Lornefivehundred looks set to handle big step up

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – Lornefivehundred will be doubling his price when he runs in a $25,000 claiming race for 3-year-olds and up that headlines Sunday’s seven-race card at Hastings. Despite the significant jump in class, Lornefivehundred looks like the one to beat in the 6 1/2-furlong sprint, which drew seven horses.

Trained by Rob Maybin, Lornefivehundred was an easy winner the last two times he ran in claiming races. He was much the best when he won for $12,500 here Sept. 20, and he romped by six lengths for $16,000 on July 27. Sandwiched between his two easy scores was another strong performance when he finished third behind Grade 3 winner Title Contender in the $32,000 Dave Forster on Aug. 4.

In both of his wins, Lornefivehundred set the pace, but he is versatile, and there is plenty of speed in the field.

Lornefivehundred likely will be chasing After the Conflict, who leaves from post 2. Lornefivehundred drew the outside post and will be ridden by Frank Fuentes.

The main threat could come from Fransor’s Finest, who probably wants more distance but should have the speed coming back to him.

KEY CONTENDERS

LORNEFIVEHUNDRED (Last 3 Beyers: 84-76-82)

◗ The 84 Beyer Speed Figure he earned for his win in a $12,500 claiming race Sept. 20 is easily the best last-race figure in the field.

◗ He could move forward in his second start back following a short layoff.

FRANSOR’S FINEST (Last 3 Beyers: 76-63-83)

◗ The race should set up for his late charge.

DRF FORMULATOR FACT: Over the past five years, his trainer, Phil Hall, has a respectable 15 percent strike rate with horses going from a route to a sprint.

THE GOV (Last 3 Beyers: 71-54-23)

◗ He is taking a substantial jump up in class after just missing in an $8,000 claiming race Sept. 28.

◗ He has plenty of back class and could improve for trainer Nancy Betts, who claimed him on behalf of herself and JDP Holdings Ltd.

DRF FORMULATOR FACT: Over the past five years, Betts has a 22 percent strike rate with newly claimed horses increasing their price by 50 percent or more.

AFTER THE CONFLICT (Last 3 Beyers: 74-55-72)

◗ Trained by Patty Leaney, After the Conflict has the best speed in the field.

◗ He is coming off a sharp win over $16,000 conditional claimers Sept. 27.

◗ Leading rider Amadeo Perez retains the mount.