Verrazano has race over track for Haskell

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Oceanport, NJ (Sports Network) - A victory over Monmouth Park's main track in the Pegasus Stakes sets up very well for Verrazano heading into the $1 million Haskell Invitational on Sunday, July 28.

Trained by Todd Pletcher, Verrazano won the Pegasus by 9 1/4 lengths in his first start since finishing 14th in the Kentucky Derby. Owned in part by Let's Go Stable, the 3-year-old colt defeated Itsmyluckyday in the Pegasus and is now ready for the Haskell.

"He'll continue to train up at Saratoga and ship down race day," co-owner Bryan Sullivan said.

The colt has earned $951,300 in six career starts winning five, including the Tampa Bay Derby.

The 1 1/8-mile Haskell is setting up to be a highly competitive race with Preakness winner Oxbow and Kentucky Derby runner-up Golden Soul expected to go against Verrazano, winner earlier this year of the Wood Memorial. Mylute, third in the Preakness, is also possible for the Haskell.