Marshall has tough 1-2 punch

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - The Terry Marshall-trained entry of No Time Flat and Thundering Herd figures to be favored in the $100,000 Jack Diamond Futurity on Sunday at Hastings Park. The 6 1/2-furlong race attracted eight 2-year-old colts and geldings.

No Time Flat would likely be favored by himself because he comes into the Futurity off a win in the B.C. Cup Nursery Stakes on Aug. 4. A son of Vying Victor, No Time Flat bided his time early and then unleashed a powerful move to overtake the leaders on the turn and draw off to a two-length decision over Intact. He'll appreciate having his stablemate Thundering Herd in the race to help ensure a fast pace.

Thundering Herd displayed excellent speed at Sacramento in his lone start, finishing second against special weight maidens at 5 1/2 furlongs.

"He's a pretty nice horse too," said Marshall, "and it's pretty obvious what the game plan is. Thundering Herd is going to the front, and if they want to try and run with him early, it should set things up nicely for No Time Flat."

Felipe Valdez will be aboard Thundering Herd, and David Wilson rides No Time Flat.

Intact beat No Time Flat in the Ladnesian Stakes but ran second to him in the Nursery, 4 1/2 lengths in front of third-place finisher Regal Soldier, who also is entered in the Jack Diamond. Intact worked a sensational five furlongs in 59.20 seconds last Sunday and is clearly ready for another strong effort. Trainer Sid Martin has named Frank Fuentes to ride.