AQUEDUCT – 1/12/2024
RACE 1: 4-2-1-5
#4 PICCOLO DIAVOLO is a second time starter who debuted against lesser but ran well enough to deserve a class jump. He should improve with that experience and had to overcome a slow pace in that unveiling. If he can get more involved early, it’ll undoubtedly help his chances today.
RACE 2: 7-1A-3-2
#7 UNION LIGHTS takes a massive class drop second off a claim after facing 35k N3L sellers last time out. He showed speed before fading and now adds blinkers for the underrated barn of Mertkan Kantarmaci. The outside draw is ideal in that he can survey the situation early before committing to a position.
RACE 3: 4-6-1-5
#4 CALLING AN AUDIBLE improved last time out first time on the dirt for trainer Eddie Barker. She is the one to beat today based on that outing as she earned a speed figure that is far better than anything her rivals today have come near. The fact she pulled so hard early makes you more confident she can get the lead today in a race that’s devoid of speed.
RACE 4: 3-5-8-7
#3 DIGITAL goes first off a claim after finishing with interest on the Tapeta at Turfway last time out. He has been in good form for quite some time and knocked heads with solid competition in Kentucky/. If he can stay within range early, as he did two starts back going two turns at Churchill, then he is a serious threat for top honors.
RACE 5: 3-6-5-7
#3 LITTLE LINZEE has elevated her game tremendously in her last two starts, the most recent of which was a runner-up effort against similar foes. This daughter of Honorable Dillon made a decisive move off the far turn to reach the front before being outfinished. She is versatile enough to get more involved early and that only adds to the appeal of what might be the safest pick 5 single.
RACE 6: 5-8-1-3
#5 CHUCK WILLIS was an impressive winner last time out in a race where he was pounded at the windows. He should be involved from the start again today and will be expected to run well based on the improvement shown last out. His 5 thorograph figure is encouraging, and makes him the one to beat on paper.
RACE 7: 6-2-3-5
The early lead in here is likely #6 SWIFTSURE’s for the taking. He was stuck inside last time out against better before tiring late and the rail was not the place to be that afternoon. He is quick enough to get control early in a sprint race and his best efforts from the second half of 2023 were very good.
RACE 8: 4-5-1-3
In a total grab bag to close out the card, #4 CLOUD FOREST gets a tepid nod. He was a non-factor last time out against a better starter allowance field going a mile and now adds distance for Ray Handal. He’s held his form well since being claimed for 40k and has the tactical speed to be in a forward position. That’s a necessity at this 9 furlong trip.
