Go Get the Munny looking to validate sparkling debut

Go Get the Munny did just that when unveiled in a maiden race at Aqueduct on Feb. 1, rolling by 7 1/4 lengths. Following that flashy debut victory, he likely will be favored when he returns against four other 3-year-olds in Friday’s second race at Aqueduct, a one-mile dirt allowance with an $80,000 claiming condition.

Although maiden winners are typically disadvantaged when testing winners for the first time, there was nothing typical about how Go Get the Munny performed in his lone race. In addition to the large margin of victory, he was highly professional by breaking alertly, settling kindly for jockey Luis Reyes, and then rolling past the leaders when given his cue leaving the turn. He also had plenty left, extending his lead while pricking his ears under confident handling.

Trained by Tom Morley, he figures to settle into a similar stalking role Friday, sitting just behind the principal speed horses, Gleason and California Night, who are drawn to his immediate outside.

Among his challengers in Friday’s $67,000 feature are a pair from trainer Todd Pletcher: Gleason, who won his only start Jan. 20 at Tampa Bay Downs, and Coltandmississippi, a stakes dropper and the only entrant who already has won an allowance. Coltandmississippi is only eligible for this race because he is entered for the tag.

Coltandmississippi isn’t alone in exiting stakes company. So, too, does California Night, who adds blinkers after a dull effort when fifth Feb. 10 at Aqueduct in the Jimmy Winkfield Stakes in the mud. Previously, he had won a maiden race on the lead at Aqueduct on a fast track Dec. 10.

KEY CONTENDERS

Go Get the Munny, by Munnings Beyer: 81

◗ Besides owning a Beyer Speed Figure edge, he is fastest on TimeformUS speed ratings, having run a 112 in his maiden victory. No other rival has come close to that figure, with a 104 TimeformUS rating from Gleason’s maiden win at Tampa being second-best.

Coltandmississippi, by Pioneerof the Nile Last 3 Beyers: 55-77-65

◗ Receives significant class relief after unsuccessfully chasing some of Aqueduct’s top 3-year-olds this winter, including Avery Island in the Grade 3 Withers and Firenze Fire in the $150,000 Jerome.