War Emblem given even odds to win Belmont

NEW YORK -- War Emblem will be tested early and often as he attempts to win the Belmont Stakes on Saturday and become racing's first Triple Crown winner in 24 years.

At least that's the strategy being laid out by trainers trying to spoil War Emblem's chance at joining an eilte group of Triple Crown champions such as Secretariat, Citation and Seattle Slew.

"You've got to hook him early, then run him down in the end," said Bobby Frankel, who trains Medaglia d'Oro. "That's how it will happen."

It hasn't yet, but Frankel remains confident his colt is capable of running down War Emblem in the stretch of the grueling 1 1/2-mile Belmont. Medaglia d'Oro was fourth in the Kentucky Derby and eighth in the Preakness.

"I think going a mile-and-a-half on a big sandy track is going to take its toll," Frankel said. "I'm very confident in my horse."

War Emblem will take on 11 challengers as he tries to become the most tested Triple Crown winner. War Admiral turned back 32 challengers in winning the 1937 Triple Crown, while War Emblem will have dispatched of 40 opponents.

On Wednesday, War Emblem drew the No. 10 post position and was installed as the even-money favorite in the morning line. Proud Citizen, second in the Derby and third in the Preakness, was the second choice at 5-1, with Sunday Break next at 6-1.

Bob Baffert, War Emblem's trainer, understands everyone is gunning for him.

"It's definitely not a gimme," Baffert said. "There's some good speed horses in there, but that's part of the game. My horse just breaks and goes out there. I just hope he has enough in the tank at the end."

War Emblem is expected to be pressured early by Wiseman's Ferry, the Lone Star Derby winner with a running style similar to the Derby and Preakness winner.

"Wiseman's Ferry is the key to the race." Frankel said. "He's part of the reason I entered."

Baffert is well aware of the Niall O'Callaghan-trained Wiseman's Ferry, who missed the Derby and Preakness but has put together consecutive wire-to-wire wins.

"He'll be a thorn in our side," Baffert said. "He looked impressive in winning his last race, and Niall's done a great job with him."