Sunday, April 28, 2013

Superfecta Sunday in Hollywood

Today we peer at a Tinseltown Turf mile for our Superfecta Sunday play.

Betfair Hollywood Park Race 8 {Wilshire Handicap~G3~1 mile~TURF~3 year old Up~Fillies/Mares~Stakes}
A fine field of eight ladies will take to the grass in this annual affair.  There is enough forwardly placed types to keep the pace honest, but expect a legitimate quickening around the turn for home.  All of these gals appear equal in capability, but we must pick four to fasten together our 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket.

#1 Purim's Dancer (T. Baze / Proctor) appears ready to stretch out to the mile distance after hitting the second highest last out speed number in a sprint.  She is 100% in the money over the turf in five starts and has put in three superb workouts.  This gal should be part of the forwardly placed group.  She is out Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$2 SHOW.

#8 Halo Dolly (Bejarano / Hollendorfer) will challenge with a couple of decent last out speed numbers.  She is coming off a longer route last out and has put in three good workouts.  This Golden Gate gal has the second highest speed number at the distance all the while notching five wins in seven races at same.  She has the tactical speed to be up front or hold back and roll late.

#4 Moone's My Name [GB] (Talamo / Sadler) should contend well making her second North American start after a good career racing in Great Britain.  She holds the highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three endurance building workouts.  This gal could track and close swiftly.

#5 Esentepe [IRE] (Nakatani / Hollendorfer) should be in the game with the third highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three strong peaking workouts.  She is an experienced turfer with a solid tracking/closing running style.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#1 Purim's Dancer  +  #8 Halo Dolly  +  #4 Moone's My Name [GB]  +  #5 Esentepe [IRE].



Stakes Saturday Results
Belmont Park R9.  Westchester--G3.  Our first pick, Norman Asbjornson, finished 5th (last).  Our second pick, Cross Traffic, finished 2nd for place money of $1.30 and show money of $2.10.  Our third pick, Big Screen, finished 4th.
The race had three scratches which eliminated any Superfecta play.
Bankroll gets pounded and falls to $23.85.

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Big Sandy Stakes Saturday

Spring is in the air as some of the premiere race tracks begin opening up.  On this Stakes Saturday we take a look at a very contentious graded stakes race at the "Big Sandy".

Belmont Park Race 9 {Westchester~G3~1 mile~3 year old Up~Stakes}
A highly talented group of eight will go to the gate in this annual stakes race.  There is enough speed to keep the pace honest.  Any one of these entrants can win.  There speed numbers are comparable across the board.  It will be a terrific race.

#6 Norman Asbjornson (Rose / Mancita) may have the edge with a perfect record over the mile distance in three starts.  He holds the second highest (3-way tie) last out speed number at a longer route, a three race progression, and one serious workout.  He should be able to track a fluid pace and score.
$1 WIN / $2 PLACE / $3 SHOW.

#2 Cross Traffic (Castellano / Pletcher) should challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and four exceptional workouts.  He should be able to sit on the pace and launch into the stretch.  This guy will be making only his third career start.
$1 PLACE / $2 SHOW.

#7 Big Screen (Ortiz / Albertrani) may surprise with the third highest last out speed number, a five race progression, and three hearty workouts.  He should be forwardly placed ready to strike.  This guy has already secured two wins in two starts at this distance.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#5 Rattlesnake Bridge (Lezcano / McLaughlin) should be in the mix sharing the second highest last out speed number, holding a two race progression, and putting in two solid workouts.  He should be tracking the front group and make his move.

#3 Flat Out (Alvarado / Mott) could pull off the victory with the highest last out speed number at a longer route, a two race progression, and two robust workouts.  He loves the Belmont track and in his three starts here, has scored victoriously.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 Norman Asbjornson / #2 Cross Traffic / #7 Big Screen / #5 Rattlesnake Bridge, #3 Flat Out.



Friday's Results
Keeneland R9.  Elkhorn--G2.  Our first pick, Ioya Bigtime, finished 9th.  Our second pick, Reflecting, finished 5th.  Our third pick, Dark Cove, won (1st) for show money of $3.40.
Superfecta went 6-3-1-2.
Bankroll slips a few cents to settle at $30.45.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Friday Turf at Keeneland

On this, the last Friday of April, we take a peek at a mighty fine Turf race on closing day at Keeneland.

Keeneland Race 9 {Elkhorn~G2~1 1/2 mile~TURF~4 year old Up~Stakes}
A solid group of eleven will go to the green in the closing race of the Spring meet.  There is enough speed / forwardly placed in this one to keep the pace swift.  It should be a worthy cap to a splendid meet.

#8 Ioya Bigtime (Sanchez / Block) should be able to set a smooth pace and wire this field.  He holds the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and two robust workouts.  This guy also shares the highest speed number at the distance.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#5 Reflecting (Albarado / McGaughey) will challenge with the third highest (tie) last out speed number, a two race progression, and two superb peeking workouts.  He has the tactical speed to stay close to the pace and unleash in the stretch.
$1 SHOW.

#6 Dark Cove (Rosario / Maker) is primed to contend in this one with the second highest (tie) last out speed number, a four race progression, and three hearty workouts.  He is another that can be expected to press the pace until the finish.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interest

#11 Al Khali (Gomez / Mott) should be in the mix with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and two athletic workouts.  He holds the second highest speed number at the distance.  This guy figures to be mid-pack ready to close well.

#3 Side Road (Stevens / McLaughlin) could surprise with the fourth highest last out speed number, a five race progression, and one hardy workout.  He is one capable of tracking the pace and moving through the stretch.

10 CENT Superfecta

#8 Ioya Bigtime / #5 Reflecting / #6 Dark Cove / #11 Al Khali, #3 Side Road.



Thursday's Results
Betfair Hollywood Park R7.  Harry Henson Stakes.  Our first pick, Sacred Ovation, finished 2nd for show money of $2.20.  Our second pick, No Contingency, finished 5th.
Superfecta went 5-2-1-6.
Bankroll slips to $31.25.



Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Hollywood Horse Racing Weekend

On this pleasant April Thursday we take a look at a fine Turf Sprint.

Hollywood Park Race 7 {Harry Henson Stakes~6 furlongs~TURF~3 year olds}
A small field of six will go to the Tinsel Town grass in this annual stakes event.  There is plenty of speed in this one to keep things flowing.  A couple in this race are Triple Crown nominated whose connections seem to have gone off the trail taking a road less traveled.  It should be a very interesting race.

#2 Sacred Ovation (Steiner / Sherman) could control the pace and march into the winners circle.  He holds the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and one diligent workout.  This guy should take another step forward.
$2 SHOW.

#4 No Contingency (Talamo / Velazquez) will challenge with the third highest last out speed number and four tremendous workouts.  He is coming off a downhill Turf effort which will help his try here.  He can be expected to be with the forwardly placed crowd up front.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#3 Meringue Pie [GB] (Gutierrez / O'Neill) should be in the mix with the second highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and one solid workout.  He has gone this distance with a win overseas.  A capable runner that could utilize tactical speed.

#5 Summer Exclusive (Gomez / P. Miller) is a Triple Crown nominee searching for his best surface and distance.  He had a good effort two races ago and if he can repeat that he could win this one.  This guy could sit right off the pace and romp.  Two strong peaking workouts aids his cause.

10 CENT Superfecta

#2 Sacred Ovation / #4 No Contingency / #3 Meringue Pie [GB] / #5 Summer Exclusive.



Last Superfecta Sunday Results
Keeneland R6.  Allowance.  Our 10 CENT Superfecta box effort fell well short of the mark.  Superfecta went 10-1-5-9.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Googleado [ARG], took 2nd for show money of $7.20.
Bankroll rises to $33.15.

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Superfecta Sunday at Keeneland

We view a nice little poly sprint on this Superfecta Sunday.

Keeneland Race 6 {7 furlongs~4 year old Up~Allowance}
A talented field of eleven will go to the poly in this allowance feature.  Not much speed in this one, though there are a few that like to run forwardly placed.  He who controls the pace could win the race.

#7 Let's Go Ben (Leparoux / LoPresti) is coming off a brief layoff with a couple of decent last out speed figures and three superb peaking workouts.  This guy holds the second highest speed number at the distance as well as the highest speed number over the poly at Keeneland.    He has the tactical speed that could control this one and earn him another victory.

#2 Palio Prince (Torres / Puhl) looks impressive with the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and one bullet workout.  He has run very well at this distance and should be forwardly placed.

#1 Googleado [ARG] (Graham / Stidham) appears well prepped for his second North American start with the third highest last out speed number (4-way tie), a two race progression, and two stellar peaking workouts.  Based on his strong set of works over the surface, he may take well to it and close swiftly into the pace.  He is our Bronze Horseshoe selection today.
$2 SHOW.

#8 Making Amends (Albarado / Casse) is coming off a lengthly layoff , but has landed in the money on a previous long layoff.  Prior to the lay off he shares the third highest last out speed number at a stakes route, was working a two race progression, and has put in three dynamite workouts.  This guy could track his way into the winners circle.

10 CENT Superfecta box ($2.40)

#7 Let's Go Ben  +  #2 Palio Prince  +  #1 Googleado [ARG]  +  #8 Making Amends.



Stakes Saturday Results
Hawthorne Race Course R8.  Illinois Derby--G3.  Our first pick, Departing, won (1st) for win money of $2.90, place money of $3.60 and show money of $4.50.  Our second pick, Siete de Oros, finished 3rd for show money of $2.90.  Our third pick, Ground Transport, finished 9th.
Superfecta went 13-10-12-8.
Bankroll gets a slight rise to $30.35.

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Stakes Saturday in Illinois

We venture to that wonderful working men and women track, Hawthorne Race Course, for what should be one of the premiere races along the road to the Kentucky Derby.  But alas, it was left off the trail this year.  Perhaps the KD "points committee" will tweak their list of races that award points for next year.

Hawthorne Race Course Race 8 {Illinois Derby~G3~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A fabulous field of fourteen very talented horses will venture out on the dirt for this annual graded stakes race.  We have a good deal of rain since the beginning of April, but today it will be mostly sunny and 47 degrees Farenheit.  A beautiful, crisp day for horse racing.  All but four in this field are Triple Crown nominated.  There are enough forwardly placed types in here to keep the pace flowing.  Those that like to track or close are well represented in this large field as well.  Parity best describes this fantastic field of late developing equine athletes.  Any one of them are capable of taking another step forward in their career and pull off the victory.  It should be one of the best races this Spring.

#13 Departing (Hernandez / Stall) has a slight edge with the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and two bullet workouts.  He should be tracking this pace comfortably and closely allowing him to drive swiftly into the stretch.  Could be the one to beat with the highest speed number, a triple digit, at this distance.
$1 WIN / $2 PLACE / $3 SHOW.

#12 Siete de Oros (Arroyo / Preciado) will challenge with the third highest last out speed number, a seven race progression, improving with every race run in his career, and two endurance producing, peaking workouts.  This handsome son of A.P. Warrior has the tactical speed as well as versatile style of running to see how the race develops, then launch into a strong stretch run.
$1 PLACE / $2 SHOW.

#5 Ground Transport (Guidry / Stidham) should also contend with the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and two peaking bullet workouts.  This athletic son of Big Brown should be ready to transverse across the Hawthorne dirt in tracking fashion.  He is one of eight in this field that has already gone this distance.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#10 Fordubai (D. Sanchez / Geier) could surprise with a couple of good last out speed numbers, a four race progression, and four robust workouts.  He fancies this Hawthorne track with two laudable runs over it.  This dark brown colt, a son of E Dubai, should be ready to take another step forward.

#8 Abraham (Castellano / Pletcher) should be in the mix with a couple of good last out speed numbers and two stout workouts.  His connections know how to win races and will have him primed for this race.  He is the only one in this field that has gone this distance twice and has acquitted himself well.  This son of Distorted Humor should show speed and figure prominently in the overall pace.

#3 Street Spice (J. Sanchez / Geier) should make another forward progression with a couple of decent last out speed numbers, a two race progression, and two hearty workouts.  As a son of the great Street Sense watch him launch a powerful kick going into the stretch.

10 CENT Superfecta

#13 Departing / #12 Siete de Oros / #5 Ground Transport / #10 Fordubai, #8 Abraham, #3 Street Spice.



Friday's Results
Keeneland R9.  Doubledogdare--G3.  Our first pick, Mystical Star, finished 4th.  Our second pick, Inglorious, finished 6th (last).  Our third pick, Lotta Lovin, finished 5th.
One of our 10 CENT Superfecta picks scratched.  Consequently, we set aside our 10 CENT Superfecta effort.  Superfecta went 2-6-1-5.
Bankroll gets washed to settle at $26.75.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Friday Feature at Keeneland

On this Friday, we look at a nice route coming from magnificent Keeneland.

Keeneland Race 9 {Doubledogdare~G3~1 1/16 mile~4 year old~fillies/mares~Stakes}
An equally capable field of eight gals will go to the gate for this feature race.  Any one of them could win this one.  There are enough forwardly placed types to keep the pace honest.  It should be a fine race.

#5 Mystical Star (Lezcano / Clement) looks ready coming off a decent effort in a longer Turf route and putting in one good workout.  She has competed well over the synthetic and holds the highest speed number over the Keeneland track.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#3 Inglorious (Leparoux / J. Carroll) will challenge with the third highest last out speed number and a two race progression prior to a modest layoff.  She has put in three mighty workouts prepping for this race.  This gal holds the highest speed number at the distance.
$1 SHOW.

#7 Lotta Lovin (A. Garcia / Maker) is coming off a ninety day layoff and should contend.  She holds the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and three superb workouts.  This filly should be found close to the pace ready to roll.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#8 Minakshi [FR] (Rocco / Matz) will be making her first North America start after a fine career racing in France.  In her last out she posted a high quality rating and was working a three race progression before a long layoff.  This well bred gal has strung together three strong workouts in the last thirty days.  She could be found forwardly placed perhaps leading the group.

#6 Sisterhood (Rosario / Ward) should be in the mix with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and two robust workouts.  She holds the second highest speed number at the distance and has done well over the synthetic surface scoring the second highest speed number over the Keeneland track.  Expect her to be either forwardly placed or mid-pack.

10 CENT Superfecta

#5 Mystical Star / #3 Inglorious / #7 Lotta Lovin / #8 Minakshi [FR], #6 Sisterhood.



Thursday's Results
Keeneland R8.  Appalachian--G3.  Our first pick, Whatsdachance [IRE], finished 4th.  Our second pick, To My Valentine [FR], finished 6th.  Our third pick, Unbelievable Dream, won (1st) for show money of $2.30.
We scuttled our 10 CENT Superfecta play due to a scratch.  Superfecta went 2-5-6-4.
Bankroll gets a shave to $30.95.

Keeneland Turf Thursday

A pleasant Thursday to engage in a nice Turf contest as the start of our horse racing weekend.

Keeneland Race 8 {Appalachian~G3~1 mile~TURF~3 year old~fillies~Stakes}
A great group of ten will take to the grass in this annual contest.  The vast majority are coming off a modest layoff or freshener.  All are comparable in terms of speed numbers over the TURF.    There should be enough speed to keep this one fluid.  It should shape up as a highly competitive event.

#4 Whatsdachance [IRE] (Castellano / C. Brown) has the edge with the second highest last out speed number and a three race progression prior to a longer layoff.  She has put in four robust peaking workouts in preparation.  This gal holds the second highest speed number at the distance and has a 100% in the money record in five career starts over the TURF.  Certainly the one to beat.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#8 To My Valentine [FR] (Nakatani / Ward) will challenge with the highest last out speed number and a two race progression prior to a short freshening.  She has also put in three solid works in the last thirty days.  This lovely French bred has a versatile running style that should serve her well.
$1 SHOW.

#2 Unbelievable Dream (Rosario / Tagg) should be in contention with the fourth highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and four healthy workouts.  She should close well into a swift pace.  This daughter of Kitalpha already has two victories in two races at this TURF distance.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#6 Eden Prairie (Hernandez / Pessin) should be in the hunt with the third highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and two hearty workouts.  She has already notched a victory over the Keeneland Turf.  Expect her to be forwardly placed.

#1 Rutherford Rd [ONT-C] (Contreras / Doyle) could surprise with a couple of o.k. last out speed numbers and a two race progression prior to an extended layoff.  Now a three year old, she has put in four stout peaking workouts in preparation of her first start this year.  This gal has two wins in three races over the TURF.

10 CENT Superfecta 

#4 Whatsdachance [IRE]  / #8 To My Valentine [FR] / #2 Unbelievable Dream / #6 Eden Prairie, #1 Rutherford Rd [ONT-C].



Last Superfecta Sunday (4/14) Results
Keeneland R8.  Beaumont--G2.  We misfired on our 10 CENT SUperfecta box bid by capturing only two of the four racers.  Superfecta went 10-6-4-9.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Allaboutcaroline, finished 7th.
Bankroll gets a punch and lands at $32.65


Sunday, April 14, 2013

Superfecta Sunday at Keeneland

Into a sunny Superfecta Sunday in Kentucky we go.

Keeneland Race 8 {Beaumont Stakes~G2~7 furlongs~3 year old~fillies}
A superb field of eleven will make their way in this fantastique running of the Beaumont.  There is enough speed to keep the race humming.  Most are coming off nice freshener's.  It is clear that this race will be both intriguing and exciting.  Let's attempt to put together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket.

#8 Allaboutcaroline (Leparoux / Motion) looks ready to get back to the polytrack surface she enjoys.  She is coming off a nice freshening sporting the highest speed number on synthetic.  This gal has put in four bold peaking workouts in preparation and should be forwardly placed ready to strike.  A daughter of Value Plus, she will be our Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$2 SHOW.

#2 Premiere Steps [IRE] (Castellano / C. Brown) should be in the pocket ready to launch into the stretch.  She holds the third highest last out speed number off a route, a two race progression, and four solid workouts.  Her pedigree indicates she should take well to this surface after having run on Turf in her seven career starts.

#4 Judy in Disguise [GB] (Smith / Callaghan) will contend with the highest last out speed number prior to her freshening.  She is working a three race progression and has put in four athletic workouts prepping for this one.  This gal should be the speed of the race and is quite capable of holding off all challengers.

#10 Ciao Bella Luna (Rosario / Hollendorfer) should be in the hunt with the fourth highest (tie) last out speed number, a two race progression, and five snappy, peaking workouts.  This gal should track the leaders and pounce in the stretch.  She has run very well over synthetic, albeit Tapeta, and could feel comfortable over the poly.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#8 Allaboutcaroline  +  #2 Premiere Steps [IRE]  +  #4 Judy in Disguise [GB]  +  #10 Ciao Bella Luna.



Stakes Saturday Results
Oaklawn Park R10.  Arkansas Derby--G1.  Our first pick, Overanalyze, won (1st) for win money of $9.40, place money of $8.40, and show money of $9.20.  Our second pick, War Academy, finished 10th (last), apparently pulled-up.  Our third pick, Carve, finished 3rd for show money of $8.60.
Superfecta went 9-8-1-4.
Bankroll blooms like a sweet apple blossom, rising to $37.05.
  

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Stakes Saturday at Oaklawn

On this beautiful Spring Saturday we take a look at one of the two remaining premiere Kentucky Derby preps, The Arkansas Derby.

Oaklawn Park Race 10 {Arkansas Derby~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
An inspiring group of ten will make their start seeking derby points to land a spot in the 2013 Kentucky Derby.  This race is filled with speedy types which may provide a strong opportunity for those coming from off the pace.  Only two have previously gone this distance.  It should be all what it has been billed as, a premiere top flight contest.

#9 Overanalyze (Bejarano / Pletcher) currently is sitting with ten (10) Derby points and needs to score here to gain entry into KD 139.  He holds the highest speed number at the distance (a triple digit) and posted a respectable last out speed number.  This son of Dixie Union has posted four superb workouts and appear ready to use his tactical speed to great advantage.
$2 WIN / $3 PLACE / $4 SHOW.

#2 War Academy (Smith / Baffert) comes in from sunny California to battle this talented group.  He holds the second highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three strengthening workouts. As his pedigree would suggest, a son of Giant's Causeway, distance and surface should not be a problem.  It seems like he may run mid-pack and make a go for it heading into the turn with an awesome late kick.
$2 SHOW.

#1 Carve (Santana / Asmussen) may surprise with a couple of good last out speed numbers and two robust, peaking workouts.  This son of First Samurai has two wins over this track in three tries.  Should the pace be frothy, he will utilize a strong kick to score well.  Surprisingly, he is the only one not Triple Crown nominated.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#10 Oxbow (Stevens / Lukas) may go off as the favorite with the highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and two hearty workouts.  He should be the speed of the race and needs to tamp down on it to secure his birth into KD 139.  This son of Awesome Again has a group high of thirty (30) derby points.

#4 Falling Sky (M. Garcia / Terranova) has secured twenty (20) derby points and will need to perform well to insure a gate position in KD 139.  He has posted a couple of very good last out speed numbers, a four race progression, and three sensational, peaking workouts.  This son of  Lion Heart should be forwardly placed and back off a little if the pace heats up.

10 CENT Superfecta

#9 Overanalyze / #2 War Academy / #1 Carve / #10 Oxbow, #4 Falling Sky.



Friday's Results
Keeneland R8.  Allowance.  Our first pick, Reload, won (1st) for win money of $2.10 and show money of $1.10. Our second pick, Casino Dan, finished 2nd for show money of $1.60.  Our third pick, Fairy Cat, finished 9th.
Superfecta went 7-12-8-10.
Bankroll gains a few cents to settle at $14.65.

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Friday at Keeneland

Let's call it Six Furlong Friday as we take a look at a contentious sprint race over the Polytrack at magnificent Keeneland.

Keeneland Race 8 {6 furlongs~4 year old Up~Allowance}
An interesting group of twelve will go to the gate in this feature allowance race.  For a sprint it comes up a little light on speedy types.  Additionally, there is a crew of eight coming off extended layoffs and a couple with freshenings.  On the whole it should be a fascinating race.

#7 Reload (Castellano / McGaughey) looks well coming off a modest layoff with the highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and three superb workouts.  He has not yet tested the poly, but his last workout was over it.  He could track the pace and when the surge begins this guy could step out swiftly.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#12 Casino Dan (Leparoux / LoPresti) should challenge despite coming off a long layoff.  He holds the third highest speed number over the surface, the highest (3-way tie) speed number at the distance, and has put in three tough workouts.  He is another ready to track the pace.
$1 SHOW.

#3 Fairy Cat (Graham / Dini) should contend with a couple of decent last out speed numbers, the highest speed number over the poly surface (at Arlington Park), sharing the highest speed number at the distance, and putting in one solid workout.  This son of Tale of the Cat can also track the field preparing his strike.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#5 Voodoo Doctor (Sarvis / Werre) could be in the mix coming off a layoff sharing the highest speed number at the distance.  He shows the second highest last out speed number and a two race progression before the layoff.  This gelding has put in three robust workouts.

#10 Grand Coulee (Castanon / McGaughey) should be in the hunt as another coming off a lengthy layoff.  He sports a decent speed number at the distance and a strong speed number over the surface.  His four terrific workouts demonstrate he is adequately prepped for this allowance feature.

Thursday's Results
Keeneland R8.  Allowance.  Our first pick, Belo Acteon [BRZ], finished 3rd for show money of $1.10.  Our second pick, Sneaky Kitten, finished 2nd for show money of $1.30.  Our third pick, N.B.A Money, finished 5th.
Superfecta went 5-1-6-8.
Bankroll dips to $14.05.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Thursday Turf at Keeneland

We begin our horse racing weekend with a classic Turf race.

Keeneland Race 8 {1 1/2 mile~TURF~4 year old Up~Allowance}
With severe weather looming, this race may not go off on the Turf.  We will handicap it for the Turf hoping that the ground is good and the predicted storms come very late in the day.  This race has enough speed and forwardly placed types to keep the pace rolling swiftly.

#6 Belo Acteon [BRZ] (Rosario / Clement)is certainly the horse to beat with the highest last out speed number at this distance, a three race progression, and one robust workout.  He is one of only three that have raced at or very close to this distance.  He should be on the lead or pressing it and has the capability of wiring this field.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#1 Sneaky Kitten (Leparoux / Maker) or his coupled entrant, #1A Gung Ho (A. Garcia / Maker) will challenge.  Sneaky Kitten holds the second highest last out speed number, a five race progression, and one stout workout.  Gung Ho holds the third highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and two hearty workouts.  Both are sons of Kitten's Joy and should relish the distance.  These lads should both be forwardly placed ready to strike in the stretch.
$1 SHOW.

#4 N.B.A. Money (Graham / Delacour) could surprise with a couple of decent last out speed numbers prior to a freshening.  He was working a two race progression and has put in three solid workouts during his brief layoff.  Should the pace heat up, his closing ability will be put to excellent use.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#5 Reflecting (Albarado / McGaughey) should contend with a good last out speed number at only 110 yard off this distance and has put in three superb, peaking workouts after an approximate sixty day freshening.  He could track and close his way for a nice piece of the purse pie.

#8 Paris Is Art (L. Garcia / Delacour) is another that could surprise with a couple of decent last out speed numbers, a two race progression, and three stable workouts.  He has some tac speed, but is more likely to be found mid-pack ready to pounce.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 Belo Acteon [BRZ] / #1 Sneaky Kitten (#1A Gung Ho) / #4 N.B.A. Money / #5 Reflecting, #8 Paris Is Art.



Last Superfecta Sunday (4/7) Results
Santa Anita R8.  Optional Claiming.  We just missed our 10 CENT Superfecta box, capturing three of the four on the ticket.  Superfecta went 5-4-2-7.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Castaway, finished 5th.
Bankroll takes a hit and falls to $15.85.

Sunday, April 7, 2013

Superfecta Sunday at Santa Anita

On this superb Spring Superfecta Sunday we take a gander at a sprint race at beautiful Santa Anita.

Santa Anita Park Race 8 {6 1/2 furlongs~4 year old Up~Optional Claiming}
A diverse group of seven will settle into the gate in what could be a tough race to gauge.  There will be enough speed to make this one very interesting.  It is nearly equally divided between early pace setters and late pace gobblers.  Let's try to stitch together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket.

#4 Italian Rules (Delgadillo / Spawr) has all the qualities to pull a victory off with the highest (tie) last out speed number, a three race progression, and four strong workouts.  He has the tactical speed to stay close and then make a run for it.  Coming off a nice freshening, he is truly the one to beat.

#6 Castaway (M. Garcia / Baffert) is also coming off a brief freshening with the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and four stellar, peaking workouts. He is coming off a route in his last which should be of some benefit.  A versatile running style makes him alluring as our Bronze Horseshoe runner.
$2 SHOW.

#5 Kate's Event (Bejarano / Hollendorfer) should take advantage of a quick pace with a couple of decent last out speed numbers, a two race progression, and three stout workouts.  He has notched a win at this distance and appears to enjoy the Santa Anita surface.

#7 Royal Meridian (Espinoza / Puype) is coming off an extended layoff.  He holds the second highest speed number at the distance and has put in four incredibly good bullet workouts prepping for this one.  This guy is 100% in the money in seven career starts as well as 100% in the money at the distance in three tries.  This handsome son of Street Cry [IRE] could surprise all with his late kick.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#4 Italian Rules  +  #6 Castaway  +  #5 Kate's Event  +  #7 Royal Meridian.



Stakes Saturday Results
Aqueduct R11.  Wood Memorial--G1.  Our first pick, Normandy Invasion, finished 2nd for place money of $3.60 and show money of $3.90.  Our second pick, Verrazano, won (1st) for place money of $1.35 and show money of $2.20.  Our third pick, Vyjack, took 3rd for show money of $1.25.
Superfecta went 8-2-5-6.
Bankroll gains almost a couple bucks to settle at $20.25.

Saturday, April 6, 2013

Stakes Saturday at Aqueduct

You know Spring is in the air when you hear the crack of the bat at your local ballpark.  Today we take in a different type of wood, The Wood Memorial at awesome Aqueduct.

Aqueduct Race 11 {Wood Memorial~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year olds~Stakes}
A spectacular field of ten will line up in one of the premiere Kentucky Derby preps.  There is sufficient speed to set up the trackers and closers with a fine closing drive.  All but two of the horses in the field have been nominated to the Triple Crown.  This should be one of the finest races so far this year.

#2 Normandy Invasion (Castellano / C. Brown) looks primed and ready to close down this highly talented field.  He holds the fourth highest last out speed number and has put in the best workout tab of four incredibly swift, peaking workouts.  This son of Tapit is one of four that have gone this distance, securing the highest speed number of the group.  The pressure is on him and his connections to make the KD 139 starting gate as he needs the points.  Definitely the one to watch.
$1 WIN / $2 PLACE / $3 SHOW.

#8 Verrazano (J. Velazquez / Pletcher) appears ready to lead this field from start to finish.  He holds the highest last out speed number, a triple digit score, and has put in two strong workouts.  No worries here about Derby points.  He has enough to secure a gate position.  His magnificent pedigree makes him one of the great KD 139 hopefuls.  This son of More Than Ready just has to be kept happy and healthy.  This fine colt will be the speed of the race and all will have to catch him.  Distance does not appear to be a problem given who his mom and dad are.
$1 PLACE / $1 SHOW.

#5 Vyjack (Rosario / Rodriguez) is another with little worries about making the KD 139 field.  This gelding holds the third highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three terrific workouts.  He has won four in a row  and has a versatile running style which should benefit him in this race.  A son of Into Mischief, he holds the second highest speed number over the Aqueduct track.  He has not yet tried this distance.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#6 Mr. Palmer (Alvarado / Mott) could be the big surprise with a couple of very decent last out speed numbers and three solid peaking workouts.  This colt has already gone the distance scoring the second best speed number of the crew.  A son of Pulpit, he has solid tracking/closing capability and should take advantage of a strong pace.  Another big step forward is not out of the question particularly if another horse cannot go the distance; nudge, nudge, wink, wink.

#10 Freedom Child (Trujillo / Albertrani) is another who has gone this distance and acquitted himself admirably.  He broke his maiden last out at this distance, is working a four race progression, and has put in two good workouts.  This splendid son of Malibu Moon should find himself with the leading horse pressing on.  This guy is a ridgling that could be another big surprise.

10 CENT Superfecta

#2 Normandy Invasion / #8 Verrazano / #5 Vyjack, #6 Mr. Palmer / #5, #6, #10 Freedom Child.



Friday's Results
Keeneland R9.  Transylvania Stakes--G3.  Our first pick, Bambazonki, finished 6th.  Our second pick, Fire Guard, finished 9th.  Our third pick, Up With the Birds [ONT-C] finished 2nd for show money of $1.90.
Superfecta went 6-3-8-2.
Bankroll gets punked down to $18.35.

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Friday, Turf, Keeneland; Life is Good

It doesn't get better than opening day at Keeneland.  It is Friday.  We have Turf.  And there is magnificent Keeneland.  Today we take a look at a graded stakes race on the Turf.

Keeneland Race 9 {Transylvania~G3~1 1/16 mile~TURF~3 year old~Stakes}
A fantastic group of eleven will go to the grass for this annual stakes race.  The race comes up a little light on speed.  However there are a few in here that could be forwardly placed and keep the pace moving.  There are five Triple Crown nominees that add luster to this years highly competitive field.

#4 Bambazonki (Lezcano / Block) looks more than capable coming off a nice freshening.  He holds the fourth highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and four impressive peaking workouts.  This lad has tremendous tactical speed to either lead or stay close to the front enabling him to launch a swift effort in the stretch.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#7 Fire Guard (Rosario / Mott) will challenge with the highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and four serious workouts.  He too will be firing fresh off a short layoff.  He holds speedy tracking ability which should suit him well in this Turf battle.
$1 SHOW.

#3 Up With the Birds [ONT-C] (Bridgmohan / Pierce) will come a running with a steady pace in front of him.  He has the third highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and three diligent workouts.  This guy is coming off three wins in a row and will be stretching out from his last.
$1 SHOW.

Another Wagering Interest

#6 Jack Milton (J. Velazquez / Pletcher) should be a contender in this stellar Turf field.  He too will be coming off a freshening with the second highest last out speed number and three robust workouts.  This guy should find himself mid-pack ready to strike going into the stretch.

10 CENT Superfecta

#4 Bambazonki, #7 Fire Guard / #4, #7 / #3 Up With the Birds [ONT-C], #6 Jack Milton / #3, #6.



Thursday's Results
Gulfstream Park R8.  Allowance.  Our first pick, Midnite Silver, won (1st) for win money of $2.80 and show money of $1.20.  Our second pick, Tom Kitten, finished 2nd for show money of $1.10.  Our third pick, Game Ball, finished 4th.
Superfecta went 8-2-9-4.
Bankroll gets a lift to $20.85.


Wednesday, April 3, 2013

The Horse Racing Weekend Begins at Gulfstream

Our horse racing weekend begins on this Thursday as we set out sights on the greatest two minutes in all of sports which is only four weeks away.  Kentucky Derby 139.  Today we make our Thursday another Turfday while we peer at a fine Turf mile in sunny Florida.

Gulfstream Park Race 8 {1 mile~TURF~4 year old Up~Allowance}
A good field of ten will battle on the turf in this allowance feature.  Plenty of speed will keep this one fast and furious.  Those that like to track and/or close should get their kind of pace.  Comparable speed numbers at this Turf distance will keep the race challenging.

#8 Midnight Silver (Lopez / Iadisernia) looks well prepped with the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and two robust workouts.  He could stay fairly close and get first strike on the leaders.
$1 WIN / $1 SHOW.

#2 Tom Kitten (Castellano / Vitali) will challenge with the second highest last out speed number at a longer route and a two race progression.  He also holds the second highest (3-way tie) speed number at the distance while being 81% in the money over the distance in eleven starts.
$1 SHOW.

#4 Game Ball (Bocachica / Hess) should be in the game with a decent last out speed number at a longer route and two strong workouts.  He holds the highest speed number overall.  As a closer he has done well over the Gulfstream course.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#9 Sir Edgar (Argueta / Ziadie) can be in the mix as part of the front running speed package.  He holds the third highest last out speed number and has put in one hearty workout.  This guy will be stretching out.

#10 Explosive Image (Sanchez / Handy) could surprise as he too stretches out with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and four superb workouts.  He has the tactical speed to press or track the field.

10 CENT Superfecta

#8 Midnite Silver / #2 Tom Kitten / #4 Game Ball / #9 Sir Edgar, #10 Explosive Image.



Last Superfecta Sunday (3/31)
Fair Grounds Race Course R12.  Optional Claiming.  We only captured three of the four in our 10 CENT Superfecta box effort.  Superfecta went 7-6-1-2.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Tragic Magic, finished 2nd for show money of $3.00.
Bankroll slips to $19.95.