There are three more major Derby preps this year, the first of them is the Delta Jackpot, here is the field.
Showing posts with label Grade 3. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Grade 3. Show all posts
November 21, 2014
June 13, 2014
2014 Obeah Preview
I thought I was going to have time to do a video version of this preview, but a few things came up and didn't get a chance to spend time to really record one. However, I did want to do a preview for the race as this a prep for the Delaware Handicap.
Obeah Handicap 1 1/8th on dirt, Grade 3
1 Daydreamin Gracie (MD) 6/M L C Evans 118 D Kobiskie
2 Montana Native (KY) 4/F L J Pimentel 120 C Clement
3 Blue Violet (KY) 4/F L K D Clark 118 J L Jones
4 Flash Forward (KY) 4/F L J L Ortiz 118 D Schettino
5 Zucchini Flower (KY) 5/M L T McCarthy 118 H G Motion
6 Golden Production (PA) 5/M L V R Carrasco 118 J Navarro
7 Gamay Noir (KY) 4/F L D Centeno 124 M D Wolfson
8 Ambusher (KY) 4/F L J C Caraballo 118 I R Wilkes
Daydreamin Gracie- 4th in the Gallorette, turf to dirt. Has starts at Delaware, but none in stakes.
Montana Native- 5th in last year's Alabama and won the Winter Melody (local prep) in her last. Trainer won the Belmont on Saturday to deny the Triple Crown. Was last in the Cat Cay which was won by Princess of Sylmar.
Blue Violet- 2nd in the Winter Melody in her last was third in last year's Rachel Alexandra before finishing 6th in the FG Oaks.
Flash Forward- 3rd in the Cat Cay and 3rd in the Top Flight to Teen Pauline. Has the unfortince to run against some of the best 3yo's last year and older fillies this year. Could be the one to beat.
Zucchini Flower- 2nd in the Monmouth Beach and 3rd in the Dahila before that. 7th in her lone graded stakes attempt, but that was in 2012.
Golden Production- ran primarly on the West Coast, first start on the East Coast was a 7th in the Foxy J.G. At Parx. 6th in the Santa Maria earlier this year.
Gamay Noir- 3rd in the Sixty Sails and won the Rampart. She's already made 6 starts this year, but that hasn't effected her that much.
Ambusher- Winless since last August. 4th in the Arlington Matron last time out which was also her graded stakes debut.
Picks: 1st- Montana Native 2nd- Flash Forward 3rd- Blue Violet
Sadly I won't be able to attend this year's Obeah, but hopefully 1 or 2 of these fillies comes back for the DelCap.
Obeah Handicap 1 1/8th on dirt, Grade 3
1 Daydreamin Gracie (MD) 6/M L C Evans 118 D Kobiskie
2 Montana Native (KY) 4/F L J Pimentel 120 C Clement
3 Blue Violet (KY) 4/F L K D Clark 118 J L Jones
4 Flash Forward (KY) 4/F L J L Ortiz 118 D Schettino
5 Zucchini Flower (KY) 5/M L T McCarthy 118 H G Motion
6 Golden Production (PA) 5/M L V R Carrasco 118 J Navarro
7 Gamay Noir (KY) 4/F L D Centeno 124 M D Wolfson
8 Ambusher (KY) 4/F L J C Caraballo 118 I R Wilkes
Daydreamin Gracie- 4th in the Gallorette, turf to dirt. Has starts at Delaware, but none in stakes.
Montana Native- 5th in last year's Alabama and won the Winter Melody (local prep) in her last. Trainer won the Belmont on Saturday to deny the Triple Crown. Was last in the Cat Cay which was won by Princess of Sylmar.
Blue Violet- 2nd in the Winter Melody in her last was third in last year's Rachel Alexandra before finishing 6th in the FG Oaks.
Flash Forward- 3rd in the Cat Cay and 3rd in the Top Flight to Teen Pauline. Has the unfortince to run against some of the best 3yo's last year and older fillies this year. Could be the one to beat.
Zucchini Flower- 2nd in the Monmouth Beach and 3rd in the Dahila before that. 7th in her lone graded stakes attempt, but that was in 2012.
Golden Production- ran primarly on the West Coast, first start on the East Coast was a 7th in the Foxy J.G. At Parx. 6th in the Santa Maria earlier this year.
Gamay Noir- 3rd in the Sixty Sails and won the Rampart. She's already made 6 starts this year, but that hasn't effected her that much.
Ambusher- Winless since last August. 4th in the Arlington Matron last time out which was also her graded stakes debut.
Picks: 1st- Montana Native 2nd- Flash Forward 3rd- Blue Violet
Sadly I won't be able to attend this year's Obeah, but hopefully 1 or 2 of these fillies comes back for the DelCap.
January 24, 2014
Holy Bull Preview and two other races
I ran out of time and decided to just do the Holy Bull on video and the other two on the blog. Here is the video and all three previews.
Connelly, One And One Eighth Miles (Turf) Grade 3:
1. Vertiformer (Dynaformer x Tempo West by Rahy, Joe Bravo): 7th in the Ft. Lauderdale and 3rd in the McKnight both at Gulfstream and Calder respectivly. Ran in the 2012 Arlington Million and same female family as Union Rags.
2. Cajun Don (Full Mandate x Lac Dewat by Lac Ouimet, Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez): 3rd at the Fair Grounds and won at Retema before that. Last stakes race was at Sam Houston in March of last year and it didn't go according to plan where he finished 7th.
3. Marine Patrol (Tapit x Lady Solvig by Giant's Causeway, Shaun Bridgemohan): 2nd in the Woodchopper at the Fair Grounds in his stakes debut. Lightly raced with only 5 starts under his belt.
4. King David (Hat Trick x Storm West by Gone West, Rosie Naprivnick): 6th in the Buddy Diliberto at the Fair Grounds. 2nd in this race last year, and won the Jamaica in 2012, but has only started 5 times since that race.
5. Admiral Kitten (Kitten's Joy x Reachinforthestars by Grand Slam, Julian Leparoux): 2nd in the Hollywood Derby and Jamaica in his last two. Three back is a win in the Secretariat.
6. Arthur's Court (Artie Schiller x First Covenant by Bien Bien, Junior Chacaltana): Didn't race until age 5, one win and this is his stakes debut. 2nd in his last, but ran 11 times last year.
7. Michael's Gabriel (Dixieland Heat x Becky's Melody by Olympio, Iram Diego): 2nd in his last, ran up track though in the Mr. Sulu at the Fair Grounds in his only stakes race 3 back.
8. Fredericksburg (Speightstown x Chorograph by Dynaformer, Luis Saez): Won at Gulfstream in his last. Hasn't had a ton of success in graded stakes though with only a 7th and a DNF.
Picks: 1st: King David, 2nd: Marine Patrol, 3rd: Admiral Kitten
Endeavor, 1 1/16th (Turf), Grade 3:
1. Moment in Dixie (Dixieland Band x Ellie's Moment by Kris S., Elvis Trujillo): 5th in the South Beach at Gulfstream in her last, 3rd at Aqueduct in the Trevita. 4th and 9th in her previous stakes tries, but those where G1's on dirt.
2. Seattle Me Up (Point Given x Donna Slew by Seattle Slew, Octavio Bernal): 3 starts under her belt, but a miserble 13th in her start at Gulfstream. Her previous two starts however where at Tampa.
3. Floral Romance (After Market x Proposed by Benchmark, Daniel Centeno): 7th in the Marshua's River at Gulfstream which was her stakes debut. Won at Belmont before that.
4. Sca Doodle (Scat Daddy x Bubbly Baily by Dixie Union, Gary Boulanger): Has only run at Woodbine. 4th in her last was third in the Avowal Stakes 3 back.
5. Cloud Scapes (Smart Strike x Every Cloud by Storm Cat, Erick Rodriguez): Won at Tampa in her last, stakes debut. Has never been worse then 4th in her career.
6. Final Escrow (Bernardini x Escrow Agent by El Gran Senor, Antonio Gallarado): Won at Tampa after finishing 5th in the Maple Leaf at Woodbine. Also won the Rosenberger at Delaware 3 back.
7. Donna's Fly Girl (Kitalpha x Dakota Lass by Crowning Storm, Augusto Marin): Has run no better then 5th in her last four starts. Both career wins where at Ellis.
8. Rare Event (A.P. Indy x Our Rite of Spring by Stravinsky, Marlon St. Julien): 5th at Tampa in her last to Final Escrow, but that was taken off the turf. 9th in the Cardinal before that and has never finished better then 5th in a stakes race.
9. Action Lady (Action This Day x Lady Woodwin by Lord Avie, Ademar Santos): 3rd in the same race at Tampa as Rare Event and Final Escrow. 10th in her last stakes race 3 back at Indiana.
10. Wholelottashakin (Scat Daddy x Carr Shaker by Carr de Naskra, Alan Garcia): 2nd at Gulfstream nad 5th at Aqueduct in her last two. 3rd in the Ticonderoga at Belmont 3 back.
11. Left a Message (Mr. Greeley x Chief Secreatary by Deputy Minister, Quincy Hamilton): 3rd in the Long Island Handicap at Aqueduct and 2nd in the Dowager. Shortens up in this race.
12. Dream Clover (Oasis Dream x In Clover by Inchinor, Luis Garcia): 2 starts in the US, two out of the top three finishes (granted her US debut was against Hungry Island). Hasn't run since May of last year, but 3rd at Chantilly in her final France start.
AE. Liberty Girl (A.P. Warrior x Champagne Glow by Saratoga Six, Ronald Allen): 2nd at Tampa on dirt in her last. Was an Oaks trail horse last year when she finished 4th in the Fantasy and Honeybee.
Picks: 1st: Final Escrow, 2nd: Left a Message, 3rd: Cloud Scapes
Holy Bull, 1 1/16th (Derby prep), Grade 2:
1. Coup de Grace (Tapit x Home Court by Storm Cat), John Velazquez): 2 for 2 and makes stakes debut. Jockey returns from injury that kept him out most of BC Saturday. 2 turn debut.
2. Financial Mogul (Street Boss x Trav n' Kris by Snow Chief, Jose Ortiz): 2nd in the Nashua and 4th in the Futurity before that.
3. Best Plan Yet (Hear No Evil x Bayou Plans by Bayou Hebert, Edgard Zayas): 9th in the Gulfstream Park Derby won the In Reality and Foolish Pleasure before that.
4. Almost Famous (Unbridled's Song x Wild Gams by Forest Wildcat, Calvin Borel): 4th in the Street Sense, but rebounded with a win in an allowance race his last.
5. Our Caravan (Daaher x Alwaan by Elusive Quality, Corey Lanerie): 1 for 1, the runner up finished third in his first start of the year.
6. Mr. Speaker (Pulpit x Salute by Unbridled, Jose Lezcano): Dania Beach winner, has never been on dirt before however with his pedigree it should be no problem.
7. Cairo Prince (Pioneerof the Nile x Holy Bubbette by Holy Bull, Luis Saez): Finished second in the Remsen and won the Nashua.
8. Wicked Strong (Hard Spun x Moyne Abbey by Charismatic, Javier Castellano): 3rd in the Remsen, broke his maiden before that, the runner up of that race came back to win in his next.
9. Conquest Titan (Birdstone x Miner's Secret by Mineshaft, Shaun Bridgmohan): Won Allowance in his last after finishing 13th in the Juvenile and 5th in the Breeders' Futurity.
10. Big Bazinga (Bluegrass Cat x Darling Daughter by Maria's Mon, Joe Bravo): 7th in the Jackpot and finished 2nd in the Grey.
11. Intense Holiday (Harlan's Holiday x Intensify by Unbridled's Song, Joel Rosario): 4th in both the Remsen and Nashua.
Picks: 1st: Wicked Strong, 2nd: Cairo Prince, 3rd: Mr. Speaker
Connelly, One And One Eighth Miles (Turf) Grade 3:
1. Vertiformer (Dynaformer x Tempo West by Rahy, Joe Bravo): 7th in the Ft. Lauderdale and 3rd in the McKnight both at Gulfstream and Calder respectivly. Ran in the 2012 Arlington Million and same female family as Union Rags.
2. Cajun Don (Full Mandate x Lac Dewat by Lac Ouimet, Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez): 3rd at the Fair Grounds and won at Retema before that. Last stakes race was at Sam Houston in March of last year and it didn't go according to plan where he finished 7th.
3. Marine Patrol (Tapit x Lady Solvig by Giant's Causeway, Shaun Bridgemohan): 2nd in the Woodchopper at the Fair Grounds in his stakes debut. Lightly raced with only 5 starts under his belt.
4. King David (Hat Trick x Storm West by Gone West, Rosie Naprivnick): 6th in the Buddy Diliberto at the Fair Grounds. 2nd in this race last year, and won the Jamaica in 2012, but has only started 5 times since that race.
5. Admiral Kitten (Kitten's Joy x Reachinforthestars by Grand Slam, Julian Leparoux): 2nd in the Hollywood Derby and Jamaica in his last two. Three back is a win in the Secretariat.
6. Arthur's Court (Artie Schiller x First Covenant by Bien Bien, Junior Chacaltana): Didn't race until age 5, one win and this is his stakes debut. 2nd in his last, but ran 11 times last year.
7. Michael's Gabriel (Dixieland Heat x Becky's Melody by Olympio, Iram Diego): 2nd in his last, ran up track though in the Mr. Sulu at the Fair Grounds in his only stakes race 3 back.
8. Fredericksburg (Speightstown x Chorograph by Dynaformer, Luis Saez): Won at Gulfstream in his last. Hasn't had a ton of success in graded stakes though with only a 7th and a DNF.
Picks: 1st: King David, 2nd: Marine Patrol, 3rd: Admiral Kitten
Endeavor, 1 1/16th (Turf), Grade 3:
1. Moment in Dixie (Dixieland Band x Ellie's Moment by Kris S., Elvis Trujillo): 5th in the South Beach at Gulfstream in her last, 3rd at Aqueduct in the Trevita. 4th and 9th in her previous stakes tries, but those where G1's on dirt.
2. Seattle Me Up (Point Given x Donna Slew by Seattle Slew, Octavio Bernal): 3 starts under her belt, but a miserble 13th in her start at Gulfstream. Her previous two starts however where at Tampa.
3. Floral Romance (After Market x Proposed by Benchmark, Daniel Centeno): 7th in the Marshua's River at Gulfstream which was her stakes debut. Won at Belmont before that.
4. Sca Doodle (Scat Daddy x Bubbly Baily by Dixie Union, Gary Boulanger): Has only run at Woodbine. 4th in her last was third in the Avowal Stakes 3 back.
5. Cloud Scapes (Smart Strike x Every Cloud by Storm Cat, Erick Rodriguez): Won at Tampa in her last, stakes debut. Has never been worse then 4th in her career.
6. Final Escrow (Bernardini x Escrow Agent by El Gran Senor, Antonio Gallarado): Won at Tampa after finishing 5th in the Maple Leaf at Woodbine. Also won the Rosenberger at Delaware 3 back.
7. Donna's Fly Girl (Kitalpha x Dakota Lass by Crowning Storm, Augusto Marin): Has run no better then 5th in her last four starts. Both career wins where at Ellis.
8. Rare Event (A.P. Indy x Our Rite of Spring by Stravinsky, Marlon St. Julien): 5th at Tampa in her last to Final Escrow, but that was taken off the turf. 9th in the Cardinal before that and has never finished better then 5th in a stakes race.
9. Action Lady (Action This Day x Lady Woodwin by Lord Avie, Ademar Santos): 3rd in the same race at Tampa as Rare Event and Final Escrow. 10th in her last stakes race 3 back at Indiana.
10. Wholelottashakin (Scat Daddy x Carr Shaker by Carr de Naskra, Alan Garcia): 2nd at Gulfstream nad 5th at Aqueduct in her last two. 3rd in the Ticonderoga at Belmont 3 back.
11. Left a Message (Mr. Greeley x Chief Secreatary by Deputy Minister, Quincy Hamilton): 3rd in the Long Island Handicap at Aqueduct and 2nd in the Dowager. Shortens up in this race.
12. Dream Clover (Oasis Dream x In Clover by Inchinor, Luis Garcia): 2 starts in the US, two out of the top three finishes (granted her US debut was against Hungry Island). Hasn't run since May of last year, but 3rd at Chantilly in her final France start.
AE. Liberty Girl (A.P. Warrior x Champagne Glow by Saratoga Six, Ronald Allen): 2nd at Tampa on dirt in her last. Was an Oaks trail horse last year when she finished 4th in the Fantasy and Honeybee.
Picks: 1st: Final Escrow, 2nd: Left a Message, 3rd: Cloud Scapes
Holy Bull, 1 1/16th (Derby prep), Grade 2:
1. Coup de Grace (Tapit x Home Court by Storm Cat), John Velazquez): 2 for 2 and makes stakes debut. Jockey returns from injury that kept him out most of BC Saturday. 2 turn debut.
2. Financial Mogul (Street Boss x Trav n' Kris by Snow Chief, Jose Ortiz): 2nd in the Nashua and 4th in the Futurity before that.
3. Best Plan Yet (Hear No Evil x Bayou Plans by Bayou Hebert, Edgard Zayas): 9th in the Gulfstream Park Derby won the In Reality and Foolish Pleasure before that.
4. Almost Famous (Unbridled's Song x Wild Gams by Forest Wildcat, Calvin Borel): 4th in the Street Sense, but rebounded with a win in an allowance race his last.
5. Our Caravan (Daaher x Alwaan by Elusive Quality, Corey Lanerie): 1 for 1, the runner up finished third in his first start of the year.
6. Mr. Speaker (Pulpit x Salute by Unbridled, Jose Lezcano): Dania Beach winner, has never been on dirt before however with his pedigree it should be no problem.
7. Cairo Prince (Pioneerof the Nile x Holy Bubbette by Holy Bull, Luis Saez): Finished second in the Remsen and won the Nashua.
8. Wicked Strong (Hard Spun x Moyne Abbey by Charismatic, Javier Castellano): 3rd in the Remsen, broke his maiden before that, the runner up of that race came back to win in his next.
9. Conquest Titan (Birdstone x Miner's Secret by Mineshaft, Shaun Bridgmohan): Won Allowance in his last after finishing 13th in the Juvenile and 5th in the Breeders' Futurity.
10. Big Bazinga (Bluegrass Cat x Darling Daughter by Maria's Mon, Joe Bravo): 7th in the Jackpot and finished 2nd in the Grey.
11. Intense Holiday (Harlan's Holiday x Intensify by Unbridled's Song, Joel Rosario): 4th in both the Remsen and Nashua.
Picks: 1st: Wicked Strong, 2nd: Cairo Prince, 3rd: Mr. Speaker
May 2, 2013
Kentucky Oaks and Undercard preview
All the hard work has payed off, we are
just about 24 hours away from the Kentucky Oaks and 72 hours away
from the KY Derby! Today and tomorrow's posts will be about the Oaks
card and the Derby card. I'm only going to be previewing the stakes
races which will be running each day with pedigree notes on the Grade
1 races only (just to save a little time). Lets take a look at
tomorrow Oaks day card.
January 4, 2013
Sham Stakes Preview
The Santa Anita's Derby trail kicks off tomorrow with the Sham Stakes. The G3 mile race has yet to produce a KY Derby winner, but some nice horses have won this race. Among the winners include Colonel John, The Pamplemousse and recent BC Dirt Mile winner Tapizar. Let's take a look at this years field.
Santa Anita Park - Saturday, January 5, 2013 Race 3 - 1:31 PM
STAKES
Sham S. (Grade III)
Purse $100,000. For Three-Year-Olds . By subscription of $100 each to accompany the nomination closed with 0. $1,500 additional to start, with $100,000 guaranteed. The winner to receive $60,000 PLUS 10 KENTUCKY DERBY POINTS, $20,000 to second, $12,000 to third, $6,000 to fourth and $2,000 to fifth. 123 Lbs. Non-winners of a Graded I or Grade II Stakes at One Mile or Over, allowed 3 Lbs. Non-winners of a Graded Stake at One Mile or Over , 5 Lbs. *Early Bird nominees to the 2013 Santa Anita Derby (Closing Date: December 22, 2012) are automatically eligible to the Sham Stakes with all fees waived. A trophy will be presented to the owner of the winner. One Mile.
PP Horse A/S Med Jockey Wgt Trainer
1 Den's Legacy (FL) 3/C L G K Gomez 120 B Baffert
2 Goldencents (KY) 3/C L K Krigger 120 D F O'Neill
3 Greeley Awesome (KY) 3/C L M Gutierrez 118 D F O'Neill
4 Dry Summer (KY) 3/R J Talamo 118 J Mullins
5 Dirty Swagg (KY) 3/R L T Baze 118 M K Cho
6 Manando (KY) 3/C L M Garcia 118 B Baffert
Going horse by horse.
Den's Legacy (Medaglia d'Oro): Third in the G1 Cash Call Futurity in his last race. Before that he won the G3 Generous on turf. Lone start on dirt was a fifth place finish in the G1 Front Runner.
Goldencents (Into Mischief): Won the G3 Delta Jackpot and 2nd in the G1 Champagne in his last two. Sire is a 1/2 brother to BC Juvenile Fillies winner Beholder.
Greeley Awesome (Mr. Greeley): Broke maiden in his last. Makes stakes debut and was 2nd in one other try on dirt.
Dry Summer (Any Given Saturday): Stakes winner on turf, lone dirt try was a 8th place finish in the Front Runner.
Dirty Swagg (Street Hero): Third in the Real Quiet two back, has finished out of the top three in stakes races other then that.
Manando (Bluegrass Cat): Makes stakes debut, 3rd in lone dirt try.
So who wins? In theory, Goldencents has the best resume at this point. However, I'm going with Den's Legacy. His sire's foals tend to improve at 3 and him losing the CashCall might have been the best thing to happen to him. Goldencents for second and Greeley Awesome for third.
April 19, 2012
Miami Mile preview
In honor of the late Mambo Meister who won this G3 race in 2010, I am previewing this year's running of the Miami Mile. Run on Saturday at a mile on the grass at Calder, a field of eleven plus two Also Eligibles (AE) are entered. Let's take a look at the field:
1.
Sette E Mezzo
(Dynaformer) is coming off a 4th
place finish in an allowance race at Gulfstream. On March 7th,
he won a claimer at Tampa Bay. Last year he finished third in the G2
Bernard Baruch at Saratoga.
2.
Chinglish
(War
Front), is making his first start for his new connections after
finishing 6th
and being claimed for $30,000 in late March. He won the James W.
Murphy last season at Pimlico, but his best finish in a graded stakes
race was a 6th
place finish in the G3 Saranac at Saratoga also last season.
3.
Za
Approval (Ghostzapper)
makes his stakes debut here and is coming off a win by a neck at
Gulfstream in an allowance race. He was second in his first start of
the year, also at Gulfstream.
4.
Decisive
Moment (With
Destinction) has always done well at Calder finishing no worse then
third, and winning in the El Kaiser last year. Those races where on
dirt and not turf. He did well last year finishing behind Animal
Kingdom at Turfway in the G3 Spiral Stakes on polytrack which is
similar to turf, however the turf debut didn't go well as he finished
6th
in the G3 Appleton Stakes at Gulfstream last time out.
5.
Ducduc
(Langfur)
comes into the race off a 2nd
place finish in a Starter Handicap at Gulfstream. He has a stakes win
on the surface last year in the Joey Blueeyes by a head.
6.
Perfect
Footprint (Pleasently
Perfect) finished 8th
in the G3 Canadian Turf Handicap at Gulfstream last time out. His
best finish in a stakes finish is on this surface last December in
the G3 Tropical Turf Handicap.
7.
Mutural Trust (GB) (Cacique
(IRE)) makes his 3rd
start in the US. A G1 winner in France, his best finish in the states
is a 5th
place finish in the G3 Ft. Lauderdale Stakes at Gulfstream in
January. He is coming out of a 7th
place finish in the G3 Canadian Turf Handicap at Gulfstream.
Tannersville
(West
Acre) has been running in handicap and allowance company this year so
far finishing as high as 3rd. He finished third to Ducduc in the Joey
Blueeyes last year.
8.
Upgrade
(Saint Liam) makes his stakes debut here. He won an
Allowance/Optional Claimer at Gulfstream in his last start.
9.
Yummy
with Butter (Silvador)
is coming off a 4th
place finish in the G1 Gulfstream Park Turf Handicap. He won two G3
last year (the Oceanport and Cliff Hanger) at Monmouth.
10.
Numb
Lips (Olmodavor)
has won over this surface before, but is making the dirt to turf
switch after a 5th
place finish in the G3 Skip Away at Gulfstream last time out.
11.
Monument
Hill (Royal
Academy) is very consistant finishing in the top 3 in each of his
starts. He is coming off a 3rd
place finish in the G3 Appleton.
Also
Eligibles:
Imperial
Czar
(Imperialism) is coming off a win in a starter allowance at
Gulfstream. Before that he was third in the Challenger Stakes at
Tampa, but both of those races where on dirt.
It's
Never Too Late (Repent)
is another dirt to turf horse, he won a starter allowance at
Gulfstream last time out and was fifth in the Sunshine Millions
Sprint at Gulfstream earlier in the year.
Picks:
Za
Apporoval, Monument Hill, Yummy with Butter, Upgrade
February 24, 2012
GulfFair Weekend (Part 1)
What a weekend down at Gulfstream. Sunday (which will be previewed tomorrow) has Fountain of Youth and Saturday's card is very good as well. Also the Fair Grounds has their final prep races before the LA Derby and Fair Grounds Oaks Lets take a look at whose running!
At Gulfstream:
8th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Dirt. Purse $100,000. Sabin S. (Grade 3). FOR FILLIES AND MARES, FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. Free nomination by Saturday, February 11, 2012, $1,000 to pass the entry box and $500 additional to start, with $100,000 Guaranteed. All fees shall be paid prior to the start of the race. The owner of the winner to receive $60,000; $20,000 to second, $10,000 to third, $5,000 to fourth, $3,000 to fifth and $2,000 to sixth. Supplemental nominations may be made at time of entry a fee of $5,000, which includes entry and starting fees. Weight : 123 lbs. Non-winners of a grade I or II at a mile or over since June 1 allowed 2 lbs; a graded stakes or $60,000 twice since July 1, 4 lbs., $45,000 since August 1, 6 lbs. Starters to be named through the entry box by the usual time of closing. This race will be limited to 14 Starters, with Also Eligibles. If more than fourteen (14) entries pass the entry box preference will be given to graded stakes winners, then highest 2010-2012 earnings. Trophy to winning owner. Nominations Closed Saturday, February 11, 2012 with 13 Nominations. (03:49 PM) (5)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Ghostly Darkness 4 F L 117 Maragh Rajiv Reed Eric R.
2 Royal Delta 4 F L 123 Lezcano Jose Mott William I.
3 Awesome Maria 5 M L 123 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
4 Groupie Doll 4 F L 121 Borel Calvin H. Bradley William
5 Canadian Mistress 4 F L 117 Trujillo Elvis Wolfson Martin D.
This is Awesome Maria's first start since being injured after her Ogden Phipps win, many people think that Groupie Doll could upset the apple cart if she could pull the upset (she certinally has the jockey to do it with). However, this is Royal Delta's race to lose and it could set her up for a showdown in Dubai with Animal Kingdom.
10th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 3/8 Mile Turf. Purse $100,000. Very One S. (Grade 3). FOR FILLIES AND MARES, FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. (04:45 PM) (14)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Here To Win (BRZ) 6 M L 117 Bravo Joe McLaughlin Kiaran P.
2 Hasay (GB) 5 M L 117 Dominguez Ramon A. Motion H. Graham
3 Woodford Belle 5 M L 117 Castanon Jesus Lopez Nihei Michelle
4 Perfect Shirl 5 M L 123 Velazquez John R. Attfield Roger L.
5 Casablanca Smile (CHI) 6 M L 121 Desormeaux Kent J. McGaughey III Claude R.
6 Keertana 6 M L 121 Lezcano Jose Proctor Thomas F.
7 Clarinet 5 M L 117 Leparoux Julien R. Motion H. Graham
8 Good Karma (ITY) 4 F L 117 Maragh Rajiv Clement Christophe
9 Shimmering Moment 5 M L 117 Rocco, Jr. Joseph Abbott, III Francis
10 Middle Club (GB) 5 M L 117 Lopez Paco Clement Christophe
11 Font 4 F L 117 Solis Alex O. Tagg Barclay
12 Aquitaine 6 M L 117 Contreras Luis Matz Michael R.
13 Full Moon Party 5 M L 117 Wilson Emma-Jayne Frazier Matt
14 Dash Dot Dash 6 M L 117 Trujillo Elvis Wolfson Martin D.
The BC F/M Turf Champ is back! The good news is that Perfect Shirl has had a start over this track before finishing second. However Keertana who defeated the boys last year is also this race and she finished third off a layoff in the Endeavor, and she's 2 for 2 in her second start off a layoff. However, those layoffs where shorter then the one she just came off. Those 2 are my 1-2 in either order and Clarinet (just because I play the instrument) for third.
11th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Dirt. Purse $250,000. Davona Dale S. (Grade 2). FOR FILLIES, THREE YEAR OLDS. (05:13 PM) (9)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Nuffsaid Nuffsaid 3 F L 116 Lezcano Jose Hennig Mark A.
2 Grace Hall 3 F L 118 Dominguez Ramon A. Dutrow Anthony W.
3 Captivating Lass 3 F L 116 Velazquez John R. McLaughlin Kiaran P.
4 The Cat's All That 3 F L 116 Lopez Paco Peery Chuck
5 Frolic's Revenge 3 F L 118 Leyva Juan C. Wolfson Milton W.
6 Yara 3 F L 116 Castanon Jesus Lopez Garoffalo Jose
7 Disposablepleasure 3 F L 120 Leparoux Julien R. Pletcher Todd A.
8 Taker Home 3 F L 116 Contreras Luis Pirie Barbara A.
9 Salad Girl 3 F L 118 Trujillo Elvis Plesa, Jr. Edward
With both My Miss Aurilea and Weemissfrankie on the sidelines, the #1 Oaks contender is Grace Hall. She make's her 3 year old debut in here, and other then Disposablepleasure and Frolic's Revenge there really isn't anything in here that could possibly beat her. Should be interesting how she does in here though.
At the Fair Grounds:
5th Race - Fair Grounds - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
ALLOWANCE OPTIONAL CLAIMING. 1 Mile 70Y Dirt. Purse $49,000. FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR STATE BRED ALLOWANCE RACES OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OR CLAIMING PRICE $17,500. Weight, 123 lbs. Non-winners Of Two Races At A Mile Or Over Since January 25 Allowed 2 lbs. One such race since then Allowed 4 lbs. Claiming Price $17,500. (02:00 PM) (12)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Wheemaway 4 G L 121 Sellers Shane J. Pish Danny
2 Majestic Harbor 4 C L 119 Lanerie Corey J. McGee Paul J.
3 Musicstreet Menace 6 G L 119 Mena Miguel Scherer Richard R.
4 Adirondack Express 4 G L 119 Graham James Stidham Michael
5 Nehro 4 C L 119 Bridgmohan Shaun Asmussen Steven M.
6 Avenue B 4 R L 119 Albarado Robby Carroll David M.
7 Stinking Creek 4 C L 119 Napravnik Rosie Maker Michael J.
8 Major Prince 4 C L 121 Jacinto John Charles Keith
9 Big Town 4 C L 114 McMahon C.J. Glyshaw Tim
10 Austons Sure Cure 6 H L 119 Hernandez, Jr. Brian Joseph Pessin Neil L.
11 Only Boy 4 G L 119 Clark Kerwin D. Deville Carl J.
12 Face The Fire 7 G L 119 Theriot Jamie Gabriel, Jr. Leo G.
Last year's Derby runner up is the final horse from the Top 3 to return as a four year old. Both Animal Kingdom and Mucho Macho Man have returned as winners, the question is will he? I'm going to say yes, he's run well over this surface before and but hasn't fully put it all together. Still this is a good spot for a comeback.
7th Race - Fair Grounds - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Dirt. Purse $200,000. Rachel Alexandra S. (Grade 3). FOR FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD. By subscription of $200 by Saturday, February 11th; $900 to enter, $900 additional to start. Supplemental nominations of $4,000 will be accepted at time of entry which shall include all fees. $200,000 Guaranteed of which 60% to the winner, 20% to second, 10% to third, 4% to fourth , 2% to fifth and 1% to starters sixth through ninth. Weight 122 lbs. Non-winners of a graded stakes allowed, 2lbs, a sweepstakes at a mile or over allowed, 4 lbs, a race at a mile or over since November 25th allowed, 6 lbs. (Maiden and claiming races not considered in estimating allowances). Starters to be named through the entry box by usual time of closing. Preference to horses that have accumulated the highest lifetime earnings excluding restricted races at the time of passing entry box. Different owners have equal draw according to money earned. Failure to draw into the race will cancel all fees. THE OWNER OF THE WINNER TO RECEIVE A TROPHY. Closed Saturday, February 11, 2012, with 13 nominations. (02:58 PM) (7)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Believe You Can 3 F L 122 Napravnik Rosie Jones J. Larry
2 Avie's Sense 3 F L 116 Graham James Carroll Josie
3 Inny Minnie 3 F L 116 Bridgmohan Shaun Margolis Steve
4 Table Three Ten 3 F L 116 Castellano Javier Motion H. Graham
5 Summer Applause 3 F L 118 Albarado Robby Calhoun W. Bret
6 Applauding 3 F L 116 Sellers Shane J. Stall, Jr. Albert M.
7 Annaclone 3 F L 116 Mena Miguel Flint Bernard S.
I'm wondering if there's something more nasty going inside of Applauding then we know (this is the second stakes she's been scratched from). Many people are high on Taple Three Ten, but I've never seen her. The 1-2-3 from the Silverbulletday return, and I think Inny Minnie will turn the tables on Believe You Can and Summer Applause.
11th Race - Fair Grounds - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Dirt. Purse $300,000. Risen Star S. (Grade 2). FOR THREE YEAR OLDS. By subscription of $300 by Saturday, February 11th (Louisiana Derby early bird nominees automatically subscribed); $1,250 to enter; $1,450 additional to start. Supplemental nominations of $6,000 will be accepted at time of entry which shall include all fees. $300,000 Guaranteed of which 60% to the winner, 20% to second, 10% to third, 4% to fourth, 2% to fifth and 1% to starters sixth through ninth. Weight: 122 lbs. Non-winners of a grade I or II stakes allowed, 2lbs, a sweepstakes at a mile or over, allowed, 4lbs, $27,000 twice at a mile or over, allowed, 6lbs. (Maiden and claiming races not considered in estimating allowances). Starters to be named through the entry box by the usual time of closing. Preference to horses accordingto highest lifetime earnings excluding restricted races at the time of passing entry box. Different owners have equal draw according to earnings. Failure to draw into the race will cancel all fees. THE OWNER OF THE WINNER TO RECEIVE A TROPHY. Closed SSaturday, February 11, 2012, with 79 nominations. (04:55 PM) (11)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Afford 3 C L 116 Bridgmohan Shaun Geier Greg
2 Optimizer 3 C L 116 Marquez, Jr. Carlos H. Lukas D. Wayne
3A Mr. Bowling 3 C L 120 Albarado Robby Jones J. Larry
4 Z Dager 3 C L 116 Sellers Shane J. Asmussen Steven M.
5 Ted's Folly 3 G L 120 Zimmerman Ramsey Brown Wilson L.
6B Adena's Chance 3 C L 116 Eramia Richard E. Dorochenko Gennadi
7B Hero Of Order 3 C L 116 Graham James Dorochenko Gennadi
8 El Padrino 3 C L 116 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
9A Mark Valeski 3 C L 116 Napravnik Rosie Jones J. Larry
10 Shared Property 3 G L 120 Goncalves Leandro R. Amoss Thomas M.
11 Tizanexpense 3 C L 116 Mena Miguel
How loaded is Todd Pletcher this year? El Padrino who is getting quite a bit of buzz, is not even the buzziest horse in his stable. Mr. Bowling has a stablemate in Mark Valeski. If you where part of Sunday's Live Chat, I posted how the horses have done in their last couple of starts. I'm going with Optimizer in this. Why? It's not I don't think the big name horses are horrible, is that I'm just thinking about the long run where pedigree might stand out more. Yes his sire is a turf horse, but with a Belmont winning broodmare sire that will help him in the long run. Z Dagger for second and El Padrino for third.
So that's part one of the Weekend Preview, tomorrow will be the FOY preview which I will go over each horse one by one.
At Gulfstream:
8th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Dirt. Purse $100,000. Sabin S. (Grade 3). FOR FILLIES AND MARES, FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. Free nomination by Saturday, February 11, 2012, $1,000 to pass the entry box and $500 additional to start, with $100,000 Guaranteed. All fees shall be paid prior to the start of the race. The owner of the winner to receive $60,000; $20,000 to second, $10,000 to third, $5,000 to fourth, $3,000 to fifth and $2,000 to sixth. Supplemental nominations may be made at time of entry a fee of $5,000, which includes entry and starting fees. Weight : 123 lbs. Non-winners of a grade I or II at a mile or over since June 1 allowed 2 lbs; a graded stakes or $60,000 twice since July 1, 4 lbs., $45,000 since August 1, 6 lbs. Starters to be named through the entry box by the usual time of closing. This race will be limited to 14 Starters, with Also Eligibles. If more than fourteen (14) entries pass the entry box preference will be given to graded stakes winners, then highest 2010-2012 earnings. Trophy to winning owner. Nominations Closed Saturday, February 11, 2012 with 13 Nominations. (03:49 PM) (5)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Ghostly Darkness 4 F L 117 Maragh Rajiv Reed Eric R.
2 Royal Delta 4 F L 123 Lezcano Jose Mott William I.
3 Awesome Maria 5 M L 123 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
4 Groupie Doll 4 F L 121 Borel Calvin H. Bradley William
5 Canadian Mistress 4 F L 117 Trujillo Elvis Wolfson Martin D.
This is Awesome Maria's first start since being injured after her Ogden Phipps win, many people think that Groupie Doll could upset the apple cart if she could pull the upset (she certinally has the jockey to do it with). However, this is Royal Delta's race to lose and it could set her up for a showdown in Dubai with Animal Kingdom.
10th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 3/8 Mile Turf. Purse $100,000. Very One S. (Grade 3). FOR FILLIES AND MARES, FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. (04:45 PM) (14)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Here To Win (BRZ) 6 M L 117 Bravo Joe McLaughlin Kiaran P.
2 Hasay (GB) 5 M L 117 Dominguez Ramon A. Motion H. Graham
3 Woodford Belle 5 M L 117 Castanon Jesus Lopez Nihei Michelle
4 Perfect Shirl 5 M L 123 Velazquez John R. Attfield Roger L.
5 Casablanca Smile (CHI) 6 M L 121 Desormeaux Kent J. McGaughey III Claude R.
6 Keertana 6 M L 121 Lezcano Jose Proctor Thomas F.
7 Clarinet 5 M L 117 Leparoux Julien R. Motion H. Graham
8 Good Karma (ITY) 4 F L 117 Maragh Rajiv Clement Christophe
9 Shimmering Moment 5 M L 117 Rocco, Jr. Joseph Abbott, III Francis
10 Middle Club (GB) 5 M L 117 Lopez Paco Clement Christophe
11 Font 4 F L 117 Solis Alex O. Tagg Barclay
12 Aquitaine 6 M L 117 Contreras Luis Matz Michael R.
13 Full Moon Party 5 M L 117 Wilson Emma-Jayne Frazier Matt
14 Dash Dot Dash 6 M L 117 Trujillo Elvis Wolfson Martin D.
The BC F/M Turf Champ is back! The good news is that Perfect Shirl has had a start over this track before finishing second. However Keertana who defeated the boys last year is also this race and she finished third off a layoff in the Endeavor, and she's 2 for 2 in her second start off a layoff. However, those layoffs where shorter then the one she just came off. Those 2 are my 1-2 in either order and Clarinet (just because I play the instrument) for third.
11th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Dirt. Purse $250,000. Davona Dale S. (Grade 2). FOR FILLIES, THREE YEAR OLDS. (05:13 PM) (9)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Nuffsaid Nuffsaid 3 F L 116 Lezcano Jose Hennig Mark A.
2 Grace Hall 3 F L 118 Dominguez Ramon A. Dutrow Anthony W.
3 Captivating Lass 3 F L 116 Velazquez John R. McLaughlin Kiaran P.
4 The Cat's All That 3 F L 116 Lopez Paco Peery Chuck
5 Frolic's Revenge 3 F L 118 Leyva Juan C. Wolfson Milton W.
6 Yara 3 F L 116 Castanon Jesus Lopez Garoffalo Jose
7 Disposablepleasure 3 F L 120 Leparoux Julien R. Pletcher Todd A.
8 Taker Home 3 F L 116 Contreras Luis Pirie Barbara A.
9 Salad Girl 3 F L 118 Trujillo Elvis Plesa, Jr. Edward
With both My Miss Aurilea and Weemissfrankie on the sidelines, the #1 Oaks contender is Grace Hall. She make's her 3 year old debut in here, and other then Disposablepleasure and Frolic's Revenge there really isn't anything in here that could possibly beat her. Should be interesting how she does in here though.
At the Fair Grounds:
5th Race - Fair Grounds - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
ALLOWANCE OPTIONAL CLAIMING. 1 Mile 70Y Dirt. Purse $49,000. FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR STATE BRED ALLOWANCE RACES OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OR CLAIMING PRICE $17,500. Weight, 123 lbs. Non-winners Of Two Races At A Mile Or Over Since January 25 Allowed 2 lbs. One such race since then Allowed 4 lbs. Claiming Price $17,500. (02:00 PM) (12)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Wheemaway 4 G L 121 Sellers Shane J. Pish Danny
2 Majestic Harbor 4 C L 119 Lanerie Corey J. McGee Paul J.
3 Musicstreet Menace 6 G L 119 Mena Miguel Scherer Richard R.
4 Adirondack Express 4 G L 119 Graham James Stidham Michael
5 Nehro 4 C L 119 Bridgmohan Shaun Asmussen Steven M.
6 Avenue B 4 R L 119 Albarado Robby Carroll David M.
7 Stinking Creek 4 C L 119 Napravnik Rosie Maker Michael J.
8 Major Prince 4 C L 121 Jacinto John Charles Keith
9 Big Town 4 C L 114 McMahon C.J. Glyshaw Tim
10 Austons Sure Cure 6 H L 119 Hernandez, Jr. Brian Joseph Pessin Neil L.
11 Only Boy 4 G L 119 Clark Kerwin D. Deville Carl J.
12 Face The Fire 7 G L 119 Theriot Jamie Gabriel, Jr. Leo G.
Last year's Derby runner up is the final horse from the Top 3 to return as a four year old. Both Animal Kingdom and Mucho Macho Man have returned as winners, the question is will he? I'm going to say yes, he's run well over this surface before and but hasn't fully put it all together. Still this is a good spot for a comeback.
7th Race - Fair Grounds - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Dirt. Purse $200,000. Rachel Alexandra S. (Grade 3). FOR FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD. By subscription of $200 by Saturday, February 11th; $900 to enter, $900 additional to start. Supplemental nominations of $4,000 will be accepted at time of entry which shall include all fees. $200,000 Guaranteed of which 60% to the winner, 20% to second, 10% to third, 4% to fourth , 2% to fifth and 1% to starters sixth through ninth. Weight 122 lbs. Non-winners of a graded stakes allowed, 2lbs, a sweepstakes at a mile or over allowed, 4 lbs, a race at a mile or over since November 25th allowed, 6 lbs. (Maiden and claiming races not considered in estimating allowances). Starters to be named through the entry box by usual time of closing. Preference to horses that have accumulated the highest lifetime earnings excluding restricted races at the time of passing entry box. Different owners have equal draw according to money earned. Failure to draw into the race will cancel all fees. THE OWNER OF THE WINNER TO RECEIVE A TROPHY. Closed Saturday, February 11, 2012, with 13 nominations. (02:58 PM) (7)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Believe You Can 3 F L 122 Napravnik Rosie Jones J. Larry
2 Avie's Sense 3 F L 116 Graham James Carroll Josie
3 Inny Minnie 3 F L 116 Bridgmohan Shaun Margolis Steve
4 Table Three Ten 3 F L 116 Castellano Javier Motion H. Graham
5 Summer Applause 3 F L 118 Albarado Robby Calhoun W. Bret
7 Annaclone 3 F L 116 Mena Miguel Flint Bernard S.
I'm wondering if there's something more nasty going inside of Applauding then we know (this is the second stakes she's been scratched from). Many people are high on Taple Three Ten, but I've never seen her. The 1-2-3 from the Silverbulletday return, and I think Inny Minnie will turn the tables on Believe You Can and Summer Applause.
11th Race - Fair Grounds - Saturday, February 25th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Dirt. Purse $300,000. Risen Star S. (Grade 2). FOR THREE YEAR OLDS. By subscription of $300 by Saturday, February 11th (Louisiana Derby early bird nominees automatically subscribed); $1,250 to enter; $1,450 additional to start. Supplemental nominations of $6,000 will be accepted at time of entry which shall include all fees. $300,000 Guaranteed of which 60% to the winner, 20% to second, 10% to third, 4% to fourth, 2% to fifth and 1% to starters sixth through ninth. Weight: 122 lbs. Non-winners of a grade I or II stakes allowed, 2lbs, a sweepstakes at a mile or over, allowed, 4lbs, $27,000 twice at a mile or over, allowed, 6lbs. (Maiden and claiming races not considered in estimating allowances). Starters to be named through the entry box by the usual time of closing. Preference to horses accordingto highest lifetime earnings excluding restricted races at the time of passing entry box. Different owners have equal draw according to earnings. Failure to draw into the race will cancel all fees. THE OWNER OF THE WINNER TO RECEIVE A TROPHY. Closed SSaturday, February 11, 2012, with 79 nominations. (04:55 PM) (11)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Afford 3 C L 116 Bridgmohan Shaun Geier Greg
2 Optimizer 3 C L 116 Marquez, Jr. Carlos H. Lukas D. Wayne
3A Mr. Bowling 3 C L 120 Albarado Robby Jones J. Larry
4 Z Dager 3 C L 116 Sellers Shane J. Asmussen Steven M.
5 Ted's Folly 3 G L 120 Zimmerman Ramsey Brown Wilson L.
6B Adena's Chance 3 C L 116 Eramia Richard E. Dorochenko Gennadi
7B Hero Of Order 3 C L 116 Graham James Dorochenko Gennadi
8 El Padrino 3 C L 116 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
9A Mark Valeski 3 C L 116 Napravnik Rosie Jones J. Larry
10 Shared Property 3 G L 120 Goncalves Leandro R. Amoss Thomas M.
11 Tizanexpense 3 C L 116 Mena Miguel
How loaded is Todd Pletcher this year? El Padrino who is getting quite a bit of buzz, is not even the buzziest horse in his stable. Mr. Bowling has a stablemate in Mark Valeski. If you where part of Sunday's Live Chat, I posted how the horses have done in their last couple of starts. I'm going with Optimizer in this. Why? It's not I don't think the big name horses are horrible, is that I'm just thinking about the long run where pedigree might stand out more. Yes his sire is a turf horse, but with a Belmont winning broodmare sire that will help him in the long run. Z Dagger for second and El Padrino for third.
So that's part one of the Weekend Preview, tomorrow will be the FOY preview which I will go over each horse one by one.
January 13, 2012
Charly, Soaring, Flat oh my!
All three horses who are in my title are in action tomorrow at Gulfstream. Charly and Flat in the Ft. Lauderdale, while Soaring tries to defend his Hal's Hope title.
9th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, January 14th, 2012
STAKES. 1 Mile Dirt. Purse $100,000. Hal's Hope S. (Grade 3). FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. Free Nomination by Saturday December 31, 2011, $1,000 to pass the entry box and $500 additional to start, with $100,000 Guaranteed. All fees shall be paid prior to the start of the race. The owner of the winner to receive $60,000; $20,000 to second, $10,000 to third, $5,000 to fourth, $3,000 to fifth and $2,000 to sixth. Supplemental nominations may be made at time of entries at a fee of $5,000, which includes entry and starting fees. Weight : 123 lbs. Non-winners of a grade I in 2011 allowed 2 lbs; a graded stakes or $60,000 twice at a mile or over in 2011 4 lbs., $45,000 twice at a mile or over in 2011 6 lbs. Starters to be named through the entry box by the usual time of closing. This race will be limited to 14 Starters, with Also Eligibles. If more than fourteen (14) entries pass the entry box preference will be given to graded stakes winners, then highest 2010-2012 earnings. Trophy to winning owner. Nominations Closed Saturday, December 31, 2011 with 21 Nominations. (04:17 PM) (9)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Jackson Bend 5 H L 123 Velazquez John R. Zito Nicholas P.
2 Sky Venture 5 G L 117 Leyva Juan C. Paul Cecil
3 Sangaree 7 H L 117 Maragh Rajiv McLaughlin Kiaran P.
4 Successful Mission 6 G L 121 Trujillo Elvis Plesa, Jr. Edward
5 Decisive Moment 4 C L 121 Madrid Sebastian O. Arias Juan D.
6 Our Dark Knight 5 H L 117 Bravo Joe Zito Nicholas P.
7 Soaring Empire 5 H L 121 Leparoux Julien R. Gambolati Cam M.
8 Cool Blue Red Hot 4 C L 117 Cruz Manoel R. Penna, Jr. Angel J.
9 Will's Wildcat 4 G L 117 Borel Calvin H. Baker James E.
This will be the Sangaree's first race in his new barn since Godolphin decided close it's US operations (he will still be running in Godolphin colors though). Soaring Empire is the defending champ, but stretching out to a mile is what Jackson Bend has been asking for. Our Dark Knight could suprise people as well.
10th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, January 14th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Turf. Purse $100,000. Ft. Lauderdale S. (Grade 3). FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. Free nomination by Saturday December 31, 2011, $1,000 to pass the entry box and $500 additional to start, with $100,000 Guaranteed. All fees shall be paid prior to the start of the race. The owner of the winner to receive $60,000, $20,000 to second, $10,000 to third, $5,000 to fourth, $3,000 to fifth and $2,000 to sixth. Supplemental nominations may be made at time of entry for a fee of $5,000, which includes entry and starting fees. Weight: 123 lbs. Non-winners of a gradeI or II stakes on the turf in 2011 allowed 2 lbs.; of a sweepstakes at a mile or over on the turf since July 1, 4lbs., $45,000 at a mile or over since August 1, 6 lbs. Starters to be named through the entry box by the usual time of closing. This race willl be limited to 14 Starters, with Also Eligibles. If more than fourteen (14) entries pass the entry box preference will be given to graded stakes winners, then highest 2010-2012 earnings. Trophy to the winning owner. Nominations Closed on Saturday, December 31, 2011 with 38 Nominations. (If deemed inadvisable to run this race over the turf course, it will be run on the main track at One Mile and One Sixteenth). (04:45 PM) (14)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Uptowncharlybrown 5 H L b 117 Maragh Rajiv Coletti, Sr. Edward J.
2 Santiva 4 C L 117 Castanon Jesus Lopez Walsh Brendan P.
3 Guys Reward 5 H L 117 Centeno Daniel Romans Dale L.
4 Yummy With Butter 8 G L 121 Lopez Paco Belsoeur Yvon
5 Mutual Trust (GB) 4 C L 123 Lezcano Jose Mott William I.
6 Mambo Meister 7 G L 117 Bravo Joe Gleaves Philip A.
7 Teaks North 5 G L 123 Leyva Juan C. Sallusto Justin
8 Flat Out 6 H L 119 Solis Alex O. Dickey Charles L.
9 Hollinger 5 G L 117 Velazquez John R. Attfield Roger L.
10 Silver Medallion 4 C L 121 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
11 Hoofit (NZ) 5 G L 117 Prado Edgar S. Motion H. Graham
12 Kindergarden Kid 5 G L 121 Leparoux Julien R. Tagg Barclay
13 Cool Blue Red Hot 4 C L 117 Cruz Manoel R. Penna, Jr. Angel J.
14 Flatter This 5 H L 119 Jurado Luis O'Connell Kathleen
Obviously the big reason why Flat Out is in here and not the Hal's Hope is for feet reasons (he's had quarter cracks in the past). Yummy with Butter won two stakes last year, but had faultered down the stretch. Hoofit was screwed in the BC Turf Sprint by being basically taken out of the race, Hollinger was third last time out in a G3. Charly is trying to rebound from 2 4th place finishes, Teaks North shocked everyone in the UN, but faultered down the stretch. Santiva ran in the Derby and Belmont, but this is only his second start since June.
Picks
Hal's Hope: Jackson
Ft. L: Flat Out
The Smarty Jones on Monday will feature a boys vs girl senerio as On Fire Baby starts her campaign for possible try at the Derby. Don't forget about the live chat on Monday as well!
STAKES. 1 Mile Dirt. Purse $100,000. Hal's Hope S. (Grade 3). FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. Free Nomination by Saturday December 31, 2011, $1,000 to pass the entry box and $500 additional to start, with $100,000 Guaranteed. All fees shall be paid prior to the start of the race. The owner of the winner to receive $60,000; $20,000 to second, $10,000 to third, $5,000 to fourth, $3,000 to fifth and $2,000 to sixth. Supplemental nominations may be made at time of entries at a fee of $5,000, which includes entry and starting fees. Weight : 123 lbs. Non-winners of a grade I in 2011 allowed 2 lbs; a graded stakes or $60,000 twice at a mile or over in 2011 4 lbs., $45,000 twice at a mile or over in 2011 6 lbs. Starters to be named through the entry box by the usual time of closing. This race will be limited to 14 Starters, with Also Eligibles. If more than fourteen (14) entries pass the entry box preference will be given to graded stakes winners, then highest 2010-2012 earnings. Trophy to winning owner. Nominations Closed Saturday, December 31, 2011 with 21 Nominations. (04:17 PM) (9)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Jackson Bend 5 H L 123 Velazquez John R. Zito Nicholas P.
2 Sky Venture 5 G L 117 Leyva Juan C. Paul Cecil
3 Sangaree 7 H L 117 Maragh Rajiv McLaughlin Kiaran P.
4 Successful Mission 6 G L 121 Trujillo Elvis Plesa, Jr. Edward
5 Decisive Moment 4 C L 121 Madrid Sebastian O. Arias Juan D.
6 Our Dark Knight 5 H L 117 Bravo Joe Zito Nicholas P.
7 Soaring Empire 5 H L 121 Leparoux Julien R. Gambolati Cam M.
8 Cool Blue Red Hot 4 C L 117 Cruz Manoel R. Penna, Jr. Angel J.
9 Will's Wildcat 4 G L 117 Borel Calvin H. Baker James E.
This will be the Sangaree's first race in his new barn since Godolphin decided close it's US operations (he will still be running in Godolphin colors though). Soaring Empire is the defending champ, but stretching out to a mile is what Jackson Bend has been asking for. Our Dark Knight could suprise people as well.
10th Race - Gulfstream Park - Saturday, January 14th, 2012
STAKES. 1 1/16 Mile Turf. Purse $100,000. Ft. Lauderdale S. (Grade 3). FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. Free nomination by Saturday December 31, 2011, $1,000 to pass the entry box and $500 additional to start, with $100,000 Guaranteed. All fees shall be paid prior to the start of the race. The owner of the winner to receive $60,000, $20,000 to second, $10,000 to third, $5,000 to fourth, $3,000 to fifth and $2,000 to sixth. Supplemental nominations may be made at time of entry for a fee of $5,000, which includes entry and starting fees. Weight: 123 lbs. Non-winners of a gradeI or II stakes on the turf in 2011 allowed 2 lbs.; of a sweepstakes at a mile or over on the turf since July 1, 4lbs., $45,000 at a mile or over since August 1, 6 lbs. Starters to be named through the entry box by the usual time of closing. This race willl be limited to 14 Starters, with Also Eligibles. If more than fourteen (14) entries pass the entry box preference will be given to graded stakes winners, then highest 2010-2012 earnings. Trophy to the winning owner. Nominations Closed on Saturday, December 31, 2011 with 38 Nominations. (If deemed inadvisable to run this race over the turf course, it will be run on the main track at One Mile and One Sixteenth). (04:45 PM) (14)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Uptowncharlybrown 5 H L b 117 Maragh Rajiv Coletti, Sr. Edward J.
2 Santiva 4 C L 117 Castanon Jesus Lopez Walsh Brendan P.
3 Guys Reward 5 H L 117 Centeno Daniel Romans Dale L.
4 Yummy With Butter 8 G L 121 Lopez Paco Belsoeur Yvon
5 Mutual Trust (GB) 4 C L 123 Lezcano Jose Mott William I.
6 Mambo Meister 7 G L 117 Bravo Joe Gleaves Philip A.
7 Teaks North 5 G L 123 Leyva Juan C. Sallusto Justin
8 Flat Out 6 H L 119 Solis Alex O. Dickey Charles L.
9 Hollinger 5 G L 117 Velazquez John R. Attfield Roger L.
10 Silver Medallion 4 C L 121 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
11 Hoofit (NZ) 5 G L 117 Prado Edgar S. Motion H. Graham
12 Kindergarden Kid 5 G L 121 Leparoux Julien R. Tagg Barclay
13 Cool Blue Red Hot 4 C L 117 Cruz Manoel R. Penna, Jr. Angel J.
14 Flatter This 5 H L 119 Jurado Luis O'Connell Kathleen
Obviously the big reason why Flat Out is in here and not the Hal's Hope is for feet reasons (he's had quarter cracks in the past). Yummy with Butter won two stakes last year, but had faultered down the stretch. Hoofit was screwed in the BC Turf Sprint by being basically taken out of the race, Hollinger was third last time out in a G3. Charly is trying to rebound from 2 4th place finishes, Teaks North shocked everyone in the UN, but faultered down the stretch. Santiva ran in the Derby and Belmont, but this is only his second start since June.
Picks
Hal's Hope: Jackson
Ft. L: Flat Out
The Smarty Jones on Monday will feature a boys vs girl senerio as On Fire Baby starts her campaign for possible try at the Derby. Don't forget about the live chat on Monday as well!
September 14, 2011
Turf Weekend (Part 1)
Hey all! This weekends races is actually going to be a 2 parter since it is Woodbine Mile weekend! Two year olds are the headliner on Saturday and then the Northern Dancer and Mile on Sunday. Today, I will be focusing on the two Sat. races, the Natalma and Summer Stakes. Both of them are Win and You're In Races for the Breeders' Cup.
6th Race - Woodbine - Saturday, September 17th, 2011 STAKES. 1 Mile Turf. Purse $200,000. Natalma S. (Grade 3). FOR TWO-YEAR-OLD FILLIES. (03:32 PM) (13)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Sky Dreamer 2 F L 119 Husbands Patrick Casse Mark E.
2 Ten K Cat 2 F L 119 Welch Quincy Lynch Brian A.
3 Welcome Dance 2 F L 119 Albarado Robby Matz Michael R.
4 Anna Sophia 2 F L 119 Valenzuela Patrick A. Mott William I.
5 Spirited Miss 2 F L 119 Leparoux Julien R. Casse Mark E.
6 Runfor Ro 2 F L 119 Campbell Jesse M. O'Callaghan Danny M.
7 Quality Lass 2 F L 119 Maragh Rajiv Casse Mark E.
8 Hard Not To Like 2 F L 119 Da Silva Eurico Rosa Cox Gail
9 Evil Kitten 2 F L 119 Wilson Emma-Jayne Gonzalez Nicholas
10 Northern Passion 2 F L 119 Contreras Luis Casse Mark E.
11 Stephanie's Kitten 2 F L 119 Pizarro Tyler Catalano Wayne M.
12 Dayatthespa 2 F L 119 Dominguez Ramon A. Brown Chad C.
13 St Pancras 2 F L 119 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A
An interesting group of horses in fact that some are making there first starts, all but one of them has 1 win to their names and some of these horses already have stakes experience. There are three horses in here that I think have great chances to win. Anna Sophia has made both of her starts on dirt, but she has turf on both sides of her family. Stephanie's Kitten is the one who scares me the most for my pick. Her trainer sent out her sire's niece Dreaming of Anna to beat the boys in the Summer back in 2006. Of course she would win the BC Juvenile Fillies that year to lock up 2yo Filly honors. My pick for this race is Hard Not to Like. Now I am being a bit bias since she is by Hard Spun. However, she's already won at this distance and won the Allowance race which was the Summer prep (the Natalma allowance did not fill), so she's already beaten the boys. She's also the only one in the race who has 2 wins under her belt. I think that classyness will give the win. Anna Sophia for second and Stephanie's Kitten for third.
This is the defending final prep for the BC Juvy Fillies Turf (More Than Real was second in this race last year).
9th Race - Woodbine - Saturday, September 17th, 2011 STAKES. 1 Mile Turf. Purse $250,000. Summer S. (Grade 3). FOR TWO-YEAR-OLDS. (05:10 PM) (8)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Secret Consultant 2 G L b 122 Ramsammy Emile Doyle Michael J.
2 Daddy Nose Best 2 C L 122 Leparoux Julien R. Asmussen Steven M.
3 Excaper 2 C L 122 Wilson Emma-Jayne Black Ian
4 Jomelo 2 G L 122 Pizarro Tyler Attard Sid C.
5 Finale 2 C L 122 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
6 Maritimer 2 C L 122 Contreras Luis Attard Sid C.
7 Burn The Mortgage 2 C L 122 Dominguez Ramon A. Catalano Wayne M.
8 Making Amends 2 C L 122 Husbands Patrick Casse Mark E.
Maritimer was a green, but closing second to Hard Not to Like in the Allowance race that was the Summer prep. Also coming out of that race is Making Amdends who was 4th. Finale has been awesome since being switched from dirt to turf. He won the Contential Mile at Monmouth last time out. He'll be extreamly hard to beat here, but I'm going to Excaper. He's only raced once, but his trainer and jockey are known for their turf horses (teaming up on the recently retired Rahy's Attorney to a runner up finish in the Sword Dancer). He is switching from poly to turf, but the change isn't as much as a shock as it is dirt to turf. Finale for second and Martitimer for third.
I should note this has been a hot prep lately 3 of the last 5 winners have gone on to either win a BC race or finish in the Top 3 (the previously mentioned Anna, Bridgetown and last year's BC Juvy Turf winner Pluck).
So that's it! I'll be back on Friday with the Northern Dancer and Mile previews until then!
6th Race - Woodbine - Saturday, September 17th, 2011 STAKES. 1 Mile Turf. Purse $200,000. Natalma S. (Grade 3). FOR TWO-YEAR-OLD FILLIES. (03:32 PM) (13)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Sky Dreamer 2 F L 119 Husbands Patrick Casse Mark E.
2 Ten K Cat 2 F L 119 Welch Quincy Lynch Brian A.
3 Welcome Dance 2 F L 119 Albarado Robby Matz Michael R.
4 Anna Sophia 2 F L 119 Valenzuela Patrick A. Mott William I.
5 Spirited Miss 2 F L 119 Leparoux Julien R. Casse Mark E.
6 Runfor Ro 2 F L 119 Campbell Jesse M. O'Callaghan Danny M.
7 Quality Lass 2 F L 119 Maragh Rajiv Casse Mark E.
8 Hard Not To Like 2 F L 119 Da Silva Eurico Rosa Cox Gail
9 Evil Kitten 2 F L 119 Wilson Emma-Jayne Gonzalez Nicholas
10 Northern Passion 2 F L 119 Contreras Luis Casse Mark E.
11 Stephanie's Kitten 2 F L 119 Pizarro Tyler Catalano Wayne M.
12 Dayatthespa 2 F L 119 Dominguez Ramon A. Brown Chad C.
13 St Pancras 2 F L 119 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A
An interesting group of horses in fact that some are making there first starts, all but one of them has 1 win to their names and some of these horses already have stakes experience. There are three horses in here that I think have great chances to win. Anna Sophia has made both of her starts on dirt, but she has turf on both sides of her family. Stephanie's Kitten is the one who scares me the most for my pick. Her trainer sent out her sire's niece Dreaming of Anna to beat the boys in the Summer back in 2006. Of course she would win the BC Juvenile Fillies that year to lock up 2yo Filly honors. My pick for this race is Hard Not to Like. Now I am being a bit bias since she is by Hard Spun. However, she's already won at this distance and won the Allowance race which was the Summer prep (the Natalma allowance did not fill), so she's already beaten the boys. She's also the only one in the race who has 2 wins under her belt. I think that classyness will give the win. Anna Sophia for second and Stephanie's Kitten for third.
This is the defending final prep for the BC Juvy Fillies Turf (More Than Real was second in this race last year).
9th Race - Woodbine - Saturday, September 17th, 2011 STAKES. 1 Mile Turf. Purse $250,000. Summer S. (Grade 3). FOR TWO-YEAR-OLDS. (05:10 PM) (8)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Secret Consultant 2 G L b 122 Ramsammy Emile Doyle Michael J.
2 Daddy Nose Best 2 C L 122 Leparoux Julien R. Asmussen Steven M.
3 Excaper 2 C L 122 Wilson Emma-Jayne Black Ian
4 Jomelo 2 G L 122 Pizarro Tyler Attard Sid C.
5 Finale 2 C L 122 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
6 Maritimer 2 C L 122 Contreras Luis Attard Sid C.
7 Burn The Mortgage 2 C L 122 Dominguez Ramon A. Catalano Wayne M.
8 Making Amends 2 C L 122 Husbands Patrick Casse Mark E.
Maritimer was a green, but closing second to Hard Not to Like in the Allowance race that was the Summer prep. Also coming out of that race is Making Amdends who was 4th. Finale has been awesome since being switched from dirt to turf. He won the Contential Mile at Monmouth last time out. He'll be extreamly hard to beat here, but I'm going to Excaper. He's only raced once, but his trainer and jockey are known for their turf horses (teaming up on the recently retired Rahy's Attorney to a runner up finish in the Sword Dancer). He is switching from poly to turf, but the change isn't as much as a shock as it is dirt to turf. Finale for second and Martitimer for third.
I should note this has been a hot prep lately 3 of the last 5 winners have gone on to either win a BC race or finish in the Top 3 (the previously mentioned Anna, Bridgetown and last year's BC Juvy Turf winner Pluck).
So that's it! I'll be back on Friday with the Northern Dancer and Mile previews until then!
January 14, 2011
Let the Derby trail begin
Well here we go! It's the first Derby prep weekend of the season tonight's race is the Jean Laffitte which I believe used to be held for 2yo's (as Rule won it back in 09), however it looks like they've moved it to January making it for three year olds. However tomorrow is the big day with the Sham taking place at the very fast Santa Anita.
Santa Anita Park - January 15, 2011
Race 3 - 1:31 PM $1 Exacta / $1 Trifecta $2 Rolling Double / $1 Pick Three (Races 3-4-5)
STAKES Sham S. (Grade III)
Purse $100,000. For Three-Year-Olds . $1,500 additional to start, with $100,000 guaranteed of which $60,000 to the winner, $20,000 to second, $12,000 to third, $6,000 to fourth and $2,000 to fifth. 123 Lbs. Non-winners of a Graded I or Grade II Stakes at One Mile or Over, allowed 3 Lbs. Non-winners of a Graded Stake at One Mile or Over , 5 Lbs. *Early Bird nominees to the 2011 Santa Anita Derby (Closing Date: Saturday, January 8, 2010) are automatically eligible to the Sham Stakes with all fees waived. A trophy will be presented to the owner of the winner. One And One Sixteenth Miles.
P# PP Horse A/S Med Jockey Wgt Trainer M/L
1 1 Clubhouse Ride (KY) 3/C L* P A Valenzuela 118 C A Lewis 3/1
2 2 Uncle Sam (KY) 3/R L* R Bejarano 118 B Baffert 5/2
3 3 Anthony's Cross (PA) 3/C L* J Rosario 118 E G Harty 7/2
4 4 Tapizar (KY) 3/C L* G K Gomez 118 S M Asmussen 8/5
5 5 Pride of Silver (KY) 3/G L* V Espinoza 118 R B Hess, Jr. 8/1
Just really for his name, I gotta go with Uncle Sam. Uncle seems to be a top choice for foals born in 2008 (ex. Uncle Mo). Clubhouse Ride for second, a very short field.
Also on Saturday at Santa Anita
Santa Anita Park - January 15, 2011
Race 8 - 4:07 PM $1 Exacta / $1 Trifecta $2 Rolling Double / $1 Superfecta (.10 Min.)
STAKES San Fernando S. (Grade II)
Purse $150,000. For Four-Year-Olds. By subscription of $225 each to accompany the nomination. Closed Thursday, January 6th, 2011 with 16. $2,250 additional to start with $150,000 guaranteed with $90,000 to the winner, $30,000 to second, $18,000 to third, $9,000 to fourth and $3,000 to fifth. 123 Lbs. Non-winners of a Grade I or Grade II race at One Mile or Over since July 14, 2010, allowed 3 Lbs.; Non-winners of a Grade I or Grade II race at One Mile or Over OR Two Grade III races at One Mile or Over since January 14, 2010, 5 Lbs. A trophy will be presented to the owner of the winner. . One And One Sixteenth Miles.
P# PP Horse A/S Med Jockey Wgt Trainer M/L
1 1 Tweebster (KY) 4/R L* R Bejarano 118 B Baffert 3/1
2 2 Paris Vegas (KY) 4/C L* B Blanc 118 F Chappet 15/1
4 3 Haimish Hy (KY) 4/C L* J Talamo 123 A Sherman 5/1
5 4 Do It All (KY) 4/C L* P A Valenzuela 118 E G Harty 20/1
6 5 Thiskyhasnolimit (KY) 4/C L* G K Gomez 118 S M Asmussen 5/2
7 6 Indian Firewater (KY) 4/C L* M E Smith 118 B Baffert 4/1
8 7 Make Music for Me (KY) 4/C L* J Rosario 118 A Barba 7/2
9 8 Victory With Honor (KY) 4/C L* A Quinonez 118 E G Harty 20/1
Leg 2 of the Strub Series, this race took a big hit when Sidney's Candy was scratched this morning after being a "little off". Lets hope he will be okay and it's not more serious. I have to go with Make Music for Me, I've loved this little colt since he was two so hopefully he does tomorrow. Thiskyhasnolimit for second ad Indian Firewater for third.
Sunday at Santa Anita
Santa Anita Park - January 16, 2011
Race 8 - 4:07 PM
STAKESEl Encino S. (Grade II)
Purse $150,000. For Fillies, Four Years Old. By subscription of $225 each to accompany the nomination or by supplementary nomination of $3,000 by time of entry, $2,250 additional to start, with $150,000 guaranteed with $90,000 to the winner, $30,000 to second, $18,000 to third, $9,000 to fourth and $3,000 to fifth. 123 Lbs. Non-winners of a Grade I or Grade II race at One Mile or Over since July 15, allowed 3 Lbs.; Non-winners of a Grade I or Grade II race at One Mile or Over OR Two Grade III races at One Mile or Over since January 15, 2010, 5 Lbs.. Starters to be named through the entry box by the closing time of entries. A trophy will be presented to the owner of the winner. One And One Sixteenth Miles.
1Champagne d'Oro (KY) 4/FL*J Talamo120E J Guillot
2Blind Luck (KY) 4/FL*J Rosario123J Hollendorfer
3Malibu Pier (KY) 4/FL*G K Gomez118C Gaines
4Fashion Trend (KY) 4/FL*V Espinoza118C Dollase
5Our Georgia (KY) 4/FP A Valenzuela118N D Drysdale
6Always a Princess (KY) 4/FL*R Bejarano123B Baffert
7Life Well Lived (KY) 4/F*A Quinonez118E G Harty
8It Tiz (KY) 4/FL*D R Flores118M Glatt
This is actually a very tough spot for Blind Luck to begin her 4yo season. Champagne d' Oro is streaching out in distance, Always a Princess is an up and comer, and Life Well Lived is the full sister to Well Armed. With that being said, if she gets the pace she needs, this is Blind Luck's race to lose. Life Well Lived for second and Champagne d' Oro for third.
Opening this weekend is Oaklawn! The Older Female division is going to be one of the strongest with Larry Jones in his return with a powerful 1-2-3 punch led by Ladies Classic 3rd place finisher Havre de Grace. Oaklawn does lose to old warriors in Jonesboro and Prom Shoes who will be standing at stud for the first time this year.
However, I did want to highlight one race,
Oaklawn Park - January 16, 2011
Race 9 - 5:11 PM Exacta / 50 Cent Trifecta / 10 Cent Superfecta
MAIDEN CLAIMING $20,000
Purse $16,000. (Includes $6,400 – Other Sources). For Arkansas Bred (which Qualify Under Rules Governing Arkansas-Breds) Maidens, Three, Four, And Five Years Old. Three Year Olds, 118 Lbs.; Older, 124 Lbs. Claiming Price $20,000. Six Furlongs.
PP Horse Virtual
Stable A/S Med Claim $ Jockey Wgt Trainer
1 Magical Storm (AR) 4/G L $20,000 D V Beckner 124 J H Cook
2 Brandons Hot Sauce (AR) 4/G L $20,000 A Birzer 124 S Corderman
3 Davmar Three (AR) 4/G L $20,000 E Oro 124 J R Martin
4 Explosive Lyric (AR) 4/G L $20,000 J K Court 124 B Chatters
5 Shorty Too (AR) 4/G L $20,000 F C Torres 124 R L Morse
6 Aristocat Rex (AR) 3/C L $20,000 W Antongeorgi III 118 B Higgins
7 Smart Reality (AR) 4/G L $20,000 J Campbell 124 W T Howard
8 Indy Trucker (AR) 3/G $20,000 B Burress 118 W E Watkins 9 Fortuity (AR) 4/C L1 $20,000 M C Berry 124 A Milligan
10 Rattlesnake Holler (AR) 3/C L $20,000 C H Borel 118 D E Whited
11 Howdy Doody Time (AR) 3/G L $20,000 I V Diego 118 F D Loy
12 Brother Kris (AR) 4/G L1 $20,000 F L Ortiz 124 T C Burwell
Indy Trucker aka General, is owned by an online friend of mine and bred/co-owned/trained by another online friend's husband. This is his first start, so hopefully he does well. Orginally this race was supposed to today, but due to a frozen track it was recarded for Sunday. Also this is the first weekend back for Calvin Borel since his spill about a week after his well... fight. Go General!!!!
Most importantly, lets hope that all horses return safe and sound.
Santa Anita Park - January 15, 2011
Race 3 - 1:31 PM $1 Exacta / $1 Trifecta $2 Rolling Double / $1 Pick Three (Races 3-4-5)
STAKES Sham S. (Grade III)
Purse $100,000. For Three-Year-Olds . $1,500 additional to start, with $100,000 guaranteed of which $60,000 to the winner, $20,000 to second, $12,000 to third, $6,000 to fourth and $2,000 to fifth. 123 Lbs. Non-winners of a Graded I or Grade II Stakes at One Mile or Over, allowed 3 Lbs. Non-winners of a Graded Stake at One Mile or Over , 5 Lbs. *Early Bird nominees to the 2011 Santa Anita Derby (Closing Date: Saturday, January 8, 2010) are automatically eligible to the Sham Stakes with all fees waived. A trophy will be presented to the owner of the winner. One And One Sixteenth Miles.
P# PP Horse A/S Med Jockey Wgt Trainer M/L
1 1 Clubhouse Ride (KY) 3/C L* P A Valenzuela 118 C A Lewis 3/1
2 2 Uncle Sam (KY) 3/R L* R Bejarano 118 B Baffert 5/2
3 3 Anthony's Cross (PA) 3/C L* J Rosario 118 E G Harty 7/2
4 4 Tapizar (KY) 3/C L* G K Gomez 118 S M Asmussen 8/5
5 5 Pride of Silver (KY) 3/G L* V Espinoza 118 R B Hess, Jr. 8/1
Just really for his name, I gotta go with Uncle Sam. Uncle seems to be a top choice for foals born in 2008 (ex. Uncle Mo). Clubhouse Ride for second, a very short field.
Also on Saturday at Santa Anita
Santa Anita Park - January 15, 2011
Race 8 - 4:07 PM $1 Exacta / $1 Trifecta $2 Rolling Double / $1 Superfecta (.10 Min.)
STAKES San Fernando S. (Grade II)
Purse $150,000. For Four-Year-Olds. By subscription of $225 each to accompany the nomination. Closed Thursday, January 6th, 2011 with 16. $2,250 additional to start with $150,000 guaranteed with $90,000 to the winner, $30,000 to second, $18,000 to third, $9,000 to fourth and $3,000 to fifth. 123 Lbs. Non-winners of a Grade I or Grade II race at One Mile or Over since July 14, 2010, allowed 3 Lbs.; Non-winners of a Grade I or Grade II race at One Mile or Over OR Two Grade III races at One Mile or Over since January 14, 2010, 5 Lbs. A trophy will be presented to the owner of the winner. . One And One Sixteenth Miles.
P# PP Horse A/S Med Jockey Wgt Trainer M/L
1 1 Tweebster (KY) 4/R L* R Bejarano 118 B Baffert 3/1
2 2 Paris Vegas (KY) 4/C L* B Blanc 118 F Chappet 15/1
4 3 Haimish Hy (KY) 4/C L* J Talamo 123 A Sherman 5/1
5 4 Do It All (KY) 4/C L* P A Valenzuela 118 E G Harty 20/1
6 5 Thiskyhasnolimit (KY) 4/C L* G K Gomez 118 S M Asmussen 5/2
7 6 Indian Firewater (KY) 4/C L* M E Smith 118 B Baffert 4/1
8 7 Make Music for Me (KY) 4/C L* J Rosario 118 A Barba 7/2
9 8 Victory With Honor (KY) 4/C L* A Quinonez 118 E G Harty 20/1
Leg 2 of the Strub Series, this race took a big hit when Sidney's Candy was scratched this morning after being a "little off". Lets hope he will be okay and it's not more serious. I have to go with Make Music for Me, I've loved this little colt since he was two so hopefully he does tomorrow. Thiskyhasnolimit for second ad Indian Firewater for third.
Sunday at Santa Anita
Santa Anita Park - January 16, 2011
Race 8 - 4:07 PM
STAKESEl Encino S. (Grade II)
Purse $150,000. For Fillies, Four Years Old. By subscription of $225 each to accompany the nomination or by supplementary nomination of $3,000 by time of entry, $2,250 additional to start, with $150,000 guaranteed with $90,000 to the winner, $30,000 to second, $18,000 to third, $9,000 to fourth and $3,000 to fifth. 123 Lbs. Non-winners of a Grade I or Grade II race at One Mile or Over since July 15, allowed 3 Lbs.; Non-winners of a Grade I or Grade II race at One Mile or Over OR Two Grade III races at One Mile or Over since January 15, 2010, 5 Lbs.. Starters to be named through the entry box by the closing time of entries. A trophy will be presented to the owner of the winner. One And One Sixteenth Miles.
1Champagne d'Oro (KY) 4/FL*J Talamo120E J Guillot
2Blind Luck (KY) 4/FL*J Rosario123J Hollendorfer
3Malibu Pier (KY) 4/FL*G K Gomez118C Gaines
4Fashion Trend (KY) 4/FL*V Espinoza118C Dollase
5Our Georgia (KY) 4/FP A Valenzuela118N D Drysdale
6Always a Princess (KY) 4/FL*R Bejarano123B Baffert
7Life Well Lived (KY) 4/F*A Quinonez118E G Harty
8It Tiz (KY) 4/FL*D R Flores118M Glatt
This is actually a very tough spot for Blind Luck to begin her 4yo season. Champagne d' Oro is streaching out in distance, Always a Princess is an up and comer, and Life Well Lived is the full sister to Well Armed. With that being said, if she gets the pace she needs, this is Blind Luck's race to lose. Life Well Lived for second and Champagne d' Oro for third.
Opening this weekend is Oaklawn! The Older Female division is going to be one of the strongest with Larry Jones in his return with a powerful 1-2-3 punch led by Ladies Classic 3rd place finisher Havre de Grace. Oaklawn does lose to old warriors in Jonesboro and Prom Shoes who will be standing at stud for the first time this year.
However, I did want to highlight one race,
Oaklawn Park - January 16, 2011
Race 9 - 5:11 PM Exacta / 50 Cent Trifecta / 10 Cent Superfecta
MAIDEN CLAIMING $20,000
Purse $16,000. (Includes $6,400 – Other Sources). For Arkansas Bred (which Qualify Under Rules Governing Arkansas-Breds) Maidens, Three, Four, And Five Years Old. Three Year Olds, 118 Lbs.; Older, 124 Lbs. Claiming Price $20,000. Six Furlongs.
PP Horse Virtual
Stable A/S Med Claim $ Jockey Wgt Trainer
1 Magical Storm (AR) 4/G L $20,000 D V Beckner 124 J H Cook
2 Brandons Hot Sauce (AR) 4/G L $20,000 A Birzer 124 S Corderman
3 Davmar Three (AR) 4/G L $20,000 E Oro 124 J R Martin
4 Explosive Lyric (AR) 4/G L $20,000 J K Court 124 B Chatters
5 Shorty Too (AR) 4/G L $20,000 F C Torres 124 R L Morse
6 Aristocat Rex (AR) 3/C L $20,000 W Antongeorgi III 118 B Higgins
7 Smart Reality (AR) 4/G L $20,000 J Campbell 124 W T Howard
8 Indy Trucker (AR) 3/G $20,000 B Burress 118 W E Watkins 9 Fortuity (AR) 4/C L1 $20,000 M C Berry 124 A Milligan
10 Rattlesnake Holler (AR) 3/C L $20,000 C H Borel 118 D E Whited
11 Howdy Doody Time (AR) 3/G L $20,000 I V Diego 118 F D Loy
12 Brother Kris (AR) 4/G L1 $20,000 F L Ortiz 124 T C Burwell
Indy Trucker aka General, is owned by an online friend of mine and bred/co-owned/trained by another online friend's husband. This is his first start, so hopefully he does well. Orginally this race was supposed to today, but due to a frozen track it was recarded for Sunday. Also this is the first weekend back for Calvin Borel since his spill about a week after his well... fight. Go General!!!!
Most importantly, lets hope that all horses return safe and sound.
November 19, 2010
It's Jackpot Time!
Tomorrow, the Delta Jackpot will be taking place. This year the purse is back up to a million (it was $750,000 last year), and the field is pretty strong. Most of these horses didn't have the set up for the Juvenile and where sent here instead. Lets take a look at this year's field.
7th (4:15)
Delta Downs Jackpot S. (G3)1 1/16 Miles | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Gourmet Dinner Madrid S O Standridge Steve W 119 Blk-On L 6-1
2 2 Classic Legacy Talamo J Baffert Bob 117 Blk-On L 6-1
3 3 Aces N Kings Borel C H Johnson Henry B Jr 119 L 12-1
4 4 Rush Now Albarado R J Dutrow Anthony W 119 L 9-2
5 5 Clubhouse Ride Valenzuela P A Lewis Craig A 119 L 10-1
6 6 Bug Juice Castellano J J Levine Bruce N 119 L 8-1
7 7 Decisive Moment Clark K D Arias Juan D 117 Blk-Off L 20-1
8 8 Blue Laser Bridgmohan S X Casse Mark 122 L 3-1
9 9 Sweet Ducky Bravo J Breen Kelly J 119 L 4-1
10 10 Dreamsrunwild Diego I V Duke Steven 119 L 20-1
Dispite him being the favorite, I don't think Blue Laser will do well here. He's going from a synthetic to a natural dirt surface. Keep an eye on Aces N Kings who started his career undefeated before losing to Dreamsrunwild who is also in this field. He also has a very interesting story, his sire is an ex teaser (meaning he was the one who got the mares ready to see the real stallion). His breeder/owners own a farm in Texas where in 2007 they broke a filly by Medaglia d' Oro out of a Roar mare. Of course I'm talking about Rachel Alexandra. Also for the record his sire Jet Phone is now a full time stallion. However I gotta go with Sweet Ducky. He has been very impressive especially defeating Astrology (co-owned by Jess Jackson and George Bolton who owned Curlin, and of course Jess owning Rachel) and Curlinello (who has nothing in common with the formentioned Curlin, except they are both by Smart Strike). My lone concern is his poorest race was on a sloppy surface, however after a quick check of the weather looks like it will be a fast race track on Saturday.
Top three:
1. Sweet Ducky
2. Aces N Kings
3. Bug Juice
I'm actually pre-writing this up on Thursday night as I will be out of town for a family gathering until Sunday. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and I hope all the horses stay safe!
7th (4:15)
Delta Downs Jackpot S. (G3)1 1/16 Miles | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Gourmet Dinner Madrid S O Standridge Steve W 119 Blk-On L 6-1
2 2 Classic Legacy Talamo J Baffert Bob 117 Blk-On L 6-1
3 3 Aces N Kings Borel C H Johnson Henry B Jr 119 L 12-1
4 4 Rush Now Albarado R J Dutrow Anthony W 119 L 9-2
5 5 Clubhouse Ride Valenzuela P A Lewis Craig A 119 L 10-1
6 6 Bug Juice Castellano J J Levine Bruce N 119 L 8-1
7 7 Decisive Moment Clark K D Arias Juan D 117 Blk-Off L 20-1
8 8 Blue Laser Bridgmohan S X Casse Mark 122 L 3-1
9 9 Sweet Ducky Bravo J Breen Kelly J 119 L 4-1
10 10 Dreamsrunwild Diego I V Duke Steven 119 L 20-1
Dispite him being the favorite, I don't think Blue Laser will do well here. He's going from a synthetic to a natural dirt surface. Keep an eye on Aces N Kings who started his career undefeated before losing to Dreamsrunwild who is also in this field. He also has a very interesting story, his sire is an ex teaser (meaning he was the one who got the mares ready to see the real stallion). His breeder/owners own a farm in Texas where in 2007 they broke a filly by Medaglia d' Oro out of a Roar mare. Of course I'm talking about Rachel Alexandra. Also for the record his sire Jet Phone is now a full time stallion. However I gotta go with Sweet Ducky. He has been very impressive especially defeating Astrology (co-owned by Jess Jackson and George Bolton who owned Curlin, and of course Jess owning Rachel) and Curlinello (who has nothing in common with the formentioned Curlin, except they are both by Smart Strike). My lone concern is his poorest race was on a sloppy surface, however after a quick check of the weather looks like it will be a fast race track on Saturday.
Top three:
1. Sweet Ducky
2. Aces N Kings
3. Bug Juice
I'm actually pre-writing this up on Thursday night as I will be out of town for a family gathering until Sunday. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and I hope all the horses stay safe!
November 5, 2010
Breeders' Cup Friday Preview
It's that time! Time to preview today's BC races plus my picks.
5th (4:10)
Breeders' Cup Marathon (G3)1 3/4 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $500,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Atoned Albarado R J Howard Neil J 126 LA 20-1
2 2 Prince Will I Am Castellano J J Nihei Michelle 122 LA 4-1
3 3 Million Seller Rose J Motion H Graham 123 LA 50-1
4 4 Eldaafer Velazquez J R Alvarado Diane 126 LA 12-1
5 5 Romp (ARG) Garcia M Mulhall Kristin 126 LA 50-1
6 6 Gabriel's Hill Leparoux J R Benzel Seth 126 LA 20-1
7 7 Awesome Gem Flores D R Dollase Craig 126 LA 7-2
8 8 Giant Oak Gomez G K Block Chris M 126 LA 4-1
9 9 Bright Horizon (GB) Murtagh J P O'Brien Aidan P 122 L 10-1
10 10 Alcomo (BRZ) Bejarano R Caramori Eduardo 126 LA 6-1
11 11 Precision Break Spencer J P Cole Paul F 126 L 15-1
12 12 A. U. Miner Borel C H Hanna Clark 126 LA 9-2
Even though this is the lone male BC race on Friday, there is a filly in this race in Million Seller. However, I saw her get beat badly in the Del Cap this year. Bright Horizon has never run on dirt before, but the fact that he probley has gone longer is a good sign. Eldaafer is a distance specialist as is A.U. Miner. However, I'm going with Awesome Gem. This is a horse whose run in the Classic and Mile, and I finally think he gets into the winners circle in the BC in this race. Eldaafer for second and Bright Horizon for third.
6th (4:50)
Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (G2)1 Mile (Turf) | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Dos Lunas Court J K Glenney John 122 Blk-On L 30-1
2 2 Tale Untold Moore R L Hannon Richard 122 L 15-1
3 3 Quiet Oasis (IRE) Dettori L Meehan Brian 122 L 8-1
4 4 Kathmanblu Leparoux J R McPeek Kenneth G 122 LA 10-1
5 5 Forest Legend Dominguez R A Oliver Victoria 122 LA 30-1
6 6 Arch Support Prado E S Contessa Gary C 122 L 20-1
7 7 Winter Memories Lezcano J Toner James J 122 LA 2-1
8 8 Wyomia Bejarano R Vella Daniel J 122 L 12-1
9 9 Fancy Point Desormeaux K J Phipps William 122 L 15-1
10 10 New Normal Castellano J J Frostad Mark 122 LA 10-1
11 11 More Than Real Gomez G K Pletcher Todd A 122 LA 10-1
12 12 Flood Plain (GB) Buick W Gosden John H M 122 20-1
13 13 Together (IRE) Murtagh J P O'Brien Aidan P 122 L 5-1
14 14 Allure d'Amour Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 122 LA 15-1
15 AE Nina Fever Albarado R J Ward Wesley A 122 L 30-1
This race is a bit of an enigma without White Moonstone. With that being said, Winter Memories has been awesome. Since my dark horse Tapitsfly since won last year I'm also going to make another dark horse pick. This one is a bit of a longshot, but my dark horse for this year is Arch Support. She has only won once, but she is coming off a second to Winter Memories in the Miss Grillo as the longest shot on the board.
7th (5:30)
Sentient Jet Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint (G1)7 Furlongs | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 My Jen Velazquez J R Kenneally Eddie 122 LA 15-1
2 2 Sara Louise Dettori L bin Suroor Saeed 124 L 15-1
3 3 Secret Gypsy Albarado R J Werner Ronny 124 LA 12-1
4 4 Informed Decision Leparoux J R Sheppard Jonathan E 124 LA 7-2
5 5 Evening Jewel Espinoza V Cassidy James 122 LA 15-1
6 6 Moontune Missy Garcia Alan Harty Eoin 124 LA 30-1
7 7 Gabby's Golden Gal Garcia M Baffert Bob 124 LA 15-1
8 8 Sweet August Moon Smith M E Koriner Brian 124 LA 30-1
9 9 Switch Rosario J Sadler John W 122 LA 20-1
10 10 Rinterval (IRE) Bejarano R Reed Eric R 124 LA 20-1
11 11 Jessica Is Back Castellano J J Wolfson Martin D 124 L 12-1
12 12 Dubai Majesty Theriot H J II Calhoun W. B 124 LA 6-1
13 13 Rightly So Velasquez C Dutrow Anthony W 124 L 3-1
14 14 Champagne d'Oro Mena M Guillot Eric 122 L 6-1
15 AE Tidal Pool Smith M E Lukas D Wayne 122 LA 30-1
16 AE First Passage Gomez G K Wolfson Martin D 124 L 30-1
Rightly So has been scratched due to lameness Tidal Pool draws in
Keep an eye on this race. Outside of the Ladies Classic, this is the best race of the day. You have the defending champion in Informed Decision, G1 winners iin Gabby's Golden Gal, Rightly So, Champagne d' Oro, Evening Jewel and Jessica is Back. Then there is Rinterval and Switch both who almost handed Zenyatta her first race. Secret Gypsy who won the Endine at Delaware last time out so I hope she does well. However, I'm going with Sara Louise. Yes she's coming off a third in the Gallent Bloom, but she has good success at Churchill. She won the Pocahontas defeating Rachel Alexandra (and until this year was the last to do so), and finished second in the Golden Rod to Rachel the next time out.
8th (6:10)
Grey Goose Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1)1 1/16 Miles | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Indian Gracey Bejarano R Hollendorfer Jerry 122 LA 15-1 2 2 Theyskens' Theory Dettori L Meehan Brian 122 L 10-1
3 3 R Heat Lightning Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 122 LA 4-1
4 4 Awesome Feather Sanchez J Gold Stanley I 122 L 6-1
5 5 Harlan's Ruby Leparoux J R McPeek Kenneth G 122 LA 15-1
6 6 Joyful Victory Dominguez R A Dutrow Anthony W 122 L 15-1
7 7 Izshelegal Smith M E Knight Terry 122 Blk-On L 30-1
8 8 A Z Warrior Garcia M Baffert Bob 122 LA 7-2
9 9 Delightful Mary Bridgmohan S X Casse Mark 122 LA 8-1
10 10 Believe in A. P. Gomez G K Dutrow, Jr. R E 122 L 15-1
11 11 Soundwave Albarado R J Werner Ronny 122 LA 20-1
12 12 Tell a Kelly Borel C H Sadler John W 122 LA 9-2
13 13 Jordy Y Rosario J Catalano Wayne M 122 LA 30-1
Indian Gracey has been scratched due to injury.
All eyes will be on the undefeated Awesome Feather who is taking a huge step up in class to take on the big girls. There are three horses to keep an eye on Joyful Victory, A Z Warrior and Theyskens' Theory. These three could be the superstars for next year. Especially Theyskens' Theory who is a half to Stevie Wonderboy. However I gotta go with my heart and go with A Z Warrior. She's a half to one of my favorite fillies J Z Warrior and her brother E Z Warrior was a pretty good horse himself. Theyskens' Theory for second and Joyful Victory for third.
9th (6:50)
Emirates Airline Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf (G1)1 3/8 Miles (Turf) | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Plumania (GB) Peslier O Fabre Andre 124 8-1
2 2 Eclair de Lune (GER) Alvarado J McAnally Ronald 124 L 15-1
3 3 Miss Keller (IRE) Castellano J J Attfield Roger L 124 LA 8-1
4 4 Keertana Lezcano J Proctor Thomas F 124 LA 30-1
5 5 Shared Account Prado E S Motion H Graham 124 LA 30-1
6 6 Harmonious Rosario J Shirreffs John 121 LA 6-1
7 7 Midday (GB) Queally T P Cecil Henry 124 L 6-5
8 8 Hot Cha Cha Graham J Sims Phillip A 124 LA 30-1
9 9 Hibaayeb (GB) Dettori L bin Suroor Saeed 121 LA 8-1
10 10 Red Desire (JPN) Desormeaux K J Matsunaga Mikio 124 LA 8-1
11 11 Forever Together Napravnik A R Sheppard Jonathan E 124 LA 10-1
The big question will be can anyone stop the Midday express. Harmonious and Eclair de Lune lead Team USA, and then there is Red Desire from the Far East. However, I really would not count out Forever Together. This might be the race she needs to her career on a high note, Miss Keller for second and Midday for third.
10th (7:30)
Breeders' Cup Ladies' Classic (G1)1 1/8 Miles | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Life At Ten Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 124 LA 7-2
2 2 It's Tea Time Leparoux J R Arnold George R II 122 LA 15-1
3 3 Malibu Prayer Gomez G K Pletcher Todd A 124 LA 8-1
4 4 Milwaukee Appeal Bejarano R Fairlie Scott H 124 LA 30-1
5 5 Acting Happy Lezcano J Dutrow, Jr. R E 122 Blk-On L 20-1
6 6 Persistently Garcia Alan McGaughey III C R 124 LA 12-1
7 7 Seeking the Title Borel C H Stewart Dallas 122 LA 30-1
8 8 Unrivaled Belle Desormeaux K J Mott William I 124 LA 8-1
9 9 Acoma Albarado R J Carroll David 124 LA 20-1
10 10 Blind Luck Rosario J Hollendorfer Jerry 122 LA 9-5
11 11 Havre de Grace Rose J Dutrow Anthony W 122 L 4-1
The nightcapper under the lights for Day 1. This is one of two races that I will be doing Pros and Cons with (the other is the Classic). So here we go!
Life at Ten
Pros: Has a win at the distance, has beaten several of these horses in this race, is coming off a win.
Cons: On the rail, might give her stablemate a run for her money too early. Probley better around one turn then two.
It's Tea Time
Pros: Has defeated older
Cons: Better on turf, lone main track win was on a sloppy race course, last time at Churchill dirt did poorly.
Malibu Prayer
Pros: Has a win at the distance and surface, has defeated another horse in this race, is coming off a second place finish.
Cons: Could be pressured too early by her stablemate, her jockey was involved in a spill yesterday but is okay.
Milwaukee Appeal
Pros: Has a win at this distance, is coming off a second place finish
Cons: Hasn't really shown the same form that she did last year, probley better on the synthetic.
Acting Happy
Pros: Has a win at this distance
Cons: Has not run since August
Persistently
Pros: Showed that Personal Ensign win was not a fluke by finishing third next time out.
Cons: Better closers in the race then her.
Seeking the Title
Pros: Well bred
Cons: Everything else
Unriveled Belle
Pros: Has a win over the track, coming off a second place finish
Cons: No wins at this distance, has yet to win since May, has lost to the Pletcher fillies on multiple occasions.
Acoma
Pros: Well bred, has a win over the surface sloppy and fast, has a win at the distance, coming off a win.
Cons: Better on turf.
Blind Luck
Pros: Has a win on this surface at this distance, coming off a second place finish, has won over both fast and sloppy tracks..
Cons: A slow pace could hurt her, traffic problems, and the fact if the Pletcher fillies get their way her arch rival Havre de Grace gets first run at them.
Havre de Grace
Pros: Coming off a win, finally turned the tables on her arch rival.
Cons: Was carrying 10 pounds less then Blind Luck, has lost to her twice, has yet to run at this distance, outside post.
When all is said and done, I think Grace will once again upset Blind Luck. Life at Ten for third just holding off Malibu Prayer.
I'll be back tomorrow with the Saturday preview.
5th (4:10)
Breeders' Cup Marathon (G3)1 3/4 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $500,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Atoned Albarado R J Howard Neil J 126 LA 20-1
2 2 Prince Will I Am Castellano J J Nihei Michelle 122 LA 4-1
3 3 Million Seller Rose J Motion H Graham 123 LA 50-1
4 4 Eldaafer Velazquez J R Alvarado Diane 126 LA 12-1
5 5 Romp (ARG) Garcia M Mulhall Kristin 126 LA 50-1
6 6 Gabriel's Hill Leparoux J R Benzel Seth 126 LA 20-1
7 7 Awesome Gem Flores D R Dollase Craig 126 LA 7-2
8 8 Giant Oak Gomez G K Block Chris M 126 LA 4-1
9 9 Bright Horizon (GB) Murtagh J P O'Brien Aidan P 122 L 10-1
10 10 Alcomo (BRZ) Bejarano R Caramori Eduardo 126 LA 6-1
11 11 Precision Break Spencer J P Cole Paul F 126 L 15-1
12 12 A. U. Miner Borel C H Hanna Clark 126 LA 9-2
Even though this is the lone male BC race on Friday, there is a filly in this race in Million Seller. However, I saw her get beat badly in the Del Cap this year. Bright Horizon has never run on dirt before, but the fact that he probley has gone longer is a good sign. Eldaafer is a distance specialist as is A.U. Miner. However, I'm going with Awesome Gem. This is a horse whose run in the Classic and Mile, and I finally think he gets into the winners circle in the BC in this race. Eldaafer for second and Bright Horizon for third.
6th (4:50)
Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (G2)1 Mile (Turf) | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Dos Lunas Court J K Glenney John 122 Blk-On L 30-1
2 2 Tale Untold Moore R L Hannon Richard 122 L 15-1
3 3 Quiet Oasis (IRE) Dettori L Meehan Brian 122 L 8-1
4 4 Kathmanblu Leparoux J R McPeek Kenneth G 122 LA 10-1
5 5 Forest Legend Dominguez R A Oliver Victoria 122 LA 30-1
6 6 Arch Support Prado E S Contessa Gary C 122 L 20-1
7 7 Winter Memories Lezcano J Toner James J 122 LA 2-1
8 8 Wyomia Bejarano R Vella Daniel J 122 L 12-1
9 9 Fancy Point Desormeaux K J Phipps William 122 L 15-1
10 10 New Normal Castellano J J Frostad Mark 122 LA 10-1
11 11 More Than Real Gomez G K Pletcher Todd A 122 LA 10-1
12 12 Flood Plain (GB) Buick W Gosden John H M 122 20-1
13 13 Together (IRE) Murtagh J P O'Brien Aidan P 122 L 5-1
14 14 Allure d'Amour Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 122 LA 15-1
15 AE Nina Fever Albarado R J Ward Wesley A 122 L 30-1
This race is a bit of an enigma without White Moonstone. With that being said, Winter Memories has been awesome. Since my dark horse Tapitsfly since won last year I'm also going to make another dark horse pick. This one is a bit of a longshot, but my dark horse for this year is Arch Support. She has only won once, but she is coming off a second to Winter Memories in the Miss Grillo as the longest shot on the board.
7th (5:30)
Sentient Jet Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint (G1)7 Furlongs | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 My Jen Velazquez J R Kenneally Eddie 122 LA 15-1
2 2 Sara Louise Dettori L bin Suroor Saeed 124 L 15-1
3 3 Secret Gypsy Albarado R J Werner Ronny 124 LA 12-1
4 4 Informed Decision Leparoux J R Sheppard Jonathan E 124 LA 7-2
5 5 Evening Jewel Espinoza V Cassidy James 122 LA 15-1
6 6 Moontune Missy Garcia Alan Harty Eoin 124 LA 30-1
7 7 Gabby's Golden Gal Garcia M Baffert Bob 124 LA 15-1
8 8 Sweet August Moon Smith M E Koriner Brian 124 LA 30-1
9 9 Switch Rosario J Sadler John W 122 LA 20-1
10 10 Rinterval (IRE) Bejarano R Reed Eric R 124 LA 20-1
11 11 Jessica Is Back Castellano J J Wolfson Martin D 124 L 12-1
12 12 Dubai Majesty Theriot H J II Calhoun W. B 124 LA 6-1
14 14 Champagne d'Oro Mena M Guillot Eric 122 L 6-1
15 AE Tidal Pool Smith M E Lukas D Wayne 122 LA 30-1
16 AE First Passage Gomez G K Wolfson Martin D 124 L 30-1
Rightly So has been scratched due to lameness Tidal Pool draws in
Keep an eye on this race. Outside of the Ladies Classic, this is the best race of the day. You have the defending champion in Informed Decision, G1 winners iin Gabby's Golden Gal, Rightly So, Champagne d' Oro, Evening Jewel and Jessica is Back. Then there is Rinterval and Switch both who almost handed Zenyatta her first race. Secret Gypsy who won the Endine at Delaware last time out so I hope she does well. However, I'm going with Sara Louise. Yes she's coming off a third in the Gallent Bloom, but she has good success at Churchill. She won the Pocahontas defeating Rachel Alexandra (and until this year was the last to do so), and finished second in the Golden Rod to Rachel the next time out.
8th (6:10)
Grey Goose Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1)1 1/16 Miles | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
3 3 R Heat Lightning Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 122 LA 4-1
4 4 Awesome Feather Sanchez J Gold Stanley I 122 L 6-1
5 5 Harlan's Ruby Leparoux J R McPeek Kenneth G 122 LA 15-1
6 6 Joyful Victory Dominguez R A Dutrow Anthony W 122 L 15-1
7 7 Izshelegal Smith M E Knight Terry 122 Blk-On L 30-1
8 8 A Z Warrior Garcia M Baffert Bob 122 LA 7-2
9 9 Delightful Mary Bridgmohan S X Casse Mark 122 LA 8-1
10 10 Believe in A. P. Gomez G K Dutrow, Jr. R E 122 L 15-1
11 11 Soundwave Albarado R J Werner Ronny 122 LA 20-1
12 12 Tell a Kelly Borel C H Sadler John W 122 LA 9-2
13 13 Jordy Y Rosario J Catalano Wayne M 122 LA 30-1
Indian Gracey has been scratched due to injury.
All eyes will be on the undefeated Awesome Feather who is taking a huge step up in class to take on the big girls. There are three horses to keep an eye on Joyful Victory, A Z Warrior and Theyskens' Theory. These three could be the superstars for next year. Especially Theyskens' Theory who is a half to Stevie Wonderboy. However I gotta go with my heart and go with A Z Warrior. She's a half to one of my favorite fillies J Z Warrior and her brother E Z Warrior was a pretty good horse himself. Theyskens' Theory for second and Joyful Victory for third.
9th (6:50)
Emirates Airline Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf (G1)1 3/8 Miles (Turf) | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Plumania (GB) Peslier O Fabre Andre 124 8-1
2 2 Eclair de Lune (GER) Alvarado J McAnally Ronald 124 L 15-1
3 3 Miss Keller (IRE) Castellano J J Attfield Roger L 124 LA 8-1
4 4 Keertana Lezcano J Proctor Thomas F 124 LA 30-1
5 5 Shared Account Prado E S Motion H Graham 124 LA 30-1
6 6 Harmonious Rosario J Shirreffs John 121 LA 6-1
7 7 Midday (GB) Queally T P Cecil Henry 124 L 6-5
8 8 Hot Cha Cha Graham J Sims Phillip A 124 LA 30-1
9 9 Hibaayeb (GB) Dettori L bin Suroor Saeed 121 LA 8-1
10 10 Red Desire (JPN) Desormeaux K J Matsunaga Mikio 124 LA 8-1
11 11 Forever Together Napravnik A R Sheppard Jonathan E 124 LA 10-1
The big question will be can anyone stop the Midday express. Harmonious and Eclair de Lune lead Team USA, and then there is Red Desire from the Far East. However, I really would not count out Forever Together. This might be the race she needs to her career on a high note, Miss Keller for second and Midday for third.
10th (7:30)
Breeders' Cup Ladies' Classic (G1)1 1/8 Miles | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Life At Ten Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 124 LA 7-2
2 2 It's Tea Time Leparoux J R Arnold George R II 122 LA 15-1
3 3 Malibu Prayer Gomez G K Pletcher Todd A 124 LA 8-1
4 4 Milwaukee Appeal Bejarano R Fairlie Scott H 124 LA 30-1
5 5 Acting Happy Lezcano J Dutrow, Jr. R E 122 Blk-On L 20-1
6 6 Persistently Garcia Alan McGaughey III C R 124 LA 12-1
7 7 Seeking the Title Borel C H Stewart Dallas 122 LA 30-1
8 8 Unrivaled Belle Desormeaux K J Mott William I 124 LA 8-1
9 9 Acoma Albarado R J Carroll David 124 LA 20-1
10 10 Blind Luck Rosario J Hollendorfer Jerry 122 LA 9-5
11 11 Havre de Grace Rose J Dutrow Anthony W 122 L 4-1
The nightcapper under the lights for Day 1. This is one of two races that I will be doing Pros and Cons with (the other is the Classic). So here we go!
Life at Ten
Pros: Has a win at the distance, has beaten several of these horses in this race, is coming off a win.
Cons: On the rail, might give her stablemate a run for her money too early. Probley better around one turn then two.
It's Tea Time
Pros: Has defeated older
Cons: Better on turf, lone main track win was on a sloppy race course, last time at Churchill dirt did poorly.
Malibu Prayer
Pros: Has a win at the distance and surface, has defeated another horse in this race, is coming off a second place finish.
Cons: Could be pressured too early by her stablemate, her jockey was involved in a spill yesterday but is okay.
Milwaukee Appeal
Pros: Has a win at this distance, is coming off a second place finish
Cons: Hasn't really shown the same form that she did last year, probley better on the synthetic.
Acting Happy
Pros: Has a win at this distance
Cons: Has not run since August
Persistently
Pros: Showed that Personal Ensign win was not a fluke by finishing third next time out.
Cons: Better closers in the race then her.
Seeking the Title
Pros: Well bred
Cons: Everything else
Unriveled Belle
Pros: Has a win over the track, coming off a second place finish
Cons: No wins at this distance, has yet to win since May, has lost to the Pletcher fillies on multiple occasions.
Acoma
Pros: Well bred, has a win over the surface sloppy and fast, has a win at the distance, coming off a win.
Cons: Better on turf.
Blind Luck
Pros: Has a win on this surface at this distance, coming off a second place finish, has won over both fast and sloppy tracks..
Cons: A slow pace could hurt her, traffic problems, and the fact if the Pletcher fillies get their way her arch rival Havre de Grace gets first run at them.
Havre de Grace
Pros: Coming off a win, finally turned the tables on her arch rival.
Cons: Was carrying 10 pounds less then Blind Luck, has lost to her twice, has yet to run at this distance, outside post.
When all is said and done, I think Grace will once again upset Blind Luck. Life at Ten for third just holding off Malibu Prayer.
I'll be back tomorrow with the Saturday preview.
October 7, 2010
A Look into the Future
Last weekend, Zenyatta and others battled it out for wins in their final Breeders' Cup preps. This weekend, it's the look into the future with 2yo's taking center stage at Belmont and Woodbine (Oak Tree had their 2yo races last weekend).
But our first stop is at my home track of Delaware Park:
9th (4:51)
Dover S.
1 1/16 Miles | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $75,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Star Zapper Rocco J Vazquez Juan C 117 LA 8-1
2 2 Commander Rose J Dutrow Anthony W 117 L 6-1
3 3 Irish Lion Castellano A Jr Griffith Gregory 117 LA 15-1
4 4 Go Maire Tu Karamanos H A Correas Ignacio IV 117 LA 12-1
5 5 Tazered Rosendo I J Contessa Gary C 117 L 6-1
6 6 I'm Steppin' It Up Napravnik A R Pecoraro Anthony 117 LA 8-1
7 7 Congo Jara F Pletcher Todd A 115 LA 4-1
8 8 Chipshot Saez G Asmussen Steven M 115 LA 5-1
9 9 Rush Now Hernandez B J Jr Dutrow Anthony W 117 L 3-1
I would not count out either of the Tony Dutrow horses, but I'm going with Chipshot here with Tazered in second.
Now to Belmont (both of these races are Saturday):
8th (4:37)
Frizette S. (G1)
1 Mile | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $300,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 R Heat Lightning Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 120 L 3-1
2 2 Promise Me a Cat Prado E S Martin Carlos F 120 L 5-1
3 3 Coax Liberty Caraballo J C Lawrence, II James L 120 Blk-On L 30-1
4 4 Maple Forest Cohen D Pletcher Todd A 120 L 12-1
5 5 A Z Warrior Garcia Alan Baffert Bob 120 L 4-1
6 6 After Later Fragoso P Biancone Patrick L 120 L 12-1
7 7 Tap for Luck Solis A Pletcher Todd A 120 L 6-1
8 8 Joyful Victory Velasquez C Dutrow Anthony W 120 L 5-1
9 9 Valiant Passion Lezcano J Pletcher Todd A 120 L 8-1
While R Heat Lighting won the Spinaway, I'm going in a different direction for this race. A Z Warrior is the half to E Z Warrior and J Z Warrior, and while both of those horses are sprinters, she should be a router with her pedigree. Plus the move to dirt should make her an even better horse. Maple Forest for second.
9th (5:09)
Champagne S. (G1)
1 Mile | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $300,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 3 Uncle Mo Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 122 L 1-4
1A 5 Stay Thirsty Castellano J J Pletcher Todd A 122 L 1-4
2 1 Meridian Magic Solis A Zito Nicholas P 122 L 20-1
3 2 Settle for Medal Lezcano J Hennig Mark 122 L 10-1
4 4 I'm Steppin' It Up Cohen D Pecoraro Anthony 122 L 20-1
5 6 Mountain Town Velasquez C Dutrow, Jr. R E 122 L 12-1
6 7 Brother in Arms Prado E S Breen Kelly J 122 L 5-1
Maybe it's me, but I must be the one person in the world who does not get the Uncle Mo hype. As an Indian Charlie he's probley almost to his max distance, and I think his stablemate Stay Thirsty is the better horse in the long run. However, he might be scratched and only Uncle Mo will run. I gotta stay with my boy Settle for Medal. Yes he finished last in Hopeful, but a mile might just be the perfect distance for him. I'm willing to eat crow on this race.
Up at Woodbine on Saturday:
6th (3:25)
Mazarine S. (G3)
1 1/16 Miles (All Weather Track) | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $225,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Anne's Beauty Clark D Attard Paul 116 L 15-1
2 2 Delightful Mary Fraser C Casse Mark 116 L 1-1
3 3 Wyomia Ramsammy E Vella Daniel J 116 FTL 5-2
4 4 Poof Too Husbands P Frostad Mark 116 L 3-1
5 5 Ghostly Darkness Da Silva E R Clement Christophe 114 L 8-1
6 6 Idratherbeatthespa Fraser C Casse Mark 114 L 15-1
I'm going with a longshot in here, Anne's Beauty. Reason being? My middle name is Anne :P. Plus I really don't know much about the Canada based 2yo's.
and Sunday:
8th (4:27)
Grey S. (G3)
1 1/16 Miles (All Weather Track) | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $225,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 Classic Legacy Moreno O 117 L
2 Midway Train Jones J 115 L
3 Silverleo Sutherland C 117 L
4 Bear's Future Olguin G L 119 L
5 Something Extra Clark D 15 L
6 Top Pit Boss Contreras L 115 L
7 Blue Laser Fraser C 117 L
8 Withdrawal Fraser C 117 L
9 Rockin Heat Da Silva E R 115 L
10 Justice Is Served Somsanith N 115 L
It's all about Bear's Future for me. Hopefully he does well, Rockin Heat for second and Midway Train for third.
Also this weekend is the Dixana Futrity at Keenland and lots of nice grass races plus the Spinster. Also a short note, the Live Chat has been moved to Saturday at 8pm Eastern. This is because I'm hopeing more people could particpate.
But our first stop is at my home track of Delaware Park:
9th (4:51)
Dover S.
1 1/16 Miles | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $75,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Star Zapper Rocco J Vazquez Juan C 117 LA 8-1
2 2 Commander Rose J Dutrow Anthony W 117 L 6-1
3 3 Irish Lion Castellano A Jr Griffith Gregory 117 LA 15-1
4 4 Go Maire Tu Karamanos H A Correas Ignacio IV 117 LA 12-1
5 5 Tazered Rosendo I J Contessa Gary C 117 L 6-1
6 6 I'm Steppin' It Up Napravnik A R Pecoraro Anthony 117 LA 8-1
7 7 Congo Jara F Pletcher Todd A 115 LA 4-1
8 8 Chipshot Saez G Asmussen Steven M 115 LA 5-1
9 9 Rush Now Hernandez B J Jr Dutrow Anthony W 117 L 3-1
I would not count out either of the Tony Dutrow horses, but I'm going with Chipshot here with Tazered in second.
Now to Belmont (both of these races are Saturday):
8th (4:37)
Frizette S. (G1)
1 Mile | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $300,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 R Heat Lightning Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 120 L 3-1
2 2 Promise Me a Cat Prado E S Martin Carlos F 120 L 5-1
3 3 Coax Liberty Caraballo J C Lawrence, II James L 120 Blk-On L 30-1
4 4 Maple Forest Cohen D Pletcher Todd A 120 L 12-1
5 5 A Z Warrior Garcia Alan Baffert Bob 120 L 4-1
6 6 After Later Fragoso P Biancone Patrick L 120 L 12-1
7 7 Tap for Luck Solis A Pletcher Todd A 120 L 6-1
8 8 Joyful Victory Velasquez C Dutrow Anthony W 120 L 5-1
9 9 Valiant Passion Lezcano J Pletcher Todd A 120 L 8-1
While R Heat Lighting won the Spinaway, I'm going in a different direction for this race. A Z Warrior is the half to E Z Warrior and J Z Warrior, and while both of those horses are sprinters, she should be a router with her pedigree. Plus the move to dirt should make her an even better horse. Maple Forest for second.
9th (5:09)
Champagne S. (G1)
1 Mile | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $300,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 3 Uncle Mo Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 122 L 1-4
1A 5 Stay Thirsty Castellano J J Pletcher Todd A 122 L 1-4
2 1 Meridian Magic Solis A Zito Nicholas P 122 L 20-1
3 2 Settle for Medal Lezcano J Hennig Mark 122 L 10-1
4 4 I'm Steppin' It Up Cohen D Pecoraro Anthony 122 L 20-1
5 6 Mountain Town Velasquez C Dutrow, Jr. R E 122 L 12-1
6 7 Brother in Arms Prado E S Breen Kelly J 122 L 5-1
Maybe it's me, but I must be the one person in the world who does not get the Uncle Mo hype. As an Indian Charlie he's probley almost to his max distance, and I think his stablemate Stay Thirsty is the better horse in the long run. However, he might be scratched and only Uncle Mo will run. I gotta stay with my boy Settle for Medal. Yes he finished last in Hopeful, but a mile might just be the perfect distance for him. I'm willing to eat crow on this race.
Up at Woodbine on Saturday:
6th (3:25)
Mazarine S. (G3)
1 1/16 Miles (All Weather Track) | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $225,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Anne's Beauty Clark D Attard Paul 116 L 15-1
2 2 Delightful Mary Fraser C Casse Mark 116 L 1-1
3 3 Wyomia Ramsammy E Vella Daniel J 116 FTL 5-2
4 4 Poof Too Husbands P Frostad Mark 116 L 3-1
5 5 Ghostly Darkness Da Silva E R Clement Christophe 114 L 8-1
6 6 Idratherbeatthespa Fraser C Casse Mark 114 L 15-1
I'm going with a longshot in here, Anne's Beauty. Reason being? My middle name is Anne :P. Plus I really don't know much about the Canada based 2yo's.
and Sunday:
8th (4:27)
Grey S. (G3)
1 1/16 Miles (All Weather Track) | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $225,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 Classic Legacy Moreno O 117 L
2 Midway Train Jones J 115 L
3 Silverleo Sutherland C 117 L
4 Bear's Future Olguin G L 119 L
5 Something Extra Clark D 15 L
6 Top Pit Boss Contreras L 115 L
7 Blue Laser Fraser C 117 L
8 Withdrawal Fraser C 117 L
9 Rockin Heat Da Silva E R 115 L
10 Justice Is Served Somsanith N 115 L
It's all about Bear's Future for me. Hopefully he does well, Rockin Heat for second and Midway Train for third.
Also this weekend is the Dixana Futrity at Keenland and lots of nice grass races plus the Spinster. Also a short note, the Live Chat has been moved to Saturday at 8pm Eastern. This is because I'm hopeing more people could particpate.
September 23, 2010
Interactif, Lentenor and Workin for Hops Oh My!
There aren't that many turf stakes that are for straight 3yo males left on the East Coast this year. The Kent is one of those that is left. Saturday, 2 of the better turf horses and the full brother to one of the most beloved to ever race at Delaware Park run in the Kent.
8th (4:24)
Kent S. (G3)
1 1/8 Miles (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Grand Rapport Dominguez R A Contessa Gary C 118 L 4-1
2 2 Interactif Jara F Pletcher Todd A 122 LA 2-1
3 3 Majestictroubadour Delgado A Boniface Kevin C 116 LA 20-1
4 4 Lentenor Saez G Matz Michael R 116 LA 12-1
5 5 Stormy Lord McAleney J S Black Ian 120 L 6-1
6 6 They Call Me Giant Rose J Breen Kelly J 118 LA 8-1
7 7 Kara's Orientation Ramsammy E Chircop Steven 116 LA 15-1
8 8 Thunder Brew Napravnik A R Pecoraro Anthony 118 LA 15-1
9 9 Workin for Hops Hernandez B J Jr Stidham Michael 120 LA 3-1
A few notes, very interesting choice of jockey on Lentenor, fantastic post for Interactif, and bad ones for Grand Report (although he does have the right jockey) and Workin for Hops. I gotta go with Interactif, I've loved this horse since he was a 2yo, Workin does have a bit of a class edge coming out of the Sec. Lenny's last race was okay, and the FL Derby form though has been falling apart. Those are my top three in the order I posted. As for possible dark horses obviously Grand Rapport, but keep an eye on Stormy Lord. He's already won at this distance up at Woodbine and finished second in the Breeders' Stakes (compared to Interactif's 6th place finish in the Belmont, but that's not a fair comparsion since the Breeders' is on grass where as the Belmont is on dirt).
There might be some rain in the forcast, but hopefully it will hold off till Saturday night. A few final thoughts for tonight, next week will start the BC Live Chats. I'm going to be keeping them on topic as much as possible and next week will be full of getting ready for Super Saturday. The chat will be starting at the regular time of 7pm. As we get closer to the BC, I will announce when the Preview and Recap Chats will be. So stay tuned for that.
8th (4:24)
Kent S. (G3)
1 1/8 Miles (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Grand Rapport Dominguez R A Contessa Gary C 118 L 4-1
2 2 Interactif Jara F Pletcher Todd A 122 LA 2-1
3 3 Majestictroubadour Delgado A Boniface Kevin C 116 LA 20-1
4 4 Lentenor Saez G Matz Michael R 116 LA 12-1
5 5 Stormy Lord McAleney J S Black Ian 120 L 6-1
6 6 They Call Me Giant Rose J Breen Kelly J 118 LA 8-1
7 7 Kara's Orientation Ramsammy E Chircop Steven 116 LA 15-1
8 8 Thunder Brew Napravnik A R Pecoraro Anthony 118 LA 15-1
9 9 Workin for Hops Hernandez B J Jr Stidham Michael 120 LA 3-1
A few notes, very interesting choice of jockey on Lentenor, fantastic post for Interactif, and bad ones for Grand Report (although he does have the right jockey) and Workin for Hops. I gotta go with Interactif, I've loved this horse since he was a 2yo, Workin does have a bit of a class edge coming out of the Sec. Lenny's last race was okay, and the FL Derby form though has been falling apart. Those are my top three in the order I posted. As for possible dark horses obviously Grand Rapport, but keep an eye on Stormy Lord. He's already won at this distance up at Woodbine and finished second in the Breeders' Stakes (compared to Interactif's 6th place finish in the Belmont, but that's not a fair comparsion since the Breeders' is on grass where as the Belmont is on dirt).
There might be some rain in the forcast, but hopefully it will hold off till Saturday night. A few final thoughts for tonight, next week will start the BC Live Chats. I'm going to be keeping them on topic as much as possible and next week will be full of getting ready for Super Saturday. The chat will be starting at the regular time of 7pm. As we get closer to the BC, I will announce when the Preview and Recap Chats will be. So stay tuned for that.
July 30, 2010
Weekend Preview (Part 2)
Here are the Sunday races! Starting at Saratoga:
7th (4:21)
Fourstardave H. (G2)
1 1/16 Miles (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $150,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 5 Nownownow Leparoux J R Biancone Patrick L 116 Blk-On L 8-1
1A 7 Violon Sacre Leparoux J R Biancone Patrick L 116 L 8-1
2 1 Get Stormy Castellano J J Bush Thomas M 117 L 7-2
3 2 Whatsthescript (IRE) Gomez G K Contessa Gary C 116 L 6-1
4 3 Zifzaf Hill C Toner James J 113 L 20-1
5 4 Cherokee Artist Rose J Motion H Graham 115 L 6-1
6 6 Wesley Coa E M Hennig Mark 116 L 8-1
7 8 Radical Sabbatical Velazquez J R Tagg Barclay 114 L 15-1
8 9 Public Speaker Albarado R J McPeek Kenneth G 116 L 9-2
9 10 Pinckney Hill Velasquez C Penna Angel Jr 115 L 3-1
10 MTO Brother Nick Rose J Jerkens James A 118 L 4-1
11 MTO Convocation Rose J Jerkens James A 118 L 4-5
Several horses who where supposed to go in the rained off the turf Sussex at DP show up here instead. I gotta go with Cherokee Artist in here with Wesley second and Get Stormy third.
8th (4:55)
Curlin S.
1 1/8 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $75,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Winslow Homer Albarado R J Dutrow Anthony W 120 L 3-1
2 2 Quiet All American Mena M Romans Dale 120 L 15-1
3 3 Miner's Reserve Solis A Zito Nicholas P 120 L 2-1
4 4 Regal Warrior Castellano J J Trombetta Michael J 118 L 8-1
5 5 Westshore Leparoux J R Baker James E 120 L 10-1
6 6 Winaholic Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 118 L 4-1
7 7 So Elite Desormeaux K J Casse Mark 122 L 6-1
8 8 Citrus Kid Hill C Terranova, II John P 118 L 15-1
If they both go, it's a two horse race between Winslow Homer and Miner's Reserve. Citrus Kid is an okay horse, but is coming off a layoff. I've never heard of the other horses in this race, other then those three.
9th (5:30)
Ruffian Invitational H. (G1)
1 1/8 Miles | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Malibu Prayer Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 116 L 2-1
2 2 Unrivaled Belle Desormeaux K J Mott William I 119 L 1-1
3 3 Starship Angel Gomez G K McLaughlin Kiaran P 113 L 12-1
4 4 Classofsixtythree Castellano J J Contessa Gary C 113 L 20-1
5 5 Tasty Temptation Leparoux J R Casse Mark 115 L 5-1
6 6 Zaphyra Prado E S Terranova, II John P 113 L 12-1
I don't get the Unrivaled Belle love. I really don't. Okay so she finished second in a G1 as a 3 and 4 year olds respectivly. For this reason I think MDO gets a bit of revenge over the UBS filly. It maybe her first start on dirt, but Tasty Temptation is one of the hottest fillies around. She beat Milwaukee Appeal last time out, and has been undefeated since she won the Wonder Where last year. If she where to win, it would make six Grade 1 winners for her sire four of those would be fillies (the other three: Champagne d'Oro, Gabby's Golden Gal and Rachel Alexandra). Malibu Prayer for second and Unrivaled Belle third.
Over at Del Mar
8th (5:30)
Bing Crosby S. (G1)
6 Furlongs (All Weather Track) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 E Z's Gentleman Pedroza M A 123 L
2 Sky Cape Talamo J 119
3 Scenic Blast (AUS) Smith M E 121 L
4 El Brujo Rosario J 119 Blk-On L
5 Cost of Freedom Bejarano R 121 L
6 My Summer Slew Quinonez A 119 L
7 Smiling Tiger Espinoza V 119 L
E Z's Gentleman won the Triple Bend last time out, but keep on Scenic Blast. This is a horse who was a flat out monster in Australia. This is his second time in the US and his first time on a synthetic surface.
Last, but not least Monmouth. Since there are so many stakes on Sunday, I'm only going to preview 3 races.
9th (3:59)
Taylor Made Matchmaker S. (G3)
1 1/8 Miles (Turf) | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $200,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Talkin About Love Marquez C H Jr Sleeter Kevin G 116 L 30-1
2 2 Eye of Taurus Castro E McLaughlin Kiaran P 116 L 6-1
3 3 Yippety Yip Garcia M Servis Jason 116 L 20-1
4 4 Obsequious Fragoso P Gray Elizabeth 116 L 30-1
5 5 Unbridled Essence Lopez P Sacco Gregory D 118 L 20-1
6 6 Tizaqueena Maragh R Stidham Michael 123 L 9-2
7 7 Cherokee Queen Trujillo E Wolfson Martin D 118 L 4-1
8 8 Mystic Miracle Bravo J Hennig Mark 118 L 10-1
9 9 Quiet Meadow Garcia Alan Brown Chad C 116 L 3-1
10 10 Tottie (GB) Lezcano J Brown Chad C 116 L 4-1
11 11 Giant Mover Dominguez R A Pletcher Todd A 116 L 8-1
This is Tizaqueena's race to lose, that it all. Eye of Taurus for second and Quiet Meadow for third.
11th (5:04)
Oceanport S. (G3)
1 1/16 Miles (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $200,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Nownownow Lopez P Biancone Patrick L 116 Blk-On L 8-1
2 2 Violon Sacre Lezcano J Biancone Patrick L 118 L 3-1
3 3 Whatsthescript (IRE) Trujillo E Contessa Gary C 116 L 5-1
4 4 Strike a Deal Lopez C C Goldberg Alan E 120 L 9-2
5 5 Cherokee Artist Dominguez R A Motion H Graham 118 L 4-1
6 6 Get Serious Fragoso P Forbes John H 120 L 7-2
7 7 Roman Tiger Bravo J Manning Dennis J 120 L 8-1
8 8 Tybalt Maragh R Stidham Michael 116 L 10-1
Okay so many in the Fourstardave are also in here as well. Because I'm not sure whose going and whose staying at Toga, I'm going with Cherokee Artist again. And if he stays in New York, Tybalt becomes my selection.
and last, but not least.
12th (5:43)
Izod Haskell Invitational S. (G1)
1 1/8 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Lookin At Lucky Garcia M Baffert Bob 122 L 5-2
2 2 Afleet Again Bravo J Reid Robert E Jr 118 L 12-1
3 3 Ice Box Lezcano J Zito Nicholas P 120 L 9-2
4 4 First Dude Dominguez R A Romans Dale 118 L 6-1
5 5 Our Dark Knight Trujillo E Zito Nicholas P 118 L 15-1
6 6 Super Saver Borel C H Pletcher Todd A 122 L 3-1
7 7 Uptowncharlybrown Maragh R McLaughlin Kiaran P 118 L 15-1
8 8 Trappe Shot Garcia Alan McLaughlin Kiaran P 118 L 3-1
Horse by horse:
Lookin at Lucky: It's offical, his name is cursed. He has had the most rotten luck in the world and is stuck on the rail for the second time in three races. While it's a smallest field that he's been stuck on the rail for, he isn't a fan off it. The good news? It is the shortest way around.
Afleet Again: a live longshot, Cash is King's best horse since his dad Afleet Alex. Not sure he'll win here, but deserves a chance.
Ice Box: Needs things to go his way. I'm not a huge, huge fan of his.
First Dude: Will have company on the front end. Can he hold on even with the increased pressure? And can he turn the tables on Lucky? I don't think he will, but won't be suprised if he stays up.
Our Dark Knight: There are two ways to look at this either as a rabbit or as a horse who has a shot. I think it's as a rabbit, but he is by the defending sire.
Super Saver: Losing the Preakness is the best thing to happen. He's fresh and ready for action. If Calvin gives him the same ride he gave Rachel last week, he wins.
Uptowncharlybrown: While his new stablemate is more highly regarded, he is the local hope in this year's edition. Has a chance.
Trappe Shot: Lots of hype with him, not sure I buy all of it. I think he'll be there in the end, but won't win the race.
So who am I picking? I'm going with my heart and going with the Derby champ. Lucky for second and Uptowncharlybrown for third and Trappe Shot fourth.
So that's it for today! The Special Live Chat will be at 7pm on Sunday. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and all the horses and jockeys return safe and sound.
7th (4:21)
Fourstardave H. (G2)
1 1/16 Miles (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $150,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 5 Nownownow Leparoux J R Biancone Patrick L 116 Blk-On L 8-1
1A 7 Violon Sacre Leparoux J R Biancone Patrick L 116 L 8-1
2 1 Get Stormy Castellano J J Bush Thomas M 117 L 7-2
3 2 Whatsthescript (IRE) Gomez G K Contessa Gary C 116 L 6-1
4 3 Zifzaf Hill C Toner James J 113 L 20-1
5 4 Cherokee Artist Rose J Motion H Graham 115 L 6-1
6 6 Wesley Coa E M Hennig Mark 116 L 8-1
7 8 Radical Sabbatical Velazquez J R Tagg Barclay 114 L 15-1
8 9 Public Speaker Albarado R J McPeek Kenneth G 116 L 9-2
9 10 Pinckney Hill Velasquez C Penna Angel Jr 115 L 3-1
10 MTO Brother Nick Rose J Jerkens James A 118 L 4-1
11 MTO Convocation Rose J Jerkens James A 118 L 4-5
Several horses who where supposed to go in the rained off the turf Sussex at DP show up here instead. I gotta go with Cherokee Artist in here with Wesley second and Get Stormy third.
8th (4:55)
Curlin S.
1 1/8 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $75,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Winslow Homer Albarado R J Dutrow Anthony W 120 L 3-1
2 2 Quiet All American Mena M Romans Dale 120 L 15-1
3 3 Miner's Reserve Solis A Zito Nicholas P 120 L 2-1
4 4 Regal Warrior Castellano J J Trombetta Michael J 118 L 8-1
5 5 Westshore Leparoux J R Baker James E 120 L 10-1
6 6 Winaholic Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 118 L 4-1
7 7 So Elite Desormeaux K J Casse Mark 122 L 6-1
8 8 Citrus Kid Hill C Terranova, II John P 118 L 15-1
If they both go, it's a two horse race between Winslow Homer and Miner's Reserve. Citrus Kid is an okay horse, but is coming off a layoff. I've never heard of the other horses in this race, other then those three.
9th (5:30)
Ruffian Invitational H. (G1)
1 1/8 Miles | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Malibu Prayer Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 116 L 2-1
2 2 Unrivaled Belle Desormeaux K J Mott William I 119 L 1-1
3 3 Starship Angel Gomez G K McLaughlin Kiaran P 113 L 12-1
4 4 Classofsixtythree Castellano J J Contessa Gary C 113 L 20-1
5 5 Tasty Temptation Leparoux J R Casse Mark 115 L 5-1
6 6 Zaphyra Prado E S Terranova, II John P 113 L 12-1
I don't get the Unrivaled Belle love. I really don't. Okay so she finished second in a G1 as a 3 and 4 year olds respectivly. For this reason I think MDO gets a bit of revenge over the UBS filly. It maybe her first start on dirt, but Tasty Temptation is one of the hottest fillies around. She beat Milwaukee Appeal last time out, and has been undefeated since she won the Wonder Where last year. If she where to win, it would make six Grade 1 winners for her sire four of those would be fillies (the other three: Champagne d'Oro, Gabby's Golden Gal and Rachel Alexandra). Malibu Prayer for second and Unrivaled Belle third.
Over at Del Mar
8th (5:30)
Bing Crosby S. (G1)
6 Furlongs (All Weather Track) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 E Z's Gentleman Pedroza M A 123 L
2 Sky Cape Talamo J 119
3 Scenic Blast (AUS) Smith M E 121 L
4 El Brujo Rosario J 119 Blk-On L
5 Cost of Freedom Bejarano R 121 L
6 My Summer Slew Quinonez A 119 L
7 Smiling Tiger Espinoza V 119 L
E Z's Gentleman won the Triple Bend last time out, but keep on Scenic Blast. This is a horse who was a flat out monster in Australia. This is his second time in the US and his first time on a synthetic surface.
Last, but not least Monmouth. Since there are so many stakes on Sunday, I'm only going to preview 3 races.
9th (3:59)
Taylor Made Matchmaker S. (G3)
1 1/8 Miles (Turf) | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $200,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Talkin About Love Marquez C H Jr Sleeter Kevin G 116 L 30-1
2 2 Eye of Taurus Castro E McLaughlin Kiaran P 116 L 6-1
3 3 Yippety Yip Garcia M Servis Jason 116 L 20-1
4 4 Obsequious Fragoso P Gray Elizabeth 116 L 30-1
5 5 Unbridled Essence Lopez P Sacco Gregory D 118 L 20-1
6 6 Tizaqueena Maragh R Stidham Michael 123 L 9-2
7 7 Cherokee Queen Trujillo E Wolfson Martin D 118 L 4-1
8 8 Mystic Miracle Bravo J Hennig Mark 118 L 10-1
9 9 Quiet Meadow Garcia Alan Brown Chad C 116 L 3-1
10 10 Tottie (GB) Lezcano J Brown Chad C 116 L 4-1
11 11 Giant Mover Dominguez R A Pletcher Todd A 116 L 8-1
This is Tizaqueena's race to lose, that it all. Eye of Taurus for second and Quiet Meadow for third.
11th (5:04)
Oceanport S. (G3)
1 1/16 Miles (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $200,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Nownownow Lopez P Biancone Patrick L 116 Blk-On L 8-1
2 2 Violon Sacre Lezcano J Biancone Patrick L 118 L 3-1
3 3 Whatsthescript (IRE) Trujillo E Contessa Gary C 116 L 5-1
4 4 Strike a Deal Lopez C C Goldberg Alan E 120 L 9-2
5 5 Cherokee Artist Dominguez R A Motion H Graham 118 L 4-1
6 6 Get Serious Fragoso P Forbes John H 120 L 7-2
7 7 Roman Tiger Bravo J Manning Dennis J 120 L 8-1
8 8 Tybalt Maragh R Stidham Michael 116 L 10-1
Okay so many in the Fourstardave are also in here as well. Because I'm not sure whose going and whose staying at Toga, I'm going with Cherokee Artist again. And if he stays in New York, Tybalt becomes my selection.
and last, but not least.
12th (5:43)
Izod Haskell Invitational S. (G1)
1 1/8 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Lookin At Lucky Garcia M Baffert Bob 122 L 5-2
2 2 Afleet Again Bravo J Reid Robert E Jr 118 L 12-1
3 3 Ice Box Lezcano J Zito Nicholas P 120 L 9-2
4 4 First Dude Dominguez R A Romans Dale 118 L 6-1
5 5 Our Dark Knight Trujillo E Zito Nicholas P 118 L 15-1
6 6 Super Saver Borel C H Pletcher Todd A 122 L 3-1
7 7 Uptowncharlybrown Maragh R McLaughlin Kiaran P 118 L 15-1
8 8 Trappe Shot Garcia Alan McLaughlin Kiaran P 118 L 3-1
Horse by horse:
Lookin at Lucky: It's offical, his name is cursed. He has had the most rotten luck in the world and is stuck on the rail for the second time in three races. While it's a smallest field that he's been stuck on the rail for, he isn't a fan off it. The good news? It is the shortest way around.
Afleet Again: a live longshot, Cash is King's best horse since his dad Afleet Alex. Not sure he'll win here, but deserves a chance.
Ice Box: Needs things to go his way. I'm not a huge, huge fan of his.
First Dude: Will have company on the front end. Can he hold on even with the increased pressure? And can he turn the tables on Lucky? I don't think he will, but won't be suprised if he stays up.
Our Dark Knight: There are two ways to look at this either as a rabbit or as a horse who has a shot. I think it's as a rabbit, but he is by the defending sire.
Super Saver: Losing the Preakness is the best thing to happen. He's fresh and ready for action. If Calvin gives him the same ride he gave Rachel last week, he wins.
Uptowncharlybrown: While his new stablemate is more highly regarded, he is the local hope in this year's edition. Has a chance.
Trappe Shot: Lots of hype with him, not sure I buy all of it. I think he'll be there in the end, but won't win the race.
So who am I picking? I'm going with my heart and going with the Derby champ. Lucky for second and Uptowncharlybrown for third and Trappe Shot fourth.
So that's it for today! The Special Live Chat will be at 7pm on Sunday. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and all the horses and jockeys return safe and sound.
July 21, 2010
The Spa, need a say more?
I'm not talking about relaxation, I'm talking about Saratoga Race Track in Saratoga Springs, NY whose nickname is The Spa City. Saratoga is starts it's meet on Friday with 2 stakes races, a graded stakes for 2yo fillies and an ungraded stakes that is loaded with talent. Lets take a look at both of these stakes.
8th (4:55)
James Marvin S.
7 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $75,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 You and I Forever Lezcano J Bush Thomas M 123 L 20-1
2 2 Cool Coal Man Velazquez J R Zito Nicholas P 123 L 6-1
3 3 Half Metal Jacket Dominguez R A Dutrow Sydney 121 L 10-1
4 4 Vineyard Haven Garcia Alan bin Suroor Saeed 121 L 3-5
5 5 Discreet Treasure Velasquez C Brown Bruce R 121 L 12-1
6 6 Friesan Fire Bridgmohan S X Asmussen Steven M 121 L 12-1
7 7 Le Grand Cru Gomez G K Pletcher Todd A 123 L 12-1
8 8 Flat Bold Maragh R Albertrani Thomas 119 L 12-1
9 9 Atoned Albarado R J Howard Neil J 121 L 30-1
10 10 Silver Edition Borel C H Lukas D Wayne 121 L 30-1
What a fantastic lineup! CCM (Cool Coal Man) is coming out of a key race, the Skip Away at Monmouth. Sir Whimsey and Gone Astray who where 2nd and 3rd behind him came back to win stakes the next time out. He's had success at Saratoga before winning the Albert the Great last season, but well his last race at the Spa wasn't so pleasant. He finished second to last in Rachel Alexandra's Woodward win. Outside of Rachel, he's the only one from last year's Woodward who has won since (Macho Again, It's a Bird (who was eventually DQ'ed from his Oaklawn Handicap win) and Astatic Boy have been retired without winning another race, Da' Tara is probley done as well as he has yet to race this year). You and I Forever has come on this year and has delayed his retirement (he was supposed to go to India to stand at stud). If Vineyard Haven can stay straight, he wins. This is his most successful track. I say this is a must win for Friesan Fire, last year's star 3yo's (except for Mine That Bird) have won as four year olds. He's behind the eight ball now, and a loss pretty much will tell me that he was a 3 race wonder. My Pick: CCM with Vineyard Haven second and Atoned third. If CCM doesn't win, I'm going to say You and I Forever does.
9th (5:30)
Schuylerville S. (G3)
6 Furlongs | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $100,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 4 Spa Sunrise Coa E M Ward Wesley A 119 L 2-1
1A 7 Final Mesa Coa E M Ward Wesley A 121 L 2-1
2 1 Stopspendingmaria Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 119 L 7-2
3 2 Le Mi Geaux Lenclud F Dutrow, Jr. R E 119 L 6-1
4 3 Let's Get Fiscal Garcia Alan Violette, Jr. R A 119 L 7-2
5 5 Dos Lunas Court J K Glenney John 119 L 12-1
6 6 Show Me the Bling Leparoux J R Biancone Patrick L 119 L 3-1
With two year olds, you really don't know what you have until really October or November. Either way this is going to be an interesting race. Unfortanlly I don't know anything about any of these horses except for Final Mesa who is undefeated in three starts over 2 different surfaces (synth and dirt). However, she might scratch so my pick is her entrymate Spa Sunrise (if she does scratch). The big reason is for her name, I mean afterall it is Opening Day at the Spa get it Sunrise... Spa (joking around of course).
I hope everyone enjoys opening day of Saratoga!
8th (4:55)
James Marvin S.
7 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $75,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 You and I Forever Lezcano J Bush Thomas M 123 L 20-1
2 2 Cool Coal Man Velazquez J R Zito Nicholas P 123 L 6-1
3 3 Half Metal Jacket Dominguez R A Dutrow Sydney 121 L 10-1
4 4 Vineyard Haven Garcia Alan bin Suroor Saeed 121 L 3-5
5 5 Discreet Treasure Velasquez C Brown Bruce R 121 L 12-1
6 6 Friesan Fire Bridgmohan S X Asmussen Steven M 121 L 12-1
7 7 Le Grand Cru Gomez G K Pletcher Todd A 123 L 12-1
8 8 Flat Bold Maragh R Albertrani Thomas 119 L 12-1
9 9 Atoned Albarado R J Howard Neil J 121 L 30-1
10 10 Silver Edition Borel C H Lukas D Wayne 121 L 30-1
What a fantastic lineup! CCM (Cool Coal Man) is coming out of a key race, the Skip Away at Monmouth. Sir Whimsey and Gone Astray who where 2nd and 3rd behind him came back to win stakes the next time out. He's had success at Saratoga before winning the Albert the Great last season, but well his last race at the Spa wasn't so pleasant. He finished second to last in Rachel Alexandra's Woodward win. Outside of Rachel, he's the only one from last year's Woodward who has won since (Macho Again, It's a Bird (who was eventually DQ'ed from his Oaklawn Handicap win) and Astatic Boy have been retired without winning another race, Da' Tara is probley done as well as he has yet to race this year). You and I Forever has come on this year and has delayed his retirement (he was supposed to go to India to stand at stud). If Vineyard Haven can stay straight, he wins. This is his most successful track. I say this is a must win for Friesan Fire, last year's star 3yo's (except for Mine That Bird) have won as four year olds. He's behind the eight ball now, and a loss pretty much will tell me that he was a 3 race wonder. My Pick: CCM with Vineyard Haven second and Atoned third. If CCM doesn't win, I'm going to say You and I Forever does.
9th (5:30)
Schuylerville S. (G3)
6 Furlongs | Fillies | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $100,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 4 Spa Sunrise Coa E M Ward Wesley A 119 L 2-1
1A 7 Final Mesa Coa E M Ward Wesley A 121 L 2-1
2 1 Stopspendingmaria Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 119 L 7-2
3 2 Le Mi Geaux Lenclud F Dutrow, Jr. R E 119 L 6-1
4 3 Let's Get Fiscal Garcia Alan Violette, Jr. R A 119 L 7-2
5 5 Dos Lunas Court J K Glenney John 119 L 12-1
6 6 Show Me the Bling Leparoux J R Biancone Patrick L 119 L 3-1
With two year olds, you really don't know what you have until really October or November. Either way this is going to be an interesting race. Unfortanlly I don't know anything about any of these horses except for Final Mesa who is undefeated in three starts over 2 different surfaces (synth and dirt). However, she might scratch so my pick is her entrymate Spa Sunrise (if she does scratch). The big reason is for her name, I mean afterall it is Opening Day at the Spa get it Sunrise... Spa (joking around of course).
I hope everyone enjoys opening day of Saratoga!
July 16, 2010
All Delaware, all the time!
It's finally here, the 2010 Delaware Handicap is on Saturday. This year's field is not the best the race has ever seen, but it's nice for this year. In all honestly, this race would have been alot better had Rachel Alexandra been in here. Not saying that this year's horses aren't nice for the race, but I would have loved to finally see Rachel in person. Lets look at the field for this year's DelCap. Like the previous two years, it will be a Win and In for the Breeders Cup. Meaning that the winner (if nominated) will have a spot in the Ladies Classic in November. Here's this year's field!Delaware H. (G2)
1 1/4 Miles | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $750,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 Funny Moon Garcia Alan 121 L
2 Miss Singhsix (IRE) Valdivia J Jr 118 L
3 Milwaukee Appeal Elliott S 119 LA
4 Million Seller Rose J 114 LA
5 Miss Match (ARG) Hernandez B J Jr 115 LA
6 Life At Ten Velazquez J R 122 LA
Funny Moon and Life at Ten are the G1 winners in this year's edition. Miss Singhsix won the Obeah the local prep, the past two years the winner who was 2007 DelCap winner Unbridled Belle has finished third in the DelCap. Milwaukee Appeal won last year's Woodbine Oaks and finished 3rd in the Queen's Plate and 2nd by a nose in the Prince of Wales. She's probley better on dirt then poly, and this is probley the confidence booster she needs. Never heard of Million Seller and Miss Match who could have a say in things. So who am I picking? I'm going with Milwaukee Appeal with Funny Moon second and Miss Singhsix third. However, I fully expect Life at Ten to win tomorrow.
The Dick and Carpenter don't have the greatest fields either, but Gozzip Girl is going in the Dick and Our Edge in the Carpenter. As for me? I'm planning to be there, but most likely not the entire card this year due to other obligations. So the plan is to be there for the Carpenter, Dick and DelCap. A recap of DelCap weekend and the other stakes action across the country (i.e. Virginia Derby, American Derby, American Handicap, Modesty) will be happening on Monday.
Photo: 2007 DelCap winner Unbridled Belle before the 2008 Edition where she finished third, she also finished third in last year's race. Photo by me (Rachel Levine).
June 25, 2010
Painting a Devil
Remember last week I said that the main focus for 3yo's for the next few weeks was turf? I lied. This week is a big weekend with the Mother Goose and the Iowa Derby. Of course the Mother Goose features Devil May Care and Biofuel, while the Iowa Derby is the first race back for Winslow Homer.
7th (9:18)
Iowa Derby (G3)
1 1/16 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Down With Dixie Borel C H McGee Paul J 116 BL 6-1
2 2 Vow to Wager Albarado R J Romans Dale 122 BL 5-1
3 3 Thiskyhasnolimit Bridgmohan S X Asmussen Steven M 119 BL 4-1
4 4 Winslow Homer Dominguez R A Dutrow Anthony W 122 BL 2-1
5 5 Forestry Type Alvarado J Bennett Dale 116 BL 9-2
6 6 Concord Point Garcia M Baffert Bob 116 BL 5-2
I honestly think Winslow will need a race to get into form. However this isn't a strong group of horses, with the exception of Thiskyhasnolimit and Concord Point. I would not be suprised if Winslow wins and gets ready for the Jim Dandy in fine form, but I just have this feeling that Sky will win. He did beat Vow to Wager last time out, and is out of a half to Bernardini. A mile and sixtheen is probley his max, but with Winslow coming off some time off, he could be vernable here. Concord Point for third.
9th (5:17)
Mother Goose S. (G1)
1 1/16 Miles | Fillies | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Biofuel Da Silva E R Baker Reade 121 L 5-1
2 2 Ailalea Prado E S Pletcher Todd A 121 L 3-1
3 3 Devil May Care Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 121 L 6-5
4 4 Connie and Michael Maragh R McPeek Kenneth G 121 L 7-2
5 5 Katy Now Desormeaux K J Pletcher Todd A 121 L 8-1
This is a big, big race. The return to the girls for Devil May Care, and the dirt debut of Biofuel. Keep an on Connie and Michael, she set the pace in last year's BC Juvi Fillies, in which Biofuel got absolutly mugged by Negliee. DMC should win this race, but with her known consistancy... I think Biofuel may need a race or two in order to get used to dirt which leaves me with Connie and Michael as my pick. DMC for second.
So that's it for this weekends previews! The HRBA's where announced Weds, and the Press Release will be up sometime tonight. Monday is the first Summer Series Live Chat, so that will double as the Weekend Recap.
7th (9:18)
Iowa Derby (G3)
1 1/16 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Down With Dixie Borel C H McGee Paul J 116 BL 6-1
2 2 Vow to Wager Albarado R J Romans Dale 122 BL 5-1
3 3 Thiskyhasnolimit Bridgmohan S X Asmussen Steven M 119 BL 4-1
4 4 Winslow Homer Dominguez R A Dutrow Anthony W 122 BL 2-1
5 5 Forestry Type Alvarado J Bennett Dale 116 BL 9-2
6 6 Concord Point Garcia M Baffert Bob 116 BL 5-2
I honestly think Winslow will need a race to get into form. However this isn't a strong group of horses, with the exception of Thiskyhasnolimit and Concord Point. I would not be suprised if Winslow wins and gets ready for the Jim Dandy in fine form, but I just have this feeling that Sky will win. He did beat Vow to Wager last time out, and is out of a half to Bernardini. A mile and sixtheen is probley his max, but with Winslow coming off some time off, he could be vernable here. Concord Point for third.
9th (5:17)
Mother Goose S. (G1)
1 1/16 Miles | Fillies | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Biofuel Da Silva E R Baker Reade 121 L 5-1
2 2 Ailalea Prado E S Pletcher Todd A 121 L 3-1
3 3 Devil May Care Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 121 L 6-5
4 4 Connie and Michael Maragh R McPeek Kenneth G 121 L 7-2
5 5 Katy Now Desormeaux K J Pletcher Todd A 121 L 8-1
This is a big, big race. The return to the girls for Devil May Care, and the dirt debut of Biofuel. Keep an on Connie and Michael, she set the pace in last year's BC Juvi Fillies, in which Biofuel got absolutly mugged by Negliee. DMC should win this race, but with her known consistancy... I think Biofuel may need a race or two in order to get used to dirt which leaves me with Connie and Michael as my pick. DMC for second.
So that's it for this weekends previews! The HRBA's where announced Weds, and the Press Release will be up sometime tonight. Monday is the first Summer Series Live Chat, so that will double as the Weekend Recap.
April 30, 2010
It's That Time
For my picks!
I'm not posting the fields for this weeks races as I think almost everyone has seen them. However I will be talking about each race one at a time. I'm not previewing every race.
Kentucky Juvy: It's really too early in the season to choose a 2yo who will do well the rest of the year, but Mission Impazable finished third in this race last year. For this reason, I'm going with Borrego's daughter Nina Fever.
Humana Distaff: Informed Decision lost last time out to Dr. Zic, and I think she loses again but this time to Rated Fiesty who could rebound after a poor three and four year old seasons.
Eight Belles: Hot Dixie Chick is obviously the horse to beat, but keep an eye on Bell's Shoes, third in the Martha Washington and Instant Racing. Could be a horse that flourishes in the second half of the season.
Churchill Sprint: WOW! One of the best fields on the weekend, my gut is telling me that Munnings will scratch, so I gotta go with Kensei and Warrior's Reward. Should Kensei win, it could be good news for his little brother later on in the day.
Alysheba: This is the race of the weeknd (other then the La T, Oaks, and Derby). Friesan Fire, Cool Coal Man (cross entered into the Churchill Sprint), my boy Prom Shoes, Macho Again, Bullsbay, Enriched. I would not be suprised if MA and Bull go 1-2 to set up a Stephen Foster rematch with a certin 4yo. I'll be very interested in how Enriched does outside of California, something his brother Lava Man couldn't do.
Woodford: Blues Street! Enough said, although I hope General Quarters does well in his turf debut.
La Troienne: After losing to Zardana, Rachel Alexandra will face her again. However this time, she's coming into the race better. Rachel should win this race with ease which could start the chatter of her vs Zenyatta talk again. Zardana while 3 for 3 on dirt, is also inconsistant and I believe has never been on a wet track. This race lost a key member when Careless Jewel was forced to miss the race due to a quarter crack. That's a huge sigh relief for Rachel fans as she was the biggest threat on the front end to Rachel. If all goes well, her next race could be a Woodward rematch in the Stephen Foster before possibly taking on Zenyatta in all likelyhood New York.
Oaks: It's Blind Luck's race to lose, however I'm going to go against her with three horses: Age of Humor, Quiet Temper and Evening Jewel. Age of Humor because I'm following her half brother and he's one of my favorite horses, Quiet Temper as she comes out of the hottest prep for the Oaks, the Fair Grounds Oaks and Evening Jewel for personal reasons. However, I would not be suprised if Blind Luck does win this race.
Derby: I'll be honest, I lost interest in this year's Derby when Rule was pulled out. However, my second, third and dark horse choices are still in. I think people are underestimating my pick as he wasn't the best horse in his stable, but now he is Todd Pletcher's best chance to get off the schind. I think Super Saver with Calvin "Bo-Rail" Borel will win this year's Kentucky Derby, his third Derby win in the last four years, Pletcher's first win, and WinStar's first win as an owner. Finishing in second I have Paddy O' Prado the maiden winner who finished in second in the Bluegrass, and in third I have my dark horse Backtalk. I think Devil May Care, will come up a little bit short of hitting the board. I wouldn't be suprised if Lookin at Lucky, Mission Impazible or Discreetly Mine win. I think Ice Box is overhyped, the 20 post will hurt Sidney's Candy and I don't think the rest of the field is that great this year. Could go down as one of the worst Derbys ever sadly.
The most important thing though is that all the horses come back safe and sound! I hope everybody enjoys the Derby, Oaks and the undercard races. Don't forget there is a Live Chat tomorrow night, and on Sunday a full recap of this weekend.
I'm not posting the fields for this weeks races as I think almost everyone has seen them. However I will be talking about each race one at a time. I'm not previewing every race.
Kentucky Juvy: It's really too early in the season to choose a 2yo who will do well the rest of the year, but Mission Impazable finished third in this race last year. For this reason, I'm going with Borrego's daughter Nina Fever.
Humana Distaff: Informed Decision lost last time out to Dr. Zic, and I think she loses again but this time to Rated Fiesty who could rebound after a poor three and four year old seasons.
Eight Belles: Hot Dixie Chick is obviously the horse to beat, but keep an eye on Bell's Shoes, third in the Martha Washington and Instant Racing. Could be a horse that flourishes in the second half of the season.
Churchill Sprint: WOW! One of the best fields on the weekend, my gut is telling me that Munnings will scratch, so I gotta go with Kensei and Warrior's Reward. Should Kensei win, it could be good news for his little brother later on in the day.
Alysheba: This is the race of the weeknd (other then the La T, Oaks, and Derby). Friesan Fire, Cool Coal Man (cross entered into the Churchill Sprint), my boy Prom Shoes, Macho Again, Bullsbay, Enriched. I would not be suprised if MA and Bull go 1-2 to set up a Stephen Foster rematch with a certin 4yo. I'll be very interested in how Enriched does outside of California, something his brother Lava Man couldn't do.
Woodford: Blues Street! Enough said, although I hope General Quarters does well in his turf debut.
La Troienne: After losing to Zardana, Rachel Alexandra will face her again. However this time, she's coming into the race better. Rachel should win this race with ease which could start the chatter of her vs Zenyatta talk again. Zardana while 3 for 3 on dirt, is also inconsistant and I believe has never been on a wet track. This race lost a key member when Careless Jewel was forced to miss the race due to a quarter crack. That's a huge sigh relief for Rachel fans as she was the biggest threat on the front end to Rachel. If all goes well, her next race could be a Woodward rematch in the Stephen Foster before possibly taking on Zenyatta in all likelyhood New York.
Oaks: It's Blind Luck's race to lose, however I'm going to go against her with three horses: Age of Humor, Quiet Temper and Evening Jewel. Age of Humor because I'm following her half brother and he's one of my favorite horses, Quiet Temper as she comes out of the hottest prep for the Oaks, the Fair Grounds Oaks and Evening Jewel for personal reasons. However, I would not be suprised if Blind Luck does win this race.
Derby: I'll be honest, I lost interest in this year's Derby when Rule was pulled out. However, my second, third and dark horse choices are still in. I think people are underestimating my pick as he wasn't the best horse in his stable, but now he is Todd Pletcher's best chance to get off the schind. I think Super Saver with Calvin "Bo-Rail" Borel will win this year's Kentucky Derby, his third Derby win in the last four years, Pletcher's first win, and WinStar's first win as an owner. Finishing in second I have Paddy O' Prado the maiden winner who finished in second in the Bluegrass, and in third I have my dark horse Backtalk. I think Devil May Care, will come up a little bit short of hitting the board. I wouldn't be suprised if Lookin at Lucky, Mission Impazible or Discreetly Mine win. I think Ice Box is overhyped, the 20 post will hurt Sidney's Candy and I don't think the rest of the field is that great this year. Could go down as one of the worst Derbys ever sadly.
The most important thing though is that all the horses come back safe and sound! I hope everybody enjoys the Derby, Oaks and the undercard races. Don't forget there is a Live Chat tomorrow night, and on Sunday a full recap of this weekend.
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