Synchrony to take 'first step' toward season goal in Muniz Memorial

It’s no secret that Synchrony has a strong affinity for the Fair Grounds turf course having maintained a perfect record in four starts over the surface. But if he wishes to protect his title in Saturday’s Grade 2, $300,000 Muniz Memorial Handicap, the 6-year-old son of Tapit will face his toughest test yet in New Orleans. 

The Pin Oak Stables homebred has won back-to-back editions of the Fair Grounds Handicap (G3) in addition to last year’s Muniz Memorial Handicap, defeating the likes of graded stakes winners Ring Weekend, Arklow and Mr. Misunderstood to name a few. This time around, however, he will face one of the best turf horses in North America with Pegasus World Cup Turf (G1) winner Bricks and Mortar shipping in for the race. 

“We’ll take on whoever runs,” said trainer Michael Stidham. “The horse is really doing well, he had a little break after (third-place effort in the Seabiscuit Handicap) at Del Mar. He came back and obviously was ready to go right off the shelf.

"Since then, he’s breezed really well. He’s very healthy and mentally good so we’re ready to go. He couldn’t be coming into the race any better than he already is. Had the one race back, second race off the layoff and I’m happy with where we’re at.”

Since a win in the Fair Grounds Handicap last time out on February 16, Synchrony has recorded a trio of works in preparation for Saturday’s test, the most recent of which was a five-furlong breeze in 1:01.60. 

Stidham says that the ultimate goal this year with Synchrony is to win a Grade 1 race. He has raced twice at that level, including a third-place effort in last year’s Old Forester Turf Classic at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby day.

“This is the first step in that direction," Stidham said.

The Muniz Memorial Handicap awards the winner an automatic entry-fees paid berth into both the Arlington Million (G1) at Arlington International Racecourse on August 10.