It's Kentucky Derby Week

 Utilizing Pro Insights in your Handicapping

Source : Richard Hurt / Full House.

A most unusual Kentucky Derby will go off this Saturday (9/5). It promises to be one of the most heart-stirring Derby's in recent memory, sans the fans. The entire card will be full of exciting races and tantalizing wagering opportunities.

The touts will be out in full-force. The wise-guys will find their Derby horse. The sharps will fire a buck, a nickel, or dime on what they perceive as best value in the race. And most importantly, the expert handicappers for various platforms and tracks will offer up their analysis and opinions for KD 146.

Who should you listen to?  Well, first you should handicap the race yourself and come to a strong opinion. Trust in your own handicapping ability. Use the pros for additional information, analysis and advice.

Speaking of the pros. Just for shites and giggles, We looked at the selections of a number of the professional handicappers to see how they performed last Friday (8/28). For this anecdotal survey of top handicappers we examined the Daily Racing Form's Playbook (drf.com) for that day and jotted down the selections of the pros from Ralph Siraco's Race Day Las Vegas radio program (racedaylasvegas.com).

Both of which have some of the best horse racing handicappers in the country.

We looked at the results from two perspectives, Wins. Who picked winners on this delightful Friday and what price did they pay? Second, how did the dividend play perform. A dividend play is merely a $2.00 show bet on each selection laid out.

Not everyone is capable of handicapping every race at every track on a given day. Sometimes it is fruitful to lean on favored pros in an attempt to build some revenue in your "dividend bank". It also helps you to determine which pros are in the zone and which are slumping. Granted this example is only anecdotal as it covers only one day. Most of these handicappers are superb horse players.

Results of Selections for Friday (10/28/2020)

The DRF team of handicapping aficionados garnerd three winners ($7 / $8 / $3.20) out of thirteen selections for a strike rate of 23%. They combined for a total of $12.80 in the dividend bank which produced a loss of ($13.20).

The Ralph Siraco stable of handicappers only provided one winner ($7.60) out of seven selections for a strike rate of 14%. They provided $8.70 for the dividend bank making a loss of ($5.30).

Which handicappers performed admirably? 

DRF Writer/handicapper, Brad Free, outperformed the entire group of pro handicappers. He selected two winners, going two for two on his Del Mar picks. Free is the author of Handicapping 101, a book that should be on every horse players book shelf. He put $5.90 in the dividend bank. Dan Illman had one winner, but two of three of his selections hit the board at Laurel, tossing in $5.60 in the dividend bank. Mike Beer, dropped $5.80 in the dividend bank as two of three of his selections at Saratoga hit the board.

Marty McGee went 0 for 2 in his Gulfstream selections. Ron Gierkink got flattened at Woodbine with his only selection. Kenny Peck goose egged at Monmouth, though one of his picks was scratched.

The Siraco group (Race Day Las Vegas) fared on par with DRF handicappers. Woodbine handicapper, Ernie Perini scored the only winner shoveling $4.50 into the dividend bank. Richard Eng, handicapper and author of the book, Horse Racing for Dummies, provided another $2.10 for the dividend bank. While ace handicapper, Jerry Jackowitz dropped $2.10 into the dividend bank.

Bomber Brad, Trip Note Pro's, and Southern California handicapper, John Lindo, all came up empty with their selections.

Takeaway

Have good confidence in your own handicapping ability. Use the pros and experts for high quality guidance and analysis that you may have missed. There are a number of great handicappers out there. Use them as a resource as you handicap future cards.

Best of luck on your KD 146 handicapping and picks.

Surfing and Turfing on Superfecta Sunday

 A terrific Superfecta Sunday is on tap as we head virtually out to where the Turf meets the Surf.

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club {5 Furlongs~TURF~3 year-old Up~Optional Claiming}

A good field of nine will hit the grass in this wide open optional claiming Turf sprint. This race is exceptionally speed laden. Speed numbers are very close. It could be anyone's race. Our task is to string together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket. It should be a very good race.

#8 Thanks Mr. Edison (J. Hernandez / Bonde) is in very good form with the second highest last out speed number and three high quality workouts. This guy also holds the highest speed number at the distance while posting an 100% in the money record from two tries. A son of More Than Ready, he should be forwardly placed near the leaders ready to run them down. He is our Bronze Horseshoe, selection.

$2 SHOW.

#5 Silardi (Fuentes / P. Miller) should challenge with the fourth highest speed number at the distance showing an 100% win record at same. This guy cuts back slightly in distance and has put in two solid workouts. He is another that should be forwardly placed jostling for position. A son of City Zip, this guy has won two of his five career starts.

#2 Nero (Rispoli / Sadler) should contend with the third highest (3-way tie) last out speed number and two hearty workouts. He has already won at this distance. This lad could benefit from his running style should the pace overheat. A son of Pioneer of the Nile, he is 62% in the money from sixteen career starts.

#9 Cruel Intention (Van Dyke / Baffert) should be in the mix as he makes his first start on the green. He comes in off an extended layoff with a super strong workout tab of four swift works. This gelding should be part of the speed contingent. A son of Smiling Tiger, is 66% in the money from six career starts.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#8 Thanks Mr. Edison  +  #5 Silardi  +  #2 Nero  +  #9 Cruel Intention.

Stakes Saturday Results

Saratoga R9.  Sword Distancer--G1.  Our first pick, Aquaphobia, finished 3rd for $6.00 in show money.  Our second pick, Pedro Cara [FR], finished 6th.  Our third pick, Corelli, finished 5th.  Our fourth pick, Sadler's Joy,  finished 4th.

We completely misfired on our $1 Exacta Saturday Wheel. Superfecta went 4-6-2-8.

Bankroll gets sliced to $82.39.

  

Draw your Swords for Stakes Saturday

 We take in a lively classic Turf race up at the "Spa" for our Stakes Saturday handicapping venture.

Saratoga {Sword Dancer~G1~1 1/2 mile~TURF~4 year-old Up~Graded Stakes}

A modest field of eight very talented Turf horses will battle in this grade one. There are a few forwardly placed types to keep an honest pace. Speed numbers are fairly close making it a competitive one. A couple of millionaire horses make their appearance plotting to bulk up their purse earnings. Premiere Turf trainer, Michael Maker has three entrants. It should be a heck of a race at this marathon distance.

#2 Aquaphobia (I. Ortiz / Maker) is in excellent form with the highest last out speed number and four superb peaking workouts. Among this group, this fella shares top honor for most victories at nine. This guy comes in fresh ready to run in his tracking style. A son of Giant's Causeway, he is 58% in the money from thirty-six starts.

$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#7 Pedro Cara [FR] (Velazquez / Motion) will challenge coming off an extended layoff after racing in Qatar. He has hit the board in his last three races and has compiled a stamina producing workout tab (four works) during his time off. This French bred turfer is 83% in the money at this distance covering six starts. A son of Pedro the Great, he should take up a tracking position ready to slice through.

$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#5 Corelli (Rosario / Thomas) will be making his third North American start after racing over in Great Britain. He holds the third highest last out speed number and two solid workouts. Our friends across the pond love the progeny of Point of Entry, as they tend to be "stayers". This guy has raced at much longer distances than any of his foes in this race. Expect him to take up a tracking position and gun it in the stretch.

$2 SHOW.

#8 Sadler's Joy (Castellano / Albertrani) might go off as the favorite with the second highest speed number at the distance and the second highest (tie) last out speed number. He has produced two sound workouts in the last thirty days. This guy has hit the board in his last three. A son of the great Kitten's Joy, he will need some pace to run in to with his commanding kick.

$1 SHOW.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#2 Aquaphobia  //  #7 Pedro Cara [FR],  #5 Corelli,  #8 Sadler's Joy.

10 CENT Superfecta ($1.00)

#2 Aquaphobia  /  #7 Pedro Cara [FR]  /  #5 Corelli,  #8 Sadler's Joy  /  ALL.

Furlong Friday Results

Monmouth Park R3.  Beaten Claiming.  Our first pick, Rogue Patriot, won (1st) for win money of $7.70 and show money of $2.60.  Our second pick, Earned Success, finished 2nd for show money of $1.10.

We hit the Superfecta with our box effort earning a modest $9.81. Superfecta went 7-5-4-1.

Bankroll gets a nice lift to $91.39.

Furlong Friday along the Jersey Shore

 On this Friday we take a peak at a competitive six furlong claiming race along the Jersey shore.

Monmouth Park Race 3 {6 Furlongs~3 year-old Up~Beaten Claiming}

An interesting field of eight will go to the gate in this claiming competition. Three is a good deal of speed to produce a swift enough pace that might benefit those running from off it. Speed numbers are very close. It should be a good race.

#7 Rogue Patriot (Torres / Fernandez) looks to be in sound form and may well benefit from a fast pace as he tracks the front pack. He holds the third highest last out speed number. This guy posts the fourth highest speed number at the distance with a 54% in the money record at same. A son of Two Step Salsa, he sports a 50% in the money record from thirty-eight career starts.

$1 WIN  /  $2 SHOW.

#5 Earned Success (Peterson / Potts) should go off as the favorite with the highest last out speed number and the highest speed number at the distance. He also has a solid in the money record at the distance coming at 66% from six tries. This guy should be forwardly placed ready to romp. A son of Mineshaft, he is 57% in the money from fourteen starts.

$1 SHOW.

#4 Currency Chrome (Panajio / Delgado) should challenge with the second highest last out speed number and two wins at this distance in five tries. This lad will be motoring on the front-end. A son of Currency Swap, he will be dropping into this one after facing marginally tougher in his last race. He is 41% in the money from twelve career starts.

 #1 Brimstone (Ro. Maragh / Toscano) has the tactical speed to feel out the pace and adjust accordingly. He has hit the board in his last three, winning his last and throwing down a decent workout. This guy likes the distance and the Monmouth track. A son of Munnings, he holds the most wins of this group at ten from fifty-three career starts.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#7 Rogue Patriot  +  #5 Earned Success  +  #4 Currency Chrome  +  #1 Brimstone.

Last Superfecta Sunday (8/23) Results

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club R9.  Del Mar Mile--G2.  We misfired on our 10 CENT Superfecta box effort only capturing two of the four wagering interests required to cash. Superfecta went 4-8-7-11.

Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Galilean, finished 5th.

Bankroll gets dinged and dips to $76.58.

2020 Kentucky Derby Notable Nine

 

Kentucky Derby 146 Notable Nine

These unusual times we are in make for interesting conversation when thoughts turn to the Kentucky Derby. This year it will be held on the first Saturday in September, only nine days away. There is a talented crop of three-years well prepared for their “run for the roses”. The stand-out is of course, Tiz the Law, who should be on everyone’s ticket. It is his race to win. We present this year’s Notable Nine for your consideration when laying out your Exacta, Trifecta, Superfecta, and Pentafecta tickets.

#1        Tiz the Law.  Trained by Barclay Tagg and to ridden by Manny Franco, this son of Constitution has already won at the Derby distance in the Travers in impressive fashion. He has also won the Belmont Stakes. He will be the overwhelming favorite. Ranked number one in KD 146 points (372), an experienced handicapper will want to key him in all the exotics.

#2        Art Collector. He will be one of the main competitors having won his last five races including the Ellis Park Derby and the Bluegrass Stakes at Keeneland. Trained by Thomas Drury, Jr. and set to be ridden by Brian Hernandez, he should be among the first pack heading for home. A son of Bernardini, this guy is ranked number three in KD 146 points (150).

#3        Authentic.  Is another that will challenge the favorite. Trained by Hall of Fame trainer, Bob Baffert and scheduled to be ridden by John Velazquez, he will be a force to be reckoned with in this year’s KD 146. He continues to improve with a last out win in the Haskell at Monmouth Park and a 2^nd place finish in the Santa Anita Derby. This son of Into Mischief, ranks second in Derby points with 200.

#4        Caracaro. Is coming into his own with a 2^nd place finish in the Travers at Saratoga and a 2^nd place finish in the Peter Pan at Saratoga. Trained by Gustavo Delgado and with Javier Castellano on top, this guy is sure to be in the hunt. He ranks number ten in the Derby points scheme with 60. A son of Uncle Mo, expect him to secure good position and hit the board.

#5        Honor AP. This guy will be running for top connections under the tutelage of trainer, John Shirreffs, and world renowned jockey, Mike Smith. He come in 2^nd in the Shared Belief at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club and won (1^st) in the Santa Anita Derby. A son of Honor Code, he will be in good company coming into the stretch. He ranks number four in KD 146 points (140).

#6        Enforceable. Despite his 4^th place finish in the Bluegrass and his 5^th place finish in the Louisiana Derby at the Fair Grounds, this son of Tapit has the ability to make some hay in KD 146. Solid connections of trainer Mark Casse and up and coming Jockey Adam Beschizza will make it so. This guy has a stellar chance to make it into the exotics. This lad holds the number eleven ranking in KD 146 points (43)

#7        Winning Impression. Don’t let his 7^th place finish in the Ellis Park Derby and 7^th place finish in the Indiana Derby fool you. Trainer, Dallas Stewart, has the steadfast ability to bring his charges to peak performance for the big events. Jockey Joe Rocco is expected to get the call. A son of Paynter, he comes in at number eighteen (20 pts.) on the KD 146 points scale. This gelding is being entered by well experienced ownership and could make a splash.

#8        Max Player. This guy took 3^rd in the Travers and 3^rd in the Belmont and will be a player in KD 146. Ranking number nine on the KD 146 scale, having accumulated 60 points, he should be a chief challenger to the placing’s underneath the winner. Trained by Steve Asmussen with Ricardo Santana up this guy should give a good accord of himself. Another son of Honor Code, he should relish the distance.

#9        Storm the Court. This lad is just beginning to get it going in his three year-old season. He was the winner of the Breeder’s Cup Juvenile last season. In his last he hit the board in 3^rd in the Ohio Derby at Thistledown. He ranks fourteenth (36 pts.) on the KD 146 points chart. Trained by Peter Eurton, he is scheduled to be ridden by Julien Leparoux. A son of Court Vision, he has the opportunity to show his talent.

 

Without fans in the stands this year’s Kentucky Derby may not be the adrenaline producing event of past years, but it will be just as exciting. And our Notable Nine will all be in contention.

    

Superfecta Sunday at Beautiful Del Mar

 Today we venture off to the West Coast for a thrilling mile on the Turf with the Surf in the background at beautiful Del Mar.

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Race 9 {Del Mar Mile~G2~1 mile~TURF~3 year-old Up~Graded Stakes}

A talented field of ten will go to the Turf in this annual competition. There is a plethora of speedsters and forwardly placed types to produce a sizzling pace. Speed figures are very close for these fellas. Only a couple have not traversed the Del Mar course. Our task is to string together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta Box ticket. It should be one of the best Turf races of the day.

#3 Galilean (Rispoli / Sadler) will try to make it three in a row as he tries his second Turf race. He holds the fourth highest (3-way tie) last out speed number at a longer Turf route and two strong workouts. This guy has the tactical speed to avoid any speed dual on the front end. A son of Uncle Mo, he is 90% in the money from ten career starts. This colt is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.

$2 SHOW.

#10 Kiwi's Dream [AUS] (Gonzalez / Trujillo) should challenge with his speed and will be attempting to wire the field. He has hit the board in his last three races and has also produced the fourth last out speed number. Couple that with three hearty workouts and you have a recipe for a top effort. This gelded son of Sebring [AUS], is 78% in the money from fourteen career starts.

 #4 Mo Forza (Prat / P. Miller) comes off an extended layoff having posted the highest last out speed number and put in four significant peaking workouts. He should track the pace closely and spring into the straight-away. This colt loves the distance and the Del Mar course. Another son of Uncle Mo, he is 80% in the money from ten career starts.

#7 Royal Ship [BRZ] (M. Smith / Mandella) comes in from Brazil after racking up five wins in a row. This guy runs for terrific connections off the layoff and for the first North American start. This colt is the unknown factor in the race, but based on his work tab of strong stamina producing workouts he is ready to mount a grand challenge to these foes. A son of Midshipman, is his 100% in the money from seven career starts.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#3 Galilean  +  #10 Kiwi's Dream [AUS]  +  #4 Mo Forza  +  #7 Royal Ship [BRZ].

Stakes Saturday Results

Saratoga R9.  Four Star Dave--G1.  Our first pick, Uni [GB], finished 7th.  Our second pick, Halladay, won (1st) for place money of $3.55 and show money of $5.70.  Our third pick, Raging Bull [FR], finished 5th.

We failed in our $1 Saturday Exacta Wheel effort.

Superfecta went 5-4-2-3.

Bankroll continues its slide settling at $80.98.

A Four Star Stakes Saturday

 On this Stakes Saturday we look in on one of the premiere tracks with its beautiful Turf course.

Saratoga Race 9 {4 Star Dave~G1~1 mile~TURF~3 year-old Up~Graded Stakes}

A great field of nine will hit the TURF in this annual contest. There is some speed to keep the pace honest. Speed numbers are very close making this a super competitive event. There are three millionaires making an appearance in the race. World class trainer, Chad Brown, has four entrants in the race seeking to take down the superfecta. All of these lads have a chance to get their picture taken. It should be a fantastic race.

#6 Uni [GB] (J. Ortiz / C. Brown) looks to be in fine form with the highest last out speed number and four strong workouts. He has hit the board in her last three and is 100% in the money at this distance from nine starts. This guy will need some speed to deploy his fierce kick. A millionaire son of More Than Ready, he shares the highest speed number at this distance.

$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#5 Halladay (L. Saez / Pletcher) will challenge sharing that highest speed number at the distance. He holds three very good last out speed numbers and two sound workouts. This guy went longer in his last. He is another that is 100% in the money at this distance from three tries. A son of War Front, he should be attempting to wire the field.

$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#1 Raging Bull [FR] (Rosario / C. Brown) will be challenging his stablemate for an exciting closing finish. He holds the second highest last out speed number and three superb workouts. This lad is 87% in the money at the distance from eight starts. A millionaire son of Dark Angel [IRE],  he loves the surface and the Saratoga course.

$2 SHOW.

#2 Casa Creed (Alvarado / Mott) comes out of a longer route posting a decent last out speed number and four solid workouts. This guy has already won over the Saratoga course. He should be tracking the pace ready to strike. A son of Jimmy Creed, this guy is 57% in the money at the distance from seven starts.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#6 Uni [GB] //  #5 Halladay,  #1 Raging Bull [FR], #2 Casa Creed.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 Uni [GB]  /  #5 Halladay  /  #1 Raging Bull [FR],  #2 Casa Creed  /  ALL.

Last Superfecta Sunday (8/16) Results

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club R10.  CTT & TOC Stakes.  Big miss on our 10 CENT Superfecta Box effort catching only one of the four wagering interests required. Superfecta went 2-4-8-6.

Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Siberian Iris [IRE], finished 6th.

Bankroll gets hammered and continues its descent from the C-Note mark dipping to $85.93.

Superfecta Sunday along the Pacific

 Today we take a look at a longer Turf contest for the ladies"where the Turf meets the Surf".

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club {CTT & TOC Stakes~1 3/8 mile~TURF~3 year-old Up~Fillies/Mares~Stakes}

A nice field of ten will hit  the green in this competitive contest. There is virtually no speed. Consequently, expect this one to be raced Euro-style with a thrilling quickening coming into the stretch. Speed numbers are very close. Our task is to string together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta Box ticket. This race promises to be a very exciting race.

#5 Siberian Iris [IRE] (Prat / Mandella) should be the favorite and get the task done. She holds the highest speed number (tie) at the distance and four superb workouts. This gal comes out of a longer Turf route. Like most of these in here she will be coming off the pace. A daughter of Excelebration [IRE], she is 61% in the money from twenty-one career starts. She is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.

$2 SHOW.

#9 Ms. Peintour (Blanc / Koriner) comes off an extended layoff showing the second highest last out speed number and four endurance producing workouts. She went longer in her last securing the victory. This gal is the only one that has shown some forwardly placed action in her past performances. A daughter of Paynter,  she is 46% in the money from thirteen career starts,

#4 Quick [GB] (Valdivia / Sadler) has hit the board in her last three starts and has posted two solid workouts. She will be attempting this distance for the first time. This gal loves the surface and the Del Mar course. A daughter of Olympic Glory [IRE], she holds the best in the money record at 72% from eleven career starts.

#3 Don't Blame Judy (Cedillo / E. Kruljac) will certainly challenge with the highest (tie) last out speed number and three strong workouts. This lady is another lover of the surface and course. She appears to be in great form and will battle vitally when the quickening occurs. A daughter of Blame, she is 56% in the money from twenty-three starts.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#5 Siberian Iris [IRE]  +  #9 Ms. Peintour  +  #4 Quick [GB]  +  #3 Don't Blame Judy.

Stakes Saturday Results

Woodbine R9.  King Edward Stakes--G3.  Our first pick, Delaware, finished 5th.  Our second pick, Argentello [IRE], finished 8th (last).  Our third pick, Mr. Ritz [GB], finished 4th. We weren't even close on our $1 Saturday Exacta Wheel. Superfecta went 2-7-5-3.

Bankroll gets shut out and drops to $90.33.

Up North for Stakes Saturday

 On this Stakes Saturday we take a look at a nice Turf mile stakes race in Toronto, Canada,

Woodbine Race 9 {King Edward Stakes~G3~1 mile~TURF~3 year-old Up~Graded Stakes}

A good field of eight will trot onto the grass in this annual contest. There is enough speed to keep the pace a rolling. Speed numbers are very close. Three of these will be making their first start over the Woodbine Turf. It should be a fine race over one of the most beautiful Turf courses in North America.

#8 Delaware [GB] (Contreras / C. Brown) comes up from Belmont to challenge these quality Turfers. He holds the third highest (tie) last out speed number and four solid workouts. He will be making his third North American start after competing in France. This colt will be tracking the pace ready to strike. A son of Frankel [GB], he is 72% in the money at the mile distance.

$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#4 Argentello [IRE] (Moran / Murphy) will contend with the second highest last out speed number and thiree high quality workouts. He comes in from Indiana Grand with a third place finish in a Stakes race. A son of Intello [GER], he is 83% in the money at the distance. Look for him to race right behind the leaders.

$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#3 Mr. Ritz [GB] (Husbands / J. Carroll) should challenge with the highest last out speed number and two strong peaking workouts. This guy will be coming into the third race of his form cycle geared up for a peak effort. He should be part of the pace scenario. A son of Oasis Dream [GB], he is 50% in the money at this distance.

$2 SHOW.

#5 Silent Poet (Stein / N. Gonzalez) will be in the mix with the fourth highest last out speed number and two very sharp workouts. This lad leads the field with eight career wins. He loves the Woodbine course. A son of Silent Name [JPN], he is 66% in the money at the mile.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#8 Delaware [GB]  //  #4 Argentello [IRE],  #3 Mr. Ritz [GB],  #5 Silent Poet.

20 CENT Superfecta ($1.00)

#8 Delaware [GB]  /  #4 Argentello [IRE]  /  #3 Mr. Ritz [GB]  /  ALL.

Last Superfecta Sunday (8/9) Results

Ellis Park R10.  Ellis Park Derby.  We flubbed our 10 CENT Superfecta box play, capturing only one of the four required to cash our ticket. Superfecta went 4-10-5-8. Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Shared Sense, finished 5th.

Bankroll tumbles to $105.33.

A Western Kentucky Superfecta Sunday

 On this Superfecta Sunday additional Kentucky Derby points are on the line as we take a look at fine stakes race in Western Kentucky.

Ellis Park Race 10 {Ellis Park Derby~1 1/8 mile~3 year-old~Stakes}

A great group of twelve will enter the gate for KD 146 points. The winner here is assured of a gate on the first Saturday in September. There is enough speed to make the pace swift enough to give the closers a good chance to catch the leader at the wire. The speed numbers are fairly close as these lads continue to improve their racing acumen. Only two have raced over the Ellis Park track.Our task is to stitch together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket.

Derby Points on the Line

This race offers up 50-20-10-5 for runners hitting first, second, third, and fourth respectively. With only one more Derby prep race left, next weekends Pegasus at Monmouth Park, the pressure is on to earn enough points to grab a gate position, As of this writing, 25 points is the cutoff for position twenty. Finnick the Fierce holds position twenty. With this in mind #4 Art Collector (100 pts) and #2 Arneau d' Or (32 pts) might have secured enough points to secure entry in the KD 146 gate. Notwithstanding any unusual outcome in this race. Others in battling for points in this race are #9 Dean Martini, #11 Winning Impression, and #12 Shared Sense all currently with 20 points. Additionally, #10 Attachment Rate (15 pts), #5 Necker Island (4 pts), and #8 Rowdy Yates (2 pts). All of which adds a bit of intrigue to an excellent race.

#12 Shared Sense (Geroux / B. Cox) continues to show improvement with every race. He holds the fourth highest last out speed number and two fine workouts. This guy already secured a victory at the distance earning the fourth highest speed number at same, He is a closer and will have maximum benefit if the race begins to sizzle. A son of Street Sense, he is 62% in the money from eight career starts. He is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.

$2 SHOW.

#9 Dean Martini (Graham / Amoss) should compete well with the second highest last out speed number and two sound workouts. This guy could be part of the forwardly placed pack seeking an enviable position. He is one of the two runners that have competed over the Ellis Park track. This gelding has hit the board in both of his starts at this distance. A son of Cairo Prince, he is 90% in the money from ten career starts.

#4 Art Collector (B. Hernandez / Drury) will go off as the overwhelming favorite with the highest last out speed number and two fluid workouts. This guy already has secured enough points to have a KD 146 gate. He should be one of the key challengers to Traver's winner, Tiz the Law come Kentucky Derby time as he has two triple digit Beyer's in his last three. He also holds the highest speed number at the distance. A son of Bernardini, he will be trying for his fifth win in a row, dashing near the pace, with a 62% in the money record from eight career starts.

#2 Arneau d'Or (T. Baze / Wright) would like to secure a few more KD 146 points to maintain his gate entry. He holds the third highest last out speed number and three strong peaking workouts. This guy should take up a comfortable tracking position ready to strike in the stretch run. A son of  Medaglia d' Oro, he is 50% in the money from six career starts.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#12 Shared Sense  +  #9 Dean Martini  +  #4 Art Collector  +  #2 Arneau d' Or.

Stakes Saturday Results

Saratoga R11.  TRAVERS--G1. Our first pick, Tiz the Law, won (1st) for win money of $1.50, place money of $2.40, and show money of $3.15.  Our second pick, Country Grammer, finished 5th.  Our third pick, Max Player, finished 3rd for show money of $1.85. We missed on the $1 Saturday Exacta Wheel effort. Superfecta went 6-7-4-8.

Bankroll gets shaved to $109.93.

Stakes Saturday at Saratoga

Today we look at another test for Kentucky Derby hopefuls during these unprecedented times. Up at beautiful Saratoga we examine the field for the sensational Travers.

Saratoga Race 11 {Travers~G1~1 1/4 mile~3 year-old~graded stakes}

An exceptionally talented field of eight will go to the gate in the annual "Summer Derby". Though this year there are KD points on the line. There is enough speed to keep the pace fast. All of these lads will be stretching out to this distance having only gone as far as 1 1/8 mile in their last. Speed numbers are fairly close and most should improve as they continue their three year-old season. It will be the most exciting race leading up to this years Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in September.

#6 Tiz the Law (M. Franco / Tagg) is the even money morning line favorite. He is the only one in this field to hit triple digit speed numbers. He holds the highest last out speed number and four superlative workouts in preparation for this race. This lad should be tracking the pace ready to unleash in the stretch. He has already posted a victory over the Saratoga track. A son of Constitution, he 100% in the money from six career starts.

$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#2 Country Grammer  (I. Ortiz / C. Brown) should take another great step forward with the second highest (tie) last out speed number and two solid workouts. He too has notched a win over the Saratoga track. He should be tracking the pace closely ready to strike as they head into the stretch. A son of Tonalist, he is 60% in the money from five career starts.

$1 PLACE  / $2 SHOW.

#4 Max Player (Rosario / L. Rice) should challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number and four robust peaking workouts. He continues to improve with every race and should do so on the stretch out here. This lad comes in from Belmont ready to rock. A son of Honor Code, he is also 100% in the money from four career starts.

$1 SHOW.

#8 South Bend (J. Ortiz / Mott) should contend with the third highest (tie) last out speed number and three superb workouts. This guy loves the surface and should relish the extra distance. A pure closer, he already has three wins on his resume. A son of Algorithms, he is 63% in the money from eleven career starts,

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#6 Tiz the Law //  #2 Country Grammer, #4 Max Player,  #8 South Bend.

10 CENT Superfecta ($1.00)

#6 Tiz the Law  /  #2 Country Grammer  /  #4 Max Player,  #8 South Bend  /  ALL.

Last Superfecta Sunday (8/2) Results

Golden Gate R6.  Maiden Claiming. We fumbled our 10 CENT Superfecta play capturing only one of the four needed to cash our ticket. Superfecta went 4-5-2-7.

Our Bronze Horseshoe runner Thick Smoke, finished 8th (last).

Bankroll gets pummeled and drops to $115.83.

By the Bay for Our Superfecta Sunday

The first Superfecta Sunday in August and we take a look at a challenging Maiden claiming race near the city by the bay.

Golden Gate Fields {5 1/2 Furlongs~3 year-old Up~Fillies/Mares~Maiden Claiming}

A fascinating field of eight young ladies will go to the gate in this maiden race. Maiden Claiming races are arguable the toughest ones to handicap. Consequently, the payoffs on the exotics can be quite lucrative. 

There is little to no speed in the race, though the two first time starters could show speed. One horse does have some early foot, #6 Pacific Silence, and could take the lead by default. For those that have run the speed figures are fairly close making the race all the more challenging for the journeyman handicapper. Our task is to net a winning 10 CENT Superfecta Box ticket. It should be a really fun race over the Golden Gate Tapeta surface.

#8 Thick Smoke (Couton / Miyadi) might have the edge as she makes her third career starts against a easier field. She holds the fourth highest last out speed number and two robust workouts. She will be switching from dirt to synthetic as she comes up from Southern California. A daughter of Tizbud, she should be coming from the group in the back. She is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$3 SHOW.

#3 Grazenbythebay (Monroy / Jauregui) should challenge as she makes her second career start switching from dirt to synthetic. She holds the second highest last out speed number and two sound workouts. Expect her to be part of the back pack positioning for launch. A daughter of Grazen, she took fourth in her last race which is an indicator that she will improve in this one.

#2 Sweet Hussar (S. Rivera / S. Sherman) is a first time starter for good connections. She has posted four strong workouts in preparation for her race. A daughter of Fighting Hussar, she should handle the distance and surface glowingly.

#5 Go Vaidagirl (Frey / Tekas) could go off as the favorite with the highest last out speed number and two fine peaking workouts. She has hit the board twice in her six career starts. This gal also has the highest speed number at the distance. A daughter of Decarchy, she should track the pace closely ready to strike.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#8 Thick Smoke  +  #Grazenbythebay  +  #2 Sweet Hussar  +  #5 Go Vaidagirl.




Stakes Saturday Results
Del Mar Thoroughbred Club R10.  Bing Crosby--G1.  Our first pick, Collusion Illusion, won (1st) for win money of $5.80, place money of $4.90, and show money of $7.00.  Our second pick, Anyportinastorm, finished 7th,  Our third pick, Desert Law, finished 8th (last).
We failed in our $1 Saturday Exacta wheel.
Superfecta went 9-1-7-8.
Bankroll gets docked for four and change to drop to $121.23.

Stakes Saturday at Fabulous Del Mar

On this Stakes Saturday we will take a swing at a graded stakes race where the "Turf meets the Surf".

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Race 10 {Bing Crosby~G1~6 Furlongs~3 year-old Up~Graded Stakes}

With expected scratches, this race will be to a field of eight skilled sprinters. There is plenty of speed to create a sizzling pace. Speed numbers are very close making it very competitive.  All have been well prepped to make a great showing in the race. Any one of these fellas could pull of the victory. Schedule it as one of the most exciting race of the day.

#9 Collusion Illusion (Prat / Glatt) could be one of the favorites with the third highest (tie) last out speed number and four stellar workouts. This guy loves the distance and the Del Mar track. He should be tracking the pace closely ready to spring towards the leaders as they head into the stretch. A son of Twirling Candy, he holds an 80% win record from five career starts.
$2 WIN  /  $3 PLACE  /  $5 SHOW.

#2 Anyportinastorm (J. Hernandez / Wright) will challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number and two sound workouts. This guy absolutely loves the distance as he sports a 100% in the money record from eight starts at it. He should be part of the pack of leaders on the front-end. A son of City Zip, he is 94% in the money from sixteen career starts.
$2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#3 Desert Law (V. Espinoza / Gaines) should contend with the highest speed number at the distance and three stamina producing workouts. He excels at the distance with an 80% in the money record from ten starts at it. He also loves the Del Mar track. A son of Desert Code, he is 59% in the money from seventeen career starts.
$2 SHOW.

#6 Fashionably Fast (Pereira / Pederson) should be in the mix with the second highest last out speed number and four strong peaking workouts. He relishes the distance and the Del Mar track. A son of Lucky Pulpit, he is 77% in the money from seventeen career starts. This guy should be tracking the pace closely ready to strike.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#9 Collusion Illusion  //  #2 Anyportinastorm,  #3 Desert Law,  #6 Fashionably Fast.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#9 Collusion Illusion  +  #2 Anyportinastorm  +  #3 Desert Law  +  #6 Fashionably Fast.





Last Superfecta Sunday (7/26) Results
Ruidoso Downs R8.  Lincoln Handicap Stakes.  We missed out on our 10 CENT Superfecta box play, only hitting two of the four wagering interests required to cash. Superfecta went 8-1-9-4.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Waltzing Attila, won (1st) for show money of $3.20.
Bankroll dips to $125.93.