(# 6) DAVE - Tackles mostly open foes today, but veteran has done so before and at this stage of his career it makes little or no difference. Nice return when probably best in last. He's as steady as can be and likes the nine-furlong distance. Worked like a frisky two-year-old prior to his seasonal bow. Working well since.

(# 8) Golden Commander - Was in a position to win last, but hung a little late. Tough old gelding and he and Dave are the type of horses that keep the sport going. Always brings a good effort, has worked well since his last, needs to kick it in a little more, late in the race.

(# 9) Silver Whistle - Has found the waters pretty deep since his fine three-year-old season. That said, he kept nothing but top company during his four-year-old season. Returns here off a seven-month break for Bill Mott, and has been working regularly and well. Like many in here the pace is the key, and like others, he needs to avoid a wide journey.

(# 3) Nirgal - He kept relatively undistinguished company in his native France. Came here and the "Lasix cure helped another European out. That was a nice win on the Keeneland turf and it came off of a one-year layoff. Hasn't raced since, and this is almost two months later. You know he can fire fresh, but these are considerably more seasoned rivals.