Wednesday’s opening day card is an immediate reminder of why Saratoga is such a difficult meet to win at — both for horseman and handicappers alike.

The first race of the 2007 meet will be eerily reminiscent of the first race of the 2006 meet a $35K claimer on the turf where Massoud, off an October layoff, looks the one to beat beneath John Velazquez for Graham Motion. Massoud won the opener last summer, and would return win on Aug. 13, one of 18 horses to win two races at the Spa last summer.

No horse won three races here during the 2006 meet.

The first baby race of the meet is the day’s second race, and feaures the Violette trained Immortal Eyes, a good third behind stablemate and Sanford-bound Fed Watcher in his debut.

Pletcher firster Forest Prince could bear watching.

The day’s feature attraction is the Schuylerville for 2-year-old fillies. Very quick bunch lined up here, several off sensational debut scores.

Overall, a solid card without any true standouts to consider legitimate singles — just solid racing with great wagering opportunities. Welcome to Saratoga.