And on to Saturday’s races! I know many of you are not fans of this race, but I am, and I’m pleased to see last year’s champion returning; it’s an interesting field.
| Post | Horse | Trainer | Jockey | ML Odds |
| 1. | Birdrun | Bill Mott | John Velazquez | 7-2 |
| He has been in the money often this year; worth watching. | ||||
| 2. | Baryshnikov | Michael Maker | Mike Smith | 12-1 |
| Second to Paddy O’Prado in the Dixie, but a little further back lately. | ||||
| 3. | Meeznah | David Lanigan | Thomas Queally | 12-1 |
| Has some quality experience in the UK and Ireland and should like the distance. | ||||
| 4. | Pleasant Prince | Wesley Ward | Joel Rosario | 12-1 |
| He’s tried many other distances, why not this one? | ||||
| 5. | Giant Oak | Chris Block | Shaun Bridgmohan | 9-2 |
| Had a bad trip in this race last year; could easily see him hitting the board. | ||||
| 6. | Brigantin | Andre Fabre | Julien Leparoux | 8-1 |
| Hit and miss in France and England, but should have the stamina. | ||||
| 7. | Harrison’s Cave | Aidan O’Brien | Ryan Moore | 30-1 |
| Has not faced the best European company, but seems to be improving. | ||||
| 8. | Afleet Again | Robert Reid Jr. | Cornelio Velasquez | 30-1 |
| He’s made money the hard way, but might like to go longer. | ||||
| 9. | Cease | Al Stall Jr. | Garrett Gomez | 6-1 |
| Third in his first stakes experience and lightly-raced, but could be improving at the right time. | ||||
| 10. | Eldaafer | Diane Alvarado | Javier Castellano | 10-1 |
| Won this race last year and is coming in with a respectable record. | ||||
| 11. | A. U. Miner | Clark Hanna | Calvin Borel | 3-1 |
| Had a terrible trip in last year’s Marathon and often seems to find trouble, but has the distance. | ||||
Predictions: Eldaafer, A. U. Miner, Giant Oak, Meeznah
Longshot:Â Harrison’s Cave
Besides the Classic, the Marathon is my favorite BC race!!