AQUEDUCT ANALYSIS – 1/3/2025
RACE 1: 1-5-4
Pace edge in scratch-reduced field goes to #1 BLACK RAIN, who should be able to get loose right from the start. If he can moderate the pace, he’s a serious threat to go the distance as the favorite.
RACE 2: 4-6-3-5
#4 A BOURBON FOR TOBY is the one to beat gets Lasix on the stretchout to two turns for trainer Tom Morley. This colt gets a tepid nod over #6 UNCLE HULKA based on his tactical speed and aggressive pilot. If he can get control early, he’s a serious threat to go all the way at a trip that’s often conducive to speed.
RACE 3: 6-5-4-2
#6 CHIPOTLE ships in for Michael Gorham and appears to be the main speed today. He set the pace last out before weakening and has worked his way into top form of late. The concern is whether he can transfer his Maryland form up to NY, but this is a particularly weak field he’s drawn.
RACE 4: 2-4-6-3
#2 TEMPTING LADY goes 2nd off a claim for trainer Robert Mosco after an underwhelming effort at Parx. She was wide the trip last out and the inside was the place to be that afternoon. If she can save some ground just off the pace her chances will improve and the back form makes her a major player here.
RACE 5: 5-6-7-4
#5 BOLD ENDEAVOR is the one to beat as he looks to rebound from a dull effort in a race from which he was a voided claim. He has tactical speed and should use it to stay within range from the start. The best version of this son of Bernardini would wallop this field, but who knows if that horse exists anymore.
RACE 6: 3-4-6-5
#3 MO RHODES goes first off a claim coming in from Kentucky for trainer Rick Dutrow, Jr. He was taken for 30k and moves up to the 40k level, and at this point in time the dirt racing in the commonwealth is much stronger than what you’ll find around these parts. Thus, this plays out like a positive class move.
RACE 7: 1-6-7-2
#1 NOBLE HUNTSMAN had a tough trip wide on the course last time out and now deserves another shot at a price. The inside draw is no great issue given his running style and you can count on things being solid enough on the front end to set up his late bid. The rider is the only real worry.
RACE 8: 2-5-4-1/1A
#2 R FUNNY BIZNESS made the only real off the pace move last time out when 3rd against lesser foes. She now goes first off a claim by an underrated stable and should be rolling late again today. The pace figures to be modest and that is the only real concern when it comes to this daughter of Fed Biz.
