Much to like about Light of Gold

CALGARY, Alberta - There are several things to like about Light of Gold here at Stampede Park in Sunday's feature, a one-mile optional $40,000 claimer that drew a strong field of nine older horses.

Light of Gold, a 5-year-old gelding, owns a strong record at the distance, exits two rapid sprint races, and makes his third start of the meet. He is trained by Carla Christoffersen and has red-hot rider Rickey Walcott staying aboard.

Best of all, Light of Gold has the kind of tactical speed that is so valuable in mile races over this five-furlong oval.

Christoffersen sharpened Light Gold's speed with a bullet half-mile blowout of 47.40 here Thursday morning. Light of Gold breaks from post 4 and is in line for a stalking trip just off Vested in Slew, the probable pacesetter.

Vested in Slew, who drew the rail, was a game third in the Stampede Park Sprint here April 28 but is unproven past six furlongs.

Delta Monarch drew post 2 and will be a forward factor in the short run to the first turn. A 5-year-old gelding, Delta Monarch comes off an impressive mile tally versus $30,000 company here May 13 and Perry Winters retains the mount.

Wye Red, a 4-year-old gelding, had the misfortune to hook Teagues Fight in three straight stakes, finishing second each time. And when he finally got away from Teagues Fight, Wye Red ran into a rejuvenated Laketon, who captured his third straight on May 6. Wye Red did finish ahead of Light of Gold in that last sprint, and rider Dan Boudreau will be looking to fashion a trip from the difficult post 8.

Mocha John is the deep closer in the field and breaks from post 5 with Desmond Bryan up.