THE DAY AT THE RACES
Bodemeister, who finished second behind I'll Have Another in the first two jewels of the Triple Crown, on Sunday turned in his first workout since the May 19 Preakness.
The 3-year-old colt covered four furlongs in :50.60 as he prepares for a start in the $1 million Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park against Blue Grass Stakes winner
Dullahan and possibly Belmont Stakes winner Union Rags.
“I will have to make a decision,” trainer Michael Matz said of Union Rags’ next start. “I would imagine, though, that if you are trying to be the 3-year-old champion, you have to run in the Grade I races and that would be the Haskell.”
The other option for Union Rags would be the July 28 Jim Dandy Stakes at Saratoga, which is a Grade II event.
Willy Beamin ($ 7) made it four in a row when he swept by the 1-2 chalk Brigand in the stretch to take the $125,000 Mike Lee Stakes for 3-year-old New York-bred colts or geldings. A great job of training by
Rick Dutrow, who also saddled Willy Beamin to victory on Wednesday as well. The filly version went to Beautiful But Blue ($12.60), who posted an easy 31/ 4- length score
over Fiftyfour Forever to take the $125,000 Bouwerie Stakes. Heavy favorite Sacred Success weakened to fifth. The New York Racing Association will host its sixth “New Owners Luncheon” at Belmont Park on Sunday. The program is hosted by former jockey Richard Migliore and provides an introduction and overview of thoroughbred ownership. The cost is $50 and includes breakfast and lunch. You can register online at www.nyra.com/newowners or call 718-659-2206.