Exaggerator headed to Haskell

Edited Press Release

Preakness Stakes (G1) winner Exaggerator threw his hat into the Haskell Invitational (G1) ring when his connections told the Monmouth Park racing office that their three-year-old colt will be headed to the Jersey Shore for this Sunday’s $1 million event.

The Haskell will now feature another rematch between Exaggerator and Nyquist, with the latter taking this year’s Kentucky Derby (G1) only to have the former turn the tables in the Preakness two weeks later.

Owned by Big Chief Racing LLC, Head of Plains Partners LLC, Rocker O Ranch LLC et al., Exaggerator is a multiple graded stakes winner with wins in the Delta Downs Jackpot (G3) by a neck against fellow Haskell entrant Sunny Ridge, as well as the Santa Anita Derby (G1) in his final prep for the Kentucky Derby.

Exaggerator ran second in last year’s Breeder’s Futurity (G1) at Keeneland to Brody’s Cause, who will also enter the starting gate for the Haskell.

A three-year-old colt by Curlin out of the Vindication mare Dawn Raid, Exaggerator is one of only two horses (Lani) to run in all three Triple Crown races this year and will be making his first start since finishing off-the-board in the June 11 Belmont Stakes (G1).

The Haskell will now feature the top three finishers from the Run for the Roses, as Gun Runner, third in the Derby, arrived on the grounds Tuesday to prepare for the 1 1/8-mile Haskell.

This Sunday’s Haskell has a scheduled post time of 5:49 p.m. (ET) and will be telecast live on NBC.  The race is a Breeders’ Cup “Win & You’re In” event for the $6 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1).

There are few reserved seats remaining for the Haskell. Tickets may be purchased by calling 732-571-5563 or visiting www.monmouthpark.com.

Gates will open early on Haskell Day at 10 a.m. with first race scheduled for noon.

Exaggerator photo courtesy of Jim McCue/Maryland Jockey Club