Imprimis gets a Breeders' Cup prep assignment at Keeneland

Imprimis, already a Grade 2 winner this year at Keeneland, will try for a second win at that class when the Lexington, Ky., track convenes for its October meet.

Trainer Joe Orseno said Saturday that Imprimis – fourth in Kentucky Downs’ Grade 3, $700,000 Turf Sprint – will next target the $200,000 Woodford (G2) on Oct. 5 at Keeneland.

The 5-year-old gelding scored his first graded win there April 6 in the Shakertown Stakes (G2), with the Woodford serving as the 5-year-old gelding’s prep for the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint on Nov. 2.

“We know he likes that track,” Orseno said. “We’ll go there and then we’ll go right to California.”

Leinster beat the 2-1 favorite Imprimis by a nose in a photo for third Saturday in the Turf Sprint, a Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” qualifying race. Totally Boss got up for the win, with 70-1 shot Smart Remark holding on for second.

Saturday’s race at Kentucky Downs marked the Florida-bred Imprimis’ first start since June 18, when he crossed sixth in the King’s Stand Stakes (G1) at Ascot.

“I was pleased, his first race back,” Orseno said. “I thought he was third. Maybe the course didn’t suit him. 

“All and all, our goal is November. Hopefully he’s right on track.”