AS the Breeders’ Cup looms up five weeks away, the weekend offerings become condensed, the performances crucial. Today offers scintillating cards on the west coast of California and the east coast of New York.

Flintshire kicks off a five-stakes buffet at Belmont Park. Juddmonte’s star flies into the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic fresh off three easy scores for Chad Brown. Only three rivals signed up for what looks like another paid workout for Flintshire. At least there won’t be a controversy over a rabbit as Brown opted to not enter Inordinate, who helped turn the Sword Dancer into a mockery back in August.