Stakes Saturday in Tampa

A great Stakes Saturday with three significant Derby Preps on tap. We will take a look at smashing one in Tampa, Florida.

Tampa Bay Downs Race 11 {Tampa Bay Derby~G2~1 1/16 mile~3 year old~Graded Stakes}
A high caliber field of nine will battle in this Derby prep race. All appear to be well prepped in the chase for Kentucky Derby points (50 for the win, 20 for the place, and 10 for the show). The field is evenly divided between those that like to be on or near the lead and those that enjoy their run from off the pace. Speed numbers are very, very close making this a highly competitive event. Most will be coming into this fairly fresh with solid workout tabs. Thus begins in earnest the trail to the roses.

#3 Carpe Diem (J. Velazquez / Pletcher) has a slight edge as he makes his first start this year. He has been off since November of last year. Prior to that layoff he holds the highest (three-way tie) last out speed number, was working a three race progression, and has put in four powerful peaking workouts. This son of Giant's Causeway can be a considered a true Derby hopeful. He has the tactical speed to stay close and then plow into the stretch.
$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#2 Ocean Knight (I. Ortiz / McLaughlin) will provide a mighty challenge sharing the highest last out speed number, working a two race progression, and putting in three superb peaking workouts. This son of Curlin can be expected to track the pace and strike in the stretch. He will be chasing his third win in a row.
$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#5 My Johnny Be Good (Gallardo / Harty) should contend with the fourth highest last out speed number and four excellent peaking workouts. This son of Colonel John should be close to the pace and give run in the stretch. He, like four others, is 100% in the money at the distance.
$1 SHOW.

#9 Danzig Moon (Leparoux / Casse) should be in the hunt with the second highest last out speed number, a three race progression, and two hearty workouts. He will be stretching out to the distance for the first time. Look for this son of Malibu Moon, to track and close into a swift pace.

10 CENT Superfecta

#3 Carpe Diem  /  #2 Ocean Knight  /  #5 My Johnny Be Good  /  #9 Danzig Moon.



Furlong Friday Results
Santa Anita R7.  CA Allowance Optional Claiming.  Our pick, Sheer Pleasure, must have been up all night watching Fifty Shades. She finished 11th (last).
Superfecta went 11-8-6-1.
Bankroll dips to $24.60.