Top Gunner aims for a second straight victory under new ownership in the Bold Ruler Stakes (G3).
After a successful spring at Aqueduct Racetrack, multiple graded stakes victor Messier is poised to make his return on October 26. He will take on seven other contenders in the $250,000 Forty Niner Stakes (G3), a one-turn mile race.
Having participated in the 2022 Kentucky Derby (G1), Messier faced challenges over the subsequent year and a half. Now under the guidance of trainer Rick Dutrow for his 5-year-old season, it appears the son of Empire Maker has regained his form.
In his debut for Dutrow, Messier finished second in a January 27 allowance at Laurel Park, then dominated the 1 1/8-mile Excelsior Stakes and the one-mile Westchester Stakes (G3) at Aqueduct. Although he was disqualified and placed second for interference in the Excelsior, he later secured victory in the Westchester on May 3.
After undergoing knee surgery to remove a chip, Messier has shown remarkable fitness, completing two strong workouts in October. Jockey Jose Gomez noted, "He handles it with ease, running freely. He’s capable of setting quick fractions and prefers to dictate his own pace."
With four wins from 14 starts, Messier has accumulated earnings of $593,690, represented by a diverse ownership group. Among his rivals are Coastal Mission, Repo Rocks, and last year’s fourth-place finisher, Film Star.