Marathon Division

FATHER TIME-GB
Owner: Juddmonte Farms, Inc.
Trainer: Henry Cecil
Pedigree: B.c.,3, by Dansili – Clepsydra, by Sandler’s Well

Positives: Thoroughly convincing winner of the 12F King Edward VII S.-G2 at Royal Ascot in June, this lightly-raced colt subsequently finished third of seven after a poor start in the competitive 12F Great Voltigeur S.-G2 at York in August and, in his most recent outing, was fourth of nine in the St. Leger-G1 at Doncaster at 1 13/16 miles. He has one career start over a synthetic surface — his racing debut — and scored an impressive victory in fast time over maidens at one mile at Great Leighs in November of his two-year-old season. He has a career top Racing Post speed figure of 114. By comparison, Muhannak earned a 112 speed figure from Racing Post in his victory in the 2008 BC Marathon.

Concerns: Was bumped when weakening in the final furlong of the St. Leger and, according to jockey Jamie Spencer, simply didn’t stay the trip, which was a sixteenth of a mile further than the BC Marathon. He’ll have to find a way to make up the three lengths he was beaten by St. Leger winner Mastery, who will also contest the BC Marathon. He might be suited best by a return to 10-12 furlong events.

Bottom Line: Father Time looks considerably better on paper than Muhannak did when that one shipped over to win the BC Marathon last year, but so does Mastery, whom he failed to handle in the St. Leger. However, Father Time did win his only start over an all-weather surface so his connections are hopeful he’ll take to the Pro-Ride at Santa Anita. He’s a handy colt who can be placed anywhere during the running and though not truly of Group-1 quality in England, he probably won’t have to be to at least hit the board. His record (six of seven in the money) indicates he’s genuine and dependable.