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 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.

    

Kentucky Derby 142

We are approximately three hours away from the greatest two minutes in sports, the 2016 Kentucky Derby. Thus far it has been a great day of racing. Now comes the time to predict the outcome of the run for the roses.

Churchill Downs Race 12 {The Kentucky Derby~G1~1 1/4 mile~3 year old Up~Graded Stakes}

A high quality field of twenty, what we hope are happy and healthy horses, will go to the gate in the most magnificent race of the year. There is some speed and forwardly placed types that could control a moderate pace. It should be a great race for all handicappers.

#5 Gun Runner (Geroux / Asmussen) may be sitting on the best race of his young career. He looked every bit the professional when schooled in the paddock the other day. He comes into the race with a couple of very good last out speed numbers, a three race progression, and four superior peaking workouts. Trainer, Steve Asmussen, knows how to get his charges ready for a big race. This lad is four for four over a fast track. This son of Candy Ride [ARG] should track the pace closely looking for an opening to bust a move coming into the stretch. He appears to be sitting on a huge effort.
$2 WIN  /  $3 PLACE  /  $5 SHOW.

#2 Sudden Breaking News (L. Quinonez / Von Hemel) could be the exacta bomber this year with the fourth highest (3-way tie) last out speed number, a two race progression, and two lustrious workouts. Yes, he is a closer, but has shown the capability of being a little closer to the pace when racing as a two year-old. This son of Mineshaft is 87% in the money from eight career starts. He should be coming on strong as they swing into the stretch.
$2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#17 Mor Spirit (Stevens / Baffert) looks ready to strike with a couple of very fine last out speed numbers sharing the fourth highest. He has put in two speedy workouts prepping for this race. This lad is one of only three in the field with a 100% in the money record. A son of Eskendreya, he should be tracking the pace ready to make his move at the top of the stretch.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#13 Nyquist (Gutierrez / O'Neill) will be the favorite as he was the two year old champion and is undefeated in seven career starts. This guy also shares the fourth highest last out speed number and has put in three stamina producing workouts. A millionaire son of Uncle Mo he should be pressing the pace of the probable leader, Danzing Candy. It is not inconceivable that he pulls off the victory.

#9 Destin (Castellano / Pletcher) should be a serious contender with the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and four high quality workouts. This guy will be striving for his third win in a row. A son of Giant's Causeway, he should be forwardly placed near the pace setters. He should hit the pedal going into the stretch.

$1 Superfecta

#5 Gun Runner  /  #2 Sudden Breaking News  /  #17 Mor Spirit  /  #13 Nyquist  /  #9 Destin.



Furlong Friday Results
Churchill Downs R7.  Eight Belles Stakes--G2.  Our pick, Nickname, finished 3rd for show money of $2.60.
Superfecta went 5-6-8-4.
Bankroll gets shaved by four dimes to settle at 6.26. We will supplement with a couple of Hamilton's for KD 142 day.

Arkansas Derby Day

On this Stakes Saturday we look at a fine group of runners in the last of the big Kentucky Derby preps.

Oaklawn Park Race 11 {Arkansas Derby~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A great crop of eight will report to the gate in this big race. There is enough speed in here to keep the pace rolling giving all the entrants a chance to visit the winners circle. With the exception of one Triple Crown nominee, all have speed numbers that are roughly comparable. The Triple Crown outlier, American Pharoah, has delivered three triple digit speed numbers in a row. He will be the favorite in the race. The big three American trainers, Baffert, Pletcher, and Asmussen all have runners in this one. It should be a great race.

#6 American Pharoah (Espinoza / Baffert) is the deserved favorite with the highest last out speed number and two super strong workouts. He will be seeking his fourth win in a row. This son of Pioneer of the Nile should be forwardly placed and possibly inherit the lead as they move around the track. He will be stretching out in distance. It is his race to win.
$2 WIN  /  $3 SHOW.

#4 Madefromlucky (J. Velazquez / Pletcher) will challenge with the third highest last out speed number, a five race progression, and two superb workouts. He has already charted a win at this distance.  This son of Lookin at Lucky, is in fine form and should track the pace closely ready to strike.
$2 SHOW.

#7 Far Right (Smith / Moquett) should be a contender with the second highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and two stellar peaking workouts. A son of Notional, he will be tracking and closing briskly going into the stretch. This lad will be seeking his third win in a row.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#5 Bold Conquest (Santana / Asmussen) should take another significant step forward with a couple of excellent last out speed numbers, a three race progression, and three robust, peaking workouts. This son of Curlin, can certainly get this distance as he stretches out. Look for him to close dynamically.

#1 The Truth Or Else (Borel / McPeek) should make an earnest effort in his second start at this distance. He holds a couple of good last out speed numbers and has put in three hearty, peaking workouts. A son of Yes Its True, is another that will be closing swiftly.

10 CENT Superfecta

#6 American Pharoah  /  #4 Madefromlucky  /  #7 Far Right  /  #5 Bold Conquest, #1 The Truth Or Else.



Furlong Friday Results
Pimlico R1.  Maiden Claiming.  Our pick, Nina Belle, was scratched so we bailed on the 10 CENT superfecta play.  Also, committed an OOps, as there is a minimum of $1.00 wager for the 10 CENT Superfecta.
Bankroll remains at 15.95.

A Glorious Mile for Stakes Saturday

On this glorious Stakes Saturday we take a look at a wonderful graded stakes mile on the edge of Kentucky.

Ellis Park Race 8 {Gardenia~G3~1 mile~3 year old Up~fillies/mares~Stakes}
A wholesome field of twelve lively ladies will enter the gate for this annual stakes affair.  This superlative race has attracted gals whose last outings were at tracks like Aqueduct, Canterbury, Woodbine, Churchill, Prairie Meadows, Delaware, Gulfstream, and Mountaineer.  Aside from the champion, Groupie Doll, who is head and shoulders above this field, all are equally comparable in terms of speed numbers.  Two millionaires are entered, Dixie Strike and of course, Groupie Doll.  There is sufficient speed and forwardly placed types to keep the pace swift.  It should be a splendid race to wager and watch.

#2 Groupie Doll (Maragh / Bradley) will be the favorite and should be able to dispatch this group with relative ease.  She is coming off an extended layoff with the best workout tab of four superb works including two bullets.  This magnificent daughter of Bowman's Band holds the highest speed number at the distance and is 100% in the money in four tries at same.  She has also notched two wins at Ellis in two starts.  Will be exceptionally tough to beat while being forwardly placed.
$2 WIN.

#10 Twice the Lady (Santana / Asmussen) could challenge despite a dud in her last out at Delaware.  She holds the second highest (tie) speed at the distance and is also 100% in the money over seven races at same.  Trainer, Steve Asmussen, has geared her up with four impressive workouts during a sixty day freshening.  This daughter of Quiet American should find herself close to the pace ready to strike in the lane.
$2 PLACE / $3 SHOW.

#8 Ciguaraya (Lanerie / Kenneally) should contend well with Groupie Doll's supporting cast.  She holds a couple of decent last out speed numbers, a two race progression, and three robust workouts.  This daughter of Latent Heat is also 100% in the money at the distance in two efforts.  She has the third highest speed at the distance.  Expect her to be running close to the leaders angling for an opening to hit the board.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#9 Devious Intent (Morales / Gorder) should be in the hunt with the second highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and three snappy, peaking workouts.  She has the tactical speed to patiently wait to see how the pace develops.  This special daughter of Dixie Uniion comes into this fresh after a brief layoff.

#7 Itsabeautifulthing (Court / Von Hemel) should be in the mix with the third highest (tie) last out speed number, a three race progression, and two stout workouts.  She has won two races at this distance in two starts.  This daughter of speedster Henny Hughes should be closing quickly in the stretch.

10 CENT Superfecta

#2 Groupie Doll / #10 Twice the Lady / #8 Ciguaraya / #9 Devious Intent, #7 Itsabeautifulthing.



Friday's Results
Arlington Park R7.  Optional Claiming.  Our first pick, The Best Option, finished 5th.  Our second pick, Richysthundergal, was scratched.
Due to the scratch we scuttled our 10 CENT Superfecta play.  Superfecta went 3-6-1-8.
Bankroll gets clipped to $5.24.
We will supplement with a Hamilton for todays Stakes Saturday. 

2012 Kentucky Derby 138

It has arrived.  The 138th running of the Kentucky Derby.  Scheduled to go off at 6:24 pm Eastern time.  This years running of the roses will be a spectacular race with any one of a bakers dozen having a chance to strut into the winners circle.

Churchill Downs Race 11 {Kentucky Derby 138~G1~1 1/4 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A full field of twenty will line up for the greatest two minutes in sports.  The field has plenty of speed, overpowering speed which may set up well for those coming from off the pace.  It is encouraging to note that all running styles are represented in this Derby.  It will be an exhilerating KD 138.

#10 Daddy Nose Best (Gomez / Asmussen) has a very slight edge with the third highest speed number over the surface.  He holds the third highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and four vigorous workouts.  He appears to peaking for this race.  Trainer, Steve Asmussen has managed him well and should have him primed for the victory.
$2 WIN / $3 SHOW.

#15 Gemologist (Castellano / Pletcher) will challenge as the undefeated runner in this race.  He has done little wrong in his five race career, but it is exceptionally difficult to keep such a streak alive.  Ask the great Zenyatta.  This colt should sit close to the pace ready to launch a first strike on the leaders.  He holds the fourth highest (3-way tie) last out speed number, a five race progression, and two ruggedly strong workouts.  No question trainer, Todd Pletcher, has this guy wired for a superb race.
$2 PLACE / $2 SHOW.

#1 Daddy Long Legs (O'Donoghue / O'Brien) is a tracker coming out of the dreaded number one gate.  Despite the bad post, he will challenge this group of twenty superior quality horses.  He is coming in fresh off his victory in the UAE Derby at Meydan (Dubai) over the tapeta surface.  His racing post rating for that race compares favourably with the highest speed numbers in this field.  This Kentucky born son of Scat Daddy is working a four race progression.  His jockey- trainer combination is long on experience in some of the top races in Europe and beyond.  He should track and close mightily.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests

#6 Bodemeister (Smith / Baffert) is the fastest horse in the field having run triple-digit speed numbers in three of his four career starts.  There is some fast and furious speed in this year's Derby which may be his undoing.  The wiley veteran jockey, Mike Smith, may have to work the hardest of all to get this guy to the winners circle.  This young colt holds the highest last out speed number, is working a four race progression, and has put in three super swift workouts.  Trainer, Bob Baffert, has him well prepped.

#8 Creative Cause (Rosario / Harrington) looks ready to run a big race with a couple of exceptional last out speed numbers including the third best over the surface.  This son of Giant's Causeway is 100% in the money in an eight race career and has put in three robust, peaking workouts.  The colt could pull off a major upset.

$1 Superfecta
With no 10 CENT Superfecta offered, we will place a dollar superfecta.  Hey it's the Kentucky Derby!!

#10 Daddy Nose Best / #15 Gemologist / #1 Daddy Long Legs / #6 Bodemeister, #8 Creative Cause.



Friday's Results
Churchill Downs R11.  Kentucky Oaks--G1.  Our first pick, On Fire Baby, finished 5th.  Our second pick, Grace Hall, finished 3rd for show money of $3.20.  Our third pick, Broadway's Alibi, finished 2nd for show money of $4.20.
Superfecta went 9-6-2-3.

Arlington Park R7.  Our first pick, Aztec Run, finished 3rd for show money of $2.20.  Our second pick, Image of Grandeur, finished 2nd for show money of $2.20.
We scuttled our 10 CENT Superfecta because of a scratch.  Superfecta went 1-2-6-5.

Bankroll gets a bump to $12.62.  We will supplement with a fin ($5.00) for today's wagering.

PREAKNESS 136

It's Preakness Day at lovely Pimlico.
This year's field is full and filled with talent.  The undercard is a beautiful thing with plenty of great "investment" opportunities.  Let's let it roll for race two of the Triple Crown.

Pimlico Race 12 {Preakness 136~G1~1 3/16~3 year old~Stakes}
A quality field of fourteen will make the start.  Unlike KD 137, there is plenty of speed in this race which may set up nicely for the closers.  The field consists of four KD 137 alums and nine new shooters looking to challenge Kentucky Derby champ, Animal Kingdom.

#11 Animal Kingdom (J. Velazquez / Motion) will be tough to beat as this race sets up nicely for his running style.  He holds the highest last out speed number (KD 137), has a nice three race progression going, and has put in two vigorous workouts.  He should close nicely for the win.
$2 WIN / $3 SHOW.

#9 Mucho Macho Man (Maragh / Ritvo) will challenge with the second highest last (KD 137) speed number, a two race progression, and three stamina inducing, peaking workouts.  He could get first jump on the closers heading for home.
$2 SHOW.

#1 Astrology (Smith / Asmussen) may be the big surprise with a decent last out speed number, a three race progression, and two hearty, peaking workouts.  Trainer, Steve Asmussen has developed this guy beautifully.  He is 100% in the money in seven races.  Clearly one on the improve.  Expect him to be forwardly placed saving ground and ready to enter the fray in the stretch.
$2 SHOW.

Another Wagering Interest

#8 Dance City (Dominguez / Pletcher) is another on the steady improve with the fourth highest last out speed number, a four race progression, and three robust workouts.  He also will be forwardly placed ready to challenge.

10 CENT Superfecta

#11 Animal Kingdom, #9 Mucho Macho Man / #11, #9 / #1 Astrology, #8 Dance City / #1, #8.
















Friday's Results
Pimlico R10.  Black Eyed Susan.  Our first pick, Royal Delta, won (1st) for show money of $2.60.  Our second pick, Hot Summer, finished 3rd for show money of $2.80.  Our third pick, Love Theway Youare, finished 4th.  Superfecta went 1-5-2-6.
Bankroll dips a few cents to $13.75.

Aqueduct to Santa Anita

A little Friday tune-up before all the exciting stakes races tomorrow.  Today we look at races at Aqueduct and Santa Anita.

Aqueduct Race 7 {The Am Capable~1 mile~fillies/mares~4 year Up~Stakes}
A good little race featuring a field of seven.  A number of the great American trainers have a horse in this race.  Any one of five could run to victory.

#2 Super Espresso (Alvarado / Pletcher) looks primed and ready to win.  She has the second highest last out speed number having won three in a row in a four race progression and has put in a fine bullet workout.
$1 WIN / SHOW.

#1 Speightful Affair (C. Velasquez / Asmussen) will challenge for the victory with the third highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and four fantastic, peaking workouts.
$1 PLACE / SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests
#6 Jemilyn (Arroyo / Preciado) has posted the fourth highest (tie) last out speed number, a two race progression and two stellar workouts.

#5 Vindy City (Elliott / Servis) could surprise with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and one fierce bullet workout.

10 CENT Superfecta
#2 Super Espresso, #1 Speightful Affair / #2, #1 / #6 Jemilyn, #5 Vindy City / #6, #5.


SANTA ANITA Race 5 {6 1/2 furlongs~downhill Turf~4 year old Up~Allowance}
A very competitve allowance feature that will have eleven going to the start.  Only three have not have extended layoffs prior to this race.  The race has a good mix of speedsters, pressers, trackers, and closers assuring an honest pace.

#7 Blue Jay Attack (Bejarano / Jones) seems to have the edge with a couple of the top last out speed numbers, experience with the downhill distance, a three athletic, peaking workouts.
$2 SHOW.

#6 King Red (Algea / Capestro) should challenge having the best experience at the downhill distance, a decent last out speed number, and two solid workouts.
$2 SHOW.

#4 Nextdoorneighbor (Rosario / Machowsky) looks ready to take this downhill Turf challenge with the highest last out speed number at a longer sprint distance, a three race progression, and four superb, peaking workouts.
$2 SHOW.

Other Wagering Interests
#11 Tamarack Smarty (Flores / Puype) will attempt the downhill turf for the first time, but looks nicely prepared with the fourt highest last out speed number at a Turf route, a two race progression, and four serious, peaking workouts.

#2 Kajiwara (Gomez / Asmussen) will also try the downhill Turf course for the first time.  He has posted two of the best last out speed numbers and three hardy, peaking workouts.

10 CENT Superfecta
#7 Blue Jay Attack / #6 King Red / #4 Nextdoorneighbor / #11 Tamarack Smarty, #2 Kajiwara.


















Thursday's Results
Santa Anita R5.  Our first pick, Beautiful American, was scratched.  Our second pick, Hameildaeme [GB], won (1st) for $3.00 in show money.  Our third pick, Rule the Storm, finished 2nd for show money of $2.60.  Superfecta went 10-7-8-1.
Bankroll inches up to $20.25.

A Great Saratoga Sunday

Today we take a peak at the young fillies who will compete in the Adirondack at Saratoga.

Saratoga Race 9 {Adirondack~G2~6 1/2 furlongs~2 year old~fillies~Stakes}
A great group of two year old fillies line up for this annual race.  Ten are expected to go to the gate.  Because I Like It (Castellano / Standridge) has the edge with the fourth highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and two athletic, peaking workouts to her credit.  Coax Liberty (Caraballo / Lawrence) should be in the battle for second best with the third highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and three bullet four-furlong workouts. Nina Fever (A. Garcia / Ward) will be the surprise under the tutelege of one of the best two-year old trainers in the World, Wesley Ward.  She has a decent last out speed number and three robust workouts.  The other great American trainers whose charges cannot be discounted in a two year old stakes race like this one are Bob Baffert, Todd Pletcher, and Steve Asmussen.  Alienation (M. Garcia / Baffet) looks primed with a decent last out speed number in her only race and three hearty workouts.  Position Limit (J. Velazquez / Pletcher) looks ready with the second highest last out speed number, a triple digit one and two strong workouts.  Tristanme (Bridgmohan / Asmussen) has a solid foundation with four races, an ok last out speed number and three well-built, peaking workouts.  Let's see these youngsters run at beautiful Saratoga.

$1 WIN / SHOW:  #6 Because I Like It.
$1 PLACE / SHOW:  #7 Coax Liberty.
$2 SHOW:  #5 Nina Fever.
10 CENT Superfecta:  #6 Because I Like It / #7 Coax Liberty / #5 Nina Fever / #4 Alienation, #8 Position Limit, #9 Tristanme.



















Saturday's Results
Saratoga R10.  Our first pick, Telling, won (1st) for win money of $11.30 and show money of $3.10.  Our second pick, Marlang, finished 9th (last).  Superfecta went 8-6-5-3.
Del Mar R9.  Our pick, Alphies Bet, finished 3rd for show money of $5.20.  Superfecta went 2-5-8-4.
Bankroll rises nicely to $19.40.
   

Beautiful Saturday for KD Preps

A beautiful Spring Saturday falls over two horse racing states, Kentucky and Arkansas, as we edge closer to the first Saturday in May.  Today we look at two fabulous derby preps.

Keeneland Race 9 {Toyota Blue Grass~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
A very talented field of nine goes to the gate for this Kentucky Derby prep.  Interactif (Bejarano / Pletcher) holds sway in this with versatility over all surfaces; synthetic, turf, and dirt. He holds a great speed number over the synthetic surface, has a three race progression, and one good workout.  Paddy O'Prado (Desormeaux / Romans) has been a turf specialist and will be making his first run over the synthetic.  The transition from turf to synthetic has been a lot easier.  He shows the third highest speed number over the distance, albeit on turf, has shown a very nice five race progression and has posted two exceptional workouts.  Pleasant Prince (Leparoux / Ward) needs graded earnings to make it to the big dance.  He appears ready to put in a big performance with the highest speed number at the distance, the highest speed number last out and two furious workouts.  It would be no surprise if he closes fast for victory.  He will need to run at least third to give his owners, Kenneth and Sarah Ramsey another Derby contender.  The fight for fourth will be among three others in this race.  First Dude (Dominguez / Romans) has the fourth highest speed number at this distance, the third highest speed number last out, and a strong workout.  Make Music for Me (Smith / Barba) looks ready moving up to this distance with a three race progression and four robust workouts.  Aikenite (Gomez / Pletcher) has gone this distance successfully and looks well prepared with two solid workouts.  Let's play the Toyota Blue Grass at Keeneland.

$2 WIN / SHOW:  #9 Interactif
$2 SHOW:  #6 Pleasant Prince
10 CENT Superfecta:  #9 Interactif / #7 Paddy O'Prado / #6 Pleasant Prince / #2 First Dude, #4 Make Music for Me, #8 Aikenite.

Oaklawn Race 9 {Arkansas Derby~G1~1 1/8 mile~3 year old~Stakes}
This will be the race to watch this weekend, the Arkansas Derby.  A very solid field with such depth that any of these superb horses capable of victory.  This race will test all of these colts mettle.  Noble's Promise (Albarado / McPeek) looks to be the best.  He has the highest last out speed number posting a triple digit.  Noble's Promise currently has a two race progression and two superlative workouts. He will be forwardly placed ready to pounce in the stretch.  Dublin (Thompson / Lukas) looks great with the third (tie) highest speed number and two hardy, peaking workouts.  Expect him to run a big race.  Northern Giant (V. Espinoza / Lukas) is the only one proven over this distance, also has the third highest speed number, a two race progression, and three athletic, peaking workouts.  Berberis (Gryder / Asmussen) could be the big surprise in this race.  Trainer, Steve Asmussen does not yet have a derby contender.  This could be his candidate.  Berberis recently broke his maiden, but is 100% in the money over his three race career.  He will be moving up in distance with a two race progression and four powerful, peaking workouts.  Super Saver (Borel / Pletcher) will be the speed in this race and will attempt to hold on for a piece of this purse.  He has the second highest speed number and two sturdy, peaking workouts.  This promises to be the most fantastic, exciting derby prep of the season.  Let's play the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park.

$2 WIN / SHOW:  #3 Noble's Promise
$2 SHOW:  #2 Dublin
10 CENT Superfecta:  #3 Noble's Promise / #2 Dublin / #4 Northern Giant, #7 Berberis, #1 Super Saver / #4, #7, #1.
















Friday's Results
Keeneland R9.  Our first pick, Court Vision, finished 2nd. No win money earned.  Our second pick, Cherokee Artist, finished 7th.  Superfecta went 5-6-2-4.
Oaklawn R10.  Our first pick, Zenyatta, won (1st) for $2.10 in win money.  Our second pick, War Echo, finished 5th (last).  No show wager on this gal.  Trifecta went 4-2-1.
Bankroll drops to $11.80.
  

Friday at Aqueduct and Fairgrounds

As the temperature begins to warm here in the Midwest, albeit marginally, we look at races at Aqueduct and Fairgrounds.

Aqueduct Race 8 {1 mile 70 yards~3 year old Up~NY~Allowance}
An interestingly competitive race were a number of horses could fire well. Vinnie Van Go (Cohen / Contessa) might have a very slight edge. He has good speed numbers across the board, has trained toward a peaking performance, and has progressively improved over the course of the last three races. Longing for Malibu (Alvarado / Conway) has the highest speed number at the distance and has two quality work outs leading up to this race. Jimmy Vegas (Napravnik / Rice) should be the chief competition. He is a coupled entry with Hue and Cry (Napravnik / Rice). Depending on which horse goes to the gate they will both be ready under Trainer, Linda Rice's tutelage. It would appear that J.L. Bernstein (Espinoza / Schettino) has the best shot at rounding out the top four finishers. He has a nice last out speed number and has two good works under his hooves. Let's play Aqueduct.

$2 SHOW: #3 Vinnie Van Go
10 CENT Superfecta: #3 Vinnie Van Go / #8 Longing for Malibu / #1 Jimmy Vegas / #2 J.L. Bernstein.

Fairgrounds Race 8 {5 1/2 furlongs~Turf~3 year old Up~Allowance}
The Fairgrounds Race Course is one of the best venues of the Winter season. Unfortunately, many times you don't know whether they will keep races on the Turf when the conditions call for it. Hopefully they will keep this one on the turf. This Turf sprint will be an extremely competitive one. We like Unbridle's Dream (Bridgmohan / Asmussen) despite his long 300 day layoff. Trainer, Steve Asmussen, has this guy ready with solid, peaking type workouts. He knows how to spot his charges. His last race, back in January of this year, he faced tougher in an ungraded stakes race at Fairgrounds and finished third. Like his chances here. Perfect Easter (Albarado / Nicks) looks exceptionally strong with a good last out speed number and works. Northern Prince (Graham / Margolis) looks to be well prepared for this race with solid works. Nickle Pickle (Lanerie / Smithwick) looks very formidable too, though this will be his tenth race of the year. He has a good last out speed number and decent works. Let's play Fairgrounds.

$2 SHOW: #4 Unbridle's Dream
10 CENT Superfecta: #4 Unbridle's Dream / #2 Perfect Easter / #1 Northern Prince / #7 Nickle Pickle

Thursday's Results
Fairgrounds R8. The race was moved off the Turf. Our pick, Better Than Swiss, finished 5th. We did not play a 10 Cent Superfecta as two of our choices scratched.
Bankroll has dipped to the lowest level in months, $7.10.
With good racing luck we will have a better run this weekend.

Double H Sunday

On this first Sunday in December we look at good allowance race at Hawthorne Race Course and a very competitive stakes race at Hollywood Park.

Hawthorne Race 8 {1 1/16 mile~3 year old Up~fillies/mares~IL~Allowance}
Talk about parity, this race has a number of horses in here that could pull off a victory. Indian Blossom (Wade / Asmussen) has done well before off a layoff and certainly has some great works prior to this race. Trainer, Steve Asmussen always has his horses ready to run. This gal is no exception. She likes the Hawthorne track and has the highest speed number of this group on it. The trip will be the key as you can expect a wall of closers heading for the wire. Del Bonita (Thornton / Yanez) can be described as the specialist at this distance. She is 100% in the money and she too likes the Hawthorne track. Sweetest Lil Star (B. Meier / Lamew) is another who is in her comfort zone on the Hawthorne track. She looks ready to put in a good effort today. Have Faith (Sanchez / Williamson) and Southern Wonder (Sukie / Darjean) both look ready to run a great race. Let's play Hawthorne.

$2 SHOW: #10 Indian Blossom
10 CENT Superfecta: #10 Indian Blossom / #6 Del Bonita / #9 Sweetest Lil Star / #3 Have Faith, #7 Southern Wonder.

Hollywood Race 8 {Vernon O. Underwood~G3~6 furlongs~3 year old Up~Stakes}
A quality field assembles for this race. Eight year old Delta Storm (Bejerano / Mitchell) has done some exceptional work outs leading up to this race. With quality speed numbers across the board, Delta Storm should prove his capability with another victory here. His competitor will be Noble Court (Rosario / Sadler). Both will close for home in furious fashion. Noble Court is 100% in the money on the Hollywood track and will be tough. The unknown factor in this race is the Argentinian bred, Mr. Cacht(ARG) (Valdez / Mullins). He could be a big surprise in this race. His has posted very solid work outs. Also, he has ten wins in his native Argentina. Paul's Hope (Solis / Hollendorfer) has done some serious works in anticipation of this event and will be ready. Kinsdale King (Garcia / O'Callaghan) also has done some very fine workouts. He should force the pace in the race. Let's play Hollywood.

$2 SHOW: #3 Delta Storm
10 CENT Superfecta: #3 Delta Storm / #4 Noble Court / #6 Mr. Cacht(ARG) / #5 Paul's Hope, #1 Kinsdale King.

Saturday's Results
Fairgrounds R9. Our pick, Elision, finished 4th. Superfecta went 2-3-9-1.
Hollywood R8. Our pick, Silver Swallow, finished 2nd for show money of $3.80. Superfecta went 2-3-4-6.
Our bankroll sits at $10.70.

Sit Down, Have a Cigar Mile at Aqueduct

This will be an exciting Saturday of a number of stakes races. We look at the Cigar Mile at Aqueduct and the Kentucky Jockey Club at Churchill. What a great fall day for horse racing.

Aqueduct Race 9 {Cigar Mile Handicap~G1~1 mile~3 year old Up~Stakes}
Kodiak Kowboy (Bridgmohan / Asmussen) looks to add to his millionaire status. Based on his races and work outs leading up to this race, he is ready. Look for him to close strongly to edge out Driven by Success (Dominguez / Levin) at the wire. Highly prosperous, Driven by Success has posted the best work outs and had a solid last out speed number. He is ready to add to his career 84% in the money. Expect him to lead the way. Tremendous Bribon(FR) (Maragh / Ribaudo) will close strongly in the stretch as well. He holds the highest speed numbers across the board and will no doubt give the Kodiak Kowboy chase. Let's make an Aqueduct play.

$2 SHOW: #3 Kodiak Kowboy
NO Superfecta play due to the small field.

Churchill Race 11 {Kentucky Jockey Club~G2~1 1/16 mile~2 year old~Stakes}
As these youngsters assemble in the gate many of their connections are beginning to dream of the Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May. Here's to them, as they begin their road to accumulate graded stakes earnings to qualify for the best two minutes in all of sports. The horse that has the best capability today is Thiskyhasnolimit (Albarado / Asmussen). Funny, both our selections today are Asmussen trained pupils. Thiskyhasnolimit is a fabulous closer who has trained vigorously for this event. A quality speed number last out added to the fact that he loves this Churchill track, this guy will close for the wire first. He will have to catch Super Saver (Borel / Pletcher). Given the current economy, why not? The Todd Pletcher trained, Super Saver has some solid speed numbers and clearly the best work outs of this group. Activity Report (Thompson / Lukas) will give chase and be right there with Super Saver on the front end. He holds the highest overall speed number of these youngsters. Look for Worldly (Torres / McGee) and Callide Valley (Theriot / Kenneally) to close aggressively for a piece of the purse. Let's make a great Churchill play.

$2 SHOW: #3 Thiskyhasnolimit
10 CENT Superfecta: #3 Thiskyhasnolimit / #2 Super Saver / #9 Activity Report / #7 Worldly, #8 Callide Valley

Friday's Disappointing Results
Churchill R11. Our pick, Etched, finished 13th. Superfecta went 5-12-14-3.
Hollywood R9. Our pick, Proudinsky, finished 4th. Superfecta went 1-5-6-3.
Our Bankroll has dipped to $17.80. Have a happy Saturday.