Stakes Saturday at Tampa Bay

Ahh, the first Saturday in February.  We get closer to that fantastic first Saturday in May.  Today we look at another Derby Prep down in warm Florida.

Tampa Bay Downs Race 9 {Sam F. Davis~G3~1 1/16 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A very nice field of eight will go to the gate in this graded stakes feature.  It comes up a little light on speed which may give the forwardly placed a bit of an advantage.  Most in here are making their first 2014 start.  All have KD 140 dreams.  This very competitive field should bring us an exciting race.

#1 Harpoon (L. Saez / Pletcher) might be able to wire the field with the third highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and three stout workouts.  This son of Tapit should be forwardly placed ready to roll.  He is 100% in the money form four starts.
$1 WIN / $2 PLACE / $3 SHOW.

#5 Cousin Stephen (Centeno / C. Brown) should challenge with the second highest last out speed number a longer route, a three race progression, and two solid workouts.  He should settle into a tracking position seeking to strike in the top of the stretch.  A son of Proud Citizen, he is part of half of the field that has gone this distance or longer.
$1 PLACE / $2 SHOW.

#8 Matador (Leparoux / Casse) could contend making his first start on the dirt.  He comes down from Canada with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and has raced well over turf and synthetic.  A son of Malibu Moon, he is coming off a longer route with four sensational workouts over a dirt surface.  He could track his way to victory.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#2 Noble Cornerstone (Desormeaux / Ward) could be in the mix with the highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three strong workouts.  He should be pressing the pace as he stretches out in distance.  A son of Noble Causeway, he is 100% in the money from two starts.

#6 Asserting Bear (Rocco / Baker) will be in the hunt with a decent last out speed number at a longer route and four quality workouts.  He will be making his first start over the dirt.  The son of Bear's Kid is coming down from Canada to compete in this event.

10 CENT Superfecta

#1 Harpoon  /  #5 Cousin Stephen  /  #8 Matador  / #2 Noble Cornerstone, #6 Asserting Bear.



Friday's Results
Gulfstream Park R9.  Optional Claiming.  The race got washed off the turf.  Our third pick, Danalin, finished third for show money of $1.50.  With numerous scratches we chucked our 10 CENT Superfecta play.  Superfecta went 10-11-6-1.
Bankroll gains five dimes to settle at $17.04.