Formidable Man looking for third Grade 1 in Shoemaker Mile

The adjective in his name fits Formidable Man, who figures to be a shorter price than usual in search of his third Grade 1 triumph Monday in the $300,000 Shoemaker Mile (G1) at Santa Anita.

Although he doesn't tend to win by much, win he does. The City of Light colt has landed several of the circuit's top-rated grass races since the fall, beginning with the Del Mar Derby (G2) and extending through the Hollywood Derby (G1) and Frank E. Kilroe Mile (G1), the latter over returning rivals Zio Jo and Cabo Spirit.

The lone blip of late was a last-place finish in the Pegasus World Cup Turf (G1) two back, when Formidable Man unexpectedly found himself on the lead and set a blistering pace to boot.

Cabo Spirit typically has stamina issues, but an exception occurred in the April 20 American (G3) when he held off odds-on favorite King of Gosford. The latter is a likely win threat again, while Cabo Spirit might be under the gun very early from the likes of multiple Grade 3 winner Goliad.

A strong pace would suit Seabiscuit H. (G2) winner Mi Hermano Ramon, and Atitlan, who has proven to be the best older grass horse in Southern California over 1 1/2 miles and 1 1/4 miles in recent months. Completing the field are Seal Team and Seminole Chief.

Multiple graded winner Be Your Best will look to rebound off a modest finish in last month's Jenny Wiley in the $300,000 Gamely (G1), a nine-furlong grass test for fillies and mares. Other logical candidates include Public Assembly, Liguria, and Alpha Bella.

The historic $200,000 Hollywood Gold Cup (G2) over 1 1/4 miles on the main track has attracted a field of seven, led by last year's Oaklawn H. (G2) and Charles Town Classic (G2) hero Skippylongstocking.