When Bob Baffert talks Haskell, people listen. A simple but true statement.
Why would the hall of fame horse trainer open ears when discussing the centerpiece of Monmouth Park’s racing season? Perhaps his nine wins (2001,20002, 2005, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2020) in the event says it all.
Since its creation back in 1968, the Haskell has been one of the most coveted races in the three-year-old season. Often times this mile and an eighth jog over the New Jersey dirt has separated the good from the great in the division. Five of Baffert’s winners (Point Given, War Emblem, Lookin at Lucky, American Pharoah, Authentic) used this race as a springboard to year-end Eclipse Award honors as a three-year-old male.
To say 2022 has been a bit different for the California-based Baffert might be an understatement. Prohibited from running horses in the Kentucky Derby and also saddled with a 90-day suspension, the Arizona native has navigated through the trials and tribulations and is back doing what has earned him many accolades. Eager to add to his training win total (over 3,000), Big Race Bob is sending an ultra-talented colt to the Jersey shore for the Haskell.
Taiba dropped more than a few jaws when he won his first career start by 7 ½ lengths on March 5 for Baffert at Santa Anita. Transferred to the barn of Tim Yakteen, his second start was even more impressive as he won the Santa Anita Derby by 2 ½ lengths on April 9. In a move that may have been too much to soon, this son of Gun Runner ran in the Kentucky Derby and finished a never-threatening twelfth.
Now that he has enjoyed a little rest and relaxation, Taiba is back under the watchful eye of Baffert. The unquestioned best in the business at getting a horse ready for a big run, this lightly raced grandson of Flatter has told his trainer in recent works he is ready.
“Taiba has been doing well of late, that’s why we decided to run”, says Baffert. “As usual, it is going to be a tough race. I am excited to watch him run again.”
Big Money Mike Smith has the call to ride Taiba in the $1 million Haskell on July 23. Having won the race three times before (1994, 1998, 2020), the hall of fame rider brings plenty of experience as he climbs aboard this horse for the third time.
“He looks to be training really well at the moment”, says Smith. “This should be a great race and we are excited about the opportunity.”
The Haskell likely will have a compact but very talented field and will be the centerpiece of a card that features five other stakes races.
Recent Comments