Who Will Contend Against Big Brown
There are a few contenders for the 140th Belmont Stakes. Big Brown is getting most of the spotlight as the 2/7 favorite, but the distance horses in the field will give Brown a run for his money. The first on the list is a late bloomer called Casino Drive.
Casino Drive has run two races, winning both by wide margins, and will be rested for four weeks going into the Belmont. His pedigree (a half sibling to both previous Belmont winners, Jazil and Rags to Riches) points to him being stronger at longer distances. His odds of winning are currently listed at 9/2.
Kentucky Derby third lace finisher Denis of Cork will take his 3-0-1 record to the Belmont. His owners hope the mile and a half is enough for him to close on Big Brown this time around. He looks good after working out this week, and trainer David Carroll said “He came out of the work beautifully and we’re very happy with him. It just seems like he’s coming back into form, and we’re getting some nice weather, too. Denis of Cork currently is posted at 12/1.
The fourth place finisher in the Kentucky Derby, Tale of Ekati, will also try and upset Big Brown. He is 2-1-0 in five starts and his pedigree is deep. He’s currently posted at 20-1, and has had a long rest since the Kentucky Derby. He could be the best bet on the board at those odds, but he’ll need the race of his life to beat Big Brown and Casino Drive on June 7th.
