By Ben Massam
HALLANDALE BEACH, FL – Tuesday was yet another relatively quiet morning on the Gulfstream Park backside, but the discussion in many circles of local horsemen revolved around Monday evening's post draw for the $12-million GI Pegasus World Cup Invitational, where 6-5 favorite California Chrome (Lucky Pulpit) drew the potentially troublesome outermost post in a field of 12. Some suggested that the outside draw could prove to be a handicap for California Chrome, but the consensus seemed to be that the reigning Horse of the Year's tactical speed could help his cause. Post position statistics show that inside slots tend to be preferable in two-turn races on the Gulfstream main track, which seemingly gives an edge to rail-drawn 'TDN Rising Star' and 7-5 second choice Arrogate (Unbridled's Song), who arrived from California later in the day.
As per usual, California Chrome got his exercise in early Tuesday, emerging from the barn area well before dawn and galloping a circuit of the main track. The chestnut appeared well within himself and was under a firm hold from rider Dihigi Gladney. Alan Sherman, assistant to his father, Art, said that 'Chrome' is expected to school in the paddock during his Wednesday morning training session.
Jim McIngvale's Eragon (Arg) (Offlee Wild) came on to the track at his typical time shortly after the first renovation break, and looked well in his gallop. The Laura Wohlers trainee, a three-time Group 1 winner in South America, worked five furlongs Sunday and is expected to gallop up to the race.
The majority of the Pegasus field is expected to arrive from Palm Beach County or California in the coming days.
Cherry Wine (Paddy O'Prado) and Imperative (Bernardini) were also out on the track Tuesday morning, continuing their preparations for the $400,000 Poseidon S. to be run on the Pegasus undercard.
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