The most striking thing about this year's Breeder Cup races are the absences of the super top trainers, namely the big 3-McGaughey, Zito, and Nafzger. I have to respect them for not entering just to enter, but only when they feel they have the top runners.
Meanwhile, while the world focuses on California next weekend, Keeneland is still the top dog this weekend.
McGaughey sends out PARADING in the Grade Fayette at 1 1/8 mile. Those who saw him win the Ben Ali last Spring at Keeneland had to feel they were watching the future Breeder Cup Classic winner, but Shug knows his horse, and where to put him.
Listed at 7-5, on paper he would be 4-1 if anyone else trained him. Still, Shug is the man.
The second choice, BLAME, will be about 3-1, and is truly vulnerable. The good news is he is lightly raced, and shows a good forward move. The bad news is his class is based on a restricted stakes race and a second in a lackluster Grade 2 field.
