Opening-week action from Saratoga Race Course did not affect the top 10 rankings in the latest National Thoroughbred Racing Association Top Thoroughbred Poll released July 15. A race there this weekend could influence the rankings, however.
Kentucky Oaks (G1) and Acorn Stakes (G1) winner Thorpedo Anna , ranked seventh for trainer Kenny McPeek, will face four rivals, including grade 1 winners Candied and Leslie’s Rose , in the Coaching Club American Oaks (G1) July 20 at Saratoga.
Saturday is also opening day at Del Mar, whose prestigious summer meet attracts many of the West Coast’s best horses.
Poll leader National Treasure is expected to leave California to race at Saratoga in the Aug. 3 Whitney Stakes (G1) at Saratoga. The Bob Baffert trainee won the June 8 Metropolitan Handicap (G1) over that same track during the Belmont Stakes Festival. National Treasure breezed five furlongs in 1:01 2/5 at Santa Anita Park July 15.
Senor Buscador , ranked second, is also training in Southern California. The Todd Fincher trainee covered a half-mile July 13 in :49 1/5 at San Luis Rey Training Center after a short break in his published works dating back to June 22.
The NTRA Top Thoroughbred Poll, conducted by national media and covering racing performances through July 14, represents horses competing for Horse of the Year. The poll concludes Nov. 5, shortly after the Breeders’ Cup. Individual votes can be found online.
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