failed to win in six outings last year but kept excellent company. He makes his first start of the year and he runs well fresh. He should sit a stalking trip off Laketon, who figures to be on the lead.

If the speed comes back then Highland Leader, a durable 12-year-old with loads of back class, will be rolling late.

Fancy Bru, claimed five times last season, is a bit of an enigma, but when he fires his best shot he can be very tough from just off the pace.

Phantastic Secret may have a fitness edge as the 6-year-old gelding raced over the winter.

Ozzie's J J is the deep closer in the field and will need some rapid early fractions if he is to win first out this year.

Hastings invader Delta Monarch failed to win in 11 starts on the West Coast last year and may be better suited to a mile.

Cuddabinthewhiskey, a 4-year-old trying older horse for the first time, figures to contend early but is compromised by his outside post.