Illinois Derby Day 2015

On this Stakes Saturday we take a look at one of the best races on the Illinois racing circuit, the 58th running of the Illinois Derby. No longer a Kentucky Derby prep, but no less prestigious. It is great race befitting a grand track.

Hawthorne Race Course Race 9 {Illinois Derby~G3~1 1/8 mile~3 year-old~Graded Stakes}
A terrific group of nine runners will make their start in this premier Illinois graded stakes race. There is enough speed to keep a swift pace moving along. Only one of the group has traveled this distance. This crew is closely aligned in terms of speed numbers. It should be an very exciting race.

#3 Cross the Line (Geroux / Hollendorfer) has a slight edge with the highest last out speed number at this distance, a six race progression, and four endurance producing workouts. This son of Line of David has the tactical speed to stay the course as the leaders turn for home. This lad was up against some stiff competition in his last and should be ready to battle valiantly in this race.
$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#2 Verraco (Trujillo / Cassidy) should challenge with the fourth highest last out speed number, a five race progression, and four superb peaking workouts. This son of Old Fashioned should be close to the pace ready to strike in Hawthorne's long straightaway. He is coming in from Santa Anita.
$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#5 Conquest Curlinate (Bridgmohan / Casse) should contend with a couple of decent last out speed numbers and four quality workouts. With a strong pace he should be closing fast hitting the stretch. This son of Curlin could be sitting on a break-out race.
$1 SHOW.

Another Wagering Interest

#6 Whiskey Ticket (Pedroza / Baffert) will be making his second career start after posting the second highest last out speed number of this group. He has put in three hearty workouts and will be stretching out for this one. This son of Ghostzapper should be motoring on the front end.

10 CENT Superfecta

#3 Cross the Line  /  #2 Verraco  /  #5 Conquest Curlinate  /  #6 Whiskey Ticket.



Friday's Results
Hawthorne Race Course R8.  Maiden.  Our pick, Smelly Cat, won (1st) for show money of $1.10.
Superfecta went 2-9-5-7.
Bankroll remains the same at $7.90. We will supplement with a Lincoln for today's big race.