See Me Through has edge in return

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Graded stakes winners Summer Symphony and See Me Through will make their 4-year-old debuts in the feature race at Hastings Saturday, a $75,000 optional claiming race for fillies and mares that drew seven horses.

Ballerina Breeders' Cup winner See Me Through would appear to have the better chance of the two in the 6 1/2-furlong race. A Kentucky-bred filly, See Me Through won her maiden at six furlongs and has enough speed to get involved in the race early. After winning the Ballerina last year, See Me Through was sent to Golden Gate to try the grass and ran well in her lone start there, forcing the pace before finishing fifth in the Star Ball Handicap. She's trained by Cindy Krasner and will be ridden by Pedro Alvarado.

The sprint distance certainly presents a problem for B.C. Oaks winner Summer Symphony. A daughter of Summer Squall, Summer Symphony has won three races, all routes, and while she has been training smartly for trainer Dave Forster, it's not likely she'll be able to get up in time. Chad Hoverson rides.

While Summer Symphony appears to be out of her element, Forster's other horse in the race, Gold Accent, looks well placed She finished second to Vye Me to the Moon in a $35,000 optional sprint April 17, and being the only horse in the field with a race under her belt this year, she should have a big fitness advantage.

But with seven second-place finishes from nine starts, Gold Accent is very difficult to key on top. Nicky Wright retains the mount.

Dee's Love should at least keep See Me Through honest early, and if she gets away on her own she could be dangerous. Her last win came in the Emerald Stakes in June 2003.