Patience rewarded: Cut The Talk out to shine for loyal owners in Jolly Beggar Stakes

Trainer Tim Crosby is optimistic about Cut The Talk’s chances in Saturday’s $100,000 Jolly Beggar Stakes (1000m) at Belmont, believing a win would be a fitting reward for a group of patient owners.

Cut The Talk returned from an 18-month injury layoff two weeks ago and his comeback run was full of promise. He loomed strongly at the top of the straight before a lack of fitness kicked in, fading late to finish fourth, beaten just 2 ½ lengths by Madhi Girl.

On that effort Crosby says he has every confidence to think Cut The Talk can land a knockout blow in the Jolly Beggar Stakes. His first up run showed he still has the ability and with improved fitness he’s expecting a competitive effort from the Oratorio gelding.

“He had that run the other day after 18 ½ months and he pulled up better than I thought,” Crosby said on Tabradio.

“His heart rate was very low, and he came back very good in the wind.

“I thought it was a very good run.

“He’s only improved from there and I think he’s up to the other horses in the race.

“I really think he’s in with a big chance and he has never been as sound as he is.

“For the owner’s sake I hope he goes ok, they’ve been very patient.

“I think he’ll run a good race.”

The Jolly Beggar Stakes features a small but competitive field of six, including last year’s winner, Ginnivan, who is known for his early speed and wet track prowess.

Along with Hanchi, a back marker, who finished second to Madhi Girl in the same race as Cut The Talk, both combatants are considered strong chances.

Hanchi has firmed in Tabtouch betting, shortening from $3.50 to $2.45 with Ginnivan $3.40 and Cut The Talk $5.

Cut The Talk has drawn barrier three with Alex Hearn in the saddle.

Later in the day, Crosby thinks Sunlit Fresco can give race six a big nudge and in the last, Gi Gi Pops, he rates high.

Sunlit Fresco, second up, is $5.50 and Gi Gi Pops $6.

Julio Santarelli