Metaphorically brings consistent form into turf-mile feature
Other than being disqualified from first back to fifth in a first-level allowance race Oct. 10, Metaphorically hasn’t finished worse than second in his last six starts on turf. The consistent sophomore should be in the mix again when he runs in a $12,500 optional-claiming race restricted to Florida-bred 3-year-olds and up that will serve as the featured race Saturday at Gulfstream Park West. Only 10 of the 14 horses entered will be allowed to start in the one-mile race on turf that goes as race 7.
Trained by Steve Towne, Metaphorically is coming off a runner-up finish going 1 1/16 miles at the same level at Gulfstream Park West on Oct. 24. With usual rider Jonathan Gonzales aboard, he sat just off Starship Frontier for six furlongs before taking the lead at the top of the stretch. It looked like he was going to open up on the field, but he hung in midstretch and was caught by Amigo, who rallied from well back.
The slightly shorter distance Saturday won’t hurt, and Metaphorically drew the inside post, so he should get a ground-saving trip under Gonzales.
Jakob’s Way was coming off a 2 1/2-month layoff when he won a $30,000 claiming race on the Gulfstream Park West turf course Oct. 22. Trained by Efren Loza Jr., Jakob’s Way came from a stalking position to win the 7 1/2-furlong race and could be dangerous in his second start back with Andy Hernandez retaining the mount.
KEY CONTENDERS
Metaphorically (Last 3 Beyers: 82-82-88)
◗ With his good tactical speed, he should get a nice trip sitting just off Starship Frontier again.
Jakob’s Way (Last 3 Beyers: 80-63-75)
◗ Two of his three wins came over this course, and he finished full of run to win his most recent race.
DRF FORMULATOR FACT: Over the past two years, Loza has won with 33 percent of his starters who were making their second start following a layoff.
Roll On the Navajo (Last 3 Beyers: 80-81-79)
◗ The David Rakoff trainee will appreciate the class relief after being overmatched in the $75,000 Showing Up Stakes on Oct. 31.
◗ He rallied to finish third just a week before in the same race that Metaphorically exits.
Sweet Soul Music (Last 3 Beyers: 74-65-69)
◗ The lightly raced sophomore will be making his fourth start at his fourth different track for trainer Kathleen O’Connell.
◗ His first three races were solid, and in his latest start over firm turf at Laurel on Oct. 18, he came from a stalking position to win a 1 1/8-mile maiden special weight race for 3-year-olds and up.