Prados Way brightest star in Manzano
Prados Way will face winners for the first time Saturday in the $50,000 Manzano at The Downs at Albuquerque, but he figures to be a strong favorite. He enters the six-furlong race for 2-year-olds off a dominant debut win and owns the field’s best Beyer Speed Figure.
The Manzano drew eight horses, including El Tule, the winner of the $33,000 Totah Stakes in June at SunRay Park, and Stem the Tide, a debut winner last out at Albuquerque.
Manzano (Race 5)
KEY CONTENDERS
Prados Way, by Tizway
Last Beyer: 63
◗ He launched his career July 8 at Lone Star Park, stalking and rolling to a 5 1/4-length win in a maiden special weight race at 5 1/2 furlongs.
◗ Prados Way figures to make good use of the added ground he picks up Saturday as a son of Tizway and the El Prado mare Prado Lady.
◗ Prados Way is a half-brother to Officer Prado, who was a stakes winner at 2.
◗ Alfredo Juarez Jr. has the mount from post 6 for breeder-owner Kathryn East and trainer Steve Asmussen.
El Tule, by Touchdown Ky
Last 3 Beyers: 26-23-54
◗ He is the most accomplished member of the field for his stakes win in the Totah.
◗ El Tule will get Lasix for the first time.
Stem the Tide, by Midshipman
Last Beyer: 42
◗ The lone filly in the field, she jetted to a four-length debut win in a maiden special weight sprint July 31.