Race 1: #1 C F V Bullet (5/2)
This runner is getting several changes in preparation for today’s first race. He finally gets class relief after a mixed bag of results on the Kentucky circuit. He cuts back to six furlongs after several races going two turns, and I think this cutback could help as he’s lacked his punch in the lane as of late. Finally, there should be plenty of pace to flatter his rally, as all five rivals like to be close to the front end.
Race 2: #4 King Anthony (2-1)
King Anthony ran faster in all three races as a two year old than any of his rivals have run in their careers. He hasn’t been seen since last year, but the work tab looks solid, and if he’s improved at all with age then he will be extremely tough to beat. His lack of early speed is the only concern, but fortunately he faces rivals that don’t possess much speed themselves.
Race 3: #5 Richiesonaroll (4-1)
This is a competitive race for only being six runners, I could build a case for pretty much anyone, but settled on #5 Richiesonaroll (4-1) at a square price. I like that he’s drawn towards the outside where he should be able to stalk his speedy rivals while racing in the clear. The 4 year old produced some big numbers at the end of last year, and his most recent effort was an indication that he may be finding that form again.
Race 4: #6 Whatdoyouthinmark (6-1)
Price play in today’s fourth where I’m gambling on the hopes that #6 Whatdoyouthinkmark (6-1) is an extreme example of a need-the-lead type. He romped last summer when he was able to clear the field, earning a huge number in the process. He’s misfired twice since then, both times when he was unable to control the pace. However, the first-time gelding continues to work fast and may have found a field he can outbreak.
Race 5: #1 Dorothy Crowfoot (5/2)
#1 Dorothy Crowfoot (5/2) gets the call in the rematch with favored #5 Beehive (9/5). Dorothy was making just her first start as a three year old and was not disgraced at all when finishing just half a length behind the favorite while racing on a wet track for the first time. The expensive Audible filly should move forward in her second start off the bench and continues to work well for top trainer Larry Rivelli.
Race 6: #1 Dragon Drew (9/2)
Favored #5 Tightrope (7/5) has a race over this course that leaps off the page like a sore thumb. However, looking at his overall form, that race is a huge outlier, and he’s not likely to clear this field that easily. I’m hoping #1 Dragon Drew (9/2) can outbreak that foe at a much more attractive price. He has decent form at Turfway, an abundance of early speed, and a cozy inside draw. Good enough for me to take a chance with a slight upset.
Race 7: #8 Codetowin (9/2)
There should be enough speed signed on in today’s seventh to set it up for the late rally of #8 Codetowin (9/2). This gelding was favored over a sloppy track last time and did well to get up for third despite being against the race flow. He returns at a similar level and it’s encouraging that top rider Centeno bothers to ride him back. He should move forward in his second start off the bench, this time at a much better price.
Race 8: #6 Bakeneko (10-1)
I think the form of #6 Bakeneko (10-1) is a bit dirtied up and we could see an improved effort today. I’m willing to toss his races two and three back when he wanted no part of the dirt, and last time he was in way too tough against allowance foes for his return to the turf. He finally returns to a reasonable level and finds a field that doesn’t possess much speed. I don’t think he’ll be on the lead, but I’m hoping he’ll sit a great trip just a couple lengths off a moderate pace. Upset chance?
Race 9: #2 Kennesaw (4-1)
I’m really hoping this angle is profitable tomorrow because I am taking yet another runner making his second start off the bench in #2 Kennesaw (4-1). He was favored at this level just three weeks ago while being protected, and he didn’t run poorly. He showed tactical speed and made a bid for the lead in the stretch before tiring late. They lose the option to waive the claiming tag today, so I’d imagine he’ll be fully cranked for a big effort in the nightcap.
