Mo Town between Wood Memorial, Florida Derby

Mo Town, who finished fifth as the favorite in the Grade 2 Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds on Feb. 25, returned to the work tab Wednesday at Payson Park in Florida, breezing a half-mile in 49.60 seconds.

Trainer Tony Dutrow said he is considering the Grade 1, $1 million Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park on April 1 or the Grade 2, $750,000 Wood Memorial at Aqueduct on April 8 for the colt’s next start.

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Dutrow said the Florida Derby is attractive because it’s a Grade 1 and it’s in Florida, so the ship is only a van ride from Payson Park to Gulfstream Park. The Wood Memorial is attractive because it is held at the same track and at the same distance as the Grade 2 Remsen, which Mo Town won last November by 2 1/2 lengths.

“I’m not leaning towards one or the other right now,” Dutrow said.

Dutrow said jockey John Velazquez told him that Mo Town didn’t handle the Fair Grounds surface in the Risen Star. He stalked the pace before backing up in the lane, finishing 10 1/4 lengths behind the winner, Girvin.

“The horse hit himself in both hind legs numerous times, and that’s not him,” Dutrow said. “He came out of the Fair Grounds race excellent. He’s been checked out thoroughly by good people, and the horse is in great shape.”

At the very least, the Risen Star got Mo Town’s 3-year-old season started. His Beyer Speed Figure of 77 was one point higher than the mark he received when he was beaten in his 2-year-old debut.

“Even though it was disappointing, it did get something done,” Dutrow said. “Obviously, he has everything to prove – I’m well aware of that. Our horse is in great shape, we’re very happy, and we’re moving forward. I think it would be a mistake to handle it any other way.”