Last year's Belmont Stakes (gr. I) winner Palace Malice will launch his 2014 campaign in the $250,000 Gulfstream Park Handicap (gr. II) March 8 at Gulfstream Park, according to Dogwood Stable president Cot Campbell.
"This mile race is a logical debut for the colt who wintered in Aiken and seemed to thrive on it. We shipped him to Todd Pletcher on Jan. 7, and he has been pleased with his progress. He has several five-eighths (works) under his belt, and Todd says he is as enthusiastic as ever." Campbell said of the 4-year-old Curlin colt campaigned by Dogwood Stable. "We are looking at the New Orleans Handicap (gr. II) at the Fair Grounds on March 29, so this race is an ideal prep. We considered going to New Orleans for the Mineshaft Stakes on Feb. 22, but that would have necessitated two trips. More time and staying home makes more sense."
Campbell said Racing Hall of Fame rider John Velazquez will have the mount in the Gulfstream Park Handicap.
