Preakness hopefuls square off in Withers

Aqueduct's Withers S. (G3) is usually completely overshadowed by the Kentucky

Derby (G1), but this year's event could have an impact upon the Triple Crown as

a springboard to the Preakness S. (G1) or Belmont S. (G1). The one-mile event

features a very competitive field of eight, headed by Grade 1 hero PROUD

ACCOLADE (Yes It's True), who is expected to remain in one-turn events

regardless of how he performs on Saturday.

Gotham S. (G3) winner and Wood Memorial (G1) runner-up SURVIVALIST (Danzig),

Florida Derby (G1) and Fountain of Youth (G2) third-placer B. B. BEST (Yes It's

True), Grade 2 victor PARK AVENUE BALL (Citidancer), Wood third-placer SCRAPPY T

(Fit to Fight), stakes winner NAUGHTY NEW YORKER (Quiet American) and WAR PLAN (Fusaichi

Pegasus) are all candidates for participation in a classic race later this

spring with a strong showing in the Withers.

The complete field, from the rail with riders and imposts, is Park Avenue

Ball, Javier Castellano, 120; Proud Accolade, John Velazquez, 123; B. B. Best,

Jorge Chavez, 120; Survivalist, Richard Migliore, 123; ANTHONY J. (Tiger Ridge),

Jose Velez Jr., 116; Naughty New Yorker, Jean-Luc Samyn, 120; War Plan, Jose

Santos, 116; and Scrappy T, Norberto Arroyo Jr., 120.