Siding with a longshot in the War Chant Stakes

A field of eight sophomores will travel a mile on the Churchill Downs turf in Saturday’s $150,000 War Chant S. The well-matched field has a good amount of early types in the cast, which should lead to a fast tempo and aid horses coming from off the pace. And, more specifically, my top selection.

Rusty Arnold’s #6 El Kabong (8-1) took four tries to break through the maiden ranks, graduating with a head score over the course in his most recent assignment. The $80,000 son of Noble Mission prevailed through a long stretch drive at the distance, and I love the aggressive placement in this winnable spot.

El Kabong has never run a poor race and seems poised to have a nice second half of 2021, with continued progression expected. Bred in the Bluegrass State, the bay colt has the tactical presence to keep touch early on before putting in his best run in the stretch. He is taking a major class jump, but I feel that El Kabong will be up to the task at a square number with James Graham.

Tampa Bay Derby (G2) winner #8 Helium (7-2) is the class of the field for trainer Mark Casse. The bay son of Ironicus is a question mark on the lawn in his grassy debut, but he did display a lot of ability on the all-weather at Woodbine as a juvenile, and the bay colt also has a pair of turf-winning siblings. Tyler Gaffalione will be in the silks.

The Wesley Ward-conditioned #8 Next (5-1) is the speed of the race and will improve off of his distant finish in the American Turf S. (G2) on Kentucky Derby Day. Gray son of Not This Time owns a promising tally on the sod from his juvenile campaign, and he figures to receive a much more sensible trip on Saturday, as well. John Velazquez returning to the saddle atop the fleet Kentucky-bred is a major plus.

War Chant Wagers

• $15 win and place on #6 El Kabong ($30)
• $5 exacta key box: 6 with 7,8 ($20)