Liam’s Map has first local work for Breeders’ Cup

Woodward Stakes winner Liam’s Map turned in his first Keeneland work Monday as he begins final preparations for either the Breeders’ Cup Classic or Dirt Mile.

Liam’s Map worked solo with jockey Javier Castellano aboard and turned in a half-mile clocking of 48.60 seconds over a fast track, according to Keeneland clockers. He galloped out in 1:01.20 and 1:13.40.

“I thought he worked very well,” said trainer Todd Pletcher. “He was relaxed, seemed to get over the track in good order, and galloped out really well.”

Liam’s Map has won 5 of 7 starts and never has been worse than second. The front-running gray was the runner-up to Honor Code in the Grade 1 Whitney before winning the Grade 1 Woodward by 4 3/4 lengths with Castellano aboard.

“We’re considering both [Breeders’ Cup races],” said Pletcher, indicating that the colt will pre-enter both races Oct. 19. “We’ll see how he trains and go from there.”

Pletcher also sent out Grade 1 winners Rachel’s Valentina and Stopchargingmaria to work in company. The fillies finished on even terms in 48 seconds flat and galloped out in 1:01.20.

“We generally work both of them in company and felt like they were on similar schedules and would make good workmates, which they did,” said Pletcher. “I thought it was a very productive breeze for both of them.”

Rachel’s Valentina, a daughter of champions Bernardini and Rachel Alexandra, is unbeaten in two starts and will be one of the favorites for the BC Juvenile Fillies off her victory in the Spinaway Stakes on closing weekend at Saratoga. Stopchargingmaria is a candidate for the BC Distaff.