Luvnwar Leads the Charge in Belmont Oaks
As the excitement builds for the upcoming Belmont Oaks (2000m) race on Saturday, Michael Grantham’s confidence in his stable star, Luvnwar, has been bolstered by her impressive workout on Thursday. Luvnwar, one of Grantham’s two entries in the Listed event, has emerged as the hot favorite following her victory in the Belmont Guineas (1600m).
Grantham, speaking to Tabradio, expressed his satisfaction with Luvnwar’s current condition, saying, “She has come through the Belmont Guineas run really well and hasn’t put a foot wrong. Her last workout yesterday, I gave her a good dig and her heart rate just keeps getting lower and lower. It was pretty good work, and I’m happy where I’ve got her.“
Luvnwar’s Tabtouch odds have been continuously firming, moving from an initial $2.20 to the current $1.90 with betting sites, reflecting the significant backing she has attracted from punters. The diminutive jockey, Pat Carbery, will be aboard Luvnwar, who has drawn barrier two, as he seeks his second Belmont Oaks triumph, having won the race 17 years ago with Parc D’Amour.
“She’s not as genuine as I would have liked,” Grantham said of Antique Dream. “I think maybe her run is coming to an end. It would be pretty cool if she did knock her (Luvnwar) off, but I can’t really see it happening. They are two different horses.”
While Grantham’s second entry, Antique Dream, a Pierro filly who broke her maiden status at York and has since finished second twice at Bunbury and Belmont, is also in the race, the trainer believes Luvnwar has the edge.
With Luvnwar’s impressive form, Grantham’s confidence, and the support of punters, the stage is set for a thrilling Belmont Oaks clash on Saturday, where the talented filly will look to secure her second straight Listed win.
🔗 Source