The Pamplemousse upsets in San Rafael
Taking advantage of a Pro-Ride surface that was favoring speed Saturday, the Julio Canani-trained The Pamplemousse went gate-to-wire to upset 3-5 favorite Square Eddie in the San Rafael Stakes at Santa Anita -- the Southland's first major 3-year-old stakes of the year leading to the Kentucky Derby.
Ridden by Alex Solis, the son of Kafwain was in front by three lengths after a swift :45.97 half-mile and was never seriously threatened the rest of the way. Square Eddie, runner-up to Midshipman in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile last October, made a move on the turn for home but never got closer than a length of the winner, who went postward at 5-2 and returned $7.20. He ran the one-mile distance in a nice 1:35.31.
So what do you think? Is The Pamplemousse a legit Kentucky Derby contender? Think he can carry his speed a mile and quarter? Who do you like right now to win the Derby? Is Pioneerof the Nile, whose recent workouts have some clockers raving about the Bob Baffert colt, the real deal? Give us your thoughts.
The Pamplemousse is definitely legitimate. I actually think he's better with a target in front of him.
I think trainer Julio Canani echoed your sentiments in the winner's circle. He came from off the pace his first three starts, though he went virtually gate to wire when he broke his maiden last out at Hollywood Park on Dec. 14. He looks like a nice colt.