Horse Racing News by Claire Novak

Jockey Corey Nakatani and Macho Macho let Louisiana Derby winner Hero of Order do the dirty work wearing out and 3-5 favorite Hansen in the $750,000 West Virginia Derby.

Ron the Greek has risen through the handicap ranks from a horse that didn't win a graded stakes race last year to a multiple Grade 1 winner in 2012.

Hansen, the brilliant, nearly white frontrunner whose latest victory came in the June 30 Iowa Derby, will find the eyes of the nation upon him Aug. 4 when he heads postward as the 3-5 morning line favorite in the $750,000 West Virginia Derby.

Two days after winning the Haskell Invitational, Zayat Stables' Paynter remained at Monmouth Park with a slight fever that prevented him from shipping back to Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert's base in Southern California.

Tune Me In was sent off as the longest price in the $152,500 Oceanport at Monmouth Park, but that didn't stop the 25-1 shot from springing an upset over six other turf contenders July 29.

Currency Swap showed his affinity for Saratoga Race Course July 29, making his first start since winning the 2011 Hopeful Stakes a profitable one when he dashed to victory in the $200,000 Amsterdam.

It was Laughing all the way -- down the stretch, at least -- in the $150,500 Taylor Made Matchmaker Stakes at Monmouth Park July 29.

Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert has won the Haskell Invitational a record five times including the past two editions. Ask him the secret to taking home the trophy from Monmouth Park and he'll tell you it's simple: eat a hot dog and send out a good horse.

Zagora won the Diana Stakes in 2011, but the 5-year-old mare faces a steep challenge this time around at Saratoga Race Course as Tapitsfly, Winter Memories, Hungry Island, and two European invaders join the fray.

Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith will be aboard 2011 2-year-old champion Hansen when the colt makes a start in the $750,000 West Virginia Derby Aug. 4 at Mountaineer Casino Racetrack & Resort, owner Dr. Kendall Hansen and Smith confirmed July 25.