AQUEDUCT – 11/18/2023
RACE 1: 7-6-2-3
#7 V LO is a first timer by Laoban, whose progeny hit at a 8% clip and the dam here was a 6x winner who banked six figures on the racetrack. She has produced one debut winner and this colt needn’t be much to get serious consideration today. The best of the experienced runners is #6 BIG PRANKSTER, who is a total unknown on dirt.
RACE 2: 1-6-2-4
The maiden win from #1 ENGINEER EMPIRE was undoubtedly good enough to get serious consideration right back. He returns off a lengthy break today but trainer Christophe Clement is 29% with dirt routers off 180+ day breaks ($2.98 ROI). He has the tactical speed to be within range early also and that’s an asset.
RACE 3: 6-3-4-5
The most recent effort from #6 POGI was solid as he stalked a solid pace before weakening late. The weight break today with the bug boy aboard is a positive and his only recent poor runs have either come going long against stakes company or on turf. His ability to lay close to the pace is a major asset as well.
RACE 4: 2-3-5-6
It feels reasonable enough to think that the rail on NY Showcase Day was slow given the excessive rain throughout the day. #2 BONNE CHANCE was inside much of the way, as was #3 AGGELOS THE GREAT, and each are candidates to improve today. They can also both make up significant ground in a race that’s loaded with front end types.
RACE 5: 3-4-8-5
#3 INTEGRATION is a perfect 2-2 and was an impressive winner of the Virginia Derby back in September at Colonial Downs. He returns off a break here as the one to beat against a far weaker field than the one he bested last out in Virginia. The pace should be there to set up his late bid and this son of Quality Road looks to have a world of upside.
RACE 6: 4-10-11-5
The trainer change with #4 DANZIGWITHTHESTARS is a significant one as Rick Dutrow, Jr. is going to move this NY bred up off of Dominick Schettino. He is a late running type who’ll get some pace help going this 9 panel trip. Irad Ortiz, Jr. being aboard certainly doesn’t hurt either, unless it’s the price you’re speaking about.
RACE 7: 7-5-1-6
#7 ASHBURN ALLEY was an impressive debut winner for Kelly Breen and now shows up against tougher for Tom Morley. This barn does well with trainer changes and this daughter of Tapiture drew well on the outside. She should chase the pace and pounce when ready at what will be an attractive price.
RACE 8: 4-12-8-9
The best of the experienced runners in here is #4 POSITIVE CARRY, who ran a bang-up race on debut to be second. She stepped up in class in the Selima at Laurel and went off the favorite despite being a maiden. The drop back down to the maiden ranks in a group loaded with firsters adds to her appeal today.
RACE 9: 11-12-6-4
#11 THIN WHITE DUKE is a strong late player today coming off two dirt races over this strip. He is at his best on turf and should get the pace help he needs in order to make an impact today. His closing kick was more than enough to take the Harvey Pack two back and things should set up even better on the front end this afternoon.
RACE 10: 9-5-4-12
#9 PROUD FOOT goes first off a claim by Rick Dutrow, Jr. who has done well with these types since returning to the game earlier this year. This filly has been in dull form of late but is being protected from the claim box in a sign of confidence. Her best races put her in range and the price should be fair, even if short of the 10-1 morning line odds.
