“The Coach," via a call this morning following Seize the Grey's five-furlong breeze (1:01.44 over the Oklahoma) said that he would like to target the G1 Pennsylvania Derby.
Since STG has been doing so well, Lukas was still thinking the Travers was worth considering, but after looking at the potential field and assessing the risk of retirement due to the "performing" clause in our stallion deal, he believes the PA Derby will be the best spot for our colt. D. Wayne always thought the track configuration at Parx suited Seize the Grey’s style best when we first discussed "the big three" race options, which included the G1 Travers, G1 Pennsylvania Derby, and G1 California Crown.
The last option we discussed was the G1 California Crown, but Lukas believes a race against older horses on the West Coast will be tougher than the straight 3-year-old option in the PA Derby. While there's no "top dog" in the older category in Southern California, with the new purse upgrade, it would not be surprising if this race attracts various shippers.
Although the potential $5-million bonus is alluring to everyone, we need to make sure we put our colt in the best spot to perform, and right now, Lukas favors the PA Derby.
Things can always change, and we have Gainesway's support on either race, so it really will come down to what Lukas thinks is best for STG as we get closer to the PA Derby.
This a major decision for his career and we want to make sure we evaluate each option and place him in ultimately what we all believe will give him the best chance to win.
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