Stakes Saturday at the "Big A"

On the road to the Kentucky Derby we take a look at a fine derby prep race in good old New York.

Aqueduct Race 8 {Withers~G3~1 1/16 mile~3 year-old~Graded Stakes}

A quality field of ten derby aspirants go to the gate in this annual contest. There is a smidgeon of speed to keep the pace rolling. Speed numbers are fairly close with the young lads trying to improve with every race. Only three have gone this exact distance with a number of others running close, 50 yards shy to be precise. It should be another exciting race on the KD 143 prep race schedule.

#5 Bonus Points (Franco / Pletcher) might take another step forward with a couple of very good last out speed numbers, a three race progression, and two hearty workouts. This lad has already won at this distance and is the most experienced of the crew. A son of Majestic Warrior, he should be able to track the pace closely.

$1 WIN  /  $2 PLACE  /  $3 SHOW.

#4 El Areeb (McCarthy / C. Lynch) should go off as the favorite with the highest last out speed number, chasing four wins in a row, holding a five race progression, and putting in four dynamite workouts. He has the potential to wire this field. A son of Exchange Rate, he is 80% in the money from five starts.

$1 PLACE  /  $2 SHOW.

#1 True Timber (Carmouche / McLaughlin) should challenge with the third highest last out speed number, a two race progression, and two robust workouts. This guy loves the dirt and the Aqueduct track. A son of Mineshaft, he should continue to improve as the distance lengthens.

$1 SHOW.

Another Wagering Interest

#9 Square Shooter (Pennington / Lerman) should contend with a couple of very good last out performances, scoring victories in both. He is working a two race progression and has put in two strong workouts prepping for this race. A son of Trappe Shot, he will be making his third career start.

10 CENT Superfecta

#5 Bonus Points  /  #4 El Areeb  /  #1 True Timber  /  #9 Square Shooter, ALL.

Last Superfecta Sunday (1/29) Results

Sam Houston Race Park R8.  John B. Connally Turf Cup--G3.  We just missed on our 10 CENT Superfecta box effort, scoring three of the four wagering interests required. Superfecta went 4-8-5-3.

Our Bronze Horseshoe selection, Oscar Nominated, finished 2nd for show money of $2.10.

Bankroll slips again to settle at $100.07.