Uncontested's options include Rebel, Blue Grass Stakes

Uncontested, the winner of the Smarty Jones Stakes in January at Oaklawn, emerged from a March 2 work in good order, and plans for his next start are being discussed with owners Harry Rosenblum and Bob LaPenta, trainer Wayne Catalano said this week. The Grade 2, $900,000 Rebel on March 18 at Oaklawn is one of those options, and another is the Grade 2, $1 million Blue Grass on April 8 at Keeneland.

Uncontested worked a bullet five furlongs in 1:00 under regular rider Channing Hill. The move was his first since he finished sixth as the favorite in the Southwest. Catalano was pleased with the drill, noting that the horse came home his final quarter-mile in 22.60 seconds.

“It was a great workout,” Catalano said.

Since returning to the track, Uncontested has made a favorable impression in his gallops at Oaklawn.