Clement Duo Breeze at Belmont

Robert S. Evans’s GI Breeders’ Cup Classic contender Tonalist (Tapit), a two-time winner of the GI Jockey Club Gold Cup, breezed six furlongs in 1:13.81 at Belmont Park Saturday morning. Regular rider John Velazquez was aboard the ‘TDN Rising Star.’ “Some people had him 1:13 and change, I had him in 1:13 4/5,” Clement said. “It was a nice work. He worked in company, was in a good position and finished nicely. He went very willingly, not very aggressive, just nice. He came back in good shape. He looks very fit to me. Everything is good.” Clement added, “Johnny thinks he was very comfortable without blinkers. I don’t think we want to change too much, he just won a Grade I without the blinkers. Unless Johnny or the owner comes to me with a great idea, I think we’ll pass on them.”

Hard Not to Like (Hard Spun) turned in her final breeze for the GI Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf at Belmont Saturday. With Velazquez in the irons, the GI Diana S. heroine worked a dogs-up half-mile on the inner turf in :49.55 seconds in company. “The important thing was to settle her, because the Breeders’ Cup is 1 3/16 miles,” Clement said. “She looked well. Johnny said he had no problem keeping her settled. She was strong, but manageable. They finished very well. The last quarter was very nice. She came back well.”

Clement will also be represented in the Breeders’ Cup by Red Vine (Candy Ride {Arg}) (Dirt Mile) and Pure Sensation (Zensational) (Turf Sprint).