Top Class Field Set For Clark

Effinex is the lukewarm 5/2 favorite on the morning line after outrunning his 33/1 odds to finish second in the Breeders' Cup Classic last out. The four year-old son of Mineshaft has enough tractical speed to secure a spot close to the pace in a race lacking an abundance of early speed. Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith will be aboard from post 8. 

Pharoah slayer back looks to pad resume

Three year-old colt Keen Ice (3/1) was a distant fourth in the Breeders' Cup Classic, but has steadily improved over his last three races, recording triple digit Beyer Speed Figures in each. The Dale Romans trainee was the only horse to beat American Pharoah in 2015, defeating the Triple Crown-winning champion en route to winning the Grade 1 Travers at Saratoga August 29. Keen Ice is based at Churchill where he has won one race in two tries, and appears to be training forwardly for the Clark. Jockey Corey Lanerie will ride while breaking from the rail.

Race Day looks for repeat stakes win

Race Day (7/2) could find himself in front turning for home if able to employ the same stalking tactics he used to win the Grade 2 Fayette Stakes October 30 at Keeneland in his last start. The Todd Pletcher trainee is 2 for 2 at the distance and has a win at Churchill in his only start over the course.