Nest puts in final work for Alabama Stakes

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – Nest, the 12-length winner of the Grade 1 Coaching Club American Oaks, completed preparations for next Saturday’s Grade 1 Alabama by working a half-mile in 50.60 seconds over the Saratoga main track on Saturday morning.

Nest went in company with recent maiden winner Up to the Mark, who is pointing to an allowance race later in the meet.

“Went a little bit easy the first part, so I had them pick it up at the finish and galloped out really, really well,” said trainer Todd Pletcher, who corresponds with his riders via two-way radio. “Seems to be holding her form.”

Pletcher said while there had briefly been discussion with and among the owners about running in the Travers, he indicated the Alabama was always the first choice. Nest faced males in the Belmont Stakes, finishing a good second to stablemate Mo Donegal.

:: DRF's Saratoga headquarters – Stakes schedule, previews, recaps, past performances, and more

“We did talk about it, but we just felt as long as she was ready to run back in the Alabama, a mile and a quarter is perfect for her,” Pletcher said. “Just felt it was too good of a spot to pass up.”

The Alabama has four confirmed runners, including Kentucky Oaks winner Secret Oath, Mother Goose winner Gerrymander, and Gazelle winner Nostalgic.

On Saturday, Gerrymander worked five furlongs in 1:01.08, getting her final quarter in 24.84.

“She’s a really willing workhorse, I couldn’t be happier with her,” Brown said.

:: Get Saratoga Clocker Reports from Mike Welsch and the Clocker Team. Available every race day.

Other works of note Saturday:

* Jack Christopher, the Grade 1 Woody Stephens winner, worked five furlongs in 1:01.03 as he prepares for the Grade 1 H. Allen Jerkens on Aug. 27.

* Search Results, dominant winner of the Grade 3 Molly Pitcher on July 17 at Monmouth Park, worked five furlongs in 1:01.02 by herself and is under consideration for the Grade 1 Personal Ensign here Aug. 27.