Trip Notes: Peter Pan Stakes, Lazaro Barrera Stakes

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Belmont
Peter Pan (race 9)

Mark Valeski’s connections did right by the 3-year-old, skipping the Grade 1 Kentucky Derby saying the horse wasn’t quite ready, and he rewarded their patience. The son of Proud Citizen, coming off 2nds in the Grade 2 Risen Star and Grade 2 Louisiana Derby, bided his time, steadily advanced while staying wide and in the clear, and came home smartly to win going away. The Grade 1 Belmont June 9 is a possibility. Right to Vote bounced out to a clear lead, doggedly fought back when hooked but couldn’t stay with the winner in the final furlong in a good try. Street Life was last early, still last turning for home and finished strongly. The Belmont is a possibility for him as well. The Lumber Guy chased Right to Vote and gave way. Summer Front, trying dirt for the first time, lagged back after stumbling at the start and never made a move. Master Rick never mustered a run.[bc_video_id:251773:]

Hollywood
Lazaro Barrera (race 3)

In the Grade 2 San Vicente at Santa Anita this winter Drill nipped American Act. Drill came out on top again in this 7-furlong event, and stamped himself among the 3-year-old one-turn elite. He stalked in 3rd while rival American Act set a solid pace, bided his time, moved out for room into the lane, and got the better of his rival in the final half-furlong. American Act, coming off a game win in the Harry Henson sprinting here April 26, showed he’s the real deal around one turn as well, setting a solid pace and battling back through the lane. He just wasn’t quite good enough. These are probably the two best one-turn 3-year-olds out. Gun Boat dogged American Act from the start and stayed on gamely in a fine try.[bc_video_id:251775:]