Sunday, April 29, 2012

Hollywood Turf, Baby !!

It's Superfecta Sunday and we go to the Betfair Hollywood Turf with a few dimes in our pocket seeking a winning ticket.

Betfair Hollywood Park Race 8 {Wilshire Handicap~G3~1 mile~TURF~3 year old Up~fillies/mares~Stakes}

Eight beautiful gals will line up for this annual affair.  All equal in ability, particularly having closely matched speed numbers.  Half the field can be expected to be forwardly placed while the other have will come a running of the pace.  It looks like a great race in dreamland.

We will try to fashion a winning 10 Cent Superfecta Box ticket to capture our Hollywood dream.

#8 Go Forth North (Espinoza / Avila) looks ready to move forward with the second highest (tie) last out speed number,  a two race progression, and two superb, peaking workouts.  She will be one coming off the pace venturing a good closing kick.  This mare will be our bronze horseshoe runner.
$2 SHOW.

#3 Nereid (Smith / Shirreffs) will be coming off an extended layoff, but will challenge mightily.  She shares the second highest last out speed number prior to her layoff, has won at this distance and has put in four excellent works.  She should be close to the pace and ready to fire.

#7 Up In Time [GB] (Rosario / Callaghan) could do just that with her tremendous closing style.  She shares the highest last out speed number, is working a three race progression before a 60 day freshening, and has put in four active workouts.  She will be a significant threat to pluck the victory.

#5 Wild Mia (D. Flores / Fanning) could track and close this field down.  She also has the highest last out speed number, is working a three race progression, and has put in three well-built, peaking workouts.  Watch her run.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#8 Go Forth North  +  #3 Nereid  +  #7 Up In Time [GB]  +  #5 Wild Mia.



Stakes Saturday Results
Boy Howdy, what a scratchy type of Horse Racing Weekend!

Belmont Park R9.  Westchester--G3.  The scratches of three horses reduced this field to four.  It eliminated any show bets.  It is best to keep separate your various W/P/S wagers to avoid being shut out of those pools.
Our first pick, To Honor and Serve, won (1st) for win money of $1.60.  Our second pick, Boys At Tosconova, finished 2nd for place money of $1.20.  Our third pick, Bold Deed, finished 3rd, but there was no show wager.
No Superfecta due to the three scratches.
Bankroll gains some change to log in at $9.72.

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Snappy NY Mile

For Stakes Saturday we look to Belmont Park to provide us with an exciting mile race.

Belmont Park Race 9 {Westchester~G3~1 mile~3 year old Up~Stakes}
A solid field of seven will turn out to the track for this annual stakes race.  Their will be speed and the rest of the field will be up close on it.  It looks like a large clump of forwardly placed horses will battle on "Big Sandy".

#6 To Honor and Serve (Lezcano / Mott) will be the favorite coming off an extended layoff with the second highest speed number at the distance, working on a two race progression, and four powerful, peaking workouts.  He should be the one to beat.
$1 WIN / SHOW.

#1 Boys At Tosconova (Dominguez / R. Dutrow) looks ready coming off a 90 day layoff with the third highest (tie) last out speed number, a four race progression, and five efficient workouts.  He could challenge with a pressing run.
$1 PLACE / SHOW.

#2 Jersey Town (Prado / Tagg) will be a contender with the highest speed number at the distance, sharing the third highest last out speed number, holding a two race progression, and two fast peaking workouts.  This guy could sit and strike with his pressing running style.
$1 WIN.

Another Wagering Interest

#7 Bold Deed (Castellano / Hushion) should be the speed of the race and if let loose on the lead, he could wire the field.  He holds the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and two hearty workouts.  He could be a solid factor in the race.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 To Honor and Serve / #1 Boys At Tosconova, #2 Jersey Town / #1, #2 / #7 Bold Deed.



Friday's Results
Hollywood Park R3.  Inglewood Handicap--G3.  The race fell apart with the defection of Acclamation.  No SHOW wagers were allowed.
Bankroll remains the same at $8.92.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Hollywood Simple

Friday is a good day to relax and enjoy some great horse racing.  Today we look at a very simple little race at Betfair Hollywood Park.

Hollywood Park Race 3 {Inglewood Handicap~G3~1 1/8 mile~TURF~3 year old~Stakes}
A very small field of five will launch from the gate in this annual stakes race.  The race will unfold with one speedster a couple of presser/trackers and a couple of closers.  Should be a good one.

#5 Holladay Road (Bejarano / Canani) has a slight edge with the highest, most recent, last out speed number and three superb peaking workouts.  He should close into the pace with stunning swiftness.
$2 SHOW.

#4 Acclamation (Valenzuela / Warren) will be the speed of the race as well as the overwhelming favorite.  He is coming off an extended layoff and may need this race to start his 2012 racing season.  He has the highest speed number at this distance and is well prepped with four endurance increasing workouts.  This guy could wire this field.
No Value.

#2 Utopian (Smith / Shirreffs) appears to have the best shot at rounding out the trifecta.  He has the third highest (tie) last out speed number at a longer route and three robust workouts.  Figure him to stay close to the pace, without getting gassed, then make a move in the stretch.
$2 SHOW.

NO 10 CENT Superfecta Offered due to the small field.



Thursday's Results
Betfair Hollywood Park R7.  Harry Henson.  Our first pick, American Act, won (1st) for show money of $2.10.  Our second pick, Koast, was scratched.
Due to the scratch, our 10 CENT Superfecta play was scuttled.  Superfecta went 6-2-5-3.
Bankroll gets a dime to $8.92.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Hip Hip Hollywood

Hooray for Hollywood Park to launch our horse racing weekend.  We look at a Turf stakes race on this wonderful Thursday.

Hollywood Park Race 7 {Harry Henson~6 furlongs~TURF~3 year old~Stakes}
This race figures to be top heavy with speed.  If the two favorites can keep the pace controlled they could coast to victory.  Only two in this excellent eight horse field appear to be ready to track and close.  It could turn out to be a significantly fast race.

#6 American Act (Bejarano / Carava) looks ready to dominate with the second highest last out speed number and three superb workouts.  This guy is the only one in the field to have competed over the six furlong TURF distance.  He will share front running duties and could wire the field.
$2 SHOW.

#8 Koast (Rosario / Sadler) will challenge with the highest last out speed number, two wins in two tries on the grass, and three vigorous workouts.  A battle between speedsters awaits.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#5 Consulado (Flores / Puype) should be in the speedy mix with the third highest last out speed number and four robust peaking workouts.  A 100% in the money runner in four career starts.

#2 Senor Rain (Gutierrez / P. Miller) has an excellent chance to post a win with the third highest overall speed number and two hardy, peaking workouts.  This guy could track the pace waiting for a torrid pace to make his move.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 American Act / #8 Koast / #5 Consulado / #2 Senor Rain.



Last Superfecta Sunday's (4/22) Results
Santa Anita R9.  San Juan Capistrano--G2.  We captured only two in our 10 CENT Superfecta Box.  Superfecta went 2-4-6-1.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Bonfire Knight [GB] failed to fire and finished 6th (last).
Bankroll plummets to $8.82.

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Superfecta Sunday at Santa Anita Fini

Closing day at Santa Anita brings us to a final Superfecta Sunday at that "Great Race Place" for the Spring meet.

Santa Anita Race 9 {San Juan Capistrano~G2~1 3/4 mile~TURF~4 year old Up~Stakes}
A fine field of six will make their start in this "marathon" Turf race.  Despite the small field all running styles are represented in here.  It should be a great race.  Let's piece together a solid 10 CENT Superfecta box

#2 Bourbon Bay (Rosario / Drysdale) is well prepped as the horse to beat.  He holds the highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three superb workouts.  He is the only one in the field with a win at this distance.

#1 Dhaamer [IRE] (Bejarano / Mitchell) could challenge with the second highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and three solid workouts.  He could track and close valiantly.

#5 Bonfire Knight [GB] (Talamo / Miyadi) should be in the mix with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and four stamina inducing workouts.  He appears ready to run a longer route.  This guy is our bronze horseshoe selection.
$2 SHOW.

#3 Hog's Hollow (Flores / Gallagher) will share speed duties with the third highest last out speed number and two strong workouts.  He is coming off a mile and a half turf contest and looks ready to go this distance.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#2 Bourbon Bay  +  #1 Dhaamer [IRE]  +  #5 Bonfire Knight [GB]  +  #3 Hog's Hollow.



Stakes Saturday Results
Aqueduct R9.  Jerome--G2.  Our first pick, The Lumber Guy, won (1st) for win money of $3.25 and show money of $1.25.  Our second pick, Term Loan, finished 6th (last).  Our third pick, Adirondack King, finished 5th.
Superfecta went 1-2-3-4.
Bankroll takes a bump and falls to $13.22.

Friday, April 20, 2012

Aqueduct Saturday Action

Stakes Saturday rolls in as we look at a great one mile race at the "Big A".

Aqueduct Race 9 {Jerome~G2~1 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A solid field of seven will saunter up to the gate for the start in this annual stakes race.  Strong speed could dictate the outcome of the race.  Any one of these lads could pull off the victory as they are all very closely matched.  A remarkable race should unfold.

#1 The Lumber Guy (Luzzi / Hushion) could pull of the victory with a controlled, speedy pace.  He holds the third highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three excellent, peaking workouts.  Expect him to share front running duties.
$1 WIN / SHOW.

#7 Term Loan (A. Garcia / Violette) will challenge on the front end with the highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three strong, peaking workouts.  He could maintain a swift pace until the wire.
$1 PLACE / SHOW.

#6 Adirondack King (Carmouche / Servis) could take advantage of a grueling pace with a decent last out speed number at a longer route and three robust, peaking workouts.  He is a force to be reckoned with.
$2 SHOW.

Another Wagering Interest

#2 Brigand (Nakatani / Baffert) should be in the mix with the second highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and two athletic, peaking workouts.  He could sit right off the pace ready to make his move.

10 CENT Superfecta

#1 The Lumber Guy, #7 Term Loan / #1, #7 / #6 Adirondack King, #2 Brigand / #6, #2.



Friday's Results
Keeneland R9.  Doubledogdare--G3.  Our first pick, La Gran Bailadora, finished 3rd for show money of $2.40.  Our second pick, Sea Level Drive, finished 4th.
We scuttled out 10 CENT Superfecta due to two key scratches.  Superfecta went 5-2-1-7.
Bankroll sheds a buck plus and falls to $15.12.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Back to Keeneland on Friday

Thank goodness it is Friday.  Today we take a look at a nice graded stakes route for the ladies.

Keeneland Race 9 {Hillard Lyons Doubledogdare~G3~1 1/16 mile~4 year old Up~fillies/mares~Stakes}
A very splendid field of eight will make their start in this annual race.  Not much speed represented here which will make for a fascinating race.

#1 La Gran Bailadora (Lanerie / Maker) looks to be in fine form with the third highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and four fabulous workouts.  She should track the pace and pounce in the stretch.
$2 SHOW.

#7 Sea Level Drive (Graham / Arnold) will challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and three solid workouts.  She has amassed two wins from two races over the Keeneland course.  Another that can track and close.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#5 Pachattack (Maragh / Motion) will be the favorite with the highest last out speed number prior to a five month layoff, was working on a four race progression and has put in four exhilarating, peaking workouts.  Clearly the one to beat.

#8 Joyful Victory (Albarado / Jones) will be a challenger with the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and two super swift workouts.  She should be forwardly placed, perhaps leading them on to the wire.

#4 Principal Role (Prado / Mott) has to be considered with a good racing career across the pond.  She principally ran longer routes over the sod with much success.  Now she makes the transition to the polytrack.  Could surprise with three quality works.

10 CENT Superfecta

#1 La Gran Bailadora / #7 Sea Level Drive / #5 Pachattack / #8 Joyful Victory, #4 Principal Role.



Thursday's Results
Keeneland R8.  Appalachian--G3.  Our first pick, Day at the Spa, won (1st) for show money of $2.20.  Our second pick, Regalo Mia, finished 3rd for show money of $3.00.
Superfecta went 1-4-8-6.
Bankroll grabs a few cents to rise to $16.72.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Keeneland Appalachian TURFday

For the first day of our horse racing weekend, Thursday, we take a gander at the Appalachian TURF stakes at beautiful Keeneland.

Keeneland Race 8 {Appalachian~G3~1 mile~TURF~3 year old~fillies~Stakes}
A terrific field of nine fillies will make their start in this annual stakes race.  A tiny bit of speed will make this look like a Euro style race with a quickening going into the turn.  It may look like a wall of horses heading to the wire in the stretch.

#1 Day at the Spa (Castellano / C. Brown) looks well prepared with the highest last out speed number at a longer route and four excellent peaking workouts.  She looks to be forwardly places and may get first run on the field.
$2 SHOW.

#8 Regalo Mia (Castanon / Nihei) will challenge with the second highest last out speed number at a longer route, a two race progression, and three robust workouts.  She should track the pace and rush the closing group.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#4 Somali Lemonade (Solis / Matz) will be coming off a layoff having run the third highest last out speed number at this distance.  She will challenge this field with a mighty closing run.  The only gal in this field to run over the Keeneland Turf, she has put in three vigorous workouts.

#6 Firehouse Red (Albarado / Jones) looks ready to run a good race with the third highest last out speed number, holding a three race progression, and two speedy workouts.  She should make a swift closing run.

10 CENT Superfecta

#1 Day at the Spa / #8 Regalo Mia / #4 Somali Lemonade / #6 Firehouse Red.



Last Superfecta Sunday (4/15)
Keeneland R7.  We got tripped up in our 10 CENT Superfecta Box effort hitting only two of the four wagering interests.  Superfecta went 2-4-1-10.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Workin' For Hops, finished a dissappointing 6th.
Bankroll plummets to $15.62.

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Superfecta Sunday at Keeneland

The Keeneland Spring meet is on a lot of our minds as we handicap our way towards the Kentucky Derby 2012.  Today we look at a spectacular allowance race over the TURF at Keeneland.

Keeneland Race 7 {1 mile~TURF~4 year old Up~Allowance}
A high quality field of ten Turf milers will make their start in this competitive allowance race.  All racing styles are present and can be counted on to provide a great race.  There is parity in this sharp caliber field.  Our challenge is to patch together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket.

#3 Workin' For Hops (Graham / Motion) is the class of the field coming off an extended layoff.  His last outing in the Fall of last year yields the second highest last out speed number all the while working on a two race progression.  This gelded son of City Zip has put in four superb peaking workouts in preparation for this.  He is also our Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$2 SHOW.

#1 Moryba (Prado / Mott) will challenge coming off a freshening with the fourth highest (tie) last out speed number, a two race progression, and four snappy workouts.  He has a win over the Keeneland course and should track the pace fluidly.

#2 Forte Dei Marmi [GB] (Sellers / Attfield) will also challenge with the highest last out speed number in a longer Turf route down at Gulfstream Park.  He is posting a two race progression, and has put in two strong peaking workouts.  This gelding should be amongst the tracking/closing faction.

#9 Jimmy Simms (Albarado / Asmussen) should be the speed of the race taking the field out in comfortable fractions.  He shares the fourth highest last out speed number and has put in four solid peaking workouts.  He could wire this field if left loose on the lead.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#3 Workin' For Hops  +  #1 Moryba  +  #2 Forte Dei Marmi [GB]  +  #9 Jimmy Simms.



Stakes Saturday Results
Keeneland R11.  Toyota Bluegrass--G1.  Our first pick, Dullahan, won (1st) for show money of $3.00.  Our second pick, Hansen, finished 2nd for show money of $2.60.  Our third pick, Prospective, finished off the board in 6th.
Superfecta went 6-4-2-9.
Bankroll gets trimmed to $20.02.

Saturday, April 14, 2012

Seeking Bluegrass Cash

Stakes Saturday is here.  Today we look at a tremendously talented field in the Toyota Bluegrass Stakes at Keeneland.  With Kentucky Derby 138 only three weeks away many fine Triple Crown nominated horses will be seeking more graded stakes earnings to punch their ticket to the greatest two minutes in sports.

Keeneland Race 11 {Toyota Bluegrass~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A fantastic field of thirteen will run over the polytrack at splendid Keeneland.  We have no need for speed as there is plenty of it in this stakes spectacular.  The pace promises to be lively, possibly setting it up for the trackers and closers.  With the large field, it could be any horses race.

#6 Dullahan (Desormeaux / Romans) should take advantage of the fierce pace with the fourth highest last out speed number over a Turf route, a two race progression, and two excellent workouts.  This colt has no pressure as he already has sufficient earnings for a gate in KD 138.  He will be closing swiftly in the stretch.
$2 SHOW.

#4 Hansen (Dominguez / Maker) is the speed of the race and the deserved favorite.  This beautiful horse holds the highest last out speed number and has put in four superior workouts.  He is numero uno on the graded stakes earnings list for KD 138.
$2 SHOW.

#3 Prospective (Contreras / Casse) is another that could benefit from a speedy pace.  The son of Malibu Moon holds the second highest (tie) last out speed number, a four race progression, and two robust workouts.  He could surprise this field with a quick late run. This colt needs the Derby cash.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests
With a super strong field, there are many to consider.  Here are three.

#10 Howe Great (Castellano / Motion) may share front running duties with the third highest last out speed number, a five race progression, and two athletic workouts.  Will make a transition from Turf to Poly.

#8 Midnight Crooner (Gomez / Baffert) has the highest speed number over synthetic which also was a win.  He has put in a beautiful workout tab of three peaking workouts.  Could be a major factor with a forwardly placed postion.

#11 Ever So Lucky (Leparoux / Sheppard) should also be in the mix with a couple of decent last out speed numbers, a three race progression, and two impressive, fast works.  This son of Indian Charlie cause is aided by the skilled guidance of jockey, Julien Leparoux, who is definitely in the zone.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 Dullahan / #4 Hansen / #3 Prospective / #10 Howe Great, #8 Midnight Crooner, #11 Ever So Lucky.



Friday's Results
Keeneland R7.  Our first pick, Coalport, won (1st) for show money of $3.00.  Our second pick, Film Shot, finished 2nd for show money of $6.00
Superfecta went 7-8-9-3.
Bankroll leaps to $21.32.

Friday, April 13, 2012

Keeneland Turf Friday

A great Friday for a little TURF action.  Today we look at a competitive Turf route at magnificent Keeneland.

Keeneland Race 7 {1 1/16 mile~TURF~3 year old~Allowance}
A quality field of ten is expected to show up in this TURF route.  A speedster will lead the way with a few pressing the pace and the remaining sitting ready to quicken the pace in the turn for the stretch.  Should be a fabulous race on the green.

#7 Coalport (Leparoux / Catalano) has a slight edge with the second highest last out speed number at a longer route, a two race progression, and two diligent workouts.  He could track and close well for the win.
$2 SHOW.

#8 Film Shot (Prado / Mott) can be expected to lead the way with the fourth highest last out speed number and four superb peaking workouts.  This speedster is capable of wiring the field.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#10 Heiko (Cruz / Miller) could be the surprise with the highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three steady workouts.  He could find a nice pocket to sit in and rocket into the stretch.

#3 Unremitting (Mena / Pierce) is another that could surprise with the third highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and three robust workouts.  He could close well into the pace.

10 CENT Superfecta

#7 Coalport / #8 Film Shot / #10 Heiko / #3 Unremitting.




Thursday's Results
Keeneland R8.  Vinery Madison--G1.  Our first pick, La Reine Lionne, was scratched.  Our second pick, Groupie Doll, won (1st) for show money of $4.20.
We scuttled our 10 CENT Superfecta due to the scratch of our top pick.  Superfecta went 8-7-9-2.
Bankroll gets a lift to $16.42.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Keeneland Thursday

A great race stacks up at Keeneland to launch our horse racing weekend.  We look at the grade one Vinery Madison.

Keeneland Race 8 {Vinery Madison~G1~7 furlongs~4 year old Up~fillies/mares~Stakes}
An exceptionally talented group of ten will make their start in this annual stakes sprint.  It appears a little top heavy with the forwardly placed which could make for a dandy of a battle to the wire.  Any one of these ten could come away with the victory.

#5 La Reine Lionne (J. Velazquez / C. Brown) has a micron of an edge with the second highest (tie) last out speed number, a three race progression, and two solid workouts.  She could sit up close to the pace ready to spring to the lead into the stretch.
$2 SHOW.

#8 Groupie Doll (Maragh / Bradley) will challenge using a mid-pack approach.  She shares the second highest last out speed number, has a two race progression, and has posted one bullet workout.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#2 Musical Romance (Leyva / Kaplan) will be a major contender with the highest last out speed number as well as the highest speed number at the distance.  She is managing a two race progression and has put in one stout bullet workout.

#4 Sugarinthemorning (Bejarano / McAnally) will also be in the mix with the fourth highest last out speed number and four stamina inducing workouts.  She could be the surprise utilizing a nice tracking style.

10 CENT Superfecta

#5 La Reine Lionne, #8 Groupie Doll / #5, #8 / #2 Musical Romance, #4 Sugarinthemorning / #2, #4.



Last Superfecta Sunday's (4/8) Results
Gulfstream Park R10.  Wait A While Stakes.  We did not prevail in our 10 CENT Superfecta box hitting only two of four wagering interests.  Superfecta went 5-3-8-6.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Anne's Beauty, finished 5th.
Bankroll takes a hit and falls to $14.22.

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Superfecta Sunday at Gulfstream Park, Tercer Intento

We witnessed some spectacular graded stakes yesterday.  Now onto our Superfecta Sunday.  Today we look at a nice little stakes race at beautiful Gulfstream Park.

Gulfstream Park Race 10 {Wait A While~1 1/16 mile~TURF~3 year old Up~Fillies/Mares~Stakes}
A good field of eight should go to the gate.  The field had been set for ten, but two raced yesterday.  Doubt they will go today.  Speak Easy Girl raced at Tampa Bay Downs in a stakes race and Entrustment raced in an allowance at Gulfstream Park.  The remaining field has a nice balance of running styles which should make for a solid race.  Today we try to paste together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket.

#5 Race to Urga (Lezcano / Clement) appears to be the best prepped with the highest (most recent) last out speed number, a five race progression, and one hefty workout.  She could track the pace and explode in the stretch.

#8 Distorted Legacy (Maragh / Penna) will challenge with the highest last out speed number prior to an extended layoff.  She held a three race progression and has put in four exceptional workouts.  She should track and close this field.

#9 Anne's Beauty (Rocco / Attard) is coming off a long layoff, but has done well in the past firing fresh.  She is stakes placed up at Woodbine and is arguably the class of this field.  She had a couple of decent speed numbers in those stakes scores last out and has put in two fine workouts.  Our Bronze Horseshoe selection today.
$2 SHOW.

#7 Ima Soul Miss (Trujillo / Attfield) will be in contention with the second most recent last out speed number, a two race progression, and three athletic, peaking workouts.  She can press or track to surprise the group.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#5 Race To Urga  +  #8 Distorted Legacy  +  #9 Anne's Beauty  +  #7 Ima Soul Miss.



Stakes Saturday Results
We watched exciting Stakes Saturday races where Derby dreams where realized and dashed.

Aqueduct R8.  Bayshore--G3.  Our first pick, Hardened Wildcat, finished 2nd for show money of $1.05.  Our second pick, How Do I Win, finished 3rd for show money of $1.55.  Our third pick, Copy My Swagger, finished 8th (last)
Superfecta went 1-6-8-7.

Hawthorne Race Course R9.  Illinois Derby--G3.  Our first pick, Pretension, finished 9th.  Our second pick, Morgan's Guerilla finished 2nd for place money of $2.90 and show money of $2.20.  Our third pick, Entourage, finished 5th.
Superfecta went 13-12-2-7.

Bankroll takes a plunge to $18.62.

Saturday, April 7, 2012

Important Stakes Saturday

An important Stakes Saturday is on tap today with no less than four great Derby prep races on the docket.  We will look at two of them as a number of horses will be aiming for additional graded stakes earnings to gain entry into the gate at KD 138.

Aqueduct Race 8 {Bayshore~G3~7 furlongs~3 year old~Stakes}
A very talented field of eight will go to the gate.  Only one, Trinniberg, has the opportunity to grab enough earnings from this $250K race to earn entry into the Kentucky Derby 2012. But, he has to win.  There are others here seeking to dash his derby dreams.  Substantial speed in this race could set up nicely for the late running boys.

#6 Hardened Wildcat (Alvarado / C. Brown) should get the job done with the highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and two stout workouts.  He should take advantage of the swift pace and come a running in the stretch.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#8 How Do I Win (J. Velazquez / Pletcher) will share speed duties on the front end.  He holds the third highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and one solid workout.  This son of Corinthian already has a win over the "Big A" track.
$1 PLACE / $1 SHOW.

#3 Copy My Swagger (Cohen / Jacobson) looks well prepped coming off a route with the fourth highest (tie) last out speed number and one peaking workout.  He could be forwardly placed ready to strike into the turn.
$1 SHOW.

Another Wagering Interest

#1 Trinniberg (Martinez / Parboo) has the speed to get the job done with the second highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and one superb workout.  He has to contend with speed next door, speed in the center, and speed to the far outside.  This could make for a wicked pace.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 Hardened Wildcat, #8 How Do I Win / #6, #8 / #3 Copy My Swagger, #1 Trinniberg / #3, #1.


Hawthorne Race Course Race 9 {Illinois Derby~G3~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
This years running of the IL Derby has a huge field of fourteen making the start and additional three that are also eligible.  It is a perfectly balanced field of speedsters, pressers, trackers, and closers.  It should be an exciting race. 

Interestingly enough, only one in here has the potential of gaining more graded stakes earnings that could push his total into the top twenty.  That contender is Currency Swap.  The IL Derby has a purse of 500K, should he win he will be in.  If this son of High Cotton only finishes second, he will be on the KD 138 bubble.  All the other entrants in this race would have to win to have an opportunity to go to post in the 2012 Kentucky Derby.  The pressure is on.

#5 Pretension (Santiago / Grove) looks superbly primed for this race with the third highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and two exceptional, peaking workouts.  It is incumbant upon trainers to boost the stamina of the horses prior to racing at Hawthorne with its long and challenging stretch.  Trainer, Christopher Grove, has done that with this son of Bluegrass Cat.  This colt should be forwardly placed ready for the stretch run.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#12 Morgan's Guerilla (Napravnik / Maker) will show speed and may take the lead.  He has the fourth highest (tie) last out speed number and two mighty, peaking workouts.  This son of Ghostzapper will certainly avoid the traffic in this huge field.
$1 PLACE / $1 SHOW.

#11 Our Entourage (Castro / Pletcher) appears primed for a big effort with the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and four supreme, peaking workouts.  He will challenge while being forwardly placed, ready to get first run on the leaders.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#4 Currency Swap (Bridgmohan / Pompay) will be in the hunt with the highest speed number over the surface.  He will be stretching out for this one with a couple of decent last out speed numbers, a two race progression, and three credible workouts.  He will be in the thick of it with a pressing attack.

#2 Hakama (Pimental / Trombetta) will also be stretching out with the fourth highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three excellent, peaking workouts.  He is a threat holding nice tactical speed.

#8 Z Rockstar (Hamilton / Von Hemel) will certainly be one of the contenders with the highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and two robust workouts.  Another with tactical speed that could pull off a victory if well positioned.

#13 Done Talking (Russell / Smith) has gone this distance and appears ready to improve in his second race at the distance.  A son of Broken Vow, he holds the highest speed number at the distance and has put in two speedy workouts.  He has to be considered as a strong closer in a speed ladened field.

10 CENT Superfecta

#5 Pretension / #12 Morgan's Guerilla / #11 Our Entourage / #4 Currency Swap, #2 Hakama, #8 Z Rockstar, #13 Done Talking.



Friday's Results
Keeneland R9.  Transylvania Stakes--G3.  Our first pick, State of Play, finished 3rd for show money of $2.80.  Our second pick, Silver Max, won (1st) for show money of $2.80.
Superfecta went 6-3-1-5.
Bankroll goes up a notch to $22.72.

Friday, April 6, 2012

Keeneland 2012 Opener

Keeneland opens its Spring meet on this fantastic Friday.  We look at the venerable Transylvania Stakes.

Keeneland Race 9 {Transylvania~G3~1 1/16 mile~TURF~3 year old~Stakes}
A sensational field of seven are expected to make the start in this annual opening Turf Stakes race.  An evenly balanced field of running styles should make this a very good race.

#1 State of Play (J. Velazquez / Motion) looks ready to take another stride forward with the third highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and two solid workouts.  He has the tactical speed to take the victory.
$2 SHOW.

#6 Silver Max (Albarado / Romans) will challenge on the front end with the fourth highest last out speed number and one robust workout.  If he can hold off the others, he could wire this field.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#3 Travel Advisory (Cruz / Gorder) could be the surprise with the highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and two superb, peaking workouts.  Should the pace become heated, this guy could close well.

#7 Icon Ike (Mena / L. Jones) will stretching out in distance with the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and one impressive workout.  He could sit mid-pack ready to strike.

#5 Monastic (Leparoux / Proctor) has already gone this distance and appears likely to be in the mix in this race.  He holds the third highest speed number at the distance and is 100 % in the money at both the distance and over the grass.  Another that will take advantage of a fast pace.

10 CENT Superfecta

#1 State of Play / #6 Silver Max / #3 Travel Advisory / #7 Icon Ike, #5 Monastic.



Thursday's Results
Santa Anita R6.  Our first pick, Mildly Offensive, won (1st) for show money of $2.40.  Our second pick, American Lady, finished 2nd for show money of $2.40.
We hit the 10 CENT Superfecta for $4.40.  Superfecta went 6-1-8-2.
Bankroll makes a jump to $21.32.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Great Horse Racing Weekend

We begin our horse racing weekend with a sizzling sprint at sensational Santa Anita.

Santa Anita Race 6 {6 furlongs~4 year old Up~fillies/mares~Optional Claiming}
A splendid field of eight will line up for this dandy dirt sprint.  With tons of speed this sprint should be sizzling. 

#6 Mildly Offensive (Bejarano / Gaines) looks ready coming off a extended layoff.  She holds the second highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and four super speedy workouts.  This gal can be expected to share front end duties and could better this field.
$2 SHOW.

#1 American Lady (M. Garcia / Baffert) is another coming off a long layoff.  She does hold the highest speed number at the distance and has put in four exceptionally swift workouts.  She should be forwardly placed ready for a first strike in the stretch.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#8 Chukchi Sunrise (Krigger / Morey) is another speedy type that be counted on for a strong challenge.  She has the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and three robust workouts.  This mare has nine wins to her credit which could provide an edge.

#2 Miss Radiance (Gomez / Puype) is the tracker/closer in the race that could benefit most from a torrid pace.  She holds the fourth highest last out speed number and has posted three solid, peaking workouts.  Could surprise the field running in the stretch.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 Mildly Offensive, #1 American Lady / #6, #1 / #8 Chukchi Sunrise, #2 Miss Radiance / #8, #2.



Last Superfecta Sunday (4/1) Results
Fair Grounds Race Course R10.  Louisiana Derby--G2.  What a shocking race as we only had two of four in our 10 CENT Superfecta box.  Superfecta went 12-1A-11-6.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Cigar Street, finished fourth.
Bankroll got shut out and falls to $16.52

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Superfecta Sunday at Fair Grounds

Some seriously good colts converge on good old New Orleans for the Louisiana Derby.  We try our hand at piecing together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket on this spectacular Sunday.

Fair Grounds Race Course Race 10 {Louisiana Derby~G2~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A great race stacks up with fourteen equally talented horses going to post.  Who will have a breakout race seeking a Kentucky Derby 138 gate posiiton?  The pace is on!  A half dozen speedsters will jostle for the lead.  The balance of the group will have a tracking or closing style which will be beneficial if the pace heats up.  Most of the entrants will only have to step up another 110 yards to make the distance.  Only Finnegans Wake has gone the distance, although over Turf.  This years running of the LA Derby will be much more exciting than yesterday's FL Derby, which says a lot. 

Let's take a stab at our 10 CENT Superfecta Box.

#1A Mark Valeski (Napravnik / Jones) has to finish no worse than second to punch his ticket in for KD 138.  He holds the highest last out speed number, is working a four race progression, and has put in two super charges workouts.  This colt will be the one to beat.
This represents a coupled entry with #1 Mr. Bowling.

#3 Windsurfer (J. Velazquez / Pletcher) will challenge with a swimming tracking run.  He holds the third highest (tie) last out speed number, a three race progression, and four conscientious workouts.  This son of Speightstown could pull off the victory.  The Winstar connections will need him to win it to get in to KD 138.

#6 Cigar Street (Bridgmohan / Margolis)  could share front end duties looking to capture a KD 138 ride.  He holds the second highest last out speed number, a two race progression making his third career start, and has posted two humble workouts.  We toss a bronze horseshoe to this son of 2007 Kentucky Derby winner, Street Sense.
$2 SHOW.

#10 Z Dager (Sellers / Asmussen) could pull the big surprise with a win.  He will need at least a second place finish to secure his Derby dreams.  This sneaky son of Mizzen Mast has already finished in the money in two previous Fair Grounds stakes races.  He looks ready for a big one with the fourth highest (tie) last out speed number and four superb, peaking workouts.  Should he find himself mid-pack, conserving energy for the stretch run, he could find his way into the winners circle.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#1A Mark Valeski (#1 Mr. Bowling)  +  #3 Windsurfer  +  #6 Cigar Street  +  #10 Z Dager.



Stakes Saturday Results
Meydan Race Course (Dubai, UAE) R8.  Dubai Sheema Classic--G1.  Our first pick, Cirrus des Aigles [Fr], won (1st) for win money of $4.50 and place money of $1.70.  Our second pick, Treasure Beach [GB] finished 4th.  Our third pick, Mahooba [AUS], finished 5th.
Superfecta went 8-9-7-6.

Gulfstream Park R11.  Florida Derby--G1.  Our first pick, El Padrino, finished 4th.  Our second pick, Union Rags, finished 3rd for show money of $1.05.  Our third pick, Take Charge Indy, won (1st) for show money of $1.80.
Superfecta went 3-9-6-8.

Bankroll gets trimmed a few cents to $20.92.