Derby Bill Watson calls today's running of the $600,000 Colonial Turf Cup (Gr. III) the "most well-balanced graded stakes race in Colonial Downs history."

With a pair of Kentucky Derby entries and a Preakness starter, the official handicapper for the New Kent County track just might have a point.

According to Watson, "nine of 10" have a legitimate shot to win the first leg of the $5 million Jacobs Investments Grand Slam of Grass, which also includes the Virginia Derby (Gr.II), Secretariat Stakes (Gr. I) and Breeders' Cup Turf (Gr. I).

Watson, along with everyone else, will find out shortly after the post time of 5:40 p.m. when the 3-year-olds break out of the gate for the 1 3/16-mile race.

Watson's superfecta has Kentucky Bear, Sporting Art, Adriano and Court Vision. Quite a lineup. -- John Packett