Keeneland Turf Mile 2021 Entries: Order of Australia Returns ...

When it comes to turf racing, the Haggin Course, and Fall Stars in October, there is nothing better than the Grade 1 Keeneland Turf Mile. With a full-field, and experienced conditioners on-hand, it should be another classic in the making.

As Keeneland prepares for its Fall Stars experience, J.N. Campbell has an overview of the field…

The Keeneland Turf Mile (formerly Shadwell) is an exquisite G1 contest going 2-turns on the Haggin Course on Saturday in Race 10. Lexington has faced some rainfall this week, so it will be important to check the forecast before betting. Some "give," as it is called, can really change the conditions, and in theory, it might make it more difficult for late charging speed to make an impact. We shall see ...

When it comes to those that should be considered at the tote's apex, then Aidan O'Brien's Order of Australia #10 (7/2), Mike Maker's Somelikeitbrown #13 (9/2), and Mike Stidham's Pixelate #7 (9/2), should all vie for the spot. Each comes from fabulous barns, and has accomplished riders aboard (Johnny V/J. Ortiz/Gaffalione). None of them are "locks" though ... For instance, O'Brien's entry won the BC Mile (G1) at Keeneland last November at long odds, but has missed in spots he should have won. I would not "Single" any of them in your horizontal wagers.

Looking for value elsewhere, you instead might try Tom Morley's Tell Your Daddy #5 (8/1), Paulo Lobo's Ivar #6 (5/1), and/or Maker's Field Pass #12 (12/1). These seasoned milers have seen "graded" action before, and they have much higher odds than the other 3. Morey's charge looks especially impressive having run last time in the Grade 2 Bernard Baruch during Closing Weekend at Saratoga in September. That was all on "engine" over yielding ground, and that might make one think that he could do it again at Keeneland ... what with the wet conditions.

As for the other 2 mentioned, Lobo's fine runner is the defending champ, after surprising everyone last year. Though he did not come back with the same effort in the BC Mile (G1), he still has much potential as he re-starts his 2021 campaign. We already know that Maker has a strong winning candidate in #13, who is breaking from the outside. But let's not forget that the #12 Three Diamonds-owned colt by Lemon Drop Kid has his own upside. Not only does he have attempts like the Mathis Bros. (G2), Maker's Mark (G1), and Man 'O War (G1), under his saddle, but he is going to have the aggressive-riding talents of Flavien Prat at his disposal. The SoCal-based pilot is in-town to make his mark, and the rest of the colony better watch out. These plays look pretty inviting, along with their prices ... enough said.

The Keeneland Turf Mile ... nothing better ... full-field ... with fabulous competition? You bet!

I am slated to cover the action from Keeneland this Saturday, so check back late on Friday for all of my selections for this race...