California Chrome Poised in Morning Gallop

California Chrome gallops at Belmont May 23. (Photo by NYRA/Coglianese Photos)
California Chrome had another smooth gallop at Belmont Park on Friday despite having an unexpected visitor on the track. The Triple Crown hopeful was nearing the end of his gallop when an opossum crossed the track right next to him. The colt was unfazed.
"We have coyotes on the track at Los Alamitos, [so] it was no big deal," said Alan Sherman, assistant trainer and son of trainer Art Sherman. "The track was a little heavier than it was yesterday, but he seemed to handle it fine."
CALIFORNIA CHROME'S MORNING GALLOP

California Chrome completed his 1 ¾-mile gallop without incident, and both Sherman and exercise rider Willie Delgado were happy with the effort. The 3-year-old Lucky Pulpit colt is schedule to school in the Belmont paddock once or twice in preparation for his start in the 1 ½-mile Belmont Stakes. He’ll also school in the starting gate.
The Triple Crown has gone unclaimed since Affirmed last captured the trio of classic races in 1978. California Chrome will attempt to become the 12th Triple Crown winner. The younger Sherman has fond memories of the 1978 series.
“It's hard to remember that far back," Alan Sherman said. "I do remember Steve Cauthen riding Affirmed. That was an amazing rivalry with him and Alydar. Steve Cauthen - I guess I was 10 years old - he was like an idol. I wanted to be a jockey long before that, [but] that was an inspiration. It's amazing how young he was when he accomplished that."
Alan Sherman grew up in the Thoroughbred industry and did begin a career as a jockey before transitioning to training with his father, also a former jockey.
"I enjoy working with my father," he said. "I like the family camaraderie. It's a good fit."
BELMONT STAKES PROBABLES

Horse

Owner

Trainer

Candy Boy

C R K Stable

John Sadler

California Chrome

Steven Coburn & Perry Martin

Art Sherman

Commanding Curve

West Point Thoroughbreds

Dallas Stewart

Commissioner

WinStar Farm

Todd Pletcher

Intense Holiday

Starlight Racing

Todd Pletcher

Kid Cruz

Vina Del Mar TBs & Black Swan Stb.

Linda Rice

Ride On Curlin

Daniel J. Dougherty

Billy Gowan

Samraat

My Meadowview Farm

Richard Violette Jr.

Social Inclusion

Rontos Racing Stable

Manny Azpurua

Tonalist

Robert S. Evans

Christophe Clement

Wicked Strong

Centennial Farm

Jimmy Jerkens