Commonwealth Rush Eyes Sanford

Among the 16 2-year-olds in trainer Tim Ice’s barn is Bluegrass Legacy Equine’s Commonwealth Rush, a half-length maiden winner at Belmont Park on June 18 who was purchased for $90,000 in February’s Fasig-Tipton 2-year-olds in training sale at Calder.

“We’re not going in thinking he’s a world-beater, but he’s a well-made horse who’s built to a ‘T’,” said Ice of the bay son of Afleet Alex. “He’s a big, strong colt who acts more like a 3-year-old. We’re hoping he can compete and prove he’s graded material.”

Although Commonwealth Rush’s recent works have included a bullet three furlongs in 36.14 on July 3 and a five-furlong move in 59.64 on June 5, second-fastest of 11 at the distance, Ice feels the colt is at his best in the afternoons.

“He’s a bit lazy; when he gallops, you won’t see much,” he said. “His last two works were by himself, and nothing impressive. But, if I set him up with another horse, the racehorse in him comes out. He’s got the right demeanor, attitude, and ability; he’ll just have to step it up.”

Rajiv Maragh has the call for the Sanford, said Ice.