On Saturday afternoon, all handicappers prepared to descend on Belmont Park to nail down the Pick-4 and turn it into a Pick-3 with Indian Blessing in the Ruffian Handicap. Add in the remains of the hurricane, the distance being a bit long, plans for the future and a trip to the Breeders’ Cup.

What do they have in common? Well, it gets a little complex but ultimately has a simple solution. She was installed as the 7-5 favorite, and looked like a versatile champion in the making. Her moves have impressed even the biggest non-believers.

After scratching on Saturday, Bob Baffert says she is 100%. Good thing to know as the B/C approaches. Baffert has proclaimed that he wants to keep her at sprint distances. Now many would start the presses rolling about conspiracy theories. Not me… I think this is a trainer who has moved operations to dirt surfaces taking care of his runner. Who better than he to know what is best for her?

Well, the new prescription is running at Presque Isle Downs. The new oval sporting a synthetic surface. It will probably be in the $400,000 Master Stakes going 6-panels on September 13th. The daughter of Indian Charlie needs the work on the new track. Why? Because Santa Anita will be running on a synthetic surface for Breeders’ Cup Day.

The scratch, the health report and the switch of surface could be just the plan. She is a real runner to enjoy. So lets allow one of the best trainers in the game to call the shot, and be sure to tune in to Presque Isle Downs to watch her synthetic prep. It could be a sign of things to come.