North Slope Goes For Excelsior Result

Time/Date - 16.57hrs local time/Saturday, April 25, 2015 Racecourse/Country - Aqueduct/USA
Surface/Distance - Dirt/1m 2f

North Slope steps back up in class and trip for the Grade Three Excelsior Stakes over a mile and a quarter on dirt at Aqueduct, USA on Saturday, April 25.

The Kiaran McLaughlin-trained five-year-old has made two appearances so far this year, both also on dirt at Aqueduct, and came home third behind Turco Bravo and Cousin Stephen in the non-graded Stymie Stakes over nine furlongs on March 22.

He beat Turco Bravo when quickening away in the closing stages for a comfortable success in the non-graded Evening Attire Stakes over an extended mile on February 22.

The son of Elusive Quality raced primarily on turf last year, coming home ninth in the 12-furlong Grade Three W L McKnight Handicap at Gulfstream Park and winning twice at Belmont Park including a neck success in the non-graded Bowl Game Stakes over 10 furlongs.

Junior Alvarado, who has partnered North Slope on both his starts this year, takes the ride again.

Kiaran McLaughlin said: "North Slope is doing very well. This looks a tough spot for him but we feel that he belongs at this level and a mile and a quarter will suit him.

"He is racing fit and we hope that he can run another good race."

North Slope, drawn four, takes on seven rivals including last year's Grade One Wood Memorial winner Wicked Strong, plus Turco Bravo and Cousin Stephen.