February 8, 2012

Posts Comments

You are here: Home / Archives for saratoga picks

Havre de Grace could be mortal against males in the Woodward

September 2, 2011 By 1 Comment

The Woodward Stakes provided an awe inspiring race two years ago when Rachel Alexandra became the only filly to ever hit the wire first.

Now, Havre de Grace (Saint Liam x Easter Bunnette by Carson City) will try to become the second female in the 57 year history of the Woodward Stakes to enter the winner’s circle.

She won’t have it easy.

Yes, the filly is super quick. Yes, she blew away the field in the Apple Blossom, Azeri and Obeah. Yes, she provided a breath taking stretch duel at Delaware Park against archrival Blind Luck in the Delaware Handicap. Her figures match up too.

Despite that, taking on males will require all of her strength and speed.

Havre de Grace will face a field that includes horses that won the Florida Derby, Suburban Handicap, Donn Handicap and New Orleans Handicap among other important races. The field also includes runners that were second in the Kentucky Derby and Stephen Foster Handicap. Winning the Woodward will be much harder for the lass than her 8-5 morning line price indicates.

This is a race where I think you have to swing against the favorite. I’m going to make my top pick Giant Oak (Giant’s Causeway x Crafty Oak by Crafty Prospector). I’ve never been very wild about the horse, but he has come on strong of late. I love the way he ran into glacial fractions to grab third in the Whitney Handicap last out. If he gets some pace to chase he will be deadly. The price is wonderful at 8-1. Shaun Bridgmahon will pilot the veteran racehorse for trainer Chris Block.

After Giant Oak I also like Flat Out (Flatter x Cresta Lil by Cresta Rider). In fact, I’d say he has an equal chance if not a little better chance to win the race than my pick. Why didn’t I go with him? Well, 8-1 on Giant Oak is a lot more enticing than the 5-2 I can expect on Flat Out. Given I don’t think a whole lot separates them, it’s a no-brainer for me to take the horse with the much better price. Flat Out was last seen finishing up nicely in the Whitney to be second behind Tizway. Before that he blew the Suburban Handicap field off the track to win by 6 ½ lengths at odds of 14-1 as our top pick. He is sharp as a tack as you can tell by a :57 1/5 H work at Monmouth on August 18.

My price horse for the Woodward Stakes is Convocation (Pulpit x Shade Dancer by Nureyev). He ran well last out to take a third level allowance race at Saratoga by just over 3 lengths. Trainer James Jerkens has him here for a reason. The colt loves the track as proved by a record of 2 wins from 3 starts. He was fourth in this race last year, but figures to improve this time at a fat price of 20-1.

Plan to play our pick Giant Oak at a nice price of 8-1 or box him with our bomb Convication in the exacta at 20-1? We would appreciate if you did so at BetAmerica. They are a relatively new ADW, but are quickly rising to the top in customer service and overall strength and effectiveness. Players get a 3% cash rebate on all bets and all new accounts get a $100 sign up bonus. Don’t waste any time, check ‘em out today by clicking the picture above.

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Free Saratoga Picks for 9/1/11

September 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Check out our Horse Betting page for information on where to bet the races!

Saratoga Picks

Race 2 (Maiden Special Weight)

#1 Self Control (4-1): Breaking from the rail is never easy, but this one has shown a lot talent racing on the turf. His connections see fit to move the son of Lemon Drop Kid to dirt and I can’t argue with that move. 4-1 is a square price on very talented runner for Chad Brown and Ramon Dominguez.

Race 6 (Maiden claiming $50,000)

#2 Star Vest (5-1): George Weaver is an impressive 26% when debuting horses in maiden claimers. Albeit, that is from a small sample of 17 runners, but there is enough evidence to show he gets them ready to run at first asking. The daughter of A.P. Indy stallion Master Command has a sharp five furlong move in 1:01 2/5 Bg and looks ready to roll with Cornelio Velasquez in the irons.

Race 8 (Island Whirl Stakes)

#3 Rule by Night (9-2): He is also entered in the Forego for Saturday and I like him a bit there, so if they decide to run in this spot I almost have to pick him. The son of Malibu Moon won his only start at the distance when he cruised in the Groovy Stakes at Aqueduct last year winning by 9 ¼ lengths and earning a huge Beyer Speed Figure of 108. This will be his third start of the year and he should be ready to run huge for new jockey JJ Castellano and trainer Steve Asmussen. Look for him to set up shop just off the pace before pouncing in the stretch.

Race 9 (With Anticipation Stakes)

#1 Captain Webb (3-1): Love the way he cruised home by 2 ½ lengths to win his debut for Todd Pletcher and Johnny V. Click here to check out our write up for the race.

Early Pick 4: 1/ALL/1,2,4,5/8,10

Late Pick 4: 2,3,4,5,6/1/5,10/5,7,8,10,11

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

2011 With Anticipation Stakes

August 31, 2011 By 1 Comment

$150,000 is on the line Thursday at Saratoga in the Grade 2 With Anticipation Stakes for two-year-olds going 8 ½ furlongs on the turf at Saratoga.

The race is likely to have Breeders Cup implications and you can expect to see the winner in the Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf later this year at Churchill Downs.

Captain Webb (English Channel x Miss Mary Pat by Service Strip) has been tabbed the 3-1 morning line favorite after a flashy maiden win going the same distance as today’s race over the same track. The second place finisher in that race, Daddy Nose Best, returned to win next out against a strong group. He is owned by James Scatuorchio (he also owned the English Channel) and trained by Todd Pletcher. Not surprisingly, John Velazquez is listed to ride.

He was bet to favoritism in the debut for obvious reasons like wonderful turf breeding, top notch connections and a blazing :59 B turf move going five furlongs. He didn’t disappoint that time, but this will be a much tougher group. My natural tendency is to try to beat the favorite, but that may be tough to do in this spot.

State of Play (War Front x Valeta by Procida) probably rates the best chance to upset at 5-1. He races for Team Valor International and is trained by Graham Motion. His debut resulted in a strong win over a good field at the Spa going 5 ½ furlongs on the grass. Ramon Dominguez will be in the irons and it is likely he will put the colt on the lead.

Another interesting option is Optimizer (English Channel x Indy Pick by AP Indy) who races for D Wayne Lukas and owner Bluegrass Hall. His maiden win came against a good field at first asking. I love the way he finished up in the lane and he should have plenty of room to move forward. Robby Albarado will keep the mount.

Like I said before, it’s going to be hard to get away from the chalk here. The other two I mentioned are worth a look though.

Plan on betting the With Anticipation Stakes? Check out TVG where new players get a sign up bonus of $250.

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2011 Travers Stakes betting preview

August 25, 2011 By 1 Comment

The Midsummer Derby is one of the most coveted races in all of thoroughbred racing. Trainer Chad Brown was quoted yesterday saying he wants to win this race more than any other, including the Kentucky Derby. He will have a chance with the rail horse, Bowman’s Causeway. Todd Pletcher and Mike Repole will have the unlikely favorite in Stay Thirsty. Who would have guessed at the end of last year that of his two stars this would be the colt, and not Uncle Mo, in the big race? Certainly not I.

The Travers Stakes is for three-year-old colts and geldings going 10 furlongs on the main track at Saratoga. Last year’s winner Afleet Express was retired due to injury soon after and the winner before him, Summer Bird, won the Eclipse Award for Champion Three-Year-Old Male Horse.

Check out our Horse Betting page for information on how and where to bet the Travers Stakes online.

#1 Bowman’s Causeway (Giant’s Causeway x Victory Encounter by Victory Speech) Martin Schwartz owned colt has done much better since moving to the barn of Chad Brown. Last out he was beat a dirty nose by Pender Harbour in the Prince of Wales and before that he was a good fourth in the Queen’s Plate. He is going to have to improve to win, but don’t think he cant do it at a big price. Ramon Dominguez gets up for the first time.

#2 Rattlesnake Bridge (Tapit x Prall Street by Cherokee Run) Got up in the last jump to win the Long Branch last out after a poor beginning. Before that he was second in a strong allowance race against older horses. Gutsy colt seems to be putting it all together and this might be his day.

#3 Moonshine Mullin (Malibu Moon x Mullen Road by Distant View) Shocked us all when he finished second in the Jim Dandy last out at nearly 40-1 under Emma Wilson in his first try over a dirt surface. Before that he won the Victoria Park at Woodbine. Trainer Reade Baker likes how the horse has been doing and believes he will move up after his strong effort last out. Should handle the distance.

#4 Ruler On Ice (Roman Ruler x Champagne Glow by Saratoga Six) Belmont Stakes winner is quite versatile and is working well after his third place effort in the Haskell. He should be fine at the distance given his last two races. Kelly Breen trains and Jose Valdivia will ride.

#5 Malibu Glow (Malibu Moon x Golden Locket by Storm Creek) Taking a stab at the Travers after being soundly defeated in the Dwyer two back. He followed that effort up with a strong win going 9 furlongs. That wasn’t much of a group though. These horse can improve over night so he’s got a shot.

TwinSpires.com

#6 Raison d’Etat (A.P. Indy x Sightseek by Distant View) Regally bred colt seems to only now be figuring things out. He broke his maiden two back by a massive 7 ¾ lengths in a very quick time. Next out in the Curlin he didn’t quite have his punch, but the lightly race Bill Mott trainee could jump right back up in this spot. Distance will be no problem and he is plenty good enough. Is he ready now though?

#7 Coil (Point Given x Eversmile by Theatrical) Won from off the pace as our top selection in the Haskell last out. Trainer Bob Baffert joked on Twitter that his latest work, a bullet four furlongs in :46 B, set off an earth quake. His sire Point Given won this race as did Point Given’s sire, Thunder Gulch. Is it something in the blood? Bob Baffert and Martin Garcia will hope so.

#8 J W Blue (Sky Mesa x Kentucky Storm by Dynaformer)  Very deep closer always seems too far back. Last out in the Barbaro he rallied from 13 off the pace and just missed. He appears a tad bit out classed here for trainer Tony Dutrow and jockey Cornelio Velasquez. The jockey upgrade should do him some good.

#9 Stay Thirsty (Bernardini x Marozia by Storm Bird) Man, has he turned it around! I never saw his last out win coming where he romped by 4 in the Jim Dandy. Before that he was beaten ¾ of a length by Ruler On Ice in the Haskell. If he runs back to that last race he will be quite formidable. Trainer Todd Pletcher says he is doing very well. JJ Castellano keeps the mount.

#10 Shackleford (Forestry x Oatsee by Unbridled) Speedy Preakness winner has finally won me over. I thought his win in the second jewel of the Triple Crown was a bit fluky, but he verified it last out with a strong effort to be second beaten only neck in the Haskell. It is likely that Jesus Castanon and trainer Dale Ramons will send from this outside post and play “catch me if you can”. They might not be able to run him down if he goes too slow up front.

For information on how to get our picks for the Travers and Pacific Classic click here. Also, please check out our Twitter and Facebook pages.

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Betting the 2011 King’s Bishop Stakes featuring Uncle Mo

August 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

It’s finally here. The race we have all been dying to see; the Grade 1 King’s Bishop Stakes. The prestigious race is contested over the distance of 7 furlongs for three-year-old colts and geldings. The Factor’s defection makes the race just a tiny bit weaker, but this should still be an event we talk about for days to come.

Let’s get down to business.

Check out our Horse Betting page for information on how and where to bet the King’s Bishop Stakes online.

#1 Flashpoint (Pomeroy x Two Punch Lil by Two Punch) Gray colt won his debut and then surprised most of us by romping in the Hutcheson Stakes. After that the connections got a bit too ambitious and tried the Florida Derby and Preakness Stakes. He was up the track in both. Trainer Wes Ward turned him back in distance last out when trying the Jersey Shore and he responded with an easy as pie 7 length triumph. His works since are brilliant with a five furlong move in :58 3/5 B on August 13. He must break well from the rail or he will likely lose all chance. Cornelio Velasquez stays aboard.

#2 Caleb’s Posse (Posse x Abbey’s Missy by Slewacide) In retrospect, he made some sense last out when winning the Amstersdam by 4 widening lengths. It was his first try at a race less than a mile since romping in a $100k race going today’s distance of 7 furlongs at Remington as a two-year-old. If things get too fast up front he might roll them over again. The Ohio Derby winner is trained by Don Von Hemel and will be ridden by Rajiv Maragh.

#3 Runflatout (Flatter x Slammin’ Lil by Grand Slam) Freaked in his debut while earning a 98 Beyer Speed Figure. After that he got crushed in the San Felipe. The connections then tried the Laz Barrera and Affirmed Handicap. He was second in both and only defeated a nose in the Laz Barrrera by Bench Points. His last race at 9 furlongs can be forgiven as he simply doesn’t want to go that far. Moving back to the dirt could help his cause. His works have been stellar. John Sadler trains and Robby Albarado gets the call to ride.

#4 Dominus (Street Cry x Cuando by Lord at War) Was sent off the favorite last out in the Jim Dandy where he finished a tiring third. Before that he won the Dwyer and was narrowly defeated in the Derby Trial three races back. He probably isn’t fast enough to make the lead so it will be interesting to see how he reacts. Julien Leparoux stays on for trainer Steve Asmussen.

TwinSpires.com

#5 Poseidon’s Warrior (Speightstown x Poised to Pounce by Smarten) Seems like a different animal in his last two races. He romped by 10 as the favorite favorite two back against older horses at Parx. Comment line reads “speed to spare”. After that he won a $100k minor stakes race at Penn National with similar ease. The Robert Reid (26% winners from 148 starts this year) trained colt earned 100+ BSF’s in both of those tries. Today is the acid test.

#6 Justin Phillip (First Samurai x Ava Knowsthecode by Cryptoclearance) Air mailed them as my top pick in the Woody Stephens two back. He wasn’t quite himself in the next start where he was fourth beaten just over 5 lengths by Caleb’s Posse in the Amsterdam. Connections say he wasn’t quite himself that day. The colt is going to have to effectively rate today. Ramon Dominguez, King of the NY riders, will keep the mount.

#7 Uncle Mo (Indian Charlie x Playa Maya by Arch) Broke his maiden at first asking by just over 14 lengths under only a hand ride from John Velazquez while earning a 102 Beyer Speed Figure. The win rates among the greatest debuts ever. After that he won the Champagne like a good thing and then put on one of the best shows we have ever seen to win the Breeders Cup Juvenile. His three-year-old campaign has been compromised, until now, by illness. He hasn’t raced since losing in the Wood Memorial, but the works are rock solid and Todd Pletcher and Mike Repole say he is ready to fire. Do you believe them?

#8 Cool Blue Red Hot (Harlan’s Holiday x Paris Rose by Accelerator) Looks to be a notch or two below the best in this race, but he is working well. Manny Cruz gets the for trainer Angel Penna.

For information on how to get our picks for the King’s Bishop Stakes as well the Travers and Pacific Classic click here. Also, please check out our Twitter and Facebook pages.

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

2011 Ballerina Stakes Preview

August 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

A spot in the Breeders Cup Filly & Mare Sprint is on the line in this year’s edition of the Grade 1 Ballerina Stakes from Saratoga. The 7 furlong race will be contested by seven entrants this year and they will compete for a purse of $250k.

The Ballerina has existed since 1979. Lady’s Secret who won the race in 1985 is easily the most notable among those that have visited the winners circle for this event. Her career included 25 wins from 45 starts with career earnings of $3,021,325. Two of her most memorable wins came in the Whitney Handicap and Breeders Cup Distaff.

Enough about the past. Let’s talk about the present.

Check out our Horse Betting page for information on how and where to bet the Ballerina Stakes online.

#1 Hour Glass (Petionville x Suzanna Anna by Tale of the Cat) Todd Pletcher trained filly has not won since the 2010 Vagrancy Handicap. Her latest performances are lacking. She will have to move way up to win this. Despite that, I’d hate to leave a Pletcher horse off my Pick 4 and then lose. John Velazquez is listed to ride.

#2 Tamarind Hall (Graeme Hall x Turner’s Hall by Forest Wildcat) She surprised most people when she burst through to win by just over 5 lengths last out in the Bed O’ Roses Handicap. The second place finisher in that race, Kid Kate, returned to beat a good field which included next out winner Buckleupbuttercup. The filly was risked for $15k in April which is almost unheard of in this sport. Her record of 3 wins from 5 races combined with strong works and great recent form make her a threat. Don’t worry about class. She has proven herself. JJ Castellano will get a leg up to ride.

#3 Hilda’s Passion (Canadian Frontier x Executricker by El Prado)  What happened last out in the Bed O’ Roses? She might have just been having a bad day. Before that she cruised in the Vagrancy before coming up short against Sassy’s Image in the Humana Distaff. She faced a torrid pace that day which probably did her in. If she runs her best race the filly will be ridiculously hard to beat, but can we count on her to do that? Price is not likely like to be commensurate with the risk, but a huge chance to win for Todd Pletcher nonetheless. JJ Castellano will be in the irons.

TwinSpires.com

#4 Bronx City Girl (Yankee Gentleman x Carsona by Carson City) Martin Wolfson trained filly appears to be over matched here. She was second by a head in a minor stakes race at Monmouth last out. Julien Leparoux will pilot her.

#5 Devil by Design (Medaglia d’Oro x Beauty’s Due by Devil His Due) Won a Grade 3 on July 3 at Arlington in her first race since November. That was her best race yet, so maybe the light has come on. Even if it has she will have to step up. Top jockey and sprint specialist Corey Nakatani retains the mount.

#6 Tar Heel Mom (Flatter x Perpetual Light by Sunny’s Halo) I adore this filly and have followed most of her career. She is a winner of 11 races from 27 starts including a last out win in the Honorable Miss Handicap where she blew the competition off the track. She has won 2 of 3 against Hour Glass and split races with Hilda’s Passion. She is still at the top of her game despite being 6. Alex Solis will continue to ride.

#7 Sassy Image (Broken Vow x Ideal Image by Hennessy) She’s been a new filly since an operation and time off earlier this year. Her win streak stands at 3 and began with an easy win in the Humana Distaff. She also took the Winning Colors and Princess Rooney. Given her current form she could be very tough to hold off in the lane. Robby Albarado gets the mount back after winning the Humana Distaff with her the last time they hooked up.

For information on how to get our picks for the Ballerina Stakes as well as the Travers and Pacific Classic click here. Also, please check out our Twitter and Facebook pages.

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

2011 Victory Ride Stakes betting preview

August 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

 

The ninth running of the six furlong Grade 3 Victory Ride Stakes for three-year-old fillies looks like a strong event. The race is named for 2001 Test Stakes winner Victory Ride.

Check out our Horse Betting page for information on how and where to bet the Victory Ride Stakes online.

#1 Maple Forest (Forestry x Maple Syrple by American Chance) Todd Pletcher trained and Johnny Velazquez ridden filly won like a favorite should last out in a minor stakes at Monmouth Park. Before that she was a well beaten second behind the formidable Pomeroy’s Pistol. She has been pretty good at this distance with 3 wins from 5 starts and she does own a win over the track. Hard to count her out.

#2 Jealous Girl (Petionville x Isla Cozzene by Cozzene) Flopped miserably in the debut, but has done a total 180 since. The lass has won all 4 of her races since then and was an easy winner in all of them, including the Femme Fatale last out. Thsi will be her first try against graded horses, but her sharp figures should make her the favorite. Anthony Dutrow trains and Jeremy Rose is in to ride.

#3 A Z Warrior (Bernardini x Carson Jen by Carson City) Zayat owned filly was an easy winner in the Grade 1 Frizette last year, but has only raced twice since then with losses in the Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies and the Santa Anita Oaks. Bob Baffert is the best shipper in horse racing and a turn back in distance could be just what this filly needs. She is training like a bear too. Expect a good price on a live filly. Martin Garcia is listed to ride.

#4 Oflee Wicked (Offlee Wild x Slews Majesty by Slew City Slew) Looks to be in too deep for trainer Kirana Mclaughlin. Former New Mexico based filly is very light in the speed figure department. Jose Valdivia will be in the irons.

#5 Funny Sunny (Sharp Humor x Sunny Laugh by Relaunch) Talented lass won her debut at Hoosier and then took an allowance by nearly 11 lengths in her third start. Last out she finished second behind the speedy filly Cascadilla Falls in a minor stakes race. Kent Desormeaux is set to ride for Bob Hess.

#6 Hot Summer (Malibu Moon x Summer Delight by Quiet American) David Fawkes trainee was asked to go too far last out in the Black-Eyed Susan where she was a well beaten third. Before that she won the Comely where future Grade 1 winner Her Smile was third. She is 2 for 3 at the distance with her only loss coming in the debut. Cornelio Velasquez picks up the mount for the first time.

#7 Precious Soul (Distorted Humor x Love That Jazz Dixieland Band) Couldn’t have won any easier than she did last out for H Allen Jerkens, a man that knows how to win at Saratoga. The only problem is that race was a non winners of 2 races lifetime event and two back she was beaten nearly 8 lengths by Valiant Passion. It gets worse too. Maple Forest finished over 15 lengths ahead of her three back. Jerkens is a guy you never want to count out, but this filly just looks inferior and has an ice cold jockey in Edgar Prado. They will have to hope that last work in :46 4/5 B means she has moved way up.

#8 Valiant Passion (Lion Heart x Bold American by Quiet American) Both of her wins have been romps at Saratoga. One of those wins was last out in her 2011 unveiling. That was a very bad group, but she won like a good thing. They might be asking a bit too much second off the shelf though. Julien Leparoux will ride for Graham Motion.

#9 Roman Treasure (Roman Ruler x Jeanne Jones by Nijinsky II) She backed off as the pace setter in the Test last out and the Prioress before that. Those were much tougher races and much tougher horses as a result. This class relief will do her some good. Ramon Dominguez will be in the saddle for Michael Husion.

#10 Moon Buzz (Malibu Moon x Buzz Song by Unbridled’s Song) Lass is a perfect 2 for 2, but against much easier competition at Fair Grounds and Hoosier. Runner up in the last returned to win. She’s got talent, but is she good enough? Steve Margolis trains and Shaun Bridgemahon will ride.

For information on how to get our picks for the Victory Ride Stakes as well as the Travers and Pacific Classic click here. Also, please check out our Twitter and Facebook pages.

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Betting the 2011 Ballston Spa Handicap

August 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

The Ballston Spa Handicap was first contested in 1989 and since has risen to Grade 2 status. The 8.5 furlong turf  race is for fillies and mares three years old and upward. Several trainers are tied for the most wins in this race at 2, including Bill Mott. He will try to separate himself as the lone leader this year with Aviate. The most notable winner of this race is One Dreamer who won in 1993. She went on to win the Breeders Cup Distaff the following year.

Let’s take a look at the field. Check out our Horse Betting page for information on how and where to bet the Ballston Spa Handicap online.

Miss Keller (Montjeu x Ingozi by Warning) Mare seems to have gone wrong. She won a Grade 2 last year and was also Grade 1 placed, but since her 9th place finish in the Breeders Cup Filly & Mare she has failed to finish better than fourth. The mare does own a win over the course so that can be viewed as a positive. JJ Castellano will ride for Roger Attfield.

Romacaca (Running Stag x Romaca by Kris S) Impressive mare has won 5 in a row for trainer Nick Canani. I love the way he has slowly moved her up the class ladder. She won the Grade 3 Matchmaker last out at Monmouth in wire to wire fashion and did so with a bit of ease. She stands as good as chance as anyone in this race. Ed “E T” Baird is making the trip to ride.

Daveron (Black Swan x Darwinia by Acatenango) German bred mare has won half of her starts since shipping across the pond. Her last win was her best yet as she took the $200k Dr. James Penny Memorial Handicap at Parx over Gitchie Goomie and an out of form Check The Label. Record of 3 wins from 4 starts at the distance is encouraging. Eddie Castro will ride for Graham Motion and Kentucky Derby winning connections Team Valor International.

Desert Sage (Selkirk x Prairie Flower by Zieten) Good looking filly came to the US in early March and won her first two races at Gulfstream. After that she was second in the Gallorette at Pimlico and off the board in the James K Memorial Handicap. She was rank there and horse players would be wise to draw a line through that race. She will probably have to move up just a tad to win, but don’t put anything past trainer Chad Brown. He’s one of the best in the game. Jose Lezcano is listed to ride.

TwinSpires.com

Mekong Melody (Cape Cross x Nini Princess by Niniski) Mare could be sitting on a big race for trainer Roger Attfield. She hit the gate in the Grade 1 Diana last out, but still closed very well to be fourth behind sharp winner Zagora and runner up Aruna. Before that she was third in the Grade 2 Dance Smartly. Her works are very sharp right now and John Velazquez is getting a leg up. Throw in a cut back in distance she looks live.

Trix in the City (Friend’s Lake x Trix City by Carson City) Would never have figured her for a turf filly given the pedigree, but hey it’s working. She showed good courage winning over the course last out to improve her record to 2 wins from 3 starts on the Saratoga sod. Shaun Bridgemahon will likely be intent on making the lead. Richard Violette is the trainer.

Aviate (Dansili x Emplane by Irish River) Tough filly will try to give trainer Bill Mott his third win in this race. She looked great in her first two US starts when she was third in a Grade 3 at Gulfstream then won the Grade 2 Distaff Turf Mile at Churchill Downs. She failed in her next two starts which were the Just A Game and Diana. The lass had glacial fractions to chase there. Cutting back in distance she should threaten so long as they don’t go so slow up front again. Julien Leparoux will be in the irons.

Strike the Bell (Mizzen Mast x Vesper by Mountain Cat) Showed strong late kick while third going 5.5 over this course last out in a minor stakes event. Ramon Dominguez would be wise to get her closer to the front early on. He might get her to the winners circle if he does. David Donk is the trainer.

Tapitsfly (Tapit x Flying Marlin by Marlin) Breeder’s Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf winner has won just once since then. Trainer Dale Romans has done well with her of late and she was third beaten just a neck in the Mint Julep Handicap two races back. This will be her second try with Robby Albarado since their Breeders Cup triumph together. She won a win over the course and is 2 for 4 at the distance. Plenty to like with this one.

For information on how to get our picks for the Ballston Spa Handicap as well as the Travers and Pacific Classic click here. Also, please check out our Twitter and Facebook pages.

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Travers & Pacific Classic Picks

August 24, 2011 By 6 Comments

So you need help picking the races at Saratoga for the Travers and at Del Mar for the Pacific Classic? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

For the past 3 years I have handicapped almost every race at Saratoga and for the past year I have done the same for Del Mar. I’ve done quite well too. Some of my recent successes are listed below.

There are many more that I have not mentioned. You can check out how our free picks have done by clicking the Free Horse Racing Picks page. At the time of my writing this post picks on that page are 3 winners ($21.40,  $8.20, $7.20) from 7 starters with two second place finishes at big prices.

 

Picks for the Travers at Saratoga will include top picks for the following races as well as spot plays in at least 3 other races on the card. I plan to focus primarily on Win plays as well as both Pick 4′s and the Pick 6. Exacta, trifecta and superfecta plays will be made available for the Travers and other races as I deem necessary.

 

  • Ballston Spa Stakes
  • Victory Ride Stakes
  • Ballerina Stakes
  • King’s Bishop Stakes
  • Travers Stakes
Picks for the Pacific Classic at Del Mar will include top picks for the following races as well as spot plays in at least 3 other races on the card. I plan to focus primarily on Win plays as well as the Pick 4 and the Pick 6. Exacta, trifecta and superfecta plays will be made available for the Pacific Classic and other races as I deem necessary.

 

  • Del Mar Mile (Saturday)
  • Del Mar Handicap
  • Pat O’Brien Stakes
  • Pacific Classic
I’ve got a proven track record in the big races. Why not join along and optimize your chances of winning? You can play with faith knowing  my history and that I will be betting everything I send you myself. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions via email or by leaving a comment on this page. Best of luck and I hope you join us by clicking the “Buy Now” button below!

Saratoga & Del Mar Picks

Even if you don’t join us, be sure to check out my Twitter and Facebook pages. I give numerous free picks throughout the year and in fact all except for two of the examples listed above were available without charge on our website. You can sign up for our RSS feed to have our posts/picks sent directly to your email.

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2011 Bernard Baruch Handicap Preview

August 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

The Grade 2 Bernard Baruch Handicap is for three-year-olds and upward going 9 furlongs on the grass at Saratoga. Notable winners include 1994 victor Lure who twice won the Breeders Cup Mile, Yagli who won the United Nations and Manhattan in the year following his win in this race and 2004 Breeders Cup Mile winner Artie Schiller.

2010 Bernard Baruch winner Get Stormy is back to defend his crown against 10 other horses. Let’s take a look at the field.

#1 Interaction (Easing Along x Inter Rails by Ride The Rails): Globe trotting Argentinian bred didn’t quite have it last out in the Arlington Handicap where he tracked the leader in second, but faded to eighth at the finish. He hasn’t won since leaving his native Argentina in 2009 so it’s hard to see him doing so in this spot. Cornelio Velasquez will ride for trainer Christophe Clement.

#2 Turallure (Wando x Personal Allure by Wekiva Springs): He was compromised by a slow pace last out in the Four Star Dave where he ended up fifth. Before that he won the Opening Verse at Churchill Downs by a length over Tajaweed. The Charles Lopresti trainee could be tough at this distance if he gets some fractions to chase. Julien Leparoux is back aboard. He rode him to victory in the aforementioned Opening Verse.

#3 Paris Vegas (Maria’s Mon by Tell Seattle by AP Indy): Trainer Thomas Voss is a solid horseman, but 0 for 15 at the meet. This horse doesn’t look good enough to get him off the snide.

#4 Beau Choix (Elusive Quality x Belle Cherie by Belong To Me) Well bred colt appears to be figuring things out. Two back he won a minor stakes race at Belmont Park in a good time over Pocket Cowboys. Last out he was third in the Four Star Dave, a race that was pretty much a merry go round. He will have to move forward, but is clearly a threat for trainer Barclay Tagg and rider Jose Lezcano.

#5 Baryshnikov (Empire Maker x Ski Dancer by Baldski) Former claimer has really turned around for trainer Mike Maker. He has fallen short in his last two races at 8 and 8.5 furlongs, but figures to move up at a distance where he posted a career best BRIS figure of 105 in late May. He has ran several races which say he can win here. Corey Lanerie is set to pilot the horse.

TwinSpires.com

#6 Boots Ahead (Storm Boot x Mostbeautifulsound by Miswaki) Hard trying gelding won an optional claimer last out. Before that he was a close third behind Beau Choix and Pocket Cowboys in a minor stakes race. He runs well more often than not, but this will be a big class test for the George Weaver trained Eddie Castro ridden entry.

#7 Blues Street (Street Cry x Capote Blues by Capote) Raced evenly last out in the Fourstardave where he was fifth. He didn’t have much of a shot that day due to slow pace and a vastly superior horse setting that slow pace in the form of Sidney’s Candy. He figures to get a much better pace setup this time and is as good as anyone in the race. Recent efforts where he was second by a nose to Little Mike in a Grade 3 at Gulfstream and a win in an optional claimer at Belmont say he can win this. Kent Desormeaux picks up the mount for Todd Pletcher.

#8 Hymn Book (Arch x Vespers by Known Fact) Shug McGaughey trained gelding was a distant second to one of the best older horses in the land in the Suburban last out, Flat Out. Before that he won the Three Coins Up Stakes over 2009 Wood Memorial winner I Want Revenge. Three of his five lifetime wins have been on the sod and he also owns a win at the distance. He looks like a horse that is improving and that makes him deadly. John Velazquez will be in the irons.

#9 Loup Breton (Anabaa x Louve by Irish River) Grade 2 winner just doesn’t seem to have it anymore. Don’t count him out though. He picks up a hot jockey in JJ Castellano and he does have Pletcher in his corner. The man has been known to turn a horse or two around in the past.

#10 Moryba (Hard Buck x Valetza by Baronius) Bill Mott trained horse was second to Sidney’s Candy last out, but it’s hard to give any credence to that race because they ran 1-2 the entire way and set glacial fractions. He could jump up and run big here, but I’m leaning against. I just don’t think he is good enough.

#11 Get Stormy (Stormy Atlantic x Foolish Gal by Kiri’s Clown) Won the Grade 1 Makers Mark Mile and Woodford Reserve Turf Classic before fading in the Monmouth Stakes last out. He figures to get an easy lead with Ramon Dominguez and for that reason he rates a strong chance to be a repeat winner of this race.

My top pick to win the 2011 Bernard Baruch Handicap is Hymn Book. He will get seven pounds on the favorite and should be tracking close behind him. Look for him to blast off for the win turning for home. To get more Saratoga picks for Friday as well as into the future check out our Saratoga Picks page. Also, please consider playing the race at Twin Spires where new players get a $100 sign up bonus!

Filed Under: Horse Handicapping Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
« Older Posts