A little less distance could be the key for Fireballin

OZONE PARK, N.Y. – Perhaps a half-furlong will make the difference when Fireballin likely tries to wire the field in a first-level allowance race for New York-breds going six furlongs, the feature on Sunday’s eight-race card at Aqueduct.

Fireballin, a 4-year-old gelding trained by Mike Maker, couldn’t see out the 6 1/2 furlongs when he finished third, beaten a half-length in this same condition on Feb. 28. At least that was a marked improvement from his previous start in which he was eased after dueling on the lead here on Feb. 5.

Kenny Be, who returns from a nine-month layoff for trainer David Duggan, has shown speed in the past and could create issues for Fireballin on the front end.

If so, Liberty Rising, who won a starter allowance two back with a Beyer Speed Figure of 80, and Tiote, who has two wins and a second in his last three starts, are others who could benefit from a pace battle.

◗ Following Sunday’s card, the next live day of racing here will be Friday. Aqueduct was scheduled to race three days a week starting Feb. 20 but the New York Racing Association added five Thursday cards to help make up for nine weather-related cancellations.

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