Leading GI Breeders' Cup Classic contender Arcangelo (Arrogate), winner of this summer's GI Belmont S. and GI Travers S., had his first work at Santa Anita Thursday, breezing five furlongs in 1:02.20 under exercise rider Robert Mallari.
“We're just getting him used to the track,” trainer Jena Antonucci said. “There's plenty of time go fast.”
Antonucci was on hand in California for the work from her stable in New York. She will be back in New York Friday morning, but will return to Santa Anita later this month and remain through the Breeders' Cup. The Classic will be contested Saturday, Nov. 4.
Well-known private clocker Gary Young timed Arcangelo's work a bit quicker than the official time, getting him in 1:01.60 with a six-furlong gallop-out in 1:16.20. Fractions clocked by Young were :13.20 for the opening furlong, :25.4 for the first quarter, :37.60 for three furlongs, and :49.80 for the half.
Arcangelo wore the same low-cut blinkers he has worn in recent races with Antonucci saying his equipment will not change for the Classic.
“I think they've worked out well to this point,” Antonucci said.
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