PREAKNESS Day

 Odd as it seems, on this first Saturday in October we have Preakness 145.

Pimlico Race 11 {Preakness~G1~1 3/16 mile~3 year-old~Graded Stakes}

A strong field of eleven will go to the gate in this, the 145th running of the normally second jewel of the Triple crown.

Past Performances used:  DRF Formulator.

This should be a fantastic race as trainer Bob Baffert comes in with two entrants including Kentucky Derby 146 champ, Authentic. Trainer Steve Asmussen raises the stakes by entering three this classic race. There is a plethora of speed types which should make the pace sizzle. The speed numbers are fairly close, especially among the top tier. All have had amazing seasons and should run well enough to make this an exhilarating race.

#3 Art Collector (B. Hernandez / Drury) comes in with five wins in a row. He missed KD 146 due to a hoof issue. This lad is fresh showing the fourth highest last out speed number and three superb peaking workouts. He has the tactical speed to stay the course no matter what type of pace develops. A son of Bernardini, he is 66% in the money from nine career starts.

$1 WIN  /  $2  PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#9 Authentic (J. Velazquez / Baffert) should go off as the favorite with his field leading speed. Winner of last months Kentucky Derby he holds the highest last out speed number and two intense peaking workouts. This guy is ready for all challengers. A millionaire son of Into Mischief, he is 100% in the money from six career starts.

$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#8 Max Player (P. Lopez / Asmussen) should contend after a fifth place finish in KD 146. This guy holds a good last out speed number and has clocked three hearty peaking workouts He has taken down purse money in both of his efforts at this distance. Look for him to be closing swiftly in the stretch. A son of  Honor Code, he is 83% in the money from six career starts.

$1 SHOW.

#4 Swiss Skydiver (Albarado / McPeek) is the only filly challenging the boys. She posts three excellent last out speed numbers and two solid workouts. She has a win at this distance. This gal will be part of the pace scenario adding some additional excitement to the race. A millionaire daughter of Daredevil, she is 90% in the money from ten career starts.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#3 Art Collector  ///  #9 Authentic,  #8 Max Player, #4 Swiss Skydiver.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#3 Art Collector  +  #9 Authentic  +  #8 Max Player  +  #4 Swiss Skydiver.

Last Superfecta Sunday (9/27) Results

Remmington Park R10.  Oklahoma Derby--G3.  We missed on our 10 CENT Superfecta Box effort only getting two of the four wagering interests required to cash. Superfecta went 5-8-4-7.

Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Shared Sense, won (1st) for show money of $2.80.

Bankroll dips to $31.87.

2020 KENTUCKY DERBY DAY

 Finally, it is here, the 2020 Kentucky Derby. A tremendous day is sure to unfold.

Churchill Downs Race 14 {Kentucky Derby 146~1 1/4 mile~3 year-old~Grade One Stakes}

A fantastic field of sixteen will enter the brand new 20 post gate. During this Derby week there have been two scratches. Most of the top entrants are to the outside with top flight speed figs. Most are all improving horses with a chance to run a big one on this most sacred day for horse men and women. Speed is also configured to the outside with a couple of forwardly placed types littered through out the rest of the field. With the defection of King Guillermo, the pace might not be as fast. It should be a fine Kentucky Derby in an unusual year.

#17 Tiz the Law (M. Franco / Tagg) should pull off the victory if he runs his race and gets a good trip. This guy holds the highest last out speed number and two superb workouts. He has already won at this distance. This colt will be seeking his fifth win in a row. He should get out close to the early pace-setters and begin his run for the roses coming into the turn. A son of Constitution, he is 100% in the money from seven career starts.

$2 WIN  /  $3 PLACE  /  $5 SHOW.

#16 Honor A.P. (M. Smith / Shirreffs) will be the chief challenger to the favorite. He holds a couple of very good last out speed numbers and four exceptional workouts. This guy has hit the board in his last three races. He comes in from California to meet these Derby contenders. This ridgling has the tactical speed to go with the outside speedsters. A son of Honor Code, he is 100% in the money from five career starts.

$2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#2 Max Player (Santana / Asmussen) will need some pace to unleash his kick. He holds the second highest (3-way tie) last out speed number and two sound workouts. This colt is another that has hit the board at this distance. He comes in from the New York circuit. a ground saving trip will be to his benefit when the real racing begins. Another son of Honor Code, is also 100% in the money from five career starts.

$2 SHOW.

#5 Major Fed (Graham / Foley) looks geared up to run the race of his life with some improving speed numbers and three high octane workouts. He comes in from Indiana Grande and has already hit the board at Churchill. This colt has already run over this distance earning a decent speed fig. A son of  Ghostzapper, this lad is 66% in the money from six career starts.

Other Wagering Interests within our NOTABLE NINE

This solid group of horses should be used in the exotics for good effect. #18 Authentic (J. Velazquez / Baffert) will be the speed of the race seeking to wire the field or hold on for a piece of the purse. He shares that second highest last out speed number. #3 Enforceable (Beschizza / M. Casse) will be closing gallantly in the stretch as a veteran of the Churchill track. Should the pace heat up, this colt will be in the mix. #14 Winning Impression (Rocco / D. Stewart) should improve on the stretch out. This gelding should be included in your tickets as his trainer gets all of his charges ready for the big races. #4 Storm the Court (Leparoux / Eurton) is last year's two year old champion and coming back into good form. He should take up a nice tracking position ready to fire. With the scratch of King Guillermo, we fill out our Notable Nine with #7 Money Moves (Castellano / Pletcher). This colt is on a nice speed number improvement in all three of his career starts. Look for him in mid-pack plotting his move.

$1 Exacta Wheel ($8)

#17 Tiz the Law  //  #16 Honor A. P.,  #2 Max Player,  #5 Major Fed,  #18 Authentic,  #3 Enforceable,  #14 Winning Impression,  #4 Storm the Court,  #7 Money Moves.

50 CENT Trifecta ($1.00)

#17 Tiz the Law  /  #16 Honor A.P.  /  #2 Max Player,  #5 Major Fed.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#17 Tiz the Law  +  #16 Honor A.P.  +  #2 Max Player  +  #5 Major Fed.

$1 Super High Five [Pentafecta ($5.00)

#17 Tiz the Law  /  #16 Honor A.P.  /  #2 Max Player  /  #5 Major Fed  /  #18 Authentic,  #3 Enforceable,  #14 Winning Impression,  #4 Storm the Court,  #7 Money Moves.

Friday Race Results

Churchill Downs R12.  KENTUCKY OAKS--G1.  Our first pick, Swiss Skydiver, finished 2nd for show money of $3.90.  Our second pick, Shedaresthedevil, won for show money of $3.80.

We hit our 10 CENT Superfecta Box play cashing for $27.93. Superfecta went 7-1-5-4.

Bankroll gets back across the "c-note line" settling at $101.02.  

Kentucky Derby 146 Wagering Strategies

 Thursday Strategy Session

KD 146 Wagering Strategy

Despite the lack of fans in this most unusual year, the 2020 Kentucky Derby promises to be a fantastic race to wager and watch. How do we approach it on a "blue collar budget". No need to go crazy like our sports betting brethren, firing a buck ($100), a nickel ($500), or a dime ($1000) at will. Let's go into it modestly, making intelligent picks with a budget of only sixty bucks total. Consider a full spectrum wager strategy for that magnificent 14th race on the card.

Many professional handicapper's have nearly anointed Tiz the Law as the eventual winner. Yes, he is the best of this year's three year-old crop. And should win if he runs his race. Consequently, he should be the key horse in most exotic wagers. Keep in mind he will be seeking his fifth straight win against stiff competition. It is wise to HEDGE a little as you develop your tickets.

Exacta

Set the ticket up with Tiz as the key and then throw in a mid-priced, mid-pack runner, a couple of solid challengers, and a couple of long shot closers. It might look like this.

Tz // A,  B,  C,  D, E

Don't forget to reverse it, putting the others on to and Tiz in the second position. The first-rate handicapper Jerry Jackowitz (jerryjpowerpage.com) has long advised this and has done very well. Both of the above plays will cost $5.00 each.

Trifecta

The trifecta will be a 50 CENT base wager. There are several different ways to construct your tickets given your handicapping prowess. Here are our suggestions:

Tz //  A, B, //  A, B C, D, E, F, G, H

This straightaway wager will cost you a cool $7.00. In addition budget for four Trifecta Box wagers which will cost you $3.00 each for a total of $12.00. Set up a couple of boxes with Tiz the Law and maybe a long shot closer box and one that allows for a stumble by the overwhelming favorite. Have fun with this wager.

Superfecta

Regular readers of this blog know this is our favorite wager and we will do a straight away wager listing those three horses we feel will finish one, two , three, and cost $1.50.

Tz //  A // B  // ALL

Our Lambrakis method ticket might look like this:

Tz  //  A, B  //  A, B, C, D, E  //  A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H

Note that we will use all the horses in our Notable Nine  blog post. This wager will come in at a cost of $4.80.

We will also throw down our much used wager, the 10 CENT Superfecta Box, including Tiz while looking at a few different angles. They might be:

Best Workouts among the entrants. This is somewhat subjective. We will try to determine which have gave a good account of themselves on the track in the past thirty days leading up to KD 146.

Trainer / Jockey combo. This merely represents the win percentage win these trainers and jockey's team up. We just have to determine which horses have a chance. Here is the way the top percentages look by program number.:

18--15--16--9--17--5--1

Top Speed Number given Last Three races:  17--16--18--2

Dollars won per Race:  17--18--4--16. Just divide the horses overall winnings by the number of races he has run.

Long Shot Closers.  Look at the card and see which closers you deem have an excellent chance and throw in a mid-pack off the pace type into your box. This is what we call our Giacomo Play, named after the famed 2005 Kentucky Derby winner. Should the pace collapse it could be the closers and off the pace types that pick up the pieces.

Super High-Five (pentafecta)

If it is on the KD-146 menu, let's play it. After all it is the Derby. We will roll it like this:

Tz  //  A  //  B //  C, D  //  C, D, E, F, G, H

At a cost of $10, this could offer a fantastic pay-out if it cashes.

While this year's Kentucky Derby may not have the substantial handle that normal years have with 150,000 fans under the Twin Spires, it should have some juicy pay outs. Best of Luck to you and may the odds be with you.

Kentucky Derby Wagering Menu is Fantastic

 Fantastic KD 146 Wagering Menu

The Kentucky Derby wagering menu was made for horse players in mind this year. There will be all types of opportunities for handicappers to cash. Aside from the usual $2 WIN, PLACE, and SHOW options, it will feature the following wagers for the big race:

• $1 Exacta.

• 50 CENT Trifecta.

• 10 CENT Superfecta.

• $1 Super High Five (while the kentuckyderby.com website does not mention it, Equibase.com does list it among the wagering options for KD 146, race number 14.

Those of us with a modest bankroll will be able to take advantage of the best race on the horse racing calendar.

Aside from the big race, Race 14, there are number of great wagering opportunities on the undercard which includes some very fine races including:

Race 8   American Turf Stakes with eight entrants.

Race 9   Pat Day Mile Stakes with nine entrants.

Race 10 Iroquois Stakes with eleven entrants.

Race 11 Churchill Distaff Turf Mile with eight entrants.

Race 12 Derby City Distaff Stakes with ten entrants.

Race 13 Old Forester Bourbon TURF Classic with ten entrants.

Race 14 Kentucky Derby 146 with a field of eighteen.

All of these races present excellent wagering opportunities for the 10 CENT Superfecta player. What a great day it should be.

2020 Kentucky Derby Post Position Draw

 Any Impact of the KD 146 Post Position Draw?

Yes and Maybe. This morning at Churchill Downs was the post position draw. Little drama, but there might be some impact as a result of the draw.

This year's Kentucky Derby will yield a fast pace. The weather is forecast to be near perfect. All of the favorites have landed outside positions. Speedy and forwardly placed types are on the outside and will have to giddy-up from the gate opening in order to find good position before going into the first turn. There is also a little speed coming out of the near middle post positions making it a speedy proposition for all the forwardly placed types. Such a speed scenario should benefit the trackers and closers most of which have landed the inside posts for potential ground saving trips.

Tiz the Law drew post position #17. He will need to run his race to get that post off the schnide as no horse has ever won from that positon. Speedster, Authentic, will be to his outside in post #18. He will have to gun it to avoid getting stuck wide going into the first turn. #16 Honor AP and #15 Ny Traffic will also have to get it on when the gates open in order to position themselves first.

#17 Tiz the Law is the one to beat and the outside draw may have minimal affect. It is the Derby. Any journeyman handicapper will have to HEDGE and put together a alternate ticket to take into account  these pace factors or others.

Impact on Our KD 146 Notable Nine

The post position draw has little impact on our top nine, but two defections due to minor injuries has us revamping our Notable Nine. Caracaro and Art Collector will not be in the field.

1. #17 Tiz the Law
2. #18 Authentic
3. #16 Honor AP
4. #3 Enforceable
5. #7 Winning Impression
6. #2 Max Player
7. #4 Storm the Court
8. #6 King Guillermo
9. #5 Major Fed

This year's Kentucky Derby will be very special. The excitement will continue to build leading up to the first Saturday in September

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.

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.

Superfecta Sunday at Bountiful Belmont

A beautiful day for Superfecta Sunday. Today we take a look at a wonderful stakes sprint on the Turf up in Elmont, New York.

Belmont Park Race 9 {First Defence Stakes~7 Furlongs~TURF~4 year-old Up~Stakes}

A full field of thirteen will hit the good grass in this feature stakes race. There is enough speed to keep the pace honest. Speed numbers are very close. Many of these entered are coming off extended layoffs due to the pandemic that postponed racing in New York and other jurisdictions. Our task is to weave together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta Box ticket.
It should be a fine race.

#1 Flavius (J. Ortiz / C. Brown) might have the edge coming off one of those extended layoffs. Of this group he holds the highest last out speed number and four diligent workouts. This guy has a win at the distance in his only effort. A son of War Front, he is 60% in the money from five career starts. He is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$1 SHOW.

#9 Hawkish (Carmouche / Toner) should be able to contend as he tries this distance for the first time. He holds a couple of good last out speed numbers and one strong workout. This guy is the only one coming into the race having raced in the last thirty days. A son of Artie Schiller, he is 55% in the money from nine career starts.

#2 Sombeyay (Castellano / Pletcher) should challenge with the second highest (tie) last out speed number and three solid workouts. He is another trying the distance and the course for the first time. A son of Into Mischief, he is 66% in the money from twelve career starts. This lad should be forwardly placed.

#12 Majestic Dunhill (R. Gutierrez / Weaver) should be in the mix sharing the second highest last out speed number and two hearty workouts. This guy comes in off a brief layoff. His last out race was over the dirt at this very distance. A son of Majestic Perfection, he is 62% in the money from sixteen career starts.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#1 Flavus  +  #9 Hawkish  +  #2 Sombeyay  +  #12 Majestic Dunhill.




Stakes Saturday Results
Santa Anita Park R8.  Santa Anita Derby--G1. Our first pick, Honor A.P., won (1st) for win money of $6.40 and show money of $3.30.  Our second pick, Authentic, finished 2nd for show money of $2.10.  Our third pick, Azul Coast, finished 7th (last).
We hit our $1 Saturday Exacta Wheel with our top two selections earning a meager $5.00.
Superfecta went 6-7-2-4.
Bankroll gains a bit to settle at $181.78.

Stakes Saturday under the twin Spires

A great card with a numerous stakes races, we take a look at the action at Churchill Downs. On this Stakes Saturday we examine a KD 146 prep race under the Twin Spires.

Churchill Downs Race 10 {Matt Winn Stakes~G3~1 1/16 mile~3 year-old~Graded Stakes}

A great field of ten comes together to battle for KD 146 points (50-20-10-5) in this featured stakes race. There is enough speed to maintain an honest pace. Speed numbers are very close giving any one of these lads a chance to take home some points for the September 5th Kentucky Derby. Only a couple have had recent races with the rest coming in with modest layoffs mostly due to our new normal. It should be the finest Stakes race on this beautiful Saturday.

#10 Maxfield (J. Ortiz / Walsh) should be the one to beat as he makes his first start since last year. His two races during his 2 year-old season were both wins earning very good last out speed numbers. This lad has put in four powerful peaking workouts which prepare him well for this level of competition. A son of 2007 Kentucky Derby winning Street Sense, he should have an exemplary closing kick.
$2 WIN  /  $3 PLACE  /  $5 SHOW.

#6 Ny Traffic (P. Lopez / Joseph) has the giddy-up to potentially wire this field. He holds the highest last out speed number at a longer route and four strong workouts. He has already won at this distance. A son of Cross Traffic, he is 72% in the money from seven career starts.
$2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#2 Pneumatic (Santana / Asmussen) will be seeking his third straight victory coming over from Oaklawn Park. He holds the third highest (tie) last out speed number and four hearty workouts. This guy will also be stretching out in distance. A son of Uncle Mo, he should be tracking the pace ready to strike.
$2 SHOW.

#11 Attachment Rate (J. Velazquez / Romans) comes in from Gulfstream Park with the second highest last out speed number and two solid peaking workouts. He is one of four that have already races over the Churchill circuit. A son of Hard Spun, he is 80% in the money from five career starts.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#10 Maxfield //  #6 Ny Traffic,  #2 Pneumatic,  #11 Attachment Rate.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#10 Maxfield  +  #6 Ny Traffic  +  #2 Pneumatic  #11 Attachment Rate.




Last Superfecta Sunday (5/17) Results
Gulfstream Park R5.  Claiming.  We cashed our ticket for our 10 CENT Superfecta play earning a meager $3.50. Superfecta went 1-8-4-5.
Our Bronze Horseshoe runner, Dardanellos, finished 2nd for show money of $1.70.
Bankroll gets a tiny blip to $96.85.
  

It's Derby Day. Arkansas Derby Day.

On the first Saturday in May, which would normally be the day of the Kentucky Derby, we look at division 2 of the Arkansas Derby. The race will be the lucky thirteenth.

Oaklawn Park Race 13 {Arkansas Derby (div. II)~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year-old~Graded Stakes}

A very strong field of nine (after two scratches) will go to the gate in arguably the tougher of the two Arky Derby races. There is plenty of speed to carry a swift pace forward. Speed numbers are fairly close among this group. Interestingly, one millionaire is in the race. All but three will be stretching out in distance. This race should be the most exciting of the two Arkansas Derby divisions.

#3 Storm the Court (Prat / Eurton) might be the big surprise. He is last year's juvenile champ and looks to get back on track as the KD 146 trail changes. He holds the fourth highest last out speed number and four superb peaking workouts. This lad is 66% in the money from six career starts. A millionaire son of Court Vision, he has the tactical speed to fit in nicely with whatever pace develops.
$2 WIN  /  $3 PLACE  /  $5 SHOW.

#7 Silver Prospector (Santana / Asmussen) should challenge despite having an average last out speed number, but throwing down three solid peaking workouts. This guy is 100% in the money over a dirt surface. A son of Declaration of War, he should settle into a nice tracking position ready to strike.
$2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#5 Nadal (Rosario / Baffert) is the one to beat. He holds the second highest last out speed number and four high octane workouts. This lad has already won over the Oaklawn Park track. He should be part of the speed scenario on the front-end. A son of Blame, he has won all three of his three career races.
$2 SHOW.

#10 Farmington Road (Castellano / Pletcher) should contend with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and two sound workouts. This guy has already raced twice at this distance hitting the board once. He will be closing fiercely into a strong pace. A son of Quality Road, he is 60% in the money from five career starts.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#3 Storm the Court //  #7 Silver Prospector,  #5 Nadal,  #10 Farmington Road.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#3 Storm the Court  +  #7 Silver Prospector  +  #5 Nadal  +  #10 Farmington Road.




Last Superfecta Sunday (4/26) Results
Oaklawn Park R10.  Allowance.  We misfired on our 10 CENT Superfecta Box effort grabbing only two of the four wagering interests required for the win. Superfecta went 5-1-9-10.
Our Bronze horseshoe runner, Shilah Baby, finished 8th.
Bankroll takes another hit, dipping to 129.47.

Florida Derby Day

All eyes will be on that sensational track in South Florida as one of the premiere Kentucky Derby prep races is run. This will be a great Stakes Saturday down at Gulfstream Park.

Gulfstream Park {Curlin FLORIDA DERBY--G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year-old~Graded Stakes}

A fantastic field of nine will go to the gate in this great KD 146 prep race. There is plenty of speed to keep a swift pace. Speed numbers are fairly close. Interestingly there are three sons of Constitution that all have a great shot to pull off the victory. All will be stretching out to this distance. It should be an incredible race to wager and watch.

#7 Tiz the Law (M. Franco / Tagg) should capitalize nicely on the speedsters in the race as they lead this team of horses through frothy fractions. He holds the highest last out speed number and four superb peaking workouts. A son of the aforementioned, Constitution, he is 100% in the money from four career starts.
$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#9 Independence Hall (Rosario / Trombetta) will challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number and perhaps the strongest workout tab with four stamina producing / peaking workouts. This guy comes over from Tampa Bay Downs. Another son of Constitution, he is also is 100% in the money from four career starts.
$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#1 As Seen On TV (P. Lopez / Breen) looks to take another step forward along the Derby trail with the third highest last out speed number and two hearty workouts. This lad loves the Gulfstream Park track holding the second highest speed number over it. A son of Lookin' At Lucky, he is 100% in the money from five career starts. Look for him to track the pace closely and sprout into the stretch.
$1 SHOW.

#12 Ete Indien (Geroux / Biancone) should be the deserved favorite and will attempt to control the pace on the front end. He holds the second highest last out speed number and three endurance peaking workouts. This guy has hit the board in all three of his Gulfstream Park races. A son of Summer Front, he is 80% in the money from five starts.
$1 SHOW.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#7 Tiz the Law  //  #9 Independence Hall,  #1 As Seen on TV,  #12 Ete Indien.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#7 Tiz the Law  +  #9 Independence Hall  +  #1 As Seen on TV  +  #12 Ete Indien.



Last Superfecta Sunday (3/22) Results
Santa Anita Park R8.  Sensational Star Stakes.  We just missed our 10 CENT Superfecta box play grabbing three of the four wagering interests required to cash. Superfecta went 7-9-3-4.
Our Bronze Horseshoe selection, Lieutenant Dan, won (1st) for show money of $3.60.
Bankroll dips to $186.82.
  

Superfecta Sunday at Santa Anita

On this Superfecta Sunday we are grateful that horse racing is still in action. We hope all involved stay safe and healthy. Today we take in a great stakes race in sunny Southern California.

Santa Anita Park Race 8 {Sensational Star Stakes~5 1/2 Furlongs~TURF~4 year-old Up~Stakes}

A good field of ten will go to the green in this competitive event. There are two ladies that will be competing with the boys and both have a chance to pull off the victory. There is plenty of speed to produce a frothy pace. Speed figs are very close. Our task is to create a winning 10 CENT Superfecta Box ticket. It should be one of the most exciting races on the day.

#7 Lieutenant Dan (Van Dyke / Miyadi) looks like he might have a slight edge as he attempts this Turf distance for the first time. He holds the third highest last out speed number and two strong workouts. This lad should be sitting right off the pace ready to move smoothly through the stretch. A son of Grazen, he is 90% in the money from eleven career starts. He is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$2 SHOW.

#4 Just Grazed Me (G. Franco / D'Amato) is a mare taking on the boys. This gal holds the second highest last out speed number and four superb peaking workouts. She should be forwardly placed ready to strike in the stretch. A daughter of Grazen, she is 100% in the money from eleven career starts.

#9 Stealthediamonds (Delgadillo / Puype) is a filly taking on these lads as well as the mare mentioned above. She holds the top last out speed number among these entrants. This gal is known for her speed and could wire this field. A daughter of Unusual Heat, she is 76% in the money from seventeen starts.

#6 The Hunted (M. Gutierrez / Puype) will be attempting this distance for the first time. He does enjoy the surface and the Santa Anita course. This gelding will be coming out of a graded stakes and coming down in distance. A son of Unusual Heat, he is 52% in the money from seventeen career starts.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#7 Lieutenant Dan  +  #4 Just Grazed Me  +  #6 Stealthediamonds  +  #6 The Hunted.



Stakes Saturday Results
Fair Grounds Race Course R12.  Louisiana Derby--G2.  Our first pick, Chestertown, finished 8th.  Our second pick, Wells Bayou, won (1st) for place money of $2.90 and show money of $4.60.  Our third pick, Silver State, finished 7th.
We failed in our $1 Saturday Exacta Wheel effort.
Superfecta went 3-11-14-1.
Bankroll takes a dive to $187.62.

Superfecta Sunday at the Fair Grounds

We look in on a challenging Turf race down in New Orleans.

Fair Grounds Race 6 {1 1/16 mile~TURF~3 year-old~Fillies~Maiden Claiming}

A scratch of a first time starter reduces this field to ten well bred maiden fillies. There are still two first time starters among this group. The pace should be steady as a few in here like to be forwardly placed. Of those that have run, the speed numbers are very close. Our task is to cobble together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta Box ticket. It should be a great race.

#10 Caribbean Kitten (Lanerie / Maker) should enjoy the stretch out to this distance. She holds the second highest last out speed number and four tremendous workouts. This gal has already hit the board over the Fair Grounds course. A daughter of Kitten's Joy, she has the tactical speed to move comfortably with the pace. She is our Bronze Horseshoe, selection.
$1 SHOW.

#5 Illusionista (Murrill / Stidham) should challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number and one solid workout. She switches from dirt to turf where she was in the money in her first start. A daughter of Magician [IRE], she should be forwardly placed seeking to pounce.

#6 Threewickedwishes (M. Mena / Calhoun) is another switching from dirt to turf and making her second career start. She holds the third highest last out speed number and has put in three robust workouts. A daughter of Include, she should be tracking the pace seeking to strike in the stretch.

#8 Foxglove (Geroux / B. Cox) will be looking to win in her fourth career start. This gal has already hit the board in all three of her starts. She holds the highest (tie) last out speed number and three hearty workouts. A daughter of Oxbow, she is another that will be forwardly placed.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#10 Caribbean Kitten  +  #5 Illusionista  +  #6 Threewickedwishes  +  #8 Foxglove.




Stakes Saturday Results
Tampa Bay Downs R11.  Tampa Bay Derby--G2.  Our first pick, Chance It, finished 5th.  Our second pick, Sole Volante, finished 2nd for place money of $1.90 and show money of $2.80.  Our third pick, Spa City, finished 7th.  We flubbed our $1 Saturday Exacta Wheel.
Caught only one wagering interest in our 10 CENT Superfecta box. Superfecta went 11-7-1-3.
Bankroll gets smoked and drops to $61.38.

A Derby Points Stakes Saturday

The horse racing action really picks up this weekend with three stellar Kentucky Derby prep races from coast to coast. We will take a look at the race down in Tampa.

Tampa Bay Downs Race 11 {Tampa Bay Derby~G2~1 1/16 mile~3 year-old~Graded Stakes}

A great field of twelve will go to the gate in KD 146 points in this race. There is enough speed to carry a solid pace forward. Speed numbers are fairly close. It should be noted that there are six exiting maiden special weight races with two of them still searching for their first win. It should be a fantastic race to wager and watch.

#4 Chance It (P. Lopez / Joseph) could be the victor on the front-end. He holds the highest last out speed number and three speed laden workouts. He comes in fresh having already captured a victory at this distance. A son of Currency Swap, he is 100% in the money from six career starts.
$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#7 Sole Volante (Geroux / Biancone) will pose a mighty challenge with the second highest last out speed number and one endurance producing workout. He comes off a victory at this distance over the Tampa Bay Downs track. A son of Karokonite [JPN], is another that is 100% in the money from four career starts. This guy will track and close gallantly.
$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#2 Spa City (Centeno / McLaughlin) should contend with the third highest last out speed number at a longer route and two strong workouts. He has progressed nicely in each of his three career starts. This lad should be forwardly placed ready to pounce. A son of 2007 Kentucky Derby winner, Street Sense, he is 66% in the money.
$1 SHOW.

#5 Market Analysis (J. Velazquez / Pletcher) will be making his second career start after winning at first asking. He has put in four powerful peaking workouts in preparation for this race. He is another that will forwardly placed pushing the pace. A son of Hard Spun, he will be stretching out to this distance.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#4 Chance It //  #7 Sole Volante,  #2 Spa City,  #5 Market Analysis.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#4 Chance It  +  #7 Sole Volante  +  #2 Spa City  +  #5 Market Analysis.




Furlong Friday Results
Fair Grounds Race Course R9.  LA Claiming.  Our pick, Fat Clemenza, finished 5th.
We did not cash on our 10 CENT Superfecta Box play, capturing only two of four. Superfecta went 4-10-8-3.
Bankroll gets smoked and drops to $72.08.

Superfecta Sunday down in NOLA

We take in a very swell Turf race down in New Orleans for our Superfecta Sunday.

Fair Grounds Race 8 {7 1/2 mile~TURF~4 year-old Up~Allowance Optional Claiming}

A solid field of ten will hit the grass in this feature Turf race. There is almost an overwhelming amount of speed to create what might be a sizzling pace. Speed numbers are super close which will create a very competitive race. Our task is to string together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta Box ticket. It should be a great race down in glorious NOLA.

#3 Markitoff (Lanerie / Kenneally) is coming off a long layoff, but should do well. He holds the second highest speed number at the distance and four strong peaking workouts. This guy is 75% in the money at this distance from four starts. A son of Giant's Causeway, he has the tactical speed to see how the pace develops then join the fray. He is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$1 SHOW.

#5 Two Emmys (Murrill / Robertson) will challenge with the second highest last out speed number and two superb peaking workouts. He has a win over the Fair Grounds course in his only start over it. A son of English Channel, he should be forwardly placed. This guy is 66% in the money from six starts.

#4 Duncastle (Geroux / Morley) should be in contention with the third highest last out speed number and three short speedy workouts. This lad is 100% in the money over the Fair Grounds course from three starts. A son of Dunkirk, this guy is 52% in the money from seventeen career starts. Expect him to be part of the pace scenario.

#8 Landofthepharoahs (Graham / Amoss) could surprise having hit the board in his last two and securing the third highest last out speed number. He has put in two hearty peaking workouts. A son of Cairo Prince, he is 55% in the money from eighteen career starts. He is another with tactical speed.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#3 Markitoff  +  #5 Two Emmys  +  #4 Duncastle  +  #8 Landofthepharoahs.



Stakes Saturday Results
Gulfstream Park R14.  Fountain of Youth--G2.  Our first pick, Dennis's Moment, finished 10th (last).  Our second pick, Shotski, finished 4th.  Our third pick, As Seen On TV, finished 3rd for show money of $1.60.
We failed miserably in our $1 Saturday Exacta Wheel effort.
Superfecta went 11-1-6-10.
Bankroll gets smashed dropping to $83.88.

Leap Day Stakes Saturday

We look in on another Kentucky Derby prep down in beautiful South Florida.

Gulfstream Park Race 14 {Fasig-Tipton Fountain of Youth Stakes~G2~1 1/16 mile~3 year-old~Graded Stakes}

Reduced by a couple of scratches, we have a good field of ten that will go to the gate in this annual Derby prep race. There is plenty of speed to produce a steamy pace. Speed figs are fairly close among most of these. Many come into this one fresh with a minor few having raced earlier this month. Significant parity in this field will create one of this most exciting KD 146 preps of the season.

#5 Dennis' Moment (Prat / Romans) debuts in his three year old season. He holds the second highest speed number at this distance and four supreme peaking workouts. This guy is well prepped for this race. A son of Tiznow, he will be tracking the leaders and gun it in the stretch.
$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#10 Shotski (J. Velazquez / O'Dwyer) will challenge as part of the pace pack with the third highest last out speed number at a longer route and two hearty workouts. This lad is 60% in the money from five career starts. A son of Blame, he is well tested and ready for battle.
$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#6 As Seen On TV (P. Lopez / Breen) should contend with the second highest last out speed number and three terrific workouts. He will be stretching out to this distance. A son of Lookin at Lucky, is 100% in the money from four career starts. Expect him to track the pace closely.
$1 SHOW.

#9 Liam's Lucky Charm (Zayas / Nicks) should be in the mix with the second highest speed number over the Gulfstream track as well as being 100% in the money over it from five starts. He has put in two strong workouts in preparation. A son of Khozan, he is another that will track the pace closely.

$1 Saturday Exacta Wheel ($3.00)

#5 Dennis' Moment //  #10 Shotski,  #6 As Seen on TV,  #9 Liam's Lucky Charm.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#5 Dennis's Moment  +  #10 Shotski  +  #6 As Seen On Tv  +  #9 Liam's Lucky Charm.




Last Superfecta Sunday (2/23) Results
Sunland Park R10.  Red Hedeman Mile Stakes. We misfired on our 10 CENT Superfecta play, hitting only two of the four needed to cash our ticket. Superfecta went 4-7-5-1.
Our Bronze Horseshoe selection, Go Now Go, finished 7th.
Bankroll tumbles to $97.68.