Potential GI Pegasus World Cup entrant Sticksstatelydude (First Dude), a last out impressive winner of the GIII Discovery S. at Aqueduct Nov. 12, turned in a four-furlong work in :49.75 (20/31) at Palm Meadows Friday.
The 3-year-old, owned in a partnership that includes brothers, Alvin Haynes Jr. and Mitch Haynes, does not currently have a slot in the gate for the $12-million race. The colt's trainer, Kiaran McLaughlin, said that he has been approached by connections with confirmed berths inquiring about leasing the horse for the Pegasus, but so far no deals have been struck.
McLaughlin also said that if the Pegasus turns out not to be an option, he is looking at the $400,000 Poseidon, also at 1 1/8 miles on the dirt and part of the undercard, as an alternative. The Discovery runner-up Neolithic (Harlan's Holiday) likely punched his ticket to the Pegasus with a powerful allowance win at Gulfstream Wednesday.
“He is pointing toward a race on Jan. 28,” McLaughlin said. “There is a $400,000 race on the Pegasus undercard, or the Pegasus, if someone needs a horse. We could be talked into a lease for that day. He will continue to work weekly and we'll hope for the best. At least there is the option of the other race if we don't get into the Pegasus.”
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