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Chief Wallabee's Bold Fountain of Youth Gamble
27 Feb
Summary
- Chief Wallabee enters Fountain of Youth after just one maiden win.
- Trainer Bill Mott feels rushed into the major race.
- The colt must prove his stamina for the two-turn distance.
Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott is proceeding with caution regarding Chief Wallabee's participation in the $425,000 Coolmore Fountain of Youth (G2) on Saturday at Gulfstream. The colt is entering the prestigious race on the heels of just a single, albeit impressive, debut victory.
Mott expressed reservations, stating, "This is not the progression, the proper way to do it. I think there's a better way, but we got off to such a late start." He feels circumstances have forced his hand, but anticipates the race will provide crucial answers about the son of Constitution.
Chief Wallabee secured a 1 1/2-length win in a seven-furlong maiden special weight race on January 10 at Gulfstream. He is currently listed at 9-2 on the morning line for the Fountain of Youth, which is the 1 1/16-mile headliner on a program featuring nine stakes races.
The homebred colt, with Junior Alvarado in the saddle, has not yet proven himself over two turns, a challenge shared by most of his rivals. However, his running style, characterized by a moderate start and ability to settle, could be advantageous for the extended distance.
