Santiva Works, 'Likely' for Belmont

Updated: Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:42 AM
Posted: Saturday, May 28, 2011 2:43 PM

Photo: Reed Palmer Photography, Churchill Downs

Santiva

Tom Walters’ probable Belmont Stakes (gr. I) starter Santiva worked five furlongs over a fast Churchill Downs track in 1:00 3/5 May 28 under assistant trainer Brendan Walsh.

Santiva was the first horse on the track after the renovation break and worked in company with Golden Gulch. They went the first three furlongs in :36.20 and galloped out six furlongs in 1:14.60.

Trainer Eddie Kenneally was very pleased with the work. “He worked really, really well today,” Kenneally said. “He’s very fit. He went the minute and three-fifths nicely and didn’t overexert himself.”

The 3-year-old son of Giant's Causeway , who finished sixth in the Kentucky Derby (gr. I), is probable for the Belmont, but Kenneally is hesitant to make final plans just yet.

“We are still playing it by ear in regards to the Belmont, but he will likely end up in the race,” Kenneally said.

Santiva, who broke his maiden in the Kentucky Jockey Club (gr. II) at Churchill Downs last November, has a career record of 7-1-3-1 with earnings of $257,597.

FREE! E-Newsletters from The Blood-Horse!...
Follow the top stories of major racing events, racing previews and results with FREE e-newsletters from bloodhorse.com. As news develops, we'll deliver updates to your inbox. Follow important events moment by moment, step by step!