Showing posts with label Meydan Race Track. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Meydan Race Track. Show all posts

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Superfecta Sunday Allowance

Yesterday was a fantastic day of racing.  We witnessed three great KD 140 preps that earned a pile of Derby points for the winners.  Perhaps the most impressive was Toast of New York winning the UAE Derby at Meydan (Dubai, UAE).  Hopefully his connections will send him to Kentucky on that first Saturday in May.  Vicar's In Trouble won the Louisiana Derby and Constitution won a thrilling running of the Florida Derby.  Both of these lads will be forces to reckon with in the greatest two minutes in all of sports.

Today we take a look at a nice Allowance race in New York.

Aqueduct Race 8 {1 mile~3 year old Up~fillies/mares~NY~Allowance}
A good crop of seven gals will go to the gate in this allowance feature.  They are equally comparable in terms of speed numbers.  There is enough speed in here for a quick pace.  We will attempt to cobble a winning 10 CENT Superfecta ticket utilizing all of the participants.

#6 Familyofroses (Maragh / Falcone) appears likely to notch a victory with the third highest last out speed number from a longer route and a five race progression.  She should be able to track the pace and let it rip in the stretch. She does seem to enjoy the Aqueduct course.

#5 Great Oracle Dane (Franco / Asmussen) is the veteran racer of the bunch who should be able to challenge with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and two proficient workouts.  She does show a 70% in the money record at this distance.  This gal is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$1 SHOW.

Other Racing Interests

#1 Broadway Music Gal (T. Rice / Englehart) should challenge with the highest last out speed number at a longer route and a three race progression.  She has gone this distance over the Turf producing a decent speed figure.  A very close tracking style should produce a good result.

#7 Hundred Acre Wood (Esquivel / Sciacca) should be able to dictate the speed terms as the front runner.  She holds the second highest last out speed number at longer route and a two race progression.

The Balance of the Field

#2 Physical Delivery (Husbands / Baker) could figure prominently based on Jockey / Trainer combination strike rate.  She is with striking distance of the others speed figs for the distance.  #3 Typhoon Teri (Mejias / Hertler) is also within striking distance of the others distance speed figures.  She should be pressing the pace.  #4 She's Stones Sis (J. Ortiz / Levine) could figure prominently while being forwardly placed.  This gal has a good in the money record of 58% from twelve starts.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 Familyofroses  /  #5 Great Oracle Dane, #1 Broadway Musical Gal, #7 Hundred Acre Wood /  #5, #1, #7   /  #5, #1, #7, #2 Physical Delivery, #3 Typhoon Teri, #4 She's Stones Sis.



Stakes Saturday Results

Meydan (Dubai, UAE) R3.  Dubai Gold Cup--G2.  Our first pick, Cavalryman [GB] finished 2nd for place money of $1.40.  Our second pick, Songcraft [IRE] finished 7th.  Our third pick, Ernest Hemmingway [IRE], finished 8th.
Superfecta went 14-7-2-4.

Fair Grounds R11.  Louisiana Derby--G2.  Our first pick, Intense Holiday, finished 2nd for place money of $3.20 and show money of $3.90.  Our second pick, Gold Hawk, finished 8th.  Our third pick, Vicars in Trouble, won (1st) for show money of $1.50.
Superfecta went 6-1-7-10.

Bankroll gets drilled to $19.74.




















Saturday, March 29, 2014

Stakes Saturday in Dubai and Louisiana

A fantastic Stakes Saturday unfolds in the early morning hours as we take a look at a fabulous Turf marathon in Dubai.  Along with so many great stakes races on the cards today, we take a peek at the Louisiana Derby.  What a great Saturday of horse racing.

Meydan (Dubai, UAE) Race 3 {Dubai Gold Cup~G2~2 miles~TURF~3/4 year olds Up~1 million Dollar Stakes}
A full field of fifteen of the finest Turf horses in the World converge on the Most beautiful Turf course in the world in this two mile marathon.  This race is part of the Dubai World Cup card.  Six have already raced at this distance or longer.  The balance of the field will be stretching out from 1 3/16 mile to 1.75 mile races. It will be an incredible race. Remember, in International racing, the top three finishers are paid out of the Place pool.

#7 Cavalryman [GB] (DeSousa / bin Suroor) could be the favorite having run this distance with great success.  He is coming off an impressive win last out over this Meydan course.  This son of Halling shows the highest Racing Post rating at the distance. At eight years old he appears ready to romp again.
$1 WIN / $2 PLACE.

#6 Songcraft [IRE] (Barzalona / bin Suroor) should challenge as he stretches out from a 1 1/2 mile adventure last out in which he placed 2nd.  This son of Singspiel [IRE] is 83% in the money from six starts on the Meydan course. He has notched seven career victories from twenty-one starts.
$1 PLACE.

#3 Ernest Hemmingway [IRE] (J. O'Brien / A. O'Brien) could surprise as he stretches out from 1 3/4 mile race.  He holds the highest Racing Post rating among this group over Turf.  The son of one of the best racers in the world, Galileo, holds a couple of quality last out RP ratings.  The jockey-trainer combination is highly appealing.
$1 PLACE.

Other Wagering Interests

#2 Star Empire [SAf] (Soumillon / de Kock) will contend with a couple of terrific last out performances over the Meydan Turf.  This son of Second Empire has an impressive 88% in the money record from nine starts at Meydan.  Expect him to close swiftly among the pack of horses quickening into the stretch.

#12 Now We Can [GB] (Thulliez / N. Clement) should be in the closing mix with a nice win over a synthetic surface over in France.  The son of Martillo [GER] is working a four race progression and has secured six career victories for a 60% win (in the money) record.

10 CENT Superfecta

#7 Cavalryman [GB]  /  #6 Songcraft [IRE]  /  #3 Ernest Hemmingway [IRE]  /  #2 Star Empire [SAf], #12 Now We Can [GB].


Fair Grounds Race 11 {Louisiana Derby~G2~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~1 million Stakes}
A smashing field of ten KD 140 aspirants will make the start in this stellar race.  All but one will be stretching out to this longer route.  There is plenty of speed to lead to a hot pace.  Such a speedy scenario could greatly benefit the trackers and closers.  It should be another great race along the Derby trail this year.

#1 Intense Holiday (Smith / Pletcher) has the best chance for victory should a speed pace develop.  He holds the highest (tie) last out speed number, a six race progression, and three solid workouts.  This son of Harlan's Holiday should track the pace and close the field down.
$1 WIN / $2 PLACE / $3 SHOW.

#5 Gold Hawk (Bridgmohan / Asmussen) will challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number and three strong peaking workouts. A son of Empire Maker, distance should not be a problem as he stretches out.  This guy is another that should track the pace seeking an opening to ramble on.
$1 PLACE / $2 SHOW.

#6 Vicars In Trouble (Napravnik / Maker) should contend with the third highest last out speed number and two efficient workouts.  This son of Into Mischief has the tactical speed to feel out the pace and run strongly into the stretch. He holds the highest speed number, along with two others, over the dirt surface.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#9 In Trouble (Rocco / A. Dutrow) should be in the mix with the second highest speed number, a three race progression, and two athletic workouts.  A son of Tiz Wonderful, he should be forwardly placed ready to strike.

#10 Albano (Clark / L. Jones) can be in the hunt sharing the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and three superior workouts.  This son of Istan is 100% in the money over the Fair Grounds course from four starts.  He is another that should be forwardly placed.

10 CENT Superfecta

#1 Intense Holiday  /  #5 Gold Hawk  /  #6 Vicars In Trouble  /  #9 In Trouble, #10 Albano.



Friday's Results
Aqueduct R7.  Claiming.  Our first pick, Jerusalem Stone, finished 5th.  Our second pick, Casual Elegance, finished 2nd for show money of $1.25.
Superfecta went 5-7-2-1.
Bankroll gets trimmed to $4.14.  We will supplement with a couple of Hamiltons for this Stakes Saturday.






Sunday, March 31, 2013

Superfecta Sunday Turf in 'Orleans

The last Sunday in March is another Superfecta Sunday.  We take a peek at the last race on the last day of the Fair Grounds meet.

Fair Grounds Race Course Race 12 {1 1/2 mile~TURF~4 year old Up~Optional Claiming}
A turf ready group of nine older horses will take to the grass in the last race of the meet.  There is absolutely no speed in this one.  A couple have been forwardly placed in previous races and may by default pick up the pace here.  This will be a difficult one in which to put together a solid 10 CENT Superfecta box ticket.  But we must give it a try.

#4 Wando Venture (Borel / Duhon) looks best able to move forward having already gone this distance.  He holds the third highest speed at the distance which demonstrates he can make a go of it.  His last two outings have been decent and he holds a 50% in the money record over the Turf.  He might end up forwardly placed.

#6 Tragic Magic (Graham / R. Scherer) will compete well with this group holding the second highest (tie) last out speed number, a two race progression, and two superb peaking workouts. Like many in here he is stretching out to this distance for the first time and has a tracking run style.  He is our Bronze Horseshoe selection.
$2 SHOW.

#5 Waystogeaux (J. Gomez / Gomez) is a veteran 10 year old Turfer that takes very well to this distance holding a 100% in the money record in three attempts.  He is coming off a couple of o.k. last out races, but may relish this distance over the green.  He is another that likes to track and close.

#1 Wajir On Me (Mena / Hawley) is another veteran Turfer with the fourth highest last out speed number, the highest speed number at the distance, and one stout workout.  He might be able to close well into whatever pace is on.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#4 Wando Venture  +  #6 Tragic Magic  +  #5 Waystogeaux  +  #1 Wajir On Me.



Stakes Saturday Results
Meydan (Dubai, UAE) R3.  Dubai Gold Cup--G3.  Our first pick, Saddler's Rock [IRE], finished 7th.  Our second pick, Cavalryman [GB], won (1st) for "place" money of $3.40.  Our third pick, Star Empire [SAf] finished 5th.
Superfecta went 3-2-6-5.

Gulfstream Park R12.  Florida Derby--G1.  Our first pick, Orb, won (1st) for win money of $3.90, place money of $3.80, and show money of $5.10.  Our second pick, Shanghai Bobby, finished 5th.  Our third pick, Itsmyluckyday, finished 3rd for show money of $1.30.
Superfecta went 6-3-8-10.

Bankroll gets a little thump falling to $21.35.

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Stakes Saturday: Dubai and Florida

On this Stakes Saturday there is a number of bountiful race cards across this great nation and in fascinating Dubai, UAE.  Let's go long on the TURF and enjoy one of the best Derby preps.

Meydan (Dubai, UAE) Race 3 {Dubai Gold Cup~G3~2 mile~TURF~4 year old Up~Stakes}
A spectacular race shapes up as ten endurance runners take to the beautiful Meydan course.  An international cast will run smoothly through the turns only to quicken as the finish appears on the horizon.  The vast majority have already run over the Meydan course.  Few have traveled this long distance.  It should shape up as a fantastic race.  Overseas racing takes win and place bets, but pays out for the runner finishing third as well.  With that in mind let's give this one a roll.

#7 Saddler's Rock [IRE] (McDonogh / Oxx) is one of two runners that has gone this distance twice securing one win.  He looks formidable based on his last two races the most recent here at Meydan.  He sports a 50% in the money record.
$2 WIN / $3 PLACE.

#3 Cavalryman [GB] (DeSousa / bin Suroor) will challenge with a nice third place finish in his last, The Dubai City of Gold.  He too has gone this distance twice.  He shows a 48% in the money record covering twenty-nine races.  A veteran of the TURF endurance races, he should do well here.
$2 PLACE.

#10 Star Empire [SAf] (Soumillon / de Kock) should contend here with an impressive 81% in the money record.  He looks ready to take another step forward holding a four race progression.  He has been competing well over the Meydan track having finished in the money in his three outings this year.
$2 PLACE.

Other Wagering Interests

#2 Ahzeemah [IRE] (Fallon / bin Suroor) should be in the mix with an superb 84% in the money record.  He holds a three race progression and will be stretching out another quarter mile from his last out.  An experienced fellow over this course, in that race he notched a victory.

#8 Tenenbaum [GB] (Barzalona / Al Zarooni) will be in the hunt posting a three race progression going into this race.  He holds a 72% in the money record  over the grass.  An improving gelding also seeking to stretch out another quarter mile.

10 CENT Superfecta

#7 Saddler's Rock [IRE] / #3 Cavalryman [GB] / #10 Star Empire [SAf] / #2 Ahzeemah [IRE], #8 Tenenbaum [GB].



Gulfstream Park Race 12 {Florida Derby~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year olds~Stakes}
A very solid field of ten will venture to the gate hoping to secure major Kentucky Derby points.  Only four have gone this distance, but most appear to have the pedigree for it.  Some superlative speed numbers show up.  There will enough speed and pressers to keep the pace honest to allow the trackers and closers a chance at the stretch run party.  Could be one the most exciting races on this Stakes Saturday.

#6 Orb (J. Velazquez / McGaughey) will be closing fast and efficiently.  He holds the third highest last out speed number, a five race progression, and three strong workouts.  This guy has also been victorious twice over the Gulfstream track.
$1 WIN / $2 PLACE / $3 SHOW.

#1 Shanghai Bobby (Napravnik / Pletcher) will be the deserved favorite with the second highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and four superbly beneficial workouts.  He should be the speed of the speed as he tries to wire this field.  A superstar millionaire, he will be sharpening his focus on KD 139.
$1 PLACE / $2 SHOW.

#3 Itsmyluckyday (Trujillo / Plesa) should challenge with the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and four endurance building as well as peaking workouts.  He favours this track showing two wins.  This guy will be running fresh off a sixty day layoff.  He could press or track depending on how the pace sets up.
$1 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#2 Pick of the Litter (Castanon / Romans) is only one of two in this race that has not yet been nominated to the Triple Crown.  He holds the fourth highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three speedy peaking workouts.  This boy can be expected to be forwardly placed.

#7 Indy's Illusion (Maragh / Tagg) should be in the hunt with a couple of decent last out speed numbers, a three race progression, and three hearty peaking workouts.  He is the only one in this race that has gone this distance three times securing a 66% in the money run.  This guy could be the big surprise if others stumble at the distance.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 Orb / #1 Shanghai Bobby / #3 Itsmyluckyday / #2 Pick of the Litter, #7 Indy's Illusion.



Friday's Results
Santa Anita R3.  Allowance.  Our first pick, Jolly Days, was scratched.  Our second pick, Caelis [GB], finished 3rd for show money of $3.60.
We bolted from our 10 CENT Superfecta play due to the scratch.  Superfecta went 4-6-3-8.
Bankroll gets a minor bump to $11.45.  We will supplement with twelve bucks for todays great races.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Superfecta Sunday at Fair Grounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

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



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

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

Bankroll gets trimmed a few cents to $20.92.

Saturday, March 31, 2012

Dubai and Florida Love

It's Stakes Saturday.
Forget the Mega.  You have a better chance for ca-ching in the Dubai World Cup races and Florida Derby.

Meydan Race Course [Dubai--UAE] Race 8
Dubai Sheema Classic~G1~1 1/2 mile~TURF~3/4 year old Up~Stakes

All eyes will be on the Dubai World Cup race with it's 10 million dollar purse.  However, the undercard is always very strong and can offer up some nice coin.  We look at an extremely competitive Classic Turf battle and it's 5 million dollar purse.  The fantastic field of ten well traveled world class competitor's do not have a micron of difference in ability.  Any one of these could win this race.  Handicap we must.  Remember, horses finishing either first, second, or third share in the "place" money pool.

#8 Cirrus des Aigles [Fr] (Peslier / Barande) looks well prepped for this Turf challenge with a nice second place finish at Chantilly [Fr] last out.  With an 85% in the money career record covering forty races and a 72% in the money record at the distance, he will be a top contender.  His thirteen career wins demonstrate his capacity for the turf battle.
$1 WIN / PLACE.

#6 Treasure Beach [GB] (Spencer / O'Brien) will challenge coming off a long layoff.  Well traveled racing in North America, France, and Ireland, this four year old colt should pick up where he left off.  Last out was a solid third at this distance at Woodbine.  With five career wins and an 84% in the money record in a twelve race career.  He could be forwardly placed ready for the quickening entering into the stretch.
$1 PLACE.

#4 Mahooba [AUS] (Shea / de Kock) will also challenge coming off two excellent last out efforts over the Meydan course.  He too is well traveled with races in Great Britain and at Woodbine along with his efforts in Dubai.  He is another that could be expected to be forwardly placed ready to strike.
$1 PLACE.

Other Wagering Interests

#9 St. Nicholas Abbey [IRE] (O'Brien / O'Brien) has not raced since his thrilling win in the Breeder's Cup Turf last fall at Churchill Downs.  He has raced in Great Britain and France.  This guy is top in class among this group and should fire well coming off a four month layoff.

#5 Calvaryman [GB] (Dettori / bin Suroor) was last seen with a beautiful second over this course in the Dubai City of Gold.  He appears in top form and should be in the mix with a tracking run.

#3 Beaten Up [GB] (Murtaugh / Haggas) is holding three wins in three career starts in Great Britain.  He could be the surprise among this top-notch group of turfers.  Expect him to track the leaders and close well.

10 CENT Superfecta

#8 Cirrus des Aigles [FR] / #6 Treasure Beach [IRE] / #4 Mahooba [AUS] / #9 St. Nicholas Abbey [IRE], #5 Cavalryman [GB], #3 Beaten Up [GB].


Gulfstream Park Race 11 {Florida Derby~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
This year's crop of three year old's competing for a gate at the Kentucky Derby 138 is much better than last year's tenacious colts.  The Florida Derby looks to have an excellent field of nine competing for the graded earnings in this million dollar race.  Speed is very prevalent in this group.  There are number of horses that will be coming off the pace as well which could make this race very interesting.

#8 El Padrino (Castellano / Pletcher) is sitting on the bubble for entry into the KD 138.  We project that $250k will be needed to gain a spot.  This talented colt will need to finish in the top three to guarantee a seat at the derby table.  He holds the highest last out speed number and has put in three stellar peaking workouts.  A son of Pulpit, he will be geared for victory.
$1 WIN / SHOW.

#6 Union Rags (Leparoux / Matz) is one of the KD 138 buzz horses as he will challenge with the third highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and three superb peaking workouts.  The class of the field needs not entry into the derby field having the most graded stakes earnings.  He has nothing to prove.  This son of Dixie Union just has to run well and sharpen his game in preparation for the big dance on the first Saturday in May.
$1 PLACE / SHOW.

#3 Take Charge Indy (Borel / Byrne) is another seeking graded stakes earnings and needs to finish no worse than second to be above the bubble.  There is no question he is capable of doing so with the second highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and three robust workouts.  With Calvin Borel in the irons he could surprise the field.
$1 SHOW.

Another Wagering Interest

#9 Reveron (Trujillo / Begara) may be the big surprise in this contest with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and three frecking workouts.  This son of Songandaprayer is primed to improve as he is 100% in the money in six lifetime starts.  He should be forwardly placed ready for battle in the stretch.

10 CENT Superfecta

#8 El Padrino / #6 Union Rags / #3 Take Charge Indy / #9 Reveron.



Friday's Results
Santa Anita R7.  Our first pick, Chosen Miracle, was scratched.  Our second pick, Mobilized, won (1st) for show money of $4.20.
We scuttled our 10 CENT Superfecta due to the scratch.  Superfecta went 6-7-4-1.
Bankroll gets a baby bump to $21.27.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

Superfecta Sunday at Gulfstream, Segundo Intento

Superfecta Sunday arrives as we take a look at what could be considered a Derby prep over the grass.

Gulfstream Park Race 7 {Palm Beach~G3~1 1/8 mile~TURF~3 year old~Stakes}
A delightful longer Turf route will unfold with a small field of six.  There are four in this race that are Triple Crown nominees.  Despite the short field there is a full balance of running styles represented.  It should be a great race.  Let's try to fit together a winning 10 CENT Superfecta Box ticket.

#3 Dullahan (Desormeaux / Romans) returns to racing after a 120 day layoff.  This Triple Crown nominee will be looking to score the victory with two fine last out speed numbers before his winter break.  He has posted three superb workouts, has a strong foundation of five races under his saddle cloth, and should love the additional real estate.

#1 Howe Great (J. Velazquez / Motion) will lead the field with his speed and could control the pace on to the wire.  He holds the highest last out speed number, a four race progression that includes three wins in a row, and has put in three wholesome workouts.

#2 Scorcher (Castanon / Garaffolo) scratched out of a 50K Optional Claimer on Friday (3/9) opting for this high caliber race.  He has gone the distance twice with one victory.  We had him among our selections on Friday; today we toss the Bronze Horseshoe to him.  This colt sired by Kitten's Joy has had a couple of decent last out speed numbers, is working a four race progression, and has put in one peaking workout.  He could surprise.
$2 SHOW.

#5 Coalport (Leparoux / Catalano) is another sired by Kitten's Joy.  This fine colt holds the third highest last out speed number prior to a 60 day freshening, is working a two race progression, and has put in a fabulous four peaking workout tab.  Is ready, willing, and able.

10 CENT Superfecta Box ($2.40)

#3 Dullahan  +  #1 Howe Great  +  #2 Scorcher  +  #5 Coalport.



Stakes Saturday Results

Meydan Race Track (Dubai) R6.  Dubai City of Gold--G2.  A wonderful race with our first pick, Shimraan [FR], finishing a dissappointing 8th in this handsome field of sixteen.  Our second pick, Campanologist, finished in a deadheat 3rd with Songcraft [IRE] for place money of $1.30.  In overseas racing place money is awarded to the second and third place finishers.  Our third pick, Cavalryman [GB], finished 2nd for place money of $9.60.
Superfecta went 1-8-2-12.

Tampa Bay Downs R11.  Tampa Bay Derby--G2.  Our first pick, Battle Hardened, finished 6th.  Our second pick, Prospective, won (1st) for place money of $2.10 and show money of $1.70.  Our third pick, Spring Hill Farm, finished 4th.
Superfecta went 1-2-6-9.

Bankroll gets a little spring to $26.40.

Saturday, March 10, 2012

A Little Morning TURF, A little Afternoon Dirt

Another fantastic Stakes Saturday rolls off with an early morning Turf prep for Dubai World Cup day, later this month.  A difficult challenge for American handicappers, but we will do our best.  Later this afternoon we take a peek at another KD 138 prep in the Tampa Bay Derby.  Great fun for a soon to be Spring weekend.

Meydan (Dubai) R6 {Dubai City of Gold~G2~1 1/2 mile~TURF~4 year old Up~Stakes}
This superb field of sixteen Turfers will take off from the gate at approximately 10:30 am [Eastern Time].  They will tranverse over the heavenly Meydan Turf course at the "marathon" distance of one and one half miles.  It promises to be a spectacular prep race leading up to the sensational Dubai World Cup Races later this month.  Virtually no speed will guarantee an exciting Euro-style finish.

#10 Shimraan [FR] (Dettori / Al Zarooni) looks supremely primed for this prep.  He has a win over this course and is 100% in the money at this distance.  He holds the highest "Racing Post" number last out and overall.  Will be the one to beat with, arguably, the best jockey in the world, Frankie Detorri, in the irons.
$1 WIN / SHOW.

#2 Campanologist (Fallon / bin Suroor) will pose a mighty challenge coming off some nice races in Hong Kong and Italy.  He has had a nice sixty day freshening.  This guy already has eleven victories in his millionaire career.  He shares the highest "Racing Post" number at the distance.
$1 PLACE.

#8 Calvaryman [GB] (Peslier / bin Suroor) is coming off a 120 day layoff, but will be one of the contenders.  His last out was an even longer route in France.  Another millionaire will supreme closing capability.
$1 PLACE

Another Wagering Interest

#12 Songcraft [IRE] (DeSousa / bin Suroor) is a younger gelding with a perfect record in a four race career.  He loves the Meydan course and has progressed victoriously in each one of his races.  Could surprise the field.

10 CENT Superfecta

#10 Shimraan [FR] / #2 Campanologist / #8 Calvaryman [GB] / #12 Songcraft [IRE].


Tampa Bay Downs Race 11 {Tampa Bay Derby~G2~1 1/16 mile~3 year olds~Stakes}
A great field of eleven Kentucky Derby aspirants launch from the gate in this annual Derby prep.  Early yesterday, the favorite, Take Charge Indy, scratched and instead will be pointed toward the Florida Derby.  That will change the complexion of this race.  We have enough speed that it might set-up well for the closers.

#7 Battle Hardened (Leparoux / Kenneally) has a slight edge with the third highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and three mighty workouts.  He could be forwardly palce ready to strike in the stretch.
$1 WIN / SHOW.

#1 Prospective (Contreras / Casse) will challenge with a couple of strong last out speed numbers and two robust, peaking workouts.  He holds the second highest speed number at the distance.  If the pace heats up he will be one of the beneficiaries.
$1 PLACE / SHOW.

#9 Spring Hill Farm (Castellano / Pletcher) should be one of the leader speedsters with the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and three athletic workouts.  If he can tamp down on the pace he could wire the field.
$1 SHOW.

Another Wagering Interest

#12 Cajun Charlie (Hebert / House) will share speed duties seeking to hold on until the wire.  He holds the highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and three supreme, peaking workouts.  Would be no surprise if he digs in and holds on.

10 CENT Superfecta

#7 Battle Hardened / #1 Prospective / #9 Spring Hill Farm / #12 Cajun Charlie.



Friday's Results
Gulfstream Park R9.  Our first pick, Silver Max, won (1st) for win money of $1.60 and show money of $1.10.  Our second pick, Scorcher, was scratched.  Our third pick, Purest Form, finished 4th.
We scuttled our 10 CENT Superfecta due to the scratch.  Superfecta went 8-3-2-7.
Bankroll sheds a few cents settling at $21.00.

Saturday, March 26, 2011

A Great Saturday Stakes Day

A great Saturday filled with numerous stakes races across North America.  Additionally, today is Dubai World Cup day.  We will be watching the exciting races at the gorgeous Meydan Race Track in Dubai early this morning.

For today we look at two tremendously compettive KD 137 prep races at the Fair Grounds and Turfway Park.

Turfway Park Race 9 {Rushaway~1 1/16 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
While the purse in this race is only $100K, it is a great prep for the Lanes End in April.  The winner could go on to that race or another derby prep falling on that weekend in an effort to garner enough graded stakes earnings to land a slot in Kentucky Derby 137.  This field of nine could be described as a talented bunch of late bloomers.  Most are shippers coming into Florence, Kentucky for this annual feature with many going from Turf to synthetic.  There is not much pace which will make it a tactical race filled with "stateegery".

#2 Crimson China (A. Garcia / Motion) this lad will be moving from Turf to the synthetic with the second highest (3-way tie) last out speed number over a longer route, a three race progression,  and three sturdy workouts.  Will be attempting a third win in a row.
$2 SHOW.

#6 Swift Warrior (Castellano / Terranova) also has the second highest speed number over a Turf route.  He has posted four superb workouts and has a solid racing foundation of eleven races having been in the money 82% of the time.  Will challenge.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests
#4 DisFraz (Caramouche / Kenneally) looks very strong going into this race also with the second highest last out speed number; placing second to Crimson China in a longer Turf route.  He has a three race progression going and has put in three athletic workouts.

#7 The Ole Gen (Saez / Jones) is the only one moving from dirt to synthetic, but deserves a look with the highest last out speed number, a five race progression, and two swift workouts.

#3 St. Ivan (Lebron / Maker) could surprise with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and one solid workout.  He could be considered the track specialist of the group with two wins over the course.

10 CENT Superfecta
#2 Crimson China / #6 Swift Warrior / #4 DisFraz / #7 The Ole Gen, #3 St. Ivan.


Fair Grounds Race 10  {Louisianna Derby~G2~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A beautifully balanced field of running styles makes this race compelling.  The field of thirteen will be aiming for the victory to punch their ticket to KD 137.  The second place finisher will earn $200K and will certainly be on the bubble for entrance into the KD 137 gate.  It can be reasonably expected that the graded earnings threshold to be at least $250K to get into this year's Kentucky Derby.

The field is filled with talented horses looking for the winners circle.  Five of the horses in the field already have graded earnings and the rest are looking for some.  Only two horses have raced at this distance.  This promises to be a very exciting race.

#4 Mucho Macho Man (Maragh / Ritvo) is the one to beat with the highest speed number at the distance as well as the highest last out speed number, a two race progression and three fierce workouts. He has a grade two win and two grade II places to his credit.
$1 WIN.

#9 Wilkinson (Gomez / Howard) will make a challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number with an intervening layoff, a two race progression, and four great, peaking workouts.  A grade two winner and 100% in the money over his five race career.
$1 PLACE / SHOW.

#11 Elite Alex (Borel / Ritchey) is one of the most promising Triple Crown nominees.  He figures to do well in this race with the third highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and two hearty, peaking workouts. Clearly one to watch.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests
#6 Machen (Prado / Howard) looks well prepped for this race with the second highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and four serious, peaking workouts.  He also has the second highest speed number over the dirt surface.

#1 Nacho Business (Bravo / Breen) is the only other runner that has competed at this distance.  He should be tracking the pace and appears ready with two sinewy, peaking workouts.  Should surprise.

10 CENT Superfecta
#4 Mucho Macho Man / #9 Wilkinson / #11 Elite Alex / #6 Machen, #1 Nacho Business.















Friday's Results
Fair Grounds R9.  Our first pick, Wild Strike, finished 3rd for show money of $1.40.  Our second pick, Backside Blackie, finished 8th.  Our third pick, Cruisin'nthebridle, was scratched.  Superfecta went 11-10-9-12.
Bankroll dips to $11.50.