Big Drama Arrives for Vanderbilt

Big Drama, expected to make his next start in Sunday’s Grade 1 Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap, arrived at the Saratoga Stakes barn Wednesday morning, taking up residence just down the shedrow from Mambo Meister, also expected for the Vanderbilt. Big Drama defeated Mambo Meister in the most recent start for both horses, the Grade 2 Smile Sprint Handicap at Calder on July 10, a “Win and You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint.

“He shipped well and he looks good,” said David Fawkes, who trains Big Drama for Harold Queen.

The Smile Sprint was Big Drama’s second start after a nearly 10-month layoff. In his first start, the June 12 Ponche Handicap, Big Drama chased pacesetter Rusty Charlie through a quarter mile before taking the lead and drawing off to win by 3 ¾ lengths.

“He just does everything so easy,” said Fawkes. “When he works, it looks like he’s just crawling around out there and then you look at your watch and you’re sure you’ve caught the wrong pole.

“Getting the Win and You’re In race the last time, we wanted to make a bit of a plan, and [The Vanderbilt] has been on our radar screen for awhile.”

Fawkes added that Big Drama would train before the break Thursday at approximately 7 a.m.

Also expected for the Vanderbilt are Bribon, Gayego, Majesticperfection, Smokey Fire and Temecula Creek.