Gallorette Stakes 2021 Picks: Mean Mary serves detention
Preakness Weekend is finally upon us, and the run-up had its share of drama. Bob Baffert and his Kentucky Derby Champion, Medina Spirit, became the focal point. His hubris, mismanagement, and outright audacity taxed the sport in a way that has yet to be realized or understood. Now, as the scene shifts to the home of the Maryland Jockey Club at Pimlico, its oldest signature race takes center stage.
A Super Saturday arrives after what amounted to a rousing edition of Black-Eyed Susan Day. For the Preakness card, a full listing of contests appears on tap, and we at HorseRacing.net/us, have you covered with a bevy of selections, and our focused analysis. Both our turf-man and our in-house handicapper are on hand to offer their “expert” opinions. Stay tuned …
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Race 6: Turf, 1 1/16th, Gallorette S. (G3), $150k, F&M 3+
Over the years, this turf event has provided us grass groupies with much to celebrate. Who could forget Motion’s Film Maker, Frankel’s Precious Kitten, Brown’s Zagora (FR), Proctor’s Cambodia, or Cox’s Juliet Foxtrot (GB)? Joining them this year will be yet another sodbuster who can route through to victory.
Even though this is a short field of 6, it has some true “bladed” grit to it. Take for instance, Joel Rosario’s mount, Feel Glorious #6. Christophe Clement has this one tuned up and ready for action after a couple of good rides on the painted dirt down at Gulfstream. Even though the mare failed in the Sand Springs 100k (2nd), she still ran a nice race. Backing her here would not be a canard (watch The Natural).
Graham Motion has a pair of runners in his home state, and he is looking to get one of these across the wire first. Lately, his wins have not come very readily in these big races, so it would be nice to see that trend reverse. Of the pair, Mean Mary #5 is his ace in the hole. She is making her first start of 2021, after a superb year that ended in disappointment in the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf (G1) at Keeneland. She is a true pro, and coming off the bench should not be an issue considering Motion's penchant for training these types.
Checking the Herringswell entries, is the omnipresent Chad Brown. His own duo, Great Island #2 and Flighty Lady #3 look pretty inviting considering their connections. When Peter Brant sends one out, and you get Irad Ortiz aboard, it is time to sit up and take notice. Brown’s #3 is going to be tough, but she was against some pretty weak turf competition last out at Aqueduct for her US debut. I would almost rather take Javier Castellano on Brown’s #2 instead. Though she is a lightly-raced router out of Scat Daddy, that may be an asset. In the hands of a wizard like JJ, she could be a livewire at a price.
Lastly, I wouldn’t sleep on Shug McGaughey’s entry, Vigilantes Way #1. This Phipps filly is smart, and already has recent experience over the track at Pimlico when she ran 3rd in the Dahlia 100k back on 24 April. I liked that effort, even though it appears she was “outfinished,” as the PP note goes. That is true, but you either have the late turn-of-foot or you do not. Next time, as in now … might be different, as a much more aggressive rider in Jose Ortiz takes over the controls.
Top Selection: Vigilantes Way #1
Creative Wager: $2 Exacta Wheel, 1/2 w 1/2/3/5/6
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