Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) favorite Uncle Mo may face a short and overmatched field in the $1 million Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial (gr. I) at Aqueduct April 9.
The undefeated champion will make his second start of 2011 in the Wood, having easily won his sophomore debut in the Timely Writer at Gulfstream Park on March 12. Uncle Mo is owned by Mike Repole and trained by Todd Pletcher.
According to New York Racing Association Stakes Coordinator Andrew Byrnes, the three other horses that are probable for the Wood Memorial are Duca, trained by Hall of Famer D. Wayne Lukas for owner Robert C. Baker, Isn't He Perfect, trained by Doodnauth Shivmangal for Kharag Stables, and Gotham (gr. III) runner-up Norman Asbjornson, trained by Christopher Grove for Thomas G. McClay.
The key to how much Uncle Mo is tested may lie with whether or not Norfolk (gr. I) winner Jaycito makes the trip from California. Trained by Bob Baffert for Zayat Stables, Jaycito will either start in the Wood or the $1 million Santa Anita Derby (gr. I) on the same day. The connections are expected to make a decision this weekend. Jaycito was second in the San Felipe (gr. II) in his most recent start.
Also possible for the Wood are Gotham third-place finisher Toby's Corner, trained by Graham Motion for Dianne D. Cotter; Timely Writer runner-up Rattlesnake Bridge, trained by Kiaran McLaughlin for Mill House; Arthur's Tale, trained by Tom Albertrani for Darley Stables; Preachintothedevil, trained by Gary Contessa for Crossed Sabres Farm; and Starship Caesar, trained by Bisnath Parboo for Sherry Parbhoo.