GI Haskell Invitational S. runner-up NY Traffic (Cross Traffic) prepped for a probable start in the GI Kentucky Derby with a five-panel bullet in 1:00.38 (1/8) in company with GISW Math Wizard (Algorithms) on the main track at Saratoga Thursday.
“Math Wizard is a good work horse and with Ny Traffic, we wanted something not speedy but more for endurance. It was a steady work, but next week will probably be his stiffest work,” trainer Saffie Joseph said.
NY Traffic was also second in the GII Louisiana Derby and GIII Matt Winn S. earlier this term.
“I think he's gotten better and better,” Joseph said. “Early in the year if you asked, I never thought he would be one of the leaders in the crop, but as time has gone on, I think we have a legit chance. Obviously, Tiz the Law ran impressively the other day, but I think we have a good chance.”
Math Wizard will likely point to the GII Charles Town Classic Aug. 28, with the GI Woodward at Saratoga as a “slight possibility.”
“He's trained well over this track, but I would say the Charles Town Classic is the leader at the moment,” Joseph said. “Since he's come here, he's trained really well. That was his second breeze here today and I thought he looked exceptional.”
Joseph also said that MGSW Tonalist's Shape (Tonalist) will train up to the GI Kentucky Oaks Seot. 4 at Churchill Downs, with the GII Eight Belles on the same day, remaining a possibility as well.
“She'll work Sunday and more than likely go straight to the Oaks, as a backup plan maybe the Eight Belles,” Joseph said.
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