Pulpits Power shortens up in optional claimer

Trainer Blaine Wright is so hot this year that just about anything he touches turns into gold. A case in point is Pulpits Power, who figures to be one of the favorites in a $40,000 optional-claiming race Sunday at Emerald Downs.

The 6 1/2-furlong dash for 3-year-olds drew five horses and goes as race 10 on an 11-race card that begins at 2 p.m. Pacific.

Acting on behalf of Below the Rim and Woodway Stable, Wright claimed Pulpits Power for $15,000 on Aug. 13. Pulpits Power had been running like a horse crying out for more ground, and finished full of run in his third-place finish in the six-furlong race from which he was claimed.

Wright saw an opportunity to stretch him out to a middle distance for the first time in the $50,000 Washington Cup Sophomore Stakes two weeks later. With Julien Couton aboard, Pulpits Power rallied in the stretch to win the one-mile race going away over Keller’s Gold, who also is entered in this race.

Pulpits Power, who drew the inside post, appears to be better going around two turns, but he can sprint and should be rolling late under Couton.

Keller’s Gold also was claimed one start prior to the Washington Cup. Trainer Felimon Alvarado haltered him for $20,000 for Lucky Larr Stable LLC on June 23. He won the race he was claimed out of and then ran a huge race in the Washington Cup. With Javier Matias aboard, he dueled through honest fractions and held on well to finish a clear second.

KEY CONTENDERS

Pulpits Power, by War Power
Last 3 Beyers: 68-61-63

◗ Not sure this is what he really wants to do, but he is sharp right now, and over the past five years at Emerald, Wright has a 23 percent strike rate with horses going from a route to a sprint. If Cats Champ can put pressure on Keller’s Gold, he could get up in time.

Keller’s Gold, by Liberty Gold
Last 3 Beyers: 65-63-50

◗ That was a big effort coming off a two-month layoff in the Washington Cup, and he could be a handful if he doesn’t bounce.

◗ He’s versatile and drew the outside post, giving Matias more than one option if he doesn’t break on top. He is the speed of the speed, though, and more than likely they will have him to catch.

Candy for Three, by Sidney’s Candy
Last 3 Beyers: 68-65-43

◗ Trained by Bill Tollett, he is trending in the right direction and is coming off a solid effort in a similar race Aug. 27.

◗ He is a deep closer, and the pace scenario might not work in his favor.