The customary closing day feature on Labor Day-Saratoga's GI Hopeful S.-unofficially marks the end of summer, in addition to the first half of the racing season, while ushering in the all-important fall showcase for juveniles, highlighted by the marquee event for two-year-olds during the World Championships in November. Looking to solidify a berth in the lineup on the Breeders' Cup day card is Robert Baker and Bill Mack's 'TDN Rising Star' Sporting Chance (Tiznow), conditioned by Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas. Lukas, who celebrated his 82nd birthday on Saturday, aims to collect his eighth Hopeful win. Additionally, Lukas' most recent Hopeful win was recorded in 2013 with another son of Tiznow–Strong Mandate-also owned by Mack and Baker. Well fancied in his career debut at Churchill Downs June 15, the highly-regarded colt proved second best behind Dak Attack (Ghostzapper), who came back to score next out at the stakes level. Accompanied by Luis Saez for his latest start-a 2 1/4-length score sprinting 5 ½ furlongs here July 22-Sporting Chance will be reunites with Saez here. Ironically, it is former Lukas assistant Todd Pletcher who offers some stiff resistance to his former boss. Pletcher is represented by a pair of live shots: Mojovation (Quality Road), winner of his debut going six panels here July 29 and National Flag (Speightstown), who was well beaten in his debut at Belmont in July but rebounded to score last time at the Spa Aug. 5. The former is rejoined by Hall of Famer John Velazquez, while the latter gains the services of the highly capable Jose Ortiz. Undefeated Firenze Fire (Poseidon's Warrior) represents the only horse in the field to win beyond the maiden ranks. An impressive winner at Monmouth Park June 18, he followed that effort with a tactical win in the GIII Sanford S. July 22 and attempts to make it three straight while adding another furlong. Irad Ortiz Jr.-who was aboard for the Sanford win-gets the call again this time.
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