Withers workers beat the winter storm

OZONE PARK, N.Y. – Before another winter storm hit the area late that night, it was a busy Sunday morning of training at Belmont Park that included Classy Class, c breezing for Saturday’s Grade 3 Withers Stakes at Aqueduct.

Classy Class, a debut winner who finished fourth in the Grade 2 Remsen, worked a half-mile in 48.70 seconds. He breezed in company with the maiden Madroos, and the pair went off quickly, perhaps prompted by a pair of George Weaver-trained horses who broke off just behind them.

The rider on Classy Class had his horse in hand coming to the wire, and he galloped out several lengths in front of Madroos while going five furlongs in 1:02.27.

“He’s had three breezes the last couple of weeks. That was great, puts us right where we need to be,” said Art Magnuson, assistant to trainer Kiaran McLaughlin. “He galloped out well. We’re ready.”

Classy Class was being pointed to the Grade 3 Jerome last month but threw a hind shoe in his final work and “was a little uncomfortable for a day,” Magnuson said, and thus was not entered.

Also working for the Withers on Sunday was General Bellamy, the third-place finisher in the Jerome, who went in 49.28 seconds, getting beaten a neck by his workmate, Round.

Combat Diver, the 10th-place finisher in the Remsen, worked seven-eighths in 1:31.25. Trainer Gary Contessa said Combat Diver would be entered in the Withers, but he is also considering the $100,000 Miracle Wood Stakes at Laurel Park on Feb. 16 for the Maryland-bred.

◗ Wonder Gal, beaten one length when third to Take Charge Brandi in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies, worked three furlongs in 37.64 seconds Sunday morning, her first breeze of the year.