In just under an hour, Souper Spectacular, a half-brother to one of racing's leading ladies, makes his career debut in the second race at Belmont, a six furlong claimer.

The son of Giant's Causeway is out of the Kris S mare Vertigineux. Her most famous daughter is the unbeaten champion Zenyatta (by Street Cry); she has also produced the four-time Grade I winner Balance (by Thunder Gulch) and the stakeswinner Where's Bailey (by Aljabr). Where's Bailey, like Souper Spectacular, was sired by a son of Storm Cat.

Although Balance broke her maiden in November of her 2-year-old season and went on to be a Grade I winner at three, Zenyatta didn't debut until November of her 3-year-old season. Souper Spectacular could be another late bloomer, making his debut in June of his 3-year-old season. The colt is trained by Seth Benzel for Live Oak Plantation and will be ridden today by Rajiv Maragh.

The result:

Souper Spectacular, who needed a bit of encouragement to get in the gate, broke well but quickly dropped back despite urging and spotted the field about six lengths rounding the far turn. Although he made a mild rally to make up some ground late and be fourth in the field of six, he never threatened for a top placing. Since it was his first start, give him a pass and see if he develops - especially going longer - but be cautious about placing much money on him next time out.