This weekend gave us a big shock in the older horses group for the Breeder's Cup Classic, when likely frontrunner Electrocutionist died suddenly. This year he had won the big money in the Dubai World Cup, and grabbed 2nd at the Prince of Wales Stakes. The Brit had never finished lower than 4th, and raced decently in his only trip to North America, the ’05 Canadian International.

OLDER HORSES

Lava Man - The late bloomer. Six for Six this year, tops on the money list. Spent the entire season out west, dominating at California parks. You want reason not to pick this horse? He stinks outside cali, with a 7th last year at Belmont, and an abysmal 11th in Japan. Also, he'll go at low odds.

Invasor – The world traveller. This guy’s started in South America, headed to the Middle East and won a GI in North America. He’s currently holding the 2nd rank according to NTRA.com polling. His name is pronounced with a heavy latin accent, great fun for announcers. I'm split between him and Bernardini.

David Junior – Who? Exactly. Sports the top British speed rating at the distance, which may be enough to warrant a look if long odds are posted. Keep in mind though, mile and a quarter on the dirt isn’t exactly the most popular race in the UK.

Sun King - The Bridesmaid. Lots of 2nds in 2006, and not neccesarily to the stongest horses. Speaking of which...

Premium Tap – The pest. Definitely not the strongest horse in the field, but has bested Sun King twice in the past two months, including a theft of the Woodward Stakes at long odds. The appearance of Sun King alone may guarantee a Tap victory.

a quick bit on some other likely entries:

Flower Alley - 2nd in this race last year, a really disappointing '06.

Perfect Drift - would be his 5th Classic, a definite late bloomer.

Giacomo - last year's Kentucky Derby champ, never really built off that win.