(#3) KODIAK COWBOY - Colt by fine young sire "Posse" is one of a pair in here from the top Steve Asmussen barn. This runner has been a good consistent performer since day one. Its unusual for two-year-olds that start in the spring to stay in training throughout the year, and actually improve their performances. This horse has maintained a high level of effort and has proven that he belongs in this race. With a Pletcher-less field, Asmussen reaches out to John Velasquez for the mount. Colt has enough speed to stay close, and the pair inside of him may both be sent hard. That would give him an excellent trip, and he has proven that he can pass horses and finish strong. Taken to post a mild upset.

(#2) War Pass - Has done nothing wrong in going three-for-three since getting to the races at Saratoga on July 28. Posted an easy win that day, and followed that up with another win in an allowance/optional claimer at Saratoga on August 26. Sent a mile in the Champagne (G1) in last, he ran hard from gate to wire and held on while under pressure to prevail. Continues to train well, and had the good luck to get a favorable post in this.

(#1) Z Humor - The only entrant in here with a race over this track. That run came in the Sapling Stakes (G3) in his second lifetime start after he had broken his maiden at Saratoga on August 8. Chased "War Pass" all the way around the track in the Champagne and held well for third, losing the place late to "Pyro." Blinkers go on this Zayat-Mott runner, and with the inside draw may try and deny "War Pass" the top. Good chance from the advantageous rail draw.

(# 7) Pyro - The second of the Asmussen runners, he has been beaten by "War Pass" in two consecutive races. His Champagne effort was encouraging, and he was the only runner to offer any late run as he passed "Z Humor" late to nail down the place. Son of "Pulpit" should appreciate the two-turn distance.

(# 4) Slews Tiznow - Should offer his best after being sent long on Keenelands poly surface in last. Finished second that day in the Breeders Futurity (G1). Continued to train at Keeneland like most of trainer Biancones stock. Good shot for this talented runner.