Janks leads Arlington Park trainers in victories so far

After saddling two winners on Sunday's program, Illinois-based trainer Christine Janks jumped to a narrow lead in Arlington's standings entering Thursday's racing program.

Was she aware of it?

"Actually, my husband Barry (who keeps detailed statistics on his wife's career) let me know about it even before we had coffee this morning," said Janks Monday morning.

"I guess we might as well enjoy it while it lasts.

"I'm especially pleased that Allen Tanis, one of my longtime owners, has gotten off to such a good start," said Janks of the Kansas resident who has had horses with Janks for about 15 years. "He's one of the nicest guys in the world, but he's always had some of the worst racing luck in the past. However, he's already had two winners (Stealth Woman last week and My Cousin Pepi last Sunday) so far this season. It's nice to see him get off to such a fast start."

With seven wins through the first seven days of the Arlington session, Janks leads Larry Rivelli by one victory through last Sunday, with defending Arlington champion Wayne Catalano and Mike Stidham currently in the third spot two wins behind.

Current leading jockey E.T. Baird, two wins in front of his nearest pursuers through Sunday, has partnered with Janks to record four victories from eight starters during their collaboration so far this season.

Marines are coming: Marine Week Chicago began Monday and runs through Sunday in Chicago, but Marine Week at Arlington Park begins Friday with static vehicle and aircraft displays, including appearances The Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon and The Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps. The Marine display concludes Sunday with a tactical aircraft exercise featuring various helicopters as well as a state-of-the-art aircraft called the Osprey, which combines the tactical advantages of both a helicopter and an airplane.

Preakness prep: On Saturday, Pimlico Race Course will present the Preakness Stakes, second leg of the Triple Crown, and the big race will be simulcast to Arlington Park.

On Friday, Arlington will offer advanced wagering on the Preakness as well as on the special Black-Eyed Susan Stakes/Preakness Daily Double.

Also Saturday, the first "Breakfast At Arlington" program of the season will be offered from 7:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Racing from Pimlico begins at 9:15 a.m. while Arlington's 12-race card starts at 12:15 p.m., with the gates opening at 10:45 a.m.

In addition, this weekend is Palatine Community Weekend, with free general admission to residents of Palatine on Saturday and Sunday.