Forte continues to sit atop the National Thoroughbred Racing Association's Top 3-Year-Old Poll. The champion 2-year-old colt has not raced since April 1, but his dominance has not faded for the poll's voters. With the expectation of his return to the track in the June 10 Belmont Stakes (G1), a triumph could validate their faith.
The son of Violence expanded his lead over Kentucky Derby victor Mage to 17 points (275-258) thanks to two additional first-place votes. However, Mage picked up 10 additional points despite losing one first-place vote.
Preakness Stakes (G1) winner National Treasure closed the gap on third-place finisher Mage, pulling within 10 points while gaining a first-place vote. A win in the Belmont Stakes could catapult the Bob Baffert trainee to the top of the poll.
Derby runner-up Two Phil's remains in fourth place but added a first-place vote.
The top 10 remained in order from the previous poll. Practical Move , who sits eighth, lost a first-place vote. Arabian Lion , who is in ninth, maintained his lone first-place vote.
The next edition of the poll is sure to see some movement, as several in the top 10 are expected to run in the Belmont. In addition to Forte and National Treasure, Angel of Empire (fifth), Tapit Trice (seventh), and Hit Show (10th) were entered at the draw June 6.
Poll results can be found online.