Royal Squeeze may get a shot at Smile Sprint

Royal Squeeze, who won the $75,000 Jeblar last Sunday in his first start since September, was also making his first start for trainer Ralph Nicks.

“He probably spoiled me right off the bat,” Nicks said. “I like his style.”

Royal Squeeze earned a Beyer Speed Figure of 93 in the seven-furlong Jeblar, winning by 1 3/4 lengths under Tyler Gaffalione.

“Tyler rode an outstanding race,” Nicks said. “His patience – and then the turn of foot [Royal Squeeze] had – it was a big effort.”

Nicks said because of the strong performance, and the fact that it came off the layoff, Royal Squeeze might not run back for six to eight weeks. He said one race that will be considered is the Grade 3, $250,000 Smile Sprint at six furlongs July 1 at Gulfstream.

“We’ll entertain shortening up for the Smile,” Nicks said. “We’ll kind of let the horse tell us what and when.”

Royal Squeeze races for Newtown Anner Stud.