MARATHON

Birdrun – The 5yo son of Belmont Stakes and Travers winner Birdstone jogged 2m over the muddy track Friday morning at Churchill Downs in final preparation for the Breeders’ Cup Marathon.

“Everything’s fine right now,” said trainer Bill Mott, who will be saddling his first Marathon runner. “(He) handled the track pretty well.”

The Preston Stables veteran will be making his 22nd career start while seeking his eighth victory. His most recent win came in the 1 1/2m Brooklyn Handicap at Belmont on June 10.


Brigantin – The son of Cozzene went to the dirt track and cantered Friday morning.


Cease – The Marathon contender galloped 1 1/2m under exercise rider Marcus Alfred Friday morning, and trainer Al Stall Jr. said it was “all systems go” for the War Chant gelding going into Saturday’s race.

“We’re very comfortable with Cease. We’re excited about him,” Stall said.


Eldaafer – The winner of the 2010 Marathon went out for a simple jog Friday morning and will shedrow Saturday before attempting to defend his title, trainer Diane Alvarado said.

“He's good to go,” Alvarado remarked. “He was looking for reasons to jump around and buck and play.”


Meeznah – With jockey Tom Queally in the saddle, the filly cantered on the main track Friday morning.