Rampellini: Oaklawn Horses to Watch for Feb. 1
Young American
Trainer: Ken McPeek
Last Race: Jan. 27, 8th
Finish: 5th by 6 1/4
Beyer: 67
He did well to split a large field in an allowance for 3-year-olds, closing from well back behind a front-running winner. The start came at a mile – a race that ends at the sixteenth pole at Oaklawn. He figures to benefit from more ground when available as his maiden win came at 1 1/16 miles.
Tonbo
Trainer: Greg Compton
Last Race: Jan. 27, 9th
Finish: 3rd by 2 3/4
Beyer: 63
He started his season at a sprint distance, came rolling from last for third, and has reason to move forward. He also could move forward with more distance as a son of Awesome Again and a mare by Silver Charm.
Gordy Florida
Trainer: Kenny Smith
Last Race: Jan. 28, 6th
Finish: 2nd by neck
Beyer: 87
He found himself farther off the pace than usual when he did not get the break from the rail in a sprint that drew a Grade 1-placed runner in Jazzy Times. He closed fast for second in what was his first start since last February. Gordy Florida is a multiple winner at one turn and is stakes-placed at two turns.
Vandelay
Trainer: Ron Moquett
Last Race: Jan. 29, 9th
Finish: 2nd by 2 3/4
Beyer: 83
Triple Crown nominee popped a strong Beyer Speed Figure when making his two-turn debut. He showed good speed in the mile race and gets pedigree support for additional distance as a son of Mineshaft and a mare by Dynaformer.