A Really Nice Commercial & Stakes Season Heats Up

There's quite a bit happening in Thoroughbred racing - a lot of it polarizing - and it is sure to be a fascinating few weeks. But there's some major items going on in the harness game, and it's getting pretty exciting.

Last night the Upper Canada Cup eliminations were held, without Warrawee Needy. He was scratched sick, and will not, of course, make the final. For folks who watched Up the Credit race on Friday, it makes sense that a virus might be going through that barn. This opens up the event, and perhaps the most special winner was the very talented Mel Mara. I'm not sold on him yet, but that was a really nice effort, in my opinion.

At the Meadowlands, several colts made their debuts, or showed some mettle. A Rock n Roll Dance was super impressive, winning in 50. Time to Roll defeated Pet Rock and Hurrikane King Cole, and I was really impressed with the latter. He hasn't seemed to have grown a lot, but he was really professional. I loved the way he looked.Simply Business made an okay debut as well.

A lot of folks were waiting to see Sweet Lou debut, and he certainly didn't disappoint. If he was on your list as the top colt in racing before last night's race, he certainly is #1 after. He bounced out there, looking sound. I, like some of you, am a little worried about that stable keeping a horse going all year (they are known for being more a factory stable than a colt stable), but he showed no signs of anything but brilliance last evening.

The Molson Pace was interesting on Friday, despite Up the Credit throwing in that clunker. I think it's kind of wide open.

We spoke about how harness racing "fans" and not nearly as engaged as thoroughbred fans seem to be, on harness racing update.Bill picked up on a previous piece, asking for a real triple crown for harness racing, with, what I thought, was a good piece.

Last up, next week is the Elittlop in Sweden, and it should once again be a great race.Here's a 30 second spot that's currently running in that beautiful country for the race.

Enjoy your Sunday everyone.