Streak vs. streak

EDMONTON, Alberta - Taiaslew and Jiffyjimmygee, both with three-race winning streaks, will have their first matchup in the $75,000 Canadian Juvenile here on Monday afternoon's holiday card.

Two factors, distance and fitness, could influence the outcome of the 1 1/16-mile Juvenile.

Taiaslew has been idle since the Sept. 2 Birdcatcher and has never been asked to run past 6 1/2 furlongs.

Jiffyjimmygee, on the other hand, won his third straight in the Alberta Premier's Futurity at a mile here Sept. 21 on Alberta Fall Classics Day, which showcased Alberta-breds.

Complicating things for Taiaslew is the fact that his training schedule was badly interrupted during the past week and a half. Intermittent rains soaked the track to the extent that last Wednesday's card was canceled, and trainer Greg Tracy's plan to work Taiaslew five furlongs had to be abandoned.

The Juvenile principals also have contrasting running styles. Taiaslew is a front-runner, while Jiffyjimmygee came from well back to win the Futurity.

Taiaslew, a Washington-bred, is unbeaten while Jiffyjimmygee, trained by Floyd Arthur for Cam Allard and Jim Moroz, finished second in his debut and has not lost since.

Real Simard rides Taiaslew and Quincy Welch rides Jiffyjimmygee.

Others in the field of seven are capable of making their presence known: Shawteesh emerged from a maiden win for $20,000 to be second in a recent allowance. Bet the Breeze is coming off two runner-up finishes, including the Futurity. Beau Brass was impressive in winning his debut at six furlongs. Marjan has a win, a second, and a third in his three outings, none for a price. And Winspear has a second and a third in his last two starts.