Each week, Meadowlands Racetrack statistician Bob Heyden ranks the top contenders for the $1 million Meadowlands Pace on July 19, 2008.
1. Somebeachsomewhere
"I don't think traveling will be an issue with him at all," said driver Paul MacDonell. "He's feeling good and has been training great. I don't see him getting beat anytime soon." No colt has ever captured both the NA Cup and Pace undefeated.
2. Badlands Nitro
Got up in the final strides to win the Rooney at Yonkers. Became the 4th millionaire pacer to currently reside in the Teague barn.
3. Up Front Hannahsboy
Fastest PA Sires Stakes performer of all time with a 1:49.2 scorcher last week. Lightning quick and peaking at a perfect time.
4. Sand Shooter
Won his PA Sires Stakes last week, even if he was overshadowed by that blitzkrieg from Upfront Hannahsboy.
5. Santanna Blue Chip
Second in the Rooney after winning his elimination. Result might have been different if Jamieson had darted right to the passing lane instead of waiting a few seconds for clearance.
6. Art Official
Hoosier Cup winner is something of a stretch terror, but the days of coming from ninth to win the Pace are long over. Seven of the last nine Pace winners were first or second at the top of the stretch.
7. Bullville Powerful
Supplemented to the Pace for $100,000. Uncorked a 1:49 flat score last Saturday night at The Meadowlands.
8. Deuce Seelster
Third in three-year-old open won by Bullville Powerful [1:49]. Timed in 1:49.1, needing the start over the track. Croghan looks for first Pace win.
9. Blueridge Western
Looks to join impressive company of Berry's Creek winners who have won the Pace: Hot Lead-1996, Cams Card Shark-2004 and Artistic Fella-2006.
10. Dali
Second in the Hoosier Cup, heads back to NJ where he won the 2007 Wilson. Versatility is going to be a must with Somebeachsomewhere scaring away more people than Jaws did in 1976.