Sat, July 06, 2024

Santa Anita Derby winner STRONGHOLD (2) is when resuming. And did open the last campaign with a win in the g3 sunland derby at sunland park (dirt) over 1m1/2f. This is his first run on a turf track. Has good early speed so should take up a forward position. Will give a great sight. Group 1 placegetter E J WON THE CUP (7) built on a nice third two starts back in the G1 Santa Anita Derby (Dirt) with success as favourite over 1m1/2f at Listed level at Lone Star Park (Dirt) five-and-a-half weeks ago, getting home by one length. Mike E Smith scored on him last time and retains the ride. Well placed and there is no reason he cannot score again. Group 2 placegetter REAL MEN VIOLIN (3) has been racing well and is close to a win, the latest effort a solid third in Listed grade at Lone Star Park (Dirt) over 1m1/2f. Brian Joseph Hernandez Jr has won when aboard in the past and gets the ride again. Capable of running a bold race. DRAGOON GUARD (8) scored last start at Churchill Downs (Dirt) to make it two wins from two starts this campaign. Takes on a better field this time but is not to be discounted.