How to bet the 2019 Jim Dandy Stakes

Talent, durability, consistency, the ability to win big races—these are the traits that define great racehorses.

You’ll find all of these traits spread among the six runners entered in Saturday’s $600,000 Jim Dandy Stakes (G2) at Saratoga. The only problem is identifying the runner who possesses the best blend.

You want talent? #4 Global Campaign has shown flashes of brilliance, most recently when he dominated the 1 1/8-mile Peter Pan Stakes (G3) at Belmont Park. The son of Curlin had little difficulty defeating eventual Belmont Stakes (G1) winner Sir Winston by 1 1/4 lengths and posted a 101 Beyer speed figure that ranks as the highest earned by any member of the Jim Dandy field.

But Global Campaign’s durability is a question mark. He’s dealt with hoof issues this year and missed a scheduled start in the Ohio Derby (G3). Can he repeat his Peter Pan performance in his return from an injury-induced 2 1/2-month layoff?

If it’s durability and ability to win big races you’re looking for, #6 War of Will is a better choice. With 11 starts under his belt—essentially one per month dating back to August—War of Will is tough as they come. He’s also the most accomplished runner in the field, with a victory in the Preakness Stakes (G1) at Pimlico on his résumé. But War of Will has misfired on occasion, such as in the Belmont Stakes (G1), where he faded to finish ninth of 10 in a dull performance.

If it’s consistency you desire, why not consider #5 Tacitus? This stoutly bred son of Tapit hasn’t run a poor race in six starts. He won the Tampa Bay Derby (G2) and Wood Memorial (G2), then crossed the wire fourth in the Kentucky Derby (G1) and second in the Belmont Stakes (G1).

In the Kentucky Derby, Tacitus appeared uncomfortable having mud kicked back in his face, but despite this obstacle he persevered and rallied through the pack to lose by just 3 1/4 lengths. Then in the Belmont, Tacitus was hung wide in both turns, yet was still beaten just a length by the ground-saving Sir Winston.

So which trait(s) will matter most—talent? Durability? Consistency? The ability to win big races?

I will put my faith in consistency and favor Tacitus. He’s not as fast on paper as Global Campaign, and he’s not as accomplished as War of Will, but Tacitus has shown significant talent in his own right and never runs poorly. If he finally receives a good trip Saturday, I trust he’ll emerge victorious for trainer Bill Mott (who is 4-for-18 so far at Saratoga) and jockey Jose Ortiz (9-for-31 riding the main track at Saratoga this summer).

I also respect the chances of Wood Memorial runner-up #2 Tax, who finished fourth in the Belmont. This son of Arch has plenty of tactical speed and could potentially shake loose on the lead in the Jim Dandy, a desirable trip in this small field.

Let’s bet Tacitus on top in the trifecta and key Tax underneath.

$6 trifecta: 5 with 2 with 4,6 ($12) $6 trifecta: 5 with 4,6 with 2 ($12) $3 trifecta: 5 with 1,2 with 1,2 ($6)

Good luck!