There’s Strong Hope in Forego

A field of 11 sprinters who have combined for 57 victories are entered in today’s $250,000 Forego Handicap at Saratoga.

A Grade I at seven furlongs, the Forego field includes Strong Hope, who hasn’t run since chasing Pico Central in the Metropolitan Handicap on May 31 at Belmont Park.

Strong Hope has run well off the bench before and is one of two at Saratoga. The 4-year-old son of Grand Slam won the 2003 Jim Dandy at 6-1, beating Empire Maker by a neck.

The Forego also marks the comeback of A Huevo, an 8-year-old who has won five of seven for owner Mark Hopkins and trainer Michael Dickinson. This will be the gelding’s debut at Saratoga.

Race of the day: Etoile Montante, who had a world of trouble as the beaten favorite in the Osunitas Handicap on Aug. 11, will hope for clear sailing in today’s $200,000 Palomar Breeders’ Cup Handicap at Del Mar.

Jose Valdivia Jr. will ride the 4-year-old Miswaki filly in the Grade II at 1 1/16 miles on the grass. It is part of a pick six with a carry-over of $150,826.

One for the road: Devine Wind looked good winning in his Saratoga bow on Aug. 20 and can come right back at the same level in today’s seventh, a $35,000 claimer at 1 1/16 miles on the turf.

Exotically speaking: A pick three using Alphabet Kisses and Muir Beach in the third, Sharpen Up Victor in the fourth and My Tina, Jadelicious and Quick Cover in the fifth.

Winners: Previous day/meet total: 0/101. Money: Previous day/meet total: $0/$555.20. Total money bet: $662.