Monmouth Park appears Unlikely to Host American Pharoah for Haskell

It appears Triple Crown winner American Pharoah will not be making an appearance at Monmouth Park in Oceanport for the sold out William Hill Haskell Invitational on August 2, if a tweet from the horse's owner is any indication. 

Ahmed Zayat, a Teaneck resident, tweeted to racing handicapper Vince Stone that the Jim Dandy at Saratoga is "in the lead" as the venue for American Pharoah's next appearance, according to the Asbury Park Press.

That would be a blow to Monmouth Park, which was anticipating its largest crowd ever for the Haskell. Following a win at the Belmont Stakes, Zayat said the $1-million Haskell was probably American Pharoah's next target.

Tracks have been increasing their offers to entice Zayat. Del Mar offered a $5-million bonus to try to keep American Pharoah in Southern California before the Breeders' Cup Classic at Keeneland on Oct. 30.

There has not been an offer yet from Monmouth Park officials on an increases in purse money or appearances bonuses to guarantee a Jersey Shore debut, according to the Asbury Park Press.

The Jim Dandy at Saratoga is the day before the Haskell.