Spangled Star, D'Funnybone Breeze

Belmont hopeful Spangled Star breezed in company with stablemate D’ Funnybone this morning at Aqueduct, covering five furlongs in 1:01.46.

“The two of them went together,” said Spangled Star’s owner Lawrence P. Roman. “The last time they worked out Spangled Star opened about five lengths [on D’ Funnybone]. This time they stayed together, with Spangled Star outgaming D’ Funnybone by a neck. They were really battling. They went slow at the beginning but were flying at the end. Both riders were happy with the way their horses went.”

Roman realizes that Spangled Star, who was third in the Grade 3 Withers in his most recent effort, will have to take a step forward to be a serious contender in the Belmont, but has been pleased with his colt’s recent progress.

“According to the groom and [trainer] Rick [Dutrow], he’s doing better than ever,” said Roman. “I’m not a big believer in workouts, but he seems to be doing well.”