Haskell invitations sent to 29 three-year-olds

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Oceanport, NJ (Sports Network) - The 39th running of the $1 million Haskell Invitational could very well have at least 12 three-year-olds leave the starting gate. Monmouth Park has invited 29 thoroughbreds to participate in the track's premier race on Sunday, August 6.

Topping the list are Preakness Stakes winner Bernardini, Ohio Derby champ Deputy Glitters and Colonial Turf Cup winner Showing Up. Jazil, winner of the Belmont Stakes, is currently out of action with a leg injury. Bernardini is not expected to go in the Haskell. He is prepping for the Jim Dandy Stakes at Saratoga with an eye toward the Travers Stakes.

The Haskell Invitational is a 1 1/8 mile event that has been won by eventual division champions Point Given and War Emblem. This year the race will held under allowance conditions for the first time after 38 years as a handicap.

Also receiving invitations are Bluegrass Cat, who was second in both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, WinStar Derby champ Wanna Runner and Sinister Minister, winner of the Blue Grass Stakes.