Smoke Signals could be dangerous just off the pace
Smoke Signals has evolved into an effective pace stalker going short on grass. She will be seeking her third win from her last four starts in the featured second-level, $62,500 optional claimer on Thursday at Gulfstream Park.
Smoke Signals, by classic winner Street Sense, graduated decisively after coming from third in her fourth trip postward at Laurel on Oct. 9. A month later at Gulfstream Park West, she fought for the lead along the inside on the turn before weakening to finish a close fourth.
Smoke Signals reverted to a stalking style most recently here Jan. 18. After tracking the dueling leaders in the No. 2 path on the turn, she took control in the final furlong and prevailed by three-quarters of a length. The sixth-place finisher from that first-level optional claimer came right back to score at the same level with an 89 Beyer Speed Figure.
Ten others were entered in the five-furlong dash, including main-track-only competitors Unbridled Courage and Streamsong. It is the 10th race on an 11-race card that begins at 12:35 p.m. Eastern.
KEY CONTENDERS
Smoke Signals, by Street Sense
Last 3 Beyers: 80-73-72
◗ Paco Lopez will ride her again for trainer Christophe Clement, and they have teamed up to go 1 for 3 at the meet. Clement has worked the 4-year-old twice at Payson Park leading up to this acid test.
Catching Fireflies, by Value Plus
Last 3 Beyers: 51-88-68
◗ She was farther back than usual early before tiring badly on her left lead in a recent stakes won Lady Shipman, a 2015 Eclipse Award finalist for champion female sprinter. She was a prominent third in another five-furlong stakes the time before under Tyler Gaffalione, who has the mount here for trainer Ralph Nicks.
Cali Thirty Seven, by Eskendereya
Last 3 Beyers: 85-86-86
◗ The consistent miler has worked quickly for her return from a layoff but might be prepping for a longer engagement.
DRF FORMULATOR FACT: Trainer Joe Orseno has a 10 percent strike rate with 61- to 180-day comebackers in turf sprints over the past five years ($5.18 return on investment).
Katie O., by Yes It’s True
Last 3 Beyers: 71-84-74
◗ The steady 5-year-old had a productive 2015 campaign. She is versatile in terms of running style and has worked regularly in preparation for her first start in nearly three months.
◗ Trainer Mike Maker and jockey Julien Leparoux have teamed up to go 2 for 8 at the meet.
Fascinate, by Medaglia d’Oro
Last 3 Beyers: 75-76-82
◗ The minor stakes winner is coming off the bench for an accomplished layoff trainer while getting some class relief.