Backing a General on Gulfstream Park's President's Day program

A day devoted to starter allowance stakes referenced in name to some of the nation's former chief executives, Gulfstream Park's President's Day program on Monday has plenty of intriguing betting options.

The 10th race, the $60,000 Sage of Monticello for three-year-olds that have started for a claiming price of $35,000 or less, has attracted a field of nine to go 7 1/2 furlongs on the turf. General McGooby (#7) led all the way to win by four lengths in his debut at Gulfstream Park West in November, but was off more slowly in his follow-up over this course.

Not running to be claimed in that January 8 optional claiming/starter allowance, General McGooby fell behind 10 lengths at the first call and gradually ate into the deficit before settling for fourth, 2 1/2 lengths in back of Major Key, who's also entered here. If able to stay in closer contact, he appears capable of reversing form on that rival with Nik Juarez retaining the mount.