After the running of the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic (G1) at a yielding Aqueduct, persistent rain washed the Belmont Turf Sprint and Jockey Club Derby off the turf. The surface switch materially altered their character.

Turf stars head to Woodbine this Saturday for a pair of lucrative graded stakes with possible Breeders’ Cup implications.

Wesley Ward believes that Golden Pal will turn out to be the best he’s ever trained. The Uncle Mo colt appears determined to back up that claim, making a triumphant return in Thursday’s Quick Call S. (G3) at Saratoga.