Signalman Sharp as McPeek Works Sophomores
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Photo: Keeneland/Coady Photography
Signalman is one of Ken McPeek's contenders on the Road to the Kentucky Derby
Kenny McPeek trainees Signalman and Harvey Wallbanger breezed at Gulfstream Park Feb. 16 in preparation for upcoming stakes on the Road to the Kentucky Derby.
Signalman, who captured the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes (G2) at Churchill Downs in his 2018 finale, breezed five furlongs in 1:00.11. The workout, the third-fastest of 37 recorded at the distance, was the third at Gulfstream for the son of General Quarters in preparation for his 2019 debut.
"He worked good. I was happy with it," said McPeek, who has been targeting the $400,000 Xpressbet.com Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) at Gulfstream March 2 for Signalman.
Harvey Wallbanger breezed for the first time since pulling a 29-1 upset victory in Gulfstream's Feb. 2 Fasig-Tipton Holy Bull Stakes (G2), getting a half-mile in 50.67.
"It was an easy half. It was his first work since the race. He's done everything right," McPeek said.
After he watches the two Triple Crown prospects breeze next Saturday, McPeek will firm up plans for them.
"I have to work them this weekend, but right now I'm leaning towards Signalman (in the Fountain of Youth) and waiting with Harvey Wallbanger for the Florida Derby (G1, March 30)," McPeek said.
McPeek also sent grade 1 winner Restless Rider to the Gulfstream track Saturday for her first workout of the season. The Darley Alcibiades Stakes (G1) winner and Tito's Handmade Vodka Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1) runner-up breezed three furlongs in :39.47.