'Saratoga' stands out in feature

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Thesaratogaexpress could be tough to beat in the colts and geldings division of the 6 1/2-furlong CTHS Sales Stakes at Hastings on Sunday. The $60,000 Sales Stakes is restricted to horses that went through a Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society sale where the full commission was obtained.

Thesaratogaexpress, a $12,000 purchase by Glen Todd and Patrick Kinsella out of last year's local sale, looks like a standout in the eight-horse field. Trained by Troy Taylor, Thesaratogaexpress is coming off of a second-place finish to Nechako in the unrestricted New Westminster Stakes on Aug. 27. Taylor has some concerns, though.

"He's had some trouble with his breathing," said Taylor. "That's probably why he ran such an odd race last time."

Taylor was referring to the way Thesaratogaexpress ran in the New Westminter. After battling through quick fractions, Thesaratogaexpress appeared to be headed backwards at the top of the stretch and was passed by a couple of horses. He rallied, though, and was full of run in late stretch.

Mario Gutierrez rides Thesaratogaexpress on Sunday.

Taylor has also entered Captain T W Bly, who also has good speed and will be coupled with Thesaratogaexpress.

Ookashada, who is still a maiden, closed strongly to finish third behind Born to Be Bad in the B.C. Cup Nursery Stakes on Aug. 7. Ookashada could be a factor from off the pace if a speed duel develops. Born to Be Bad is also entered.