The $1 million Haskell Invitational (G1) is the highlight of the New Jersey racing calendar, with some of the best 3-year-olds shipping into Monmouth Park for this 1 1/8 mile classic. Nine entered this year's edition, with Bluegrass Cat sent off as the even-money favorite over 2-1 Strong Contender.
9-1 Praying for Cash was loose on the lead down the backstretch while setting an honest pace of 23.62, 47.52, and 1:11.85 with 27-1 Electrify and favorite Bluegrass Cat close behind. Entering the stretch, Bluegrass Cat moved up alongside the pacesetter and then took the lead at the 3/16 pole. Under steady urging by John Velazquez, Bluegrass Cat powered away to a 7 length win over Praying for Cash in 1:48.85. Strong Contender rallied from seventh early to finish third.
