It's Mile Week at Emerald Downs! Another tremendous edition of the Longacres Mile-gr3 is this Sunday, August 15. Positioning to the first turn could be key this year with several powerful speed horses among the 11 starters. Papa's Golden Boy drew post #1 and he'll face accomplished shippers Anyportinastorm, Background and Five Star General.



Background, owned by Bob Rondeau and trained by Mike Puhich (this week's guest), is the top 2021 earner in this year's field. Background's jockey, Rocco Bowenj, returns to Emerald Downs seeking his first Mile triumph. Bowen's won three jockey titles here and 31 stakes races but hasn't ridden at EmD since 2018. Jon White relates his lengthy history in the northwest's premier race and gives his selection.