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| Staff Writer |
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Brendan Walsh has confirmed that Gosger will bypass the Gr.1 Belmont Stakes in favour of summer targets after the colt's gallant effort in finishing second in the Gr.1 Preakness Stakes.
The Harvey A. Clarke Racing Stables homebred, trained by Walsh, opened a commanding five-length advantage entering the final furlong at Pimlico before being caught in the dying strides by Journalism.
Walsh revealed his thinking behind sidestepping the final leg of the Triple Crown, telling Daily Racing Form: "I don't think we're going to go to the Belmont. I think we'll give him a little more time. We'll see how the next few weeks go. I think he'll improve."
The Nyquist colt earned his Preakness opportunity through a decisive two-length victory in the Gr.3 Stonestreet Lexington Stakes, demonstrating the progressive profile that has encouraged connections to take a patient approach with their developing talent.
Two prestigious summer assignments are being considered for Gosger's return. The Gr.1 Haskell Invitational Stakes at Monmouth Park represents one option, whilst the Gr.2 Jim Dandy Stakes at Saratoga offers an alternative route.
Either engagement could serve as preparation for the season's major target - the Gr.1 DraftKings Travers Stakes at Saratoga in August, a race that would provide Gosger with the opportunity to exact revenge on his Preakness conqueror.
The manner of Gosger's Preakness defeat has only strengthened Walsh's belief in the colt's ability. Having tracked a strong early pace set by Clever Again, Gosger assumed control in the upper stretch and appeared destined for victory until Journalism's remarkable late rally.
Traffic problems that hindered Journalism approaching the eighth pole allowed Gosger to establish what seemed a decisive advantage, making his eventual defeat all the more creditable given the quality of opposition he was facing.
The decision to allow Gosger additional time between engagements reflects confidence in his continued development. As a half-brother to Gr.1 QE II Challenge Cup winner Harvey's Lil Goil, he comes from an exceptional family that includes dual Classic winner I'll Have Another.
His dam Gloria S is an unraced daughter of Tapit, whilst the family also features recent Gr.2 Churchill Distaff Turf Mile third Movin' On Up, underlining the consistent quality that runs through this bloodline.
Walsh's patient approach with Gosger appears prudent given the colt's relative inexperience at the highest level. The Preakness represented only his second start in Graded company, suggesting significant scope for improvement as he gains more experience against elite opposition.
The summer programme being mapped out for Gosger offers multiple pathways to major success, with the flexibility to adjust plans based on his progress in training over the coming weeks.