Haskell Draws a Field of Eight

The Haskell, scheduled for Sunday at Monmouth Park, has drawn a field of eight, with many of the top three year olds in contention. Shackleford, winner of the Preakness by a half length over Animal Kingdom, is the early favorite for the Grade I race with a purse of $1 million.

Also in contention will be Ruler on Ice (winner of the Belmont) and Pants on Fire (winner of the Louisiana Derby) and the Bob Baffert trained Coil, who is shipping in from California. Also in the mix is Astrology, who finished third in the Preakness.

Of the starters, Shackelford is the only horse to have participated in the entire Triple Crown series and still be running. "He's had a grueling year--the fountain of Youth, Florida Derby, all three Triple Crowns, and he's still holding his weight and still looks great," Shack's trainer Dale Romans told Bloodhorse. "We gave him a two-week breather after the Belmont. . . and he seemed to appreciate it. His last two works were spectacular."

That is some workhorse. It will be interesting to see if they continue to race him regardless of the outcome of this race through the summer season. ABC television will carry the race live so check your local listings.