Fans looking forward to the Clark Handicap (USA-G1) on November 28 had to be a little disappointed when speculation about a possible rematch between Bayern and California Chrome fell through. Nonetheless, it looks as though the jewel of Churchill Downs' fall meet will host one of the most competitive fields of the season. While Bayern isn't likely to start despite being nominated, the race is being targeted by three talented 3-year-olds in Rebel Stakes (USA-G2) winner Hoppertunity, Besilu Florida Derby (USA-G1) winner Constitution and Breeders' Cup Mile (USA-G1) second Tapiture. A win by any one of the three would mark the victorious colt as one to watch at 4.
The Clark is also drawing a salty group of older horses, any one of which could pop up to take the race and move into the elite ranks of Grade 1 winners. The most dangerous of the group on his 2014 record appears to be Zivo, but with multiple graded stakes winners Prayer for Relief, Departing and Cary Street in the field, as well as the improving Fayette Handicap (USA-G2) winner Pick of the Litter, this looks likely to be one of the best post-Breeders' Cup races in years.
As a side note, the nominees for the Clark include three winners of the West Virginia Derby (USA-G2) in Prayer for Relief (2011), Departing (2013) and Tapiture (2014). A trifecta, anyone?
The Clark is also drawing a salty group of older horses, any one of which could pop up to take the race and move into the elite ranks of Grade 1 winners. The most dangerous of the group on his 2014 record appears to be Zivo, but with multiple graded stakes winners Prayer for Relief, Departing and Cary Street in the field, as well as the improving Fayette Handicap (USA-G2) winner Pick of the Litter, this looks likely to be one of the best post-Breeders' Cup races in years.
As a side note, the nominees for the Clark include three winners of the West Virginia Derby (USA-G2) in Prayer for Relief (2011), Departing (2013) and Tapiture (2014). A trifecta, anyone?
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