CUMULATIVE SARATOGA 2YO MSW TRIPS

As promised, here is a list of most of the 2 year olds that ran at ‘Toga this summer. Admittedly, I’ve missed some horses – but for the most part, this A to Z listing is a good list. Keep in mind there are only notes in advance of racing, so you will not find notes from their most recent start – but I hope this list supports your handicapping moving into the Belmont meet.

Ain’t None Lucky

7-17-19

Race note:  Race was restricted to horses that have sold for $45,000 or less in their most recent sale.  Winner of this race was 2-1* for Joe Sharp that was bet hard. Pletcher FTS was dead on board & up track.  Three horses with experience in this race finished 1^st, 2^nd & 4^th.

Trip Note:  Broke very quick – nearly 1 length better than the entire field.  Was quick enough to make lead, but found herself in a decent pocket trip throughout.  Under a big shove midway in turn and all out drive late in the turn.  Eased around a stopper midway in stretch and well through the lane.  Good trip and good enough run.

6-14-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML.  Actually took OK money given there was a 2-5* in the race.  Every horse with the exception of the favorite was an overlay.  The winner of this race looked like Landaluce and the jock was patting her after they passed the wire. He was giving her all kinds of praise back to the winner’s circle…might be a real good one.

Trip Note:  To her knees from the gate. To make matters worse the outer flow that was moving towards the rail caused her to shuffle.  This was a very bad start. Back to next to last.  Recovered well enough considering and saving ground through the turn. Harder ask midway in turn and eased out a bit for the drive.  All out ask now. Ran OK down the lane.  Not disgraced at all considering the trouble and what was in front of her.

American Song

7-17-19 – Track bias = none, although speed did perform well this day – there were just no surprises & better horses were forward.

Race Note:  Was 10-1 ML.  Winner was 1-1* for Casse that went wire to wire while clear and uncontested throughout.

Trip Note:  Away well.  Clean.  Had a tight pocket while tracking a lonely leader.  Was the rail horse on a 3 across stack.  Gradually lost ground from late turn home.  Switched leads well and not bothered by any throwback.  Don’t see any improvement on the horizon.

6-12-19

Race Note:  Jeremiah had two in here.  This one and another that finished second. Pletcher wins at 3-5*.

Trip Note:  Away best. Hard ridden for speed. Slightly outrun early in turn by outside movers – Pletcher and his stablemate.  At rail through turn and running OK. Nudging. Now an all out shove late in turn and whipping. Eased to 3 path at top of the stretch. Switched leads fine. Driven hard to hold 3^rd spot as top two had run away from her but unable. Eh.

5-9-19

Race Note:  Was 5-2 ML. Received good enough action as Pletcher had a 2-5* entry.  Pletcher entry runs 1-2.

Trip Note:  Away OK. Clean. Hard ridden early.  Was a pretty good pinball entering the far turn but because she was perfectly in between it didn’t destroy her.  Nudged through turn and at rail now. Pretty hard asking late in turn and switched out to 4 path to go around.  Even lane and a touch green.

Another Miracle

7-4-19

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML. Considering there was a hard bet down Pletcher at 1-2* in this race, this was solid action. No horse has run back since this race, although the winner posted a huge speed figure.

Trip Note:  Away OK.  Clean.  Up to contest for lead while 2W.  Up to challenge for lead by midway in turn. Being asked late in turn but rail horse going better.  Hard ask now.  Switched leads well at the top of the stretch and a very good stretch run vs a talented winner that frankly, looked like a 3YO compared to this one (this one not very big – not a big deal). 

Apollo’s Abraxas

6-30-19

Race Note:  Was 30-1 ML.  First race against her own sex.  Field shows as 7 on paper. It finished with 5.

Trip Note:  Away fine. Clean. Good speed early.  Was contesting for the lead when the outside contester and 3-1 2^nd choice bolted & took a stalker with her. This one inherited the lead on a slow pace. Coughed up lead with no resistance at top of stretch. Yuck.  Not with Monopoly money.

Apurate

7-12-19

Race Note:  Was 7-2 ML.  No real action.  Winner was Mott FTS that dueled and held on.  Other speed runs 3^rd.  Six of 8 were FTS. 

Trip Note:  Broke inward and some momentum loss early.  Eased around a foe entering far turn and nice move to get into contention while in between.  Stayed on for a bit and then faded.  Was a good run considering the start and nice midrace move – and betting to me suggests they had other ideas for him.

Assault Breaker

6-26-19

Race Note:   Second time starter and first time blinkers for Rudy goes wire to wire in a jog.

Trip Note:  Off ½ length slower than the other three.  Nudged early.  Noticeable long strider vs the other 3.  Believe this one is router for sure.  Hard ask and left handed whipping through the turn. Slight pause entering TOS when deciding inside or out.  Opted for rail and claimed place money rather easily while pretty much  shutting it down the last 100+ yards.

Aubrey Tate

7-31-19

Race Note:  Was 7-2 ML.  There was only 1 horse that was bet in here and that was eventual 3-5* that went wire to wire in a jog. Hypothesizing that most of these weren’t firing first time out and pay attention to every 2^nd timer in here – if bet, there was a good chance they were trying for “today.”

Trip Note:  Away OK.  Wasn’t slow from stalls but field broke as one and this one was maybe ¼ of a length slower than the rest.  Outquicked early.  Watched this replay two times from each angle.  Never saw her get jostled and never saw her climbing.  She was at rail down backstretch and on hold.  Pausing at the back entering far turn when two runners in front of her made progress impossible.  Split early in the turn and began making up some ground while easing from the wood.  Running well by late turn and above average stretch, but will likely get overbet due to a trouble line that I simply can’t find.

Barleewon

7-18-19 – track bias = none.

Race Note:  Was 5-2 ML & dead on board.  6-5* for Clemente (who is hot right now) circles from the parking lot & wins easy.  Aside from the winner, 1-2-3 early all stuck around and finished exactly 2-3-4.

Trip Note:  This was a pretty bad trip and totally excused.  Off a touch slow and immediately lost his lane.  About 2 lengths lost considering momentum.  Nudged along through backstretch.  Was running OK and easing wider through the late turn when an inside runner bumped this wide at the top of the stretch, causing him to go 3 paths wider than needed.  Was a bit green down the lane & trying to lugin in spots.  Rider gave up last 100 yards.  Good education and will follow.

Barker Lane

7-31-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML.  There was only 1 horse that was bet in here and that was eventual 3-5* that went wire to wire in a jog. Hypothesizing that most of these weren’t firing first time out and pay attention to every 2^nd timer in here – if bet, there was a good chance they were trying for “today.”

Trip Note:  Away fine. Clean.  Showed average speed while swishing her tail a couple of times early.  Gradually backed up throughout with no apparent excuse.

Basin

6-14-19

Race Note:  Was 3-1 ML and hammered.  Was beat by eventual winner of G3 Sanford on 7-14.

Trip Note:  Was off about 1 length slow. 3-4W down backstretch. Was 3W in turn and gaining a bit in turn.  Eventual winner was right in front of this one and moved to the 3path late in turn to go around top two foes, making this one move the 4 path entering the stretch. Switched leads well and nice stretch run.  Lost bob for the win.

Bella Invasion

8-7-19

Race Note:  Was 30-1 ML.  J. Englehard runs 1-2 with two FTS.

Trip Note:  Was off 2.5 lengths slow.  Showed nothing thereafter.

Bellamy Bigs

7-15-19

Race Note:  6-5* cleared by 3 and had nothing.                

Trip Note:  PP’s say she was off slow.  Not true.  She broke OK and had no speed.  Was hard ridden through lane while losing ground.  Wouldn’t bet with your money.

Beyond Brown

7-24-19 – track bias = none.

Race Note:  Winner was from the Donk barn who was 1 for his last 32 with FTS.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  Had a clear stalk and a good spot throughout while outside.  Pace was on the faster side.  Other speed got away from this one and was even down the lane.  The margin of defeat would have been more but the early leader backed up the last 1/16.

Misc. Note:  Workout reports really liking the work on 8-14, so maybe this one is deserving a pass.

6-22-19

Race Note:  Was 10-1 ML.  Winner of this race came back to get beat a nose in the Stillwater Stakes as a 1-5* favorite. Place horse hasn’t run back. 3^rd place finisher was 1-1* and won by 6 lengths in second start against same class.  Looks like very live heat.

Trip Note:  Away about ½ to 1 length slow.  No real ask early in the turn but running well. Moved around 2 foes while 3-4W in the turn. Easing back to the rail late in the turn.  Changed leads extremely early (midway in the far turn) and now an all out ask at the top of the stretch.  Running well late, almost caught the third place finisher and remarkably galloped out past the winner.  Wow.  Really like this one with added ground.

Beyond Gone

7-18-19

Race Note:  Was 3-1 ML.  McPeek runs 1-2 with two FTS.  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale. 

Trip Note:  Away last but field broke well. Was not a poor start.  At rail and good speed. Dan the Man Can was a touch quicker and jock took hold of this one.  Running well at rail.  On hold through turn and looked loaded.  Good run through out of the turn and into the stretch and looked home.  Deeper closer and barn mate went by this one – but this was a good run. 

Blame the Cake

7-14-19

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML but this trainer almost always an overlay first time out so not a big deal.

Trip Note:  Away average.  Clean.  Good speed early watching a 4 horse contest with plenty of open air in front of this one.  Very good spot early.  Moved up through the turn while in the 2-3 path, moving past the 1^st dueler to back out.  Nice run late in the turn and up to claim lead.  Good run through the lane but run over late by FTS for Servis.  These top two galloped out well.  Good run for a barn that doesn’t typically fire like with FTS. 

Boston Beauties

8-9-19

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML.  Chad had two in here, one winning (second time starter) at 3-1 and another that was a FTS that finished 3^rd.

Trip Note:  Away very well.  Clean.  Big speed to earn a clear stalk.  On hold down backstretch and then an early contest into the far turn.  Up for lead by midway in the turn.  Rider looking confident late in turn and big ask at top of stretch.  Ran well through the lane but no match for winner.  Switched leads a bit later than I’d like but did it athletically with no hiccup.  Ran well enough to split the Chad runners.

Canarsie Angel

8-2-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  Second time starter for Linda Rice that had a troubled debut wins pretty easy. Place and show horses had good trips.

Trip Note:  Slight bobble away from the gate but didn’t hurt.  Decent enough speed early.  Tiny little thing.  Nudged along entering the turn and bigger ask when the turn arrived.  At rail with a ton of open air all around her.  Made up ground as she should have.  Ease out through lane to split and grab up a better placing.  Good trip overall.

Central Capital

7-31-19 – track bias – none.

Race Note:  Wesley Ward FTS cruises up to lead and wins easily after being bet from 3-1 ML to 9-5*.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  Mild pause early causing this one some momentum loss.  After this the trip was even. 

Chimney Rock

6-21-19

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML.  Because of scratches all horses but one were underlays so think betting was actually below average.  Place finisher just came back to win on turf in MSW affair on 7-6.

Trip Note:  Away 1 length slow but clean. Hard ask for speed.  Right up to contest early.  Pace was fast.  Top 2 were 4 clear after ¼. Hard ask late in turn. Green lane.  Never switched leads and lugged inward in lane. When this one began lugging in the jock gave up.  Blinkers seem appropriate.

City Guy

7-6-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1ML. Dead on board.  Winner went wire to wire for Linda Rice colt that was a 2^nd time starter.

Trip Note:  Nothing to note.  Broke 1 length a so slow.  Pace was fast and field very strung out.  Was hard ridden through turn at rail and never caught the rest of the group.  Gallop out was average.  If this one wins you can give the connections a healthy handshake for an amazing “put over.”

Cleon Jones

6-23-19

Race Note:  Was 5-2 ML and one of only two in the race that were underlays. Solid tote action.  Winner and last place finishers were only two to back since raced.  The winner was beat a nose in the Violette Stakes on 7-17 while contesting a fast pace throughout (in a monsoon).

Trip Note:  Boy was this a sneaky, horrendous trip!  Broke inward from the gate. Ridden early from the gate but outquicked b.c of inward break. Has speed.  Was moving well at the rail but ran up on the heels of a stalking foe and had to steady pretty good.  Shuffled some and was a bit green. Pause and then off the rail to follow what was now a wall of four.  3-4W late in turn and eased out to 5-6 path for lane.  Even stretch.  No chance with this trip and the race seems strong given the winner’s recent effort.

Cloudbased

6-21-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML and only horse in the field that was an overlay.

Trip Note:  Away ½ length slow. Hard ask from the get-go and no speed whatsoever. Ridden through the turn and continued to lose ground.  Poor effort but also obvious that sprinting will never be this one’s game.

Cold Hard Cash

7-26-19 – track bias = dominant outside.

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML.  Pace was honest.  FTS for Mott beats 1-1* for Pletcher.  To date, nobody out of this race has run back.

Trip Note:  Was off just a touch slow.  Maybe1 length.  Widest runner down backstretch for the first half and then jock moved in behind.  Seemed to be taking the mud in his face OK.  Shaved a little entering the far turn and then back around by the midway point of the turn.  Was going well enough on no real ask.  Eased 3-4W late in turn and into drive.  Held head towards the stands side throughout the drive.  Had had enough of the mud and refused to switch leads. 

Courageous Girl

7-31-19

Race Note:  There was only 1 horse that was bet in here and that was eventual 3-5* that went wire to wire in a jog. Hypothesizing that most of these weren’t firing first time out and pay attention to every 2^nd timer in here – if bet, there was a good chance they were trying for “today.”

Trip Note:  Was away best from outside post.  Good speed and a nice stalking spot of the favorite who had cleared from the rail.  Field was pretty strung out and pace seemed faster than normal.  Asked to pick up the leader late in far turn but not able.  Bounced around pretty good in the stretch from a couple of closers that were going by here but she stuck in there well enough after the trouble, which was a non-factor in the outcome.  Gradually tired through lane.

Critical Value

8-7-19

Race Note:   Was 6-1 ML.  J. Englehard runs 1-2 with two FTS.

Trip Note:  Was fractious in the gate prior to race and unseated jock.  Was off 2 lengths slow.  Allowed to settle while Saratoga Beauty blasted off to this one’s inside.  Even run early and started moving down backstretch.  To rail.  Big move and through a tight opening at rail to pass a few foes.  Impressive.  Eased out late in turn and huge shot in lane.  Great run. 

Crossing the Moon

7-27-19 – track bias – none.

Race Note:  Three of the 10 starters in here had experience. FTS run 1-2-3.  Maker wins while ceding lead and then going around in the stretch.  Mott 2^nd.  Pletcher 3^rd.  Pace seemed on slower side early and finished strongly.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  Was in OK spot entering the turn and then bumped a bit – causing a wide path through the first turn.  Was about 4-5W throughout turn.  Maintained wider path down backstretch and hard ask entering the far turn.  Around a foe and then back to rail for the 2^nd half of the turn.  Decent drive while being asked for everything.  Was OK.

6-28-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML.  Five horses were bet down from their ML odds in this one and three of them ran 1-2-3.  McPeek almost always under 5% WITH first time starters.  Interesting that he ends up here and not the 4^th race – gotta think you’re gonna into Chad and others and his turf pedigree is questionable at best against this bunch.

Trip Note:  Away very well.  Clean.  Good speed.  On hold while 4W backstretch. Moved 3W into far turn and near lead. Clear shot throughout and outrun from inside and outside runners – behind and in front.  If he wins I’ll lose.  Only excuse could be that he wasn’t ready.

Dan the Man Can

8-1-19

Race Note:  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale.  Winner was shipper from LRL that came from next to last, getting by a Ward filly & first time starter that had led until deep stretch.

Trip Note:  Was away OK.  Bumped soon after the start from the pace setter who lugged out some after the first 70 yards.  Hurt this one’s early a speed a little.  Pace seemed on faster side.  From there this one stalked throughout while 3W.  Was in contention at the top of the stretch but subpar stretch drive, not switching leads until very late (again not until passed) and no punch.

7-18-19

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML.  Track bias: None.  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale.  McPeek runs 1-2 with two first time starters.  Pace was slow and field was very compact entering the far turn.

Trip Note:  Away fine. Hard ask to make the top. Success. Clear a length entering the far turn and only mildly contested through the turn.  Brief spurt at the top of the stretch.  Interestingly this one never switched leads until passed (inside the 1/16 pole).  Will need to improve.

Darken A Day

7-17-19

Race Note:  Was 10-ML but 6 of 12 scratched when race came off turf.  Average action.  Winner was 2^nd time starter for Casse that went wire wire at 1-1*.

Trip Note:  Away OK.  No speed and pace seemed slower than normal.  Back to last. Nudging to keep up.  Was gaining my midway in the turn and looked to have a say while easing 3-4-5W late in turn.  Stalled when the top two really flew home.

Days of Spring

5-23-19

Race Note: Was 4-1 ML.  6-5* for Wesley Ward steadied early from the gate and ran 2^nd the 2-1 second choice was eased.

Trip Note:  Broke just OK.  Was in a tough spot about 1/16 from the gate and slight steady. At rail entering turn. Late in turn was asked to ease out and go around but wasn’t able to quicken.  Was outrun by everyone in race except a leader that was awful and packed it in and another that was eased in turn. Average gallop out.

Decorated Invader

7-13-19

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML.  Pace was a dawdle. Winner was a second time starter for Maker that had a dream trip up the rail.

Trip Note:  Restrained throughout at rail. Pace was slow and slowed even more down the backstretch.  Accordion flow.  Saved every inch until midway in turn.  Plenty of open air in front of this one early in far turn.  Gaining momentum for a wide.  Big run easing 3-4-5-6W by the time they reached the stretch.  Was gaining and passing foes but was slightly lugging in throughout lane.  Good run against the flow the claim 2^nd.

Devils Rendezvous

7-17-19

Race Note:  Was 10-1 ML.  Track bias: None (speed did well this day but no surprises – pay attention).  The 3 horses with racing experience ran 1-2-4 in here.  Pletcher a FTS that was dead on board and off board.

Trip Note:  Was away OK.  Outquicked early and near the back.  Hit with throwback.  Hated it.  Zig zagged briefly and then a significant climbing gate for a few jumps.  Decent run through the turn while saving ground.  Ran well enough through turn.  Looked like she might catch a slice with 1/8 to go but flattened.  Galloped out well enough.  Another that should move up with the surface switch.

Double Down Dare

6-24-19:

Race Note:  Was 10-1 ML.  4-5* for Jason Servis (that finished 4^th) was on hold at rail entering the far turn and jumped something causing a mild shuffle. Also ran green through turn and until late in the stretch also.

Trip Note:  Away best and hard ask for speed. Clear entering far turn. Stalker engaged midway in turn. Nudging became all out shove to maintain lead by the midway point of the turn. Switched leads well and fought hard through the lane while being stuck left handed.  Good enough effort but had big advantage entering the far turn.

Driftwood

7-26-19 – track bias = dominant outside.

Race Note:  Was 10-1 ML.  Pace was honest.  FTS for Mott beats 1-1* for Pletcher.  To date, nobody out of this race has run back.

Trip Note:  Away a touch slow.  About 1 length.  Immediately threw his head in the air and started climbing.  Hated mud and lost ground every jump until far enough back that he wasn’t being hit any more.  Ran well enough from this point home and wasn’t persevered with in the lane.  This trainer rarely hits with a FTS anyway.  Another that’ll likely be happy to find the lawn and gets a Lasix boost.  Interesting.

Drop a Hint

7-31-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  Winner was Chad Brown FTS that was green and won for fun.

Trip Note:  Was away fine.  Clean.  Another who had a clear shot throughout but just wasn’t good enough as winner was much too good for these.  Was likely 3^rd best as place horse got put away early and this one picked up place money while in the clear on outside and chasing winner rather than being put away (as was Hallajoori).

Dustinthewind

7-24-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML.  Donk had two in here, winning with longer price.  Race was originally scheduled for 1 1/16 on the Inner.

Trip Note:  Was off 2 lengths slow.  Not asked for speed – actually reserved.  Simply jogged around the track until the top of the stretch and then a hard ask, being stuck right handed and swerving in badly, almost clipping with inside foe, then stuck left handed a few times.  Driven hard through the lane and really took off.  There is more here.  This one ran well late and actually galloped out near the winner.  Hmmmm.

6-22-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML.  Winner of this race came back to get beat a nose in the Stillwater Stakes as a 1-5* favorite. Place horse hasn’t run back. 3^rd place finisher was 1-1* and won by 6 lengths in second start against same class.  Looks like very live heat.

Trip Note:  Away 2 slow and outward. Zig zagged the first 200 yards. Green.  To rail and reserved while others ran away from this one.  Hard to pick her up on tape.  Asked at top of stretch and was actually ridden through the lane.  I don’t know how much is here, but I’m certain there is more here than what the average horse player will see.  This was strong race and she had no clue what she was doing.  Must improve by a lot – just not sure how much….

E Z for You to Say

6-22-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  Coming out of the same race as Beyond Brown.  Winner of this race came back to get beat a nose in the Stillwater Stakes as a 1-5* favorite. Place horse hasn’t run back. 3^rd place finisher was 1-1* and won by 6 lengths in second start against same class.  Looks like very live heat.

Trip Note: Was away OK and then horse outside of this one pushed her into the rail horse which was the best breaker and ¾ ahead of this one.  Was forced to steady a bit. To rail in turn and foe 1 length ahead of this one and on her outside. Not an ideal spot. Nudged along to get past this foe but wasn’t really able. Even lane and gallop out. She gets a pass based on the start alone but don’t believe she is nearly as good as Beyond Brown.

Enforceable

7-13-19 – track bias – none.

Race Note:   Pace was a dawdle early and then an accordion flow making it even slower.  Winner was a 2^nd time starter for Maker that had a dream trip.  Place and show horses both ran very well.

Trip Note: Away average.  Rated well throughout.  Was mostly in good spots until it came time to run.  Tried to switch out for the drive but was kept in by outside foe.  Moved to the rail and ran fine while inside.  Nobody was making up any ground in lane so couldn’t expect this one to do so give the zig zag in the last ¼ of a dawdle.

5-31-19

Trip Note:  Away clean but last. Maybe 1 length slow. Asked early and making up ground while trying for an in between spot entering the far turn. Success. Asked through turn and late in turn was in a box – 1 foe on the outside and a wall of 3 in front.  Jock shoving and keeping up but not making up ground, this one moved out midstretch and really leveled off nicely.  Feel like this one was just getting warmed up.

Fame to Famous

7-27-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML. 

Trip Note:  leaned back right when the gate opened. Broke last.  To rail by the first turn and saved ground pretty much the entire trip.  Gained lengths and positions down backstretch.  Was in the race by the midway point of stretch and easing around foes but was shuffled by 2 deep closers that put this one in tight, although it didn’t make a difference.  Was always going to run 4^th.  This was an impressive, sustained run for almost the entire race.

Federale

6-7-19

Race Note:  Was 30-1 ML.  Obvious strong race for a maiden to enter.  Was a favoring inside bias this day.

Trip Note:  Broke well. Stalking favorite while a length clear of 3^rd horse early in turn.  Was hard ridden to hold second spot while a 3W foe grinded past this one.  Leader opening up. Pass for 2^nd now, this one landed the golden rail through the lane. Even from there.

Field Pass

6-21-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.

Trip Note:  Broke fine.  Allowed to settle and found a good spot entering the far turn. At rail and 4-5 lengths of open air. Cruising through turn and making up ground with no ask. Asked late turn and perfect slingshot off the rail and easing out and around for stretch drive. Good kick through the lane.  This was a good run but also a very good trip.  Gallop out was average.

First Deputy

8-9-19

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML. Winner was 9-5* for Clemente that likely wasn’t cranked first time out as he won with his other entry.  Pace seemed quick and closers finished 1-2.

Trip Note:  Awa OK. Nudged for speed and had some but pausing early and shuffled, losing a bit of ground and a few positions.  Good run early on backstretch and great trip from here to the wire.  Plenty of open air in front now and got to dive into the far turn.  Saved ground throughout turn and making up ground on field.  Eased out to go around tired front runners late in stretch and lost a bob for the win. 

Flute Maker

6-3-19 – Slight front running bias.

Race Note: Was 5-1 ML.  Pretty good action from a barn that almost never wins with FTS.  Winner was FTS for Dale Romans that came back to run 3^rd in the Ellis Park Juvenile.

Trip Note:  Paused from gate and missed start by 4+ lengths.  Not urged to catch up.  Showed good enough run down backstretch and through the turn.  Eased off of rail late in turn and to the 6 path through the lane.  Good education for one that will likely get better with racing.

Fly Fly Away

7-18-19

Race Note:  Was 3-1 ML.  Tack bias – none.  The real note here is that Clemente had 2 in here, one of them winning and hammered to 6-5*.  Seems like this is the one that was “given” the race. 

Trip Note:  Away with a mild bump. No big deal.  Showed decent speed throughout from outside post. Stuck 4W through turn.  Driven through lane and even but don’t believe they had this one cranked.  Will get some of my money.

Fly So Pretty

6-20-19

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML.  Tough to get a read on the action with the full field.

Trip Note:  Broke very well.  Allowed to relax.  A 4 across eye ball duel early and a 3 across stack were stalking. This one was the outside horse on the 3 across stack. Was 4W entering the far turn and began rallying from the early point in the far turn. Was drifting wider than needed. Eased 4-5-6W into lane. Clear shot down the lane. Didn’t switch leads until inside the 1/16 pole. Top 2 saved ground throughout. Winner was rail stalker on the 3 across stack and place horse was the eye ball dueler on the rail. On ground loss alone this one was best.

Forever Wicked

8-8-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML.  Was fractious in the gate pre-start.  Rider was off this one two times while in the gate before the start of race.

Trip Note:  Broke slowly and hard left. Brushed with gate and ducked in at gap.  Eliminated.

Frosted Rose

6-28-19

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML.  Didn’t think much of this field.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  Bump shortly after start meant next to nothing.  Jump after jump this one was permitted to lose ground with no ask.  Terrible ride from a rider who I usually speak highly of.  Lost touch with the field.   Mild asking early at top of stretch and then harder ask as this one eased wider and wider through the lane.  Was really flying when the race ended and galloped out past everyone.  Talent here.  Just needs to show more speed and blinkers might be the recipe for that.

Funnypointofview

6-23-19

Race Note: Was 9-2 ML.  Winner came back at 6-1 in the 97K Stillwater & was eliminated at the break at 6-1.

Trip Note:  Away OK.  Outquicked early by two outside foes.  This was the one that was just in front of Rewarded last time on her outside (see note below for 6-23).  Ridden along through the turn in a good spot with plenty of open air.  Slight lugin while changing lead early in stretch and decent stretch drive.  Wasn’t losing ground to winner the last 100 yards and believe she wants more ground but not sold on this one yet.

Get Set

6-25-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML.  Bet well.  Winner hasn’t come back yet. Place finisher ran a distant 4^th against a strong group of MSW, the winner of which got beat a nose to G3 Sanford winner.

Trip Note:  Away well. Clean.  Showed very good speed and was just 2 or 2.5 lengths from the lead early.  Fairly hard steady while at rail. Too much to describe but this was an awful trip.  He threw his head in the air and began losing length after length in momentum.  Finally got back up to speed with the rest of the field and ran just fine in the lane.  There is absolutely hidden speed here.  Unsure about switch to turf but more talent here.

Ghost of the Mambo

8-19-19 – track bias – none.

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  All horses were FTS.  Asmussen trainee wins while getting bet right into a Chad Brown 3-2*.  Early pace and finish were both fast.

Trip Note:  Slight leap from gate and off slowly.  Hard to say how much lost b.c no real speed – 4-5 lengths?  Immediately swerved left and in behind field.  Took throwback with no issues.  Clean gate while behind and eating dirt.  Nothing to note from here in. 

Giggle Factory

7-21-19

Race Note:  Was 15-1 ML.  FTS for Wesley Ward backs into field late.

Trip Note:  Away pretty well. Clean.  Clear shot backstretch and earned clear stalk entering far turn. Running well enough late in turn and asked to pick up leader.  Looked like she stalled but only b.c leader spurted away.  She ran evenly in lane while not switching leads.

Good Shabbos

6-1-19

Race Note:  Was bet hard from 7-2 ML and right into a 6-5* Pletcher trainee.

Trip Note:  Broke a touch outward and slightest of bumps. No big deal.  Was in a good spot entering the far turn, stalking the top two while a clear third.  Foe that was in 4^th made a 4W move for the lead at the midway point of the turn and forced this one’s hand. Asked and held spot well. 4 across for lead late in turn. This one and the early mover went past the Pletcher and fought hard down the lane. Was bested late but galloped out well enough. Was a good trip and a good run.

Hai Bobby

6-21-19

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML.  Race against boys.  Second time starter and 1-1* for Casse wears down early leader for win.

Trip Note:  Was away quick with a mild bump from outside foe – no big deal.  Quickly clear.  Fractions made easily and ears forward through the turn.  Breather late in turn and then a spurt to go with oncoming foe to her outside.  Nice fight through the lane.  Impressed.

Hallajoori

7-31-19

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML.  Winner was Chad Brown FTS that was green and won for fun.

Trip Note:  Broke well.  Clean.  Ask and straight to the lead.  Nothing much to see here.  She had some speed – was bumped along in the turn to keep of the stalker – and couldn’t as the winner was much too good for these.  This was a very respectable effort given the speed shown and the winning connections.

Hard Sting

7-6-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  Winner went wire to wire for Linda Rice at 3-1.

Trip Note:  Didn’t brush gate as PP’s suggest but was off 1+ lengths slow and also broke inward – not helping the slower break.  Very STRANGE ride (I’m winking at you).  Was moving fine when outside runner dropped to the rail in front of this one. Could have paused a bit, but paused A TON! ALL THE WAY BACK TO LAST. I’d have been furious had I wagered on this one. On hold in last, losing ground every stride and no ask.  No ask through turn.  Arrived at top of stretch ON HOLD!!  Hit left handed a couple of times and gaining – but then not permitted to gallop out.  What the Ph*(*!  I’m convinced this horse can run.

Imperio D

7-18-19

Race Note:  Was 15-1 ML.  MTO entrant for Clemente wins from the parking lot.  Aside from the winner, 1-2-3 early finished 2-3-4.

Trip Note:  Was away fine.  Earned a good stalking trip with a clear shot throughout on a seemingly slow pace.  Was all in by the midway point of the far turn.  Boxed all the way to the wire but could easily argue that he stuck around b.c of the slow pace.  Will need a huge move up IMO. 

Jen’s Battle

7-24-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Winner was FTS for Donk (who was 1-32 coming into this race).

Trip Note:  Pace seemed a touch on the slower side with 6 runners within 4 lengths of the lead early.  Was mildly contested throughout while at inside.  Spurted away when asked late in turn.  Tired late and backed into winner.  Might be better going shorter.

6-23-19

Race Note:  Was entered for 100K Stillwater Stakes going 6F on dirt on 7-18 but opted for the maiden try going long on grass instead.  Was 4-1ML in her only try (the only significant underlay in the race).  Believe the winner is a good one for state breds.

Trip Note:  Away fine. Clean. Was about 1 ½ to 2 lengths from lead and got dropped on from outside foe. Forced to steady.  Cost her a ton of momentum.  Was nibbled along in the turn and asked pretty good late in the turn while 3W-ish into the lane.  Hard ask in the stretch now with left handed sticks.  Trying to get this one to switch leads – which she did.  Jock made sure she ran 3^rd despite slightly lugging inward in the lane. 

Jewel of Arabia

7-18-19  – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML and only one that was bet into the 1-5*; huge action considering a FTS, drew the rail and vs stakes company.

Trip Note:  Away OK.  Pace was normal for these.  On huge hold for the first 3/8 of a mile while at rail.  Definitely more speed here if wanted.  Green late backstretch.  Remained on hold until the top of the stretch.  Switched leads like a pro and flew home.   Good gallop out in front.  A ton to like here and should be tough favorite.

Just Fly

5-31-19:

Race Note:  Was 9-2 ML

Trip Note:  Away average and a bit clumsy on head on view.  In between spot entering far turn. Rider hard ask to ease outward & move around top ones. No quicken while 3-4W through turn. Flat lane and rider conceded defeat with token whipping.

Justintimeforwine

8-1-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale. 

Trip Note:  Away well.  Good speed to earn a clear stalking position of early leader.  Was gaining late in turn and looked to have a say and then leader rebroke and left this one in her wake.  Taken ride the last 1/8 of a mile and not persevered with. 

7-18-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale.  Was 5-1 ML and bet to 8-5*  Big action for a barn that doesn’t win very often with first timers. Track bias: None.  McPeek runs 1-2 with two first time starters.  Pace was slow and field was very compact entering the far turn.

Trip Note:  Away fine. Clean.  Earned clear stalk by the far turn.  Asked to pick up the leader late in the turn and had no answers.  The leader pulled away from this one and passed by surrounding horses also.  Will need big move up, and not a fan that this one loses one of his favorite riders for a horse that ships in…

6-23-19

Race Note:  Was 10-1 ML. FTS for Clemente goes wire to wire while 4-5* for Jeremiah Englehart is up the track.  Show finisher was impressive and shouldn’t be a maiden for long.

Trip Note:  Away a hair slow – maybe ½ length. Mild shuffle back to last but also didn’t have any speed.  On hold at the back of the pack and at rail. 4-5 lengths from nearest foe. No real ask until late in the turn. Was easing out for a slingshot into the stretch and eased to about the 6 path but no quicken. Rider reversed course and took this one in behind for the stretch drive which was flat. Eh.

Keypit

7-11-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  Be careful with figs on this day. Track started as fast and then it started pouring.  Track became sloppy. 

Trip Note:  Was away pretty well and clean.  Pace for these seemed on the faster side and validated by closers running 1-2.  Allowed to settle in mid-pack early.  Asked to get out of 2^nd gear into far turn but deeper marker went by this one’s outside.  To rail in turn and saving ground.  Never able to pick up duelers in a race that I though backed up.  Will need big move up.

Kiawah Sunset

6-20-19

Race Note:  Was nothing really to note.

Trip Note:  This one had more speed if wanted to but rider basically rated 4-5W throught the entire turn.  Not surprisingly lost valuable ground in turn and grass sprints where speed horses get stuck wide are ALMOST ALWAYS insurmountable.  Was basically even around the track and looked unimpressive but the run was so tough I’d excuse.

King of American

8-1-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1ML.  Pletcher wins with favored FTS that gets claimed.  Closers ran 1-2.

Trip Note:  A small leap at the start and then squeezed.  Totally eliminated.  After momentum loss from the start this one was 10 back after 100 yards.  Finally back on track, this one made a good run through the turn while saving ground.  Caught the next to last horse by the top of the stretch.  Gaining.  Wow.  Veered sharply to the stands side at the 1/16 to go around foes.  Out of time.  Galloped out in front by the clubhouse turn!  Don’t see this as a move up given his race was against opens.  Cautious with low percentage connections, but really, really like this one, especially with the added ground.

Kit Kat Katie

6-30-19

Race Note:  Was 5-2 ML.  Field shows as 7 on paper. It finished with 5.

Trip Note:  Was away OK.  Was gaining on early leaders while not far back when foe that was inside of this one bolted.  Not persevered with.

5-2-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML and bet right into two Wesley Ward horses, one of which won at 8-5*.

Trip Note:  Away average and clean.  To rail and saved ground through turn.  Was gaining but still on hold.  Decent stretch run but no match for the Ward filly.  Average gallop out.  Good education and was clearly well meant.

Kobe

7-26-19 – track bias = dominant outside.

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML.  Pace was honest.  FTS for Mott beats 1-1* for Pletcher.  To date, nobody out of this race has run back.

Trip Note:  A touch antsy in gate pre-race.  Typical of 2YO second time starters.  Away find.  Allowed to settle early.  From rail into a box down backstretch. Foes all around & eventual winner lapped to his outside.  Ran an even race throughout – like a router – and built like a router also.  The only ones to outrun him were the outside runners.  Expecting improvement.

7-14-19

Race Note:  Was 15-1 ML.  No track bias this day.  Stalkers ran 1-2 and deeper closer 3^rd. Winner was 5-2 for Servis.  Favorite was a Mott FTS that was absolutely murdered at the windows and nowhere at finish.  Only one horse had run in here and the rest were FTS.

Trip Note:  Away OK but outquicked early. Reserved at back.  Started running by midway in far turn. Was looking to ease out but couldn’t and ran well enough in stretch while taking some good throwback. Good education for a barn that tends to get better with their young ones with racing.

Kokokomo

5-26-19

Race Note:  Was 3-1 ML. Not a lot of action for a well bred Pletcher.  Winner was a wire to wire and geared down late for Wesley Ward that was bet from 6-1 ML to 2-1.

Trip Note:  Away OK. Slight bump but no big deal.  Outquicked early despite big ask.  At rail in turn and saving every inch.  Not much to see here and gallop out was average.

Kowalski – was entered on turf in a MSW affair at CD on 6-21 but SCR

Race Note: Was 10-1 ML.  This one was murdered at the windows – and for a barn that ALMOST NEVER wins first time out.  Five horses were bet down from their ML odds in this one and three of them ran 1-2-3.

Trip Note:  Was off slowly.  At least 2 lengths.  No real ask early. Was in BTW and a bully, pulling his way through two back markers with ease.  Impressive for the first 1/8 of his racing career.  Gaining into the far turn with zero ask. Caught first flight past the midway point of the far turn and still no ask.  Eased out late in turn. 2-3-4-5-6W for a clear shot in lane.  Flattened mid-stretch but was very, very impressive.  I will be betting.

La Negrita

8-9-19 – track bias – none.

Race Note:  Was 15-1 ML. Chad Brown had two starters in here, running 1^st and 3^rd. Pletcher ran 2^nd.  All horses in here were FTS.

Trip Note:  Away fin. Clean.  Mild shuffle late on backstretch when passed by wider foe.  4W through turn.  Didn’t corner very well.  Longer filly.  Leggy.  Clearly not a sprinter.  “Cautiously handled” through the lane with no ask at all.  This was an “education.”

Leaveuwithasmile

8-9-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  Chad Brown had 2 in here – one winning and the other running 3^rd.  Pletcher runner finished 2^nd was likely best.  Winner had great trip stalking at rail and eased out for the win.

Trip Note:  Was away well and clean.  Some early ask and nice speed, rider not having to work hard for her to make the top.  Clear lead early.  Engaged by eventual place finisher early in the turn.  Dueled turn. Saved ground throughout turn and all out at top of stretch.  When headed her gate noticeably changed and she hated it.  Was green the rest of the way.  She’ll be a blast off as she hates being behind.

Lil Morning Star

7-24-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Winner was FTS for Donk (who was 1-32 coming into this race).

Trip Note:  Was away fine.  Outside of Jen’s Battle and nudged along early.  Gradually lost ground to that one early.  Tiny lil thing.  Faded throughout.

6-20-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML but not bet in consideration of scratches & field size.  Back to open company.

Trip Note:  Away OK. Asked for speeds early. Relaxed well enough early and to rail. Intermittent nibbling in turn while saving ground. No apparent trouble with track.  All out ask at top of stretch, switching leads perfectly.  A no excuse last place finish.

Lord Camden

8-9-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML.  Decent action as winner was Clemente second timer that was bet hard from 4-1 ML to 9-5*.

Trip Note:  Away below average.  Soon after the start this one was in between and forced to pause a little – cost him a couple of lengths on loss of momentum.  3W through turn and beginning to move while asked.  Hard ask late turn and gaining well.  In the stretch this one moved to the 2 path from about the 5-6 path – then back our again nearing the 1/16 pole.  Good stretch while zig-zagging past a couple of tiring foes.  Good debut.

Lotta Ott

7-12-19

Race Note:  Was 3-1 ML and hammered.  Winner was Mott FTS that dueled and held on.  Other speed runs 3^rd.  Six of 8 were FTS.

Trip Note:  Away fine and ridden for speed.  Out-quicked early.  Was behind the speed and eased to the 3 path to stalk.  I big midrace move by Apurate who moved in between strongly moved this one to the 4 path. Stuck 4W through turn.  Ran evenly from here all the way to the wire.  Excused given the ground loss and education, but like the next one more….

Love Me Tomorrow

7-11-19

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML. Pace was on faster side early.  Winner and place finisher were both closers. Place horse was best after steadying away from the gate and a blur in the stretch.

Trip Note: Was away well and straight to lead. Clear & uncontested while a good clip early.  Was engaged by stalker early in the far turn and the pace quickened. Asked to hold off stalker for about ½ mile but not able. Did not switch leads until inside the 1/8.  Big speed always dangerous but needs to finish.

5-30-19

Race Note:  Considering this one was 9-5 ML and there were 2 scratches in the race this one wasn’t bet all that hard for a Wesley Ward FTS.  Winner was 9-2 ML and paid $6.20.

Trip Note:  Was clear just over a length 10 jumps from the gate. Two outside foes caught up quickly and race became a 3-prong duel while 3 lengths clear of fourth runner. At rail. Some mild nudging through the turn but in between runner clearly going better. Was fighting to hold the lead at the top of the stretch but couldn’t match strides with the top 2 which were both apart of the early pace. Switched leads well.  Will need to improve but most of Ward’s runners are ready to go at first ask, so I’d tread lightly here.

Lucky Curlin

7-21-19

Trip Note:  Away fine.  Allowed to settle in midpack.  Was wide entering the far turn and rider began shaving.  Found his was to a good spot late in turn on hold.  Going well.  Looked loaded.  Eased out in the lane for a clear shot.  Top 2 ran away from this one – but absolutely ran like a router.  Looked strong while even throughout.

6-14-19

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML. Some well meant ones in here first time out so not a big deal IMO.

Trip Note:  Was away average but clean. Nudged for some speed but outquicked by top ones early. To rail.  Rail entering the turn and harder ask now.  Was gaining a touch but came to an outside foe that had a length advantage on this one on to his outside – touch to run up in that hole for FTS. Became green for a few jumps. Cost this one about a length.  Ran hard through the lane and wasn’t all that bad.  Believe this one will improve with the outside draw if he gets in.

Macho Boy

7-28-19

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML.  Winner came back to run a good second in the 200K Funny Cide Stakes on 8-23.

Trip Note:  Away well.  Clean.  Good speed early. Pace was honest. Could have made lead but rider opted to cede and was on hold waiting for the outside foe to get lead so he could switch to that one’s outside.  Problem was that another outside runner took that spot, so instead of moving back around 1 horse he had to wait on the second outside foe and was now trying to move around 2 foes while 3W in the turn.  Even stretch.  Feel like this one has much more speed to offer if he wants it.  Worth following.

7-14-19

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML.  Decent action on debut.  No track bias this day.  Stalkers ran 1-2 and deeper closer 3^rd. Winner was 5-2 for Servis.  Favorite was a Mott FTS that was hammered at the windows and nowhere at finish.  Only one horse had run in here and the rest were FTS.

Trip Note: Slightest of brushes away from gate but otherwise broke fine.  Reserved.  Made a nice split in the turn and was rallying.  Eased for a wider run late in the turn and now a clear shot in the lane.  Even from there….but this trainer’s horses usually improve with racing. 

Managing Risk

4-19-19

Race Note:  Was coupled with another Repole runner, 8-5 ML and bet like a no try vs the 2-5* who won easy.

Trip Note:  Slight pause from gate. Immediately hit hard with throwback and despised it, holding his head pretty high until the field got away from him.  This one gets a pass.  Watched on the head on and had “very straight action.”  This race was a clear education.  Will move up, just don’t know how much.

Mazal Eighteen

7-24-19

Race Note: Was 3-1 ML.  Donk had two in here, winning with longer price.  Race was originally scheduled for 1 1/16 on the Inner.

Trip Note:  Was away fine and then bobbled a bit, costing her some momentum.  Good recovery and made up ground at rail position down backstretch.  Made her way to just behind the leader and pause.  Entering the far turn she was started to get ridden pretty hard.  She already seemed tired.  Ridden hard through the turn to keep up while saving ground throughout.  Switched leads well enough but had nothing for the drive.  Got coasted in from about the 1/8 pole. 

Mebs Web

8-21-19

Race Note:  Was 30-1 ML.  3-5* for Clemente lugs out badly late in stretch and gets beat.  Great “tripper” up the rail wins.

Trip Note:  Didn’t steady from the gate but did hesitate and was off 2 lengths slow.  Good enough recovery & not lose a ton a ground from momentum.  Even backstretch and was running OK when the far turn arrived, but was ½ back at rail and had to pause at the turn. Mild shuffle and loss of a position.  Glued to the rail from here in with plenty of open air all around.  Not a terrible run from a barn that never cranks first time out.

Miss Marissa

7-14-19

Misc. Note:  Was entered to run 1 1/16 on grass on 8/11 in a MSW affair but was an AE scratch. Never been a fan of horses that are entered to run with such drastic differences – it’s the like the trainer doesn’t have a plan.

Race note:  Was 4-1 ML.  Place horse came back to the aforementioned MSW race on 8-11 easily with an 80 BSF.  Outside of this one, the field finished exactly 1-2-3-4 – so essentially the one speed that didn’t fire was ‘Marissa.’  

Trip Note:  Was away well and straight to the lead.  Pace seemed like a slow one with field fairly compact.  Field raced in pairs.  Was mildly contested by the favorite and was all in by the far turn. Never switched leads.  Eh.

6-20-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML but the bet down meant nothing as 3 of 6 entered were scratches due to “off turf.”  Winner was 1-1* that went wire to wire.

Trip Note:  Away OK. Asked for speed early and earned stalking spot while being hard asked throughout.  There was no gain on the winner through the lane but was still green and learning. Switched leads midstretch and was lugging inward in spots the last 1/8.   Couldn’t see gallop out from either camera.

Mitzrayim

6-26

Race Note:  Second time starter and first time blinkers for Rudy goes wire to wire in a jog.

Trip Note:  Away well enough.  Clean.  Hard ridden to show speed – not sure how much natural speed is here.  Fought hard to hold spot in BTW through turn with a 3W foe pushing this one.  Tried hard through lane, although never switched leads.  Leader motored away and horse from last also got by this one in the lane.

Mo and Go

7-27-19 – track bias – none.

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  Three of the 10 starters in here had experience. FTS run 1-2-3.  Maker wins while ceding lead and then going around in the stretch.  Mott 2^nd.  Pletcher 3^rd.  Pace seemed on slower side early and finished strongly.

Trip Note:  Hop at start and lost 1-2 lengths.  Keen while in BTW entering first turn.  Ran up on heels and steadying.  Keen some more.  Joel trying over and over to get a stronger grip on the reins.  Was really pulling – Joel is not a weak rider.  Still keen in spots all the way to the far turn.  Allowed back markers to go right by.  No ask while in last through turn and saving ground.  Token ask in lane.  This was a very “interesting” ride after the trouble.  Hmmmmm.

Mo Ready

7-26-19 – track bias = dominant outside.

Race Note:  Was 7-2 ML and bet hard.  Pace was honest.  FTS for Mott beats 1-1* for Pletcher.  To date, nobody out of this race has run back.

Trip Note:  Stumbled from the gate and last away. Not a good start. Big recovery and up to contest lead from the widest of the 3 speeds.  Other speed was in quicksand. First one stopping at far turn – the other all in by midway of the turn on and “E” at the top of the stretch.  Assumed lead but couldn’t hold off the perfect tripping stalker.  Good enough on the gallop out.

5-10-19

Race Note:  Was 2-1 ML. Bet very hard.  Winner of this heat came back to upset in the Violette Stakes on 7-17-19 in a monsoon.  Pace was very fast in here with 3 across dueling while 7-8 clear after ¼ mile.  1-2 runners were deep closers.

Trip Note:  Away OK. Clean. Hustled early. Stuck 3W through turn. A clear shot throughout but almost no chance going so fast and covering the most ground in the race.  Was spent midway through the stretch and not abused with token ride from there.

Mom’s Pass

7-21-19

Race Note:  FTS for Wesley Ward backs into field late.    

Trip Note:  Away OK and then slight pause shortly after start. Big recovery down backstretch. Heading into far turn was in a box and slightly steadied. A few going by this one in turn.  Gets a pass from this race as didn’t get to show her speed and is definitely not the passing type.

6-20-19

Race Note:  Was 3-1 ML.  Tough to get a read on the action with the full field.

Trip Note:  Broke like a rocket and immediately clear easy.  To the rail. Nibbled at early to maintain lead entering far turn. Held rail spot through turn and cut corner well into the stretch. Switched leads right of the turn and good kick for home.  Ran well but believe Fly So Pretty has more upside and maybe even ran better.

Montana Man

8-14-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale.  Was 6-1 ML.

Trip Note:  Was off 1.5 lengths slow.  Nudged to catch up early.  Success.  Went from 7 back to within 3.5 lengths by the early point of the far turn.  Big spend on the gas tanked to get back into the race caused a flat tire by late in the far turn.  Was tired in the lane – never switching leads and a token ride in the stretch.  Excused given the start and recovery.

Morality Clause

7-31-19

Race Note:  Was 7-2 ML.  Winner was Wesley Ward FTS that was bet from 3-1 ML to 9-5 and won in a jog.

Trip Note:  Away very well.  Clean and quick.  Straight to lead and cleared everyone to her inside pretty easily.  Maintained lead and rail until late turn when the eventual winner cruised past this one.  Hung around well enough but this one had a great start with no contest for quite a while and offered no resistance to the winner.  Will be a pass for me.

6-30-19

Race Note:  Field shows as 7 on paper. It finished with 5.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  To rail.  Some nonsense in front of her with a foe bolting and taking another with her – slight steady but in the end this one earned a GREAT spot at the rail while talking leaders.  Saved every inch.  Hunting for a spot to shoot at the top of the stretch.  Stalker on the outside lugged just a touch and gave this one a clear shot.  Earned place money but the filly that won was on cruise control and this one had a dream trip.  Not for me – especially at 7-2 ML.

Morning Gold

7-14-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML.  Trainer is 2-74 with FTS starters going into this.  3^rd place finisher came back to win a MSW at LRL next out going long on grass.  Winner hasn’t come back yet.  He was a Pletcher that stalked throughout, and when the early leader packed it in (was the only speed that didn’t fire) the winner had a huge advantage on the rest.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  Pace was an absolute dawdle.  This was one had a good stalking trip throughout, most of the race racing 3W.  Was green in the lane and has a long strider.  Expecting improvement.

Mr. Everything

6-23-19

Trip Note:  Away just OK. Brief pausing early. Good spot into the first turn at rail and saving ground. Pace was fast with a runoff leader by 7ish and field very strung out.  Out of 1^st turn this one began making up good ground while on hold and could have easily earned the stalking spot but rider tapped on breaks and opted for in between spot. Terrible spot now. Steadied and lost action midway in far turn. Finally out and 3-4W late in turn. Even stretch while never switching leads.  This was a pitiful ride.

Mr. Thrifty

7-21-19

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML. Track bias: None.

Trip Note:  Away fine and good speed.  Stalking a duel between 50-1 bomb on rail and 2-1* and eventual winner.  3W through turn and asked to pick up leaders late in turn.  Looked like he was a stalling a bit, but only b.c leader was getting away.  One closing foe came to this one’s outside at the top of the stretch & he fought him off well despite being beaten for the top spot.  No doubt was tired in the lane but was also sneaky game.  Turf pedigree is less than ideal.

6-25-19:

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML.  Winner of this race was a FTS for Jason Servis that went off at 2-1*. Third place finisher won a MSW going 4.5F next out at Parx, earning a 66 Beyer.

Trip Note:  Was a bit fidgety in the gate. Broke well enough and hard ridden for speed. The outside post cleared the field here.  Immediately after the leader that dove into the turn nicely.  This one was game. Tried hard to get to the eventual winner throughout.  Was gaining when the wire saved the leader.  Solid effort.

Myawaya

7-17-19

Race Note:  Was 5-2 ML, dead on board.  Watch betting today.  Winner of race was the 2-1* for Joe Sharp that was bet hard.  The three with experience in here ran 1^st, 2^nd & 4^th.

Trip Note:  Was away ½ length slow or so.  Hard ridden from the bell.  Big ask to show speed and nice blast late on backstretch while easing to the 4 path to get to the two leaders that were contesting the lead on a normal pace.  Then it happened.  The ‘ol “ask & snatch.”  Man I hate this move.  Jock asked for more speed early and when this one was picking them up Velasquez slammed on the breaks before the far turn arrived.  Almost impossible for a 2YO first timer to figure out what the heck she is supposed to do when she listens to your plea and then you slam on the breaks b.c you don’t want it any more.  3-4W though turn and no chance after rider and horse weren’t on same page. Expecting JV to give a better ride and expecting improvement for sure.

Mylastfirstkiss

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML.  Mott FTS gets hammered from 8-1 ML to 5-2* and wins by a pole with little ask.  Might be a nice one.

Trip Note:  Only 3 horses in this race broke well when the doors opened.  Weird.  This one broke worst & was left by 2-3 lengths. Strait to the rail.  Recovered OK and was keeping pace with the field but was well back. Seemed to handle the throwback well enough but I was expecting to see a rider that had given up and that wasn’t the case here.  Was ridden pretty hard in the lane.  Eh.

My Sacred Place

7-13-19

Horse note:  Looks like a router.  Bigger, longer stride than the others.

Trip Note:  This was a no try.  All riders nibbling and nudging – I mean – it’s a 5F sprint, right?  Not this jock.  Jock comfortable in not asking until late in turn.  Actually was just getting warmed up well past the wire and galloped out in front by midway through the clubhouse turn.  Interesting.

Nikki My Angel

7-20-19

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML.  9-5 while in gate and drifted up.  Took some money. 

Trip Note:  Was away 2 lengths slow.  Last early.  Decent speed to recover some down the backstretch.  At rail through turn when gaining stopped and she began backing up.  Will need big improvement.  Not running against Ohio-breds at Toga.

Ninth of April

8-1-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale. 

Trip Note:  Away fine. Clean.  Was showing good enough speed but a touch keen and tight quarters early.  Mild steady.  Still keen and in tight as the turn was coming – now a hard steady and lost a lot of ground.  There was a trouble line but it was self caused.  This one will need to learn a lot if he’s going to be a factor.  Maybe blinkers off will help.

7-18-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale.  Was 10-1 ML.  McPeek runs 1-2 with two first time starters.  Pace was slow and field was very compact entering the far turn.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  No speed early.  Made contact with the rest of the field going into the far turn. Seemed to be going well enough. Eased around two inside foes for 3-4W trip through the turn.  When it came time to run the entire field left this one behind.  Green stretch.

No Bad Days

7-27-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML.  Dead on board.  3-5* FTS for Assmussen wins.  Only horse in the field with experience runs second.  Pace was fast with hooked duelers that were 5 lengths clear by midway on the far turn.

Trip Note:  Was off about 1 length slow.   Nudged around the track near the rear of the field throughout.  No impact at any point.  So I ask – why TF is Tyler riding back?  Makes no sense.  He’s one of the best grass riders around and he lands here?  Only guessing but the 8-4 move over turf must be a good one – and Zito never tries with FTS anyway.  Sneaky suspicion that this one outruns his odds.

Now Is

8-3-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  3-5* for Ward wins easy while stalking early lead.

Trip Note:  Away OK.  Outquicked early and assumed a closers roll.  Top 2 were 3-4 clear of this one by the midpoint of the far turn.  Moved 3W through the turn and by the early leader in the lane to claim 2^nd.  Don’t know this one’s style, though.  Not a stretch runner and not quick enough to make the top.  Eh.

7-6-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML.  Aside from this one, the winner was the only second time starter in the field and went wire to wire for Linda Rice at 3-1.

Trip Note:  Broke best and clean. Showed very good speed early. Clear stalk by far turn.  By midturn this stalker had 3 lengths on the rest.  Pace was fast and field was strung out.  Hard ask at the top of the stretch.  Leader getting away.  Tired the last 1/16 +.  Overall this was a very good trip.

Our Destiny

5-31-19

Race Note:  Was 15-1 ML.  A bit washy in parade.

Trip Note:  Broke clean and best. Straight to the lead.  Clear.  Running line looks like a duel but it wasn’t – he was just losing ground to stalkers after ¼.  No resistance to others and ridden through lane while tiring. Only excuse could be that he bled or something unforeseen, but otherwise this was a poor effort.

Palace Avenger

7-3-19

Race Note:  Was 7-2 ML and bet hard.  Seven of the nine in here was FTS.  Winner of this one ran a very respectable 4^th in a G2 event on Saturday.

Trip Note:  Away well enough and ridden for speed.  Had what you would think was a good spot early in the turn while stalking a hooked duel while saving ground – but it wasn’t.  Started climbing when hit with throwback. Went from 3 back to 8 back before she stopped losing momentum.  Well don’t to get back into the race – and actually galloped out with the winner who was a deep closer.  This is usually the kind of horse that you’ll find me at the window telling the clerk, “Hit it again. Hit it again. Again. Again.  Again.  Um….yeah….3….no….5 more times.”  Believe this one has hidden speed, too.

Pharoah Cat

7-13-19

Race Note:  Might be a good race as these ran just as fast as G3 horses for the same age and sex in the very next race.  Six of eight in here were FTS.

Trip Note:  Away OK.  Good advance early to be in a forward spot.  Stuck 3-4W throughout turn while stalking.  Faded readily, with no apparent excuse.  Upside is new surface and hopefully not such a strong group. 

6-23-19

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML for a barn that almost never wins first time out.

Trip Note: Away outward and slight bump from the gate. Behind a few foes early. Was showing decent enough speed when an inside foe was very green and dropped his rider.  This one basically got out the caution flag, pausing and then a bit wider than needed.  The riderless horse was now right to this one’s inside. Hard ask to get by the riderless horse while wider than needed but when he couldn’t do it the jock traded the caution flag for a white flag, pausing and allowing the riderless horse any part of the track he wanted.  After that one ran clear of ‘Cat,’ the jock started asked again. Nothing there. Green stretch.  Will likely improve but will need to. 

Positive Power

7-3-19

Race Note:  Was 12-1 ML.  Seven of the nine starters in here were FTS.  Pace was very fast early with hooked duelers that were 3-4 clear of the next.  Closers dominated.

Trip Note:  Broke inward a touch and slightest of steadies. No speed anyway and back to last.  Plenty of open air at back and waiting. Caught pack at the 3/8 pole and was easing out for drive. 3-4-5W into lane.  Stayed behind foes in lane after a very slight lug-in and jock gave up with over 1/8 of a mile to go.  Considering the flow of this race she should have run better – maybe the turf wakes her up – she’ll need it.

Princess Cadey

7-5-19

Race Note: Was 10-1 ML and originally part of two horse entry – the other half scratched.  Bet well enough.  4-5* wins by several while under wraps.

Trip Note:  Away well and clean.  A three prong duel developed right in front of this one.  Was in garden spot entering turn.  Stalked this duel 2 clear of the rest. Saved ground throughout turn and darn near touched rail into stretch saving ground and shooting up rail.  Claimed place money but this was a non-threatening effort and winner put away other speed and helped this one into second spot.  Will not be on my tickets.

Project Whiskey

7-17-19 – track bias – my notes show as no bias but speed did well. No surprises on card though.

Race Note:  Winner was 2-1 for Joe Sharp that was bet very hard.  Pletcher had a FTS in here that was dead on the board and was up track.  Three horses with experience in race – they ran 1-2-4.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  Hard ridden for speed early. Was in a bad spot while in BTW and foes on both sides.  Pausing late backstretch.  Still not a great spot early in turn with foe in front of her and on her outside. Allowed that past and switched to outside.  Starting well at this point.  5W-ish through the second half of turn and nice level through the lane. Switched lead well and good action.  Almost snatched 2^nd and nice gallop out, too.

Proven Strategies

7-27-19

Race Note:  Plenty of vitamins in here.  FTS run 1-2-3 with Maker, Mott and Pletcher claiming the top spots.

Trip Note:  Away like a shot.  Held up early and keen, turning his head towards the infield almost the entire first turn.  The term, “No chance from here,” comes to mind.  On hold backstretch and still a touch a keen.  In a box entering the far turn.  Early move into far turn and up for lead by late turn.  Tried to kick away in lane, but tired now and overrun by the ‘vitamins.’  This one is a sprinter and love on the cutback.

6-29-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML and hammered relative to the rest of the runners and their ML’s.

Trip Note:  Away quick. Holding head high not long after the start – I have no idea why as he was in the clear with no throwback.  Has pretty good speed.  Was nudged along into the far turn while 3W.  Was a bit green at the top of the stretch while being passed.  In BTW in lane and ran find late, but would tread lightly on one like this that had no real reason to so much greenness.

Queen of Shades

6-1-19

Race Note:  Was 5-2 ML.  Wasn’t bet particularly well.

Trip Note:  Broke well.  Took lead into far turn and put other speed (Pletcher at the rail) into a tight spot and forced a pause on that one.  Early in turn was clear by 2 lengths and owned rail.  By late turn this one was caught by a wall of three horses that moved right past her.  She offered no resistance to the move.  Just outside the 1/16 pole she got hit with throwback and became green.  If race was on dirt I’d really dislike this one – but she is quick and the move to the turf might be the right medicine.

Raggedy Annie

7-17-19 – track bias – my notes show as no bias but speed did well. No surprises on card though.

Race Note: Was 15-1 ML.  Winner was 2-1 for Joe Sharp that was bet very hard.  Pletcher had a FTS in here that was dead on the board and was up track.  Three horses with experience in race – they ran 1-2-4.

Trip Note:  No head on view available.  Seemed to break OK.  Ridden away from the gate pretty hard.  Average speed.  Seemed to bump a foe to her inside and both had a bit of trouble but hard to tell.  Stuck 4W through turn and was even all the way around.  Feel like this one needs more ground.

Rewarded

7-11-19

Race Note: Second place finisher was a bleeping blur in the stretch and galloped out a pole in front.

Trip Note:  Broke fine.  In the clear on the outside and showing decent speed.  Was in a good spot with plenty of open air into and early in the far turn.  Was nibbled at for more but no quicken.  Ran even early and faded.  Admitting I was wrong about this one.  Thought she’d run better than this.

6-23-19:  Was 20-1 ML and off at 12-1.

Trip note:  Away fine. Clean.  Showing decent speed from the gate. Slightest of pauses entering turn.  No big deal. Held rail with a ‘lapped on’ foe to her outside and a neck in front of this one.  When the outside runner got about 1 length ahead of this one her stride changed. She hates it down there. Running OK nearing top of stretch and rider looked to switch her out but she’d have had to eat some throwback. Rider changed his mind and stayed at rail, sticking her right handed and demanding a rail rally which never materialized.  This one hates rail and gets an outside draw today. Might be a huge number and think she can outrun her odds and maybe get to an underneath spot in some verticals.

5-30-19

Race Note:  Was dead on the board from 20-1 ML.

Trip Note: Away fine. Clean.  Was showing improved speed and then two outside foes who were a bit quicker began their decent on the leader.  This caused a pretty decent pause which resulted in a few lengths lost to momentum alone. Outside foe blew past this one right after the steady. Nudging through the turn while at the fence and was making up some ground nearing the top of the stretch. Looked to slingshot off the turn but ran into the throwback of the place horse and hated it. Flat from there in. Should move up for sure. Subtle trouble that won’t show up anywhere on paper.

Saint Marco

8-1-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale. 

Trip Note:  Was off 1 length slow and then a touch more from momentum loss.  Allowed to settle early and no ask for a bit.  Some urging early in the turn while 3W and hard urged by midway in turn.  Was easing wider to go around a foe while 4-5W and the one that this one was passing also moved outward, causing this one to head into the 7-8+ path late in turn and into stretch.  Switched leads well.  Hit right handed and green. Slight lug in.  Jock switched sticks and better response, maintaining a straighter course.  Decent run through the lane – but there was some trouble here right from the get-go.

Saratoga Beauty

8-7-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML and destroyed at windows.  J. Englehard runs 1-2 with two FTS.

Trip Note:  Was off 2.5 lengths slow.  Big move to get back into the race while ignoring those all around her. Passing while in between on the backstretch. Impressive.  Stopped in her tracks while in a box entering the far turn.  Shuffled.  Fought valiantly after a ‘no chance trip’ from late in the turn to the 1/8 pole where she finally tired enough and started to lose more ground.  Impressive debut and was obviously well meant.  This one is a bully.

Shandian

8-9-19

Race note:  Winner was 9-5* for Clemente that likely wasn’t cranked first time out as he won with his other entry.  Pace seemed quick and closers finished 1-2.

Trip Note:  Broke well.  Clean.  Earned a clear stalking trip down the backstretch.  Leader was also clear.  Was going along fine and then midway in the far turn this one stopped cornering a bit, allowing the pocket sitter to take his spot.  Was 3W now and asked to accelerate with the top 2.  Ran OK in lane, outfinishing the early leader and the pocket sitter, but no match for the stretch runners.  Late steady meant nothing – was already beat.  Overall this was a good trip and his trouble was self-caused in the turn when lugging.  Not sure how much more is here – but improved speed shown for sure.

7-18-19

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML.  Track bias – none.  MTO entrant & 6-5* for Clemente gets a nice view of the parking lot and wins easy. Aside from the winner, 1-2-3 early finished exactly 2-3-4.  This one was one of only 2 in the race with experience.  The other ran a troubled 3^rd.

Trip Note:  Away best & straight to the lead. On hold and uncontested.  Pace seemed on slower side.  Pretty much had it her own way until late in turn when she was asked to kick on.  Given the trip I would have expected better and believe the one inside of her today is quicker.

6-21-19

Race Note:  ML meaningless as this race came off turf.  Winner was 1-1* from Mark Casse barn.

Trip Note:  Away well enough. In between early. Not the best spot through the turn and pretty wide at the midway point of the turn. Pretty decent kick into the stretch. Didn’t switch leads until midway in stretch and tired late while in between.  Could have easily run third and in my opinion was 3^rd best.

Single Verse

7-17-19 – Track bias = none, although speed did perform well this day – there were just no surprises & better horses were forward.

Race Note:  Was 6-1 ML. Winner was 1-1* for Casse that went wire to wire while clear and uncontested throughout.

Trip Note:  Away well.  Clean.  Was the between runner in a 3 across stack that chased wire to wire winner.  Earned clear stalk by the midway point of the far turn.  Tested leader late in turn but leader spurted away.  This was a good debut considering in BTW spot and shot at eventual winner.

Sir Ludlow

7-28-19

Race Note:  Was 12-11 ML. Winner came back to run a good second in the 200K Funny Cide Stakes on 8-23.

Trip Note:  Outrun throughout. No notable excuses.

Sign of the Times

6-22-19

Race Note:  Was 9-2 ML and bet OK given winner and his tote action.  Maker trainee, who was bet to 1-1* in his only other try, wins at 4-5*. Maker on a tear lately at every track.  1-2-3-4 early in this race finished 1-2-4-3.

Trip Note:  Away about 1 length slow. Allowed to run on his own into the 1^st turn. Was 3-2W through 1^st.  Moved to rail down the backstretch and an accordion flow (pace began slowing) hit him.  With two in front of him and an outside foe him hemmed in, she began pausing.  At rail into far turn and now pace picking back up. Eased off rail moving 2-3-4W late in turn for a clear shot in the lane.  They ran away from her in stretch.  Winner might be a good one and top top two in this race had nice gallop outs – this one had average gallop out.

Sister Beauty

7-31-19

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML.  Track bias: None.  Winner was FTS that went 3-5* for J. Englehart in a jog.  Every other horse was an overlay.  If anyone out of this race gets bet – pay attention – likely b.c they were a no try first time out.

Trip Note:  Away OK and ridden for speed.  Just wasn’t quick enough and forced to pause out of in BTW spot.  Slight steady and loss of a couple of lengths.  HATED THROWBACK and immediately started climbing.  Jock moved her to a very wide position from this point.  Was probably 8W on backstretch and 6W through turn.  Pretty decent stretch run after this ground loss and hatred of the surface.  Gets a pass for sure and worth following.

Smite

8-1-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Race restricted to horses that sold for $45,000 or less at their most recent sale.  Was 9-2 ML.  Shipper from LRL runs past a Wesley Ward FTS late.

Trip Note:  Away well. Clean.  Decent enough speed early until outside foe crossed in front of this one.  A touch intimidated and mild shuffle.  Stuck 3W entering the turn and 4W throughout turn.  Was gaining a bit through the lane when deep closer passed this one.  Intimidated again and now in between in late stages.  Good gallop out.  This one was clearly learning.

Smokin Hot Kiss

7-31-19

Race Note:  Was 15-1 ML.  There was only 1 horse that was bet in here and that was eventual 3-5* that went wire to wire in a jog. Hypothesizing that most of these weren’t firing first time out and pay attention to every 2^nd timer in here – if bet, there was a good chance they were trying for “today.”

Trip Note:  Was away OK. Slightest of hind quarter bumps from inside foe early but it didn’t hurt her.  One eighth into the race she threw her head in the air and started climbing.  Clearly unhappy.  Back up from there.  Rider bumped along until top of the stretch and then started riding to see if he had anything under him but she didn’t accelerate.  Excused b.c of hatred of track – but rider testing her in lane for a bit wasn’t encouraging. Not for me.

Speed Talks

7-25-19

Race Notes:  Was only a 4 race card.  Rudy had two FTS in here and they ran 1-2.  Only one horse in the race with experience was a Ward filly who ran 3^rd.  Was 10-1 ML.

Trip Notes:  Very slight leap at the start cost this one b.c she was outquicked early but has some speed.  Advance well down the backstretch but stuck 4W throughout the turn.  Green when switching leads but rider conceded defeat and she absolutely coasted in the last 1/8, maybe more.  Like this one if she can withstand the move to MSW, but at least the hike is a ‘restricted’ one.

Stone Guitar

8-9-19

Race Note: Was 15-1 ML.  No action for a barn that tends to get better with racing.

Trip Note:  Away fine and some good zip early.  Was stuck 3-4W throughout turn while being nudged intermittently for more.  Switched leads well but swarmed in but surrounding foes while holding his head a touch high during a fading stretch.  Not persevered with the last 1/16.  Based on this one’s gate I believe this one needs the lead for his best.

Strongerthanuknow

6-23-19

Race Note:  Was entered the day before but opted for this spot.  Was 5-2 ML.  Maker wins with wire to wire winner.  Maker been hot at every track of late.

Trip Note: Away last but just ½ length slow. Took off for lead.  Hooked up with eventual winner from the bell.  Hooked 4-5 clear by midway in turn.  Switched leads well and simply tired in the lane.  Token ride the last 100 yards.  Was easily second best.

Stunning Munnings

6-27-19

Race Note:  Was 5-2 ML.  Bet well.  Winner was a 2^nd time starter shows improved speed and wins easy. 

Trip Note:  Away OK. Clean.  Was 4W on a 4 across duel into the turn.  Dueled throughout and a clear shot at every pole. Simply outrun by another dueler that was in BTW and head to head with this one early.  I’ll be looking for one of the first time starters.

Surprise Arrival

8-15-19

Race Note:  Was 10-1 ML.  Raced against OPENS.  Seven of the 10 horses were FTS.  Brad Cox wins.  Aside from early leader that caved badly, speed dominated the race.

Trip Note:  Leapt from gate and when she came down she bobbled a bit. Bad start but surprisingly she wasn’t far back.  This one is an athlete.  Was running fine down the backstretch and working to hold her spot when the turn came.  Pushed inward by outside foe and came very close to rail.  Shuffled and lost 3 positions.  Rider gave up from here, actually looking back to see where he could stay out of the way for others.  Didn’t switch leads until late in the stretch but was one of those that looked OK not switching.  Expecting big improvement and will be betting my own money.

Sweet Kisses

6-12-19

Race Note:  Was 8-5 ML and betting was a bit below average.  Winner was a Pletcher that was 1-1 ML, bet to 3-5* and then won easily.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  Ridden for speed and earned lead early in turn.  Favorite was right on top of this one.  These top two were contesting throughout. Late in the turn this one switched leads early when she was headed.  She fought through the lane and then horse, not jock, shut herself down when she was passed at the exactly the 1/8 pole.  She hates being inside and she doesn’t like getting passed – both positive signs when you draw the outside post.  Expecting better.

Sweet Melania

6-1-19

Race Note:  Was 6-5 ML favorite. Place horse bet from 7-2 to 7-5.

Trip Note:  Away best from the rail. Asked hard for speed. Filly just to her outside was a touch quicker. When turn arrived she was ½ length behind and tapped on breaks a touch, then immediately eased out to go around that one. Two other foes were moving now and it was a race to hold her spot. Success.  4 across now into the stretch. Was outrun by the top 2 late. Average gallop out.

Talk You Out of It

7-3-19

Misc. Note:  Was entered for a 5.5F turf sprint on 7-31 but was an AE scratch.

Race Note:  Was 4-1 ML.  Seven of the nine starters in here were FTS.  Pace was very fast early with hooked duelers that were 3-4 clear of the next.  Closers dominated, running 1-2-3-4.

Trip Note:  Mild bump away from the gate. No big deal.  Slight pause when entering the far turn when beat to the punch – again, no big deal.  Was 3-4W through the turn.  Was moving well enough late in turn but others but she should have been given the flow.  She’s the ML favorite and I’m playing against.  Won’t be using her on top.

Tapizearance

7-18-19 – Track bias = none.

Race Note:  Was 8-1 ML.  Winner of this race was a MTO entrant for Clemente that circled from the parking lot to win.  Pace was slow and winner aside, 1-2-3 early finished 2-3-4 exactly.

Trip Note:  This one is interesting.  Was totally eliminated at the start – this is the obvious part.  From the head one this one’s action is very, very good early.  Good enough run through the turn…but the stretch drive is what makes me think there is more here.  The jock threatened this one with the stick and “fake whipped” him two times after he gave up.  It was weird.  I don’t know why he did this – I’ve never seen it before.  This was either a, “Look at me I’m trying” move, or there was something else going on like, “I’m gonna smack ya – keep running….”  But then the jock felt bad and didn’t want to hit him because he was already well beaten.  Curious to see how he runs.

Three Technique

6-14-19

Race Note:  Was 5-2 ML.  Despite 2 scratches this one comfortably received the most action.  Winner went wire to wire on a dawdling pace.

Trip Note:  Broke well. Clean.  No speed and regulated to last early.  Waited at the back and eased 2-3-4W late in turn for the drive. Lugged in a touch at top of stretch.  When this one switched leads he ran home nicely.  A good run given the pace but will need to show more speed.

True Grace

8-23-19

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML.  Was bet well enough.  Winner was a FTS for Terranova that was destroyed at the windows (from 6-1 ML to 2-1*) 

Trip Note: Break was average and with majority of field.  Ridden for speed.  Just wasn’t quick enough.  Settled at rail backstretch.  Was running fine and shuffled into far turn, losing ground and two positions.  Not good and back to last now.  Ran well through the turn, Rosario allowing him to get moving on mostly his own courage.  Not tipped out into stretch.  Kept in behind and driven through the lane.   Good stretch run and looked like an education.  Galloped out with top 2.  Underrated performance for sure.

Tulanian

7-31-19

Race Note:  Was 7-2 ML.  Chad Brown FTS wins at 5-2.  Place horse was only horse with experience & show finisher was clear early and held for 3^rd. 

Trip Note:  Broke inward from start.  Was behind at 1 path early with some open air, but after the 1st 100 yards or so she began to get hit with throwback.  Absolutely hated it.  Immediately started to lose significant ground while consistent hard shoulder asks.  Moved to outside to get away from heavy dirt.  Moved fine through the turn while wide and entered the top of the stretch very wide.  Jock gave up through the lane while drifting even wider.  Like this one a bit.  Was bet right into Chad Brown firster and expecting huge improvement. Love these “Skittles” on grass.

Turbo Drive

7-18-19 – track bias = none.

Race Note:  7-2 ML and dead on board.  Track bias – none.  MTO entrant & 6-5* for Clemente gets a nice view of the parking lot and wins easy.  Aside from the winner, 1-2-3 early finished exactly 2-3-4.  This one was one of only 2 in the race with experience.

Trip Note:  Stumbled terribly at start. To her knees.  Amazing recovery to show very good speed.  Was making a run for the lead when an outside foe dropped on her. Pause.  Now moving to go around.  An outside mover put this one in a bit of a tough spot while finding her way to stalk the leader. Decided to stay in.  Was moving well enough in the turn and looked to have a say.  Switched leads well and in tight spot for the first half of the stretch. Tried hard. 

6-21-19

Race Note:  ML meaningless as this race came off turf.  Winner was 1-1* from Mark Casse barn.

Trip Note:  Away best and clean. Hard ridden for speed.  Outrun for lead but a joint second at the rail in turn.  Saving ground.  Ridden to earn a clear second. Success but winner getting away. Was tired in the lane and token ride from the 1/8 pole.

5-31-19

Race Note:  Was 5-1 ML. Bet well.  Pletcher horse bet hard to 6-5* and runs third.

Trip Note:  Away a touch slow. Maybe 1 length. Took off for lead. Stuck 3 wide through the turn and contesting lead. Hard ask late in turn to put away other speed. Perfect tripper that was behind this 3 prong duel eased around these 3 and won easy but this one ran very well after a touch slow early, being stuck 3 wide and being the best of the speed.

Violent Point

6-22-19

Race Note:  Was 7-2 ML and bet solidly.  Won’t find many state brad maiden races that were faster than this one.

Trip Note:  Away well. Clean. Ask and good speed.  Earned a stalking position through the turn while chasing the rail horse who was quicker and the eventual wire to wire winner.  Token ride the last 1/8 as this one had her heart broken and gave in.  While she was well beaten, she showed good early speed and the top two here were visually impressive. 

Wicked Amber

7-31-19

Race Note:  Race was restricted to horses that have sold for $45,000 or less in their most recent sale.  Was 30-1 ML.  Ward FTS was bet hard and won for fun.

Trip Note:  Broke fine.  Was in the clear, bumped along throughout, and had zip.

7-25-19

Race Note:  Was 20-1 ML.  Rudy had 2 in here, running 1-2 and winning with bigger price. Race card was only 4 races as a monsoon rolled through. Be careful with figs.

Trip Note:  Was away OK and clean.  Watched head on before turn and this one with very “sound action.”  Ran OK through the turn without any real ask.  Wider than needed through turn and into lane.  Ran on OK.  This was a good education for a filly that should take to turf and move up.  If she gets in she’ll be a huge number and will get a couple bucks from me.

Wicked Title

7-31-19 – track bias – none.

Race Note:  Was 15-1 ML. Wesley Ward FTS cruises up to lead and wins easily after being bet from 3-1 ML to 9-5*.

Trip Note:  Away fine.  No ask early and allowed to settle near the back.  In BTW and big steady late on backstretch. No shot after that.  To rail entering far turn.  Hate it down there.  Hit with throwback and more pausing and swishing her tail.  Jock moved her to the 4-5 path through the turn.  Wide throughout turn and not a bad stretch.  More here.

Yankee Empire

6-14-19

Race Note:  Was 7-2 ML.  Even action.  Winner went wire to wire on a dawdling pace.

Trip Note:  Broke last of the quartet and clumsy from the gate. Last the 1^st hundred yards and then big move up the rail.  Ran up on the leader and had to slam on the breaks.  Back two lengths and then back up to the leader in tight quarters again.  Unhappy.  Already made 2 moves and burned gas. Head cocked left late in the turn and still unhappy.  Finally room at TOS after slight pause to move outside of leaders heels.  Finally in the clear but spent.  Considering all the gas burned this one ran fine in the lane.  Plenty of speed here. 

Zyramid

6-8-19

Race Note: Was bet from 2-1 ML down to 2-5* and then was beaten by his barnmate that was 5-1 and recently came back to defeat state breds at EVD in a 75K stake.

Trip Note: Away OK. Clean. Asked for speed early but outquicked by the eventual winner who was guided to the rail.  Was in a tough spot in between while these top 3 were hooked 6-7 clear of the 4^th horse.  Boxed on between these two until mid-stretch until gradually giving way.