After unleashing Emmanuel to win a first-level allowance optional claimer at Tampa Bay Downs last week, trainer Todd Pletcher showcases more of his 3-year-old talent at Gulfstream Park Feb. 4.
The Hall of Famer has the two favorites, American Icon and Iron Works , among a field of 10 in the ninth race, a $61,000 allowance optional claimer over a one-turn mile at Gulfstream. Both were first-out winners in sprints there this winter.
Like Emmanuel, American Icon is owned by WinStar Farm and Siena Farm. A sophomore son of Gun Gunner, he led from start to finish in a Dec. 26 maiden race, pulling by 8 1/2 lengths under Luis Saez. He raced seven furlongs in 1:23.26, registering an 88 Equibase Speed Figure.
Iron Works came from just off the pace in his Jan. 8 debut, drawing off by four lengths under Saez with six furlongs in 1:09.76, posting a 90 Equibase Speed Rating.
Saez remains aboard American Icon on Friday while Irad Ortiz Jr. gains the mount on Iron Works, a Distorted Humor colt owned by MyRacehorse CA and Spendthrift Farm. Both 3-year-olds are out of stakes-placed mares.
Friday's race further includes OXO Equine's Graphic Detail , fourth in the Jan. 1 Mucho Macho Man Stakes; Edge Racing's In Due Time , third in an allowance optional claimer Jan. 8; and Souper Legacy , a Florida-bred allowance winner on Gulfstream's Tapeta surface Jan. 7.