NERO CAN BE HERO
NERO (11.15) looks set to reign for Steve Asmussen in the Highland Ice Stakes at Will Rogers Downs.
Classy for Bob Baffert, the horse put in his best effort for his new handler when third to Mojo Man at Oaklawn. The five-year-old remains nicely unexposed for his current connections and he can see off some talented rivals.
The skilled handler can add the maiden claimer to his tally with World (7.15). The son of Orb will take some stopping with a repeat of his career-best third behind Mule Skinner at Sam Houston.
Cash Kitten (7.45) could enhance her cracking course record for Alan Williams. The five-year-old still lurks on a workable mark after slamming Big Guy Ian over course and distance two weeks ago.
Karl Broberg’s Aloo Ghost (8.15) can terrify his rivals in the claimer. The gelding can build on his excellent second to
Swannyland at Sam Houston on debut for his smart new connections.
Seattle Thunder (9.15) can roar for Joe Offolter in a trappy allowance contest. The six-yearold put in another excellent shift when downing Blue Bomber over track and trip.
Kari Craddock has her string in terrific form so I’m happy to side with Nym (10.15).
Im The Man Now (10.45) can come of age for Marti Rodriguez in the maiden.
The six-year-old shaped like his turn was imminent when chasing home the promising O S U Kickoff here recently. Big Guy Ian (11.45) can enjoy a well-deserved success in the closing claimer. The nine-year-old still lurks on an attractive mark after his cracking second to the progressive Cash Kitten here.
Backchatter (10.54) should have the last word in the Baxter Stakes at Fonner Park. The sprinter is open to plenty of progress after dismissing Drastic in a warm course-and-distance maiden.
● Brian Hughes has been crowned Champion Jump jockey for the first time.
The Ulsterman racked up 141 winners, 19 more than his main rival Richard Johnson.
Jonjo O’Neill Junior was crowned Champion Conditional while Nicky Henderson regained the Jump trainers’ title from rival Paul Nicholls.