Strengths: Has the ability to win from either on the lead or just off the pace, a great attribute for the Sprint, which demands tactical speed. Owns a win over the Monmouth track and has proven himself against many of the better horses on both coasts.

Weaknesses: Could be susceptible to a wet track, struggling over a Calder surface this summer that had some moisture to it.

In The Genes: From the first crop of young sire Put It Back, best known for winning the 7-furlong Riva Ridge on the Belmont Stakes undercard during his sprint-laden career. Fourth foal of out the mare Milady’s Halo, all of which were winners on the racetrack.

Status: A return to the races after a disappointing run in the Sprint at Monmouth was not in the cards. The gelding was retired in the spring of 2008 due to minor ailments. He will live out his retirement at a farm in Sanger, Calif.

Bet You Didn’t Know: Smokey Stover was a famed comic strip penned by Chicago Tribute artist Bill Holman from 1935-1973 and featured in newspapers around the nation.