country roads

Veiled Reference breezed from the gate on Thursday morning at Fair Hill. She went in 49 flat, and was planned to have a nice gallop out. She was scheduled to go in company, too, but I can't figure out for sure based on the tab. One colt from out of the woodwork matches up; maybe Woolley hooked up with a neighboring outfit. No news on how she's come out, so have to imagine all fine enough. Looking at spot next weekend at Charles Town as an option. No, not the $250,000 one, unfortunately; it's the $35k optional claimer (WV-bred F/M 4 and up, x1/$16k tag) going 4 1/2 furlongs. Probably a little short for her, but would tighten her up for the next start at a longer distance. Last time they ran it, fillies went 22 flat for the opening quarter followed by 24 4/5 (not a typo) for the second, so I figure she can place herself and shake off the cobwebs in the early running, then hit 'em with some pace in that second quarter. Purse is quite nice relative to the competition and some of the other spots out there, so if she's doing well early next week, we'll see if it makes sense to stick her in. Entries on Wednesday.