Authentic was installed as the 4-5 morning line favorite to extend Bob Baffert's record for victories in the $1 million TVG.com Haskell Stakes following Wednesday's post position draw for Monmouth Park's showcase race.
A field of seven will contest the 53rd edition of the Haskell on Saturday, July 18. Authentic drew post position 2 for the mile and an eighth Grade 1 race.
Unbeaten in his first three career starts, Authentic was second to Honor A.P. in the Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby in his last start on June 6.
Baffert has won the Haskell a record eight times, doing so in 2015 (American Pharoah), 2014 (Bayern), 2012 (Paynter), 2011 (Coil), 2010 (Lookin at Lucky), 2005 (Roman Ruler), 2002 (War Emblem) and 2001 (Point Given).
In a first for the race, the Haskell will offer points for the Kentucky Derby, with 100 going to the winner, 40 to the runner-up, 20 for third and 10 for fourth. In addition, The Haskell has been designated as “Win and You're In” race for the Breeders' Cup Classic.
BetMakers, in partnership with Monmouth Park, is also sponsoring a $1 million bonus for any horse that wins the Haskell, the Kentucky Derby (re-scheduled to Sept. 5) and the Breeders' Cup Classic on Nov. 7.
First race post on Haskell Day, which includes the Grade 1 United Nations, is noon. NBC will televise the Haskell Day card from 5 to 6 p.m. as part of the “Breeders' Cup Challenge Series Win and You're In – presented by America's Best Racing.”
The field for the 53rd Haskell Stakes:
PP HORSE TRAINER JOCKEY M/L ODDS
1. Dr Post Todd Pletcher Joe Bravo 5-2
2. Authentic Bob Baffert Mike Smith 4-5
3. Jesus' Team Jose D'Angelo Nik Juarez 15-1
4. Ancient Warrior Jerry Hollendorfer Trevor McCarthy 20-1
5. Fame to Famous John P. McAllen Jose C. Ferrer 30-1
6. Lebda Claudio Gonzalez Alex Cintron 20-1
7. Ny Traffic Saffie Joseph, Jr. Paco Lopez 7-2
The post Authentic Tabbed As 4-5 Morning Line Favorite For $1 Million Haskell Stakes appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.
