Check out my Breeders' Cup Sprint video preview for The Runaway Horse.
Sunday, October 27, 2019
Breeders' Cup Juvenile & Juvenile Fillies 2019 Video Preview
Check out my BC Juvenile & Juvenile Fillies video preview for Today's Racing Digest.
Kentucky Oaks 2020 Blog: BC Juvenile Fillies Preview
The Kentucky Oaks points race series for 2020 got started with the Pocahontas (G2) Sept. 14, and was followed by the Chandelier (G1) Sept. 27, and I covered those races on my first Oaks blog Sept. 30. There were two more Oaks preps earlier this month. British Idiom was much the best in the Alcibiades (G1) at Keeneland, and Wicked Whisper controlled the pace in the Frizette (G1) at Belmont Park. The next points race is the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1) at Santa Anita Nov. 1.
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! British Idiom capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Kentucky Oaks 2020 Points Race Recaps
Alcibiades Recap (10-4-19) - Winner: British Idiom ($9.20)
The stalkers dominated this race. 64-1 outside Spitefulness set the pace and Sequin was in chase mode, but neither could stay the distance. British Idiom stalked those two, took over in the lane, and pulled well to to score by 6+ lengths under Javier Castellano. Perfect Alibi followed the winner throughout but could not keep pace with that one while well clear of the rest. Beaten favorite Alandra ran a deceptively good race. She lost all chance with a troubled beginning and was the only closer making any kind of a late run. She was near the back of the pack for the first half-mile, slowly began moving up, and made a long, sustained run to finish a clear 3rd. She went to the front in her debut and was expected to be close to the pace in this race, but had to change tactics after a bad beginning. Gone Glimmering stalked and got past Sequin for 4th, and they were followed by Three D Flag, Spitefulness, How Ironic, Micheline, Western Taffy, and Heir of Light. No doubt British Idiom was best, but Alandra is worth following and is not far behind that one on ability. Perfect Alibi had no excuses. The multiple graded sprint winner was unable to take advantage of her seasoning edge.
Frizette (G1) Recap (10-6-19) - Winner: Wicked Whisper ($7.90)
Wicked Whisper got loose again, and I have no idea how good she is. She did the same thing in her bow. At some point she will be challenged early, and we will learn more when that happens. At this stage, she is a quality one turn filly on the front end, and this was a suspect field. Joel Rosario was able to hustle the eventual winner to a clear advantage early, and she was never seriously threatened. Miss Marissa and Quality Response gave futile chase, and neither looked like strong contenders on numbers. Frank’s Rockette stalked outside and had every chance to make a race of it but was second best again. That’s three straight runner-up efforts in the graded ranks for the Bill Mott trainee, and she does not seem to be getting any better. Maiden Slam Dunk ended up 3rd, and she flattered Alandra if anything. Ice Princess passed tired rivals and was 4th, and my value top choice Daphne Moon stumbled at the start and never got involved. Miss Marissa and Quality Response trailed.
You can read the rest of this blog at The Runaway Horse...
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! British Idiom capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Kentucky Oaks 2020 Points Race Recaps
Alcibiades Recap (10-4-19) - Winner: British Idiom ($9.20)
The stalkers dominated this race. 64-1 outside Spitefulness set the pace and Sequin was in chase mode, but neither could stay the distance. British Idiom stalked those two, took over in the lane, and pulled well to to score by 6+ lengths under Javier Castellano. Perfect Alibi followed the winner throughout but could not keep pace with that one while well clear of the rest. Beaten favorite Alandra ran a deceptively good race. She lost all chance with a troubled beginning and was the only closer making any kind of a late run. She was near the back of the pack for the first half-mile, slowly began moving up, and made a long, sustained run to finish a clear 3rd. She went to the front in her debut and was expected to be close to the pace in this race, but had to change tactics after a bad beginning. Gone Glimmering stalked and got past Sequin for 4th, and they were followed by Three D Flag, Spitefulness, How Ironic, Micheline, Western Taffy, and Heir of Light. No doubt British Idiom was best, but Alandra is worth following and is not far behind that one on ability. Perfect Alibi had no excuses. The multiple graded sprint winner was unable to take advantage of her seasoning edge.
Frizette (G1) Recap (10-6-19) - Winner: Wicked Whisper ($7.90)
Wicked Whisper got loose again, and I have no idea how good she is. She did the same thing in her bow. At some point she will be challenged early, and we will learn more when that happens. At this stage, she is a quality one turn filly on the front end, and this was a suspect field. Joel Rosario was able to hustle the eventual winner to a clear advantage early, and she was never seriously threatened. Miss Marissa and Quality Response gave futile chase, and neither looked like strong contenders on numbers. Frank’s Rockette stalked outside and had every chance to make a race of it but was second best again. That’s three straight runner-up efforts in the graded ranks for the Bill Mott trainee, and she does not seem to be getting any better. Maiden Slam Dunk ended up 3rd, and she flattered Alandra if anything. Ice Princess passed tired rivals and was 4th, and my value top choice Daphne Moon stumbled at the start and never got involved. Miss Marissa and Quality Response trailed.
You can read the rest of this blog at The Runaway Horse...
Santa Anita Park Weekly Report (Oct 18-20)
Santa Anita Recap for Friday (10-18-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners on dirt (8f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker and a last-to-first closer at 5.5 furlongs (rail at 30 feet).
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Castle capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Flavien Prat booted home the late double, and Keith Desormeaux saddled the early double. Abel Cedillo and Doug O’Neill teamed up for two wins.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $100,320, and multiple winning tickets paid $1,339.84 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $213,695 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Oct. 19.
Oct 18 Claims: Race 6 - Carnivorous ($80k, Steve Knapp). Race 7 - Catoca ($35k, Jeff Mullins). Race 8 - Donut Girl ($25k, Matthew Chew), Swirling ($25k, Santos R. Perez).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-18-19
SA 2 GORKY PARK ($4.00), Exacta ($3.00)
Double (races 1-2, $42.40)
SA 3 UNION RIDE ($12.00)
Double (races 2-3, $30.60)
Pick 3 (races 1-3, $64.60)
Double (races 3-4, $37.20)
Pick 3 (races 2-4, $20.75)
SA 5 WIN OFTEN ($9.40)
Double (races 4-5, $13.00)
Pick 3 (races 3-5, $51.30)
SA Early Pick 4 (races 2-5, $118.70)
SA Early Pick 5 (races 1-5, $1,662.80)
Double (races 5-6, $28.40)
Pick 3 (races 4-6, $11.85)
SA 7 Cyrielle/Catoca Exacta ($17.00)
Pick 3 (races 5-7, $50.65)
————--
Santa Anita Recap for Saturday (10-19-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running winners on dirt (8.5f, 6.5f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at one mile, a front runner at one mile, and front runner at 5.5 furlongs, and a presser/stalker at 5.5 furlongs (rail at 20 feet).
Flavien Prat is suddenly on a roll. He followed up a Friday double with a Saturday four-bagger. Exactly what you want to see with the Breeders’ Cup on the horizon. A riding double for apprentice J. C. Diaz Jr.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $110,613, and multiple winning tickets paid $1,737.96 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $239,019 when live racing resumes on Sunday, Oct. 20.
California Flag Handicap Recap (10-19-19) - Winner: Castle ($12.00)
I made Castle my best bet in this race. I love it when sharp barns claim quality runners, and confidently placed them in stakes races like this. Tribalist was the favorite, and he has always preferred Del Mar. Second choice What a View is a router, and both of those runners were a bit long in the tooth. Mark Glatt found the perfect spot for Castle. A not so tough turf sprint stakes race, and kudos to Abel Cedillo for putting him on the lead. He can ride a bit to say the least! He got vital early position on Grinning Tiger, and never let that one pass in a gritty neck victory. Those two dominated throughout and King Abner nipped What a View for the show. Tribalist was next, followed by My Friend Emma and Portando.
Oct 19 Claims: None.
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-19-19
SA 1 WARRIOR’S MOON ($4.60)
Double (races 1-2, $25.80)
SA 3 Boogalute/Break Away Gray Exacta ($4.80), Trifecta ($7.40)
Pick 3 (races 1-3, $14.45)
SA 5 CLAIM OF PASSION ($4.00)
SA 6 CASTLE (SA Best Bet #2, $12.00)
Double (races 5-6, $25.00)
SA 8 BLUE SKY BABY ($9.20)
BEL 4 GUCCI FACTOR ($5.70), Exacta ($8.60)
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Santa Anita Recap for Sunday (10-20-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running winners on dirt (6.5f, 8f). The winning turf course running styles were two stalkers at one mile, a stalker at 5.5 furlongs, and a dueling front runner at one mile (rail at 30 feet).
Two more wins for red hot rider Flavien Prat. He rode eight winners this week (two on Friday and four on Saturday).
The Rainbow 6 pool was $141,231, and multiple winning tickets paid $5,803.72 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $271,355 when live racing resumes on Thursday, Oct. 24.
Sunny Slope Stakes Recap (10-20-19) - Winner: Fore Left ($6.20)
How in the world did Bob Baffert second timer Mo Hawk get bet down to less than even money in this 4-horse field? His winning Los AI debut was slow, and he was meeting Doug O’Neill’s stakes winner Fore Left. I thought Fore Left was just about a slam dunk in this spot, and he scooted straight to the front and was never headed in a neck victory. O’Neill’s other runner Strongconstitution was the second most likely winner in this race, and he chased the pace after a less than perfect start, and he was well clear of the rest in a solid runner-up effort. Not bad for his second start and first on dirt. Zimba Warrior gained 3rd late and Mo Hawk stalked the speed and had nothing left in the drive.
Oct 20 Claims: None.
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-19-19
SA 5 FORE LEFT ($6.20), Exacta ($10.50)
Double (races 4-5, $18.20)
Pick 3 (races 3-5, $28.50)
SA EARLY PICK 4 (races 2-5, $91.60)
Article by Jarrod Horak
Please visit The Runaway Horse Sales page to purchase our daily Santa Anita Park and Breeders' Cup picks.
Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners on dirt (8f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker and a last-to-first closer at 5.5 furlongs (rail at 30 feet).
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Castle capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Flavien Prat booted home the late double, and Keith Desormeaux saddled the early double. Abel Cedillo and Doug O’Neill teamed up for two wins.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $100,320, and multiple winning tickets paid $1,339.84 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $213,695 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Oct. 19.
Oct 18 Claims: Race 6 - Carnivorous ($80k, Steve Knapp). Race 7 - Catoca ($35k, Jeff Mullins). Race 8 - Donut Girl ($25k, Matthew Chew), Swirling ($25k, Santos R. Perez).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-18-19
SA 2 GORKY PARK ($4.00), Exacta ($3.00)
Double (races 1-2, $42.40)
SA 3 UNION RIDE ($12.00)
Double (races 2-3, $30.60)
Pick 3 (races 1-3, $64.60)
Double (races 3-4, $37.20)
Pick 3 (races 2-4, $20.75)
SA 5 WIN OFTEN ($9.40)
Double (races 4-5, $13.00)
Pick 3 (races 3-5, $51.30)
SA Early Pick 4 (races 2-5, $118.70)
SA Early Pick 5 (races 1-5, $1,662.80)
Double (races 5-6, $28.40)
Pick 3 (races 4-6, $11.85)
SA 7 Cyrielle/Catoca Exacta ($17.00)
Pick 3 (races 5-7, $50.65)
————--
Santa Anita Recap for Saturday (10-19-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running winners on dirt (8.5f, 6.5f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at one mile, a front runner at one mile, and front runner at 5.5 furlongs, and a presser/stalker at 5.5 furlongs (rail at 20 feet).
Flavien Prat is suddenly on a roll. He followed up a Friday double with a Saturday four-bagger. Exactly what you want to see with the Breeders’ Cup on the horizon. A riding double for apprentice J. C. Diaz Jr.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $110,613, and multiple winning tickets paid $1,737.96 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $239,019 when live racing resumes on Sunday, Oct. 20.
California Flag Handicap Recap (10-19-19) - Winner: Castle ($12.00)
I made Castle my best bet in this race. I love it when sharp barns claim quality runners, and confidently placed them in stakes races like this. Tribalist was the favorite, and he has always preferred Del Mar. Second choice What a View is a router, and both of those runners were a bit long in the tooth. Mark Glatt found the perfect spot for Castle. A not so tough turf sprint stakes race, and kudos to Abel Cedillo for putting him on the lead. He can ride a bit to say the least! He got vital early position on Grinning Tiger, and never let that one pass in a gritty neck victory. Those two dominated throughout and King Abner nipped What a View for the show. Tribalist was next, followed by My Friend Emma and Portando.
Oct 19 Claims: None.
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-19-19
SA 1 WARRIOR’S MOON ($4.60)
Double (races 1-2, $25.80)
SA 3 Boogalute/Break Away Gray Exacta ($4.80), Trifecta ($7.40)
Pick 3 (races 1-3, $14.45)
SA 5 CLAIM OF PASSION ($4.00)
SA 6 CASTLE (SA Best Bet #2, $12.00)
Double (races 5-6, $25.00)
SA 8 BLUE SKY BABY ($9.20)
BEL 4 GUCCI FACTOR ($5.70), Exacta ($8.60)
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Santa Anita Recap for Sunday (10-20-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running winners on dirt (6.5f, 8f). The winning turf course running styles were two stalkers at one mile, a stalker at 5.5 furlongs, and a dueling front runner at one mile (rail at 30 feet).
Two more wins for red hot rider Flavien Prat. He rode eight winners this week (two on Friday and four on Saturday).
The Rainbow 6 pool was $141,231, and multiple winning tickets paid $5,803.72 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $271,355 when live racing resumes on Thursday, Oct. 24.
Sunny Slope Stakes Recap (10-20-19) - Winner: Fore Left ($6.20)
How in the world did Bob Baffert second timer Mo Hawk get bet down to less than even money in this 4-horse field? His winning Los AI debut was slow, and he was meeting Doug O’Neill’s stakes winner Fore Left. I thought Fore Left was just about a slam dunk in this spot, and he scooted straight to the front and was never headed in a neck victory. O’Neill’s other runner Strongconstitution was the second most likely winner in this race, and he chased the pace after a less than perfect start, and he was well clear of the rest in a solid runner-up effort. Not bad for his second start and first on dirt. Zimba Warrior gained 3rd late and Mo Hawk stalked the speed and had nothing left in the drive.
Oct 20 Claims: None.
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-19-19
SA 5 FORE LEFT ($6.20), Exacta ($10.50)
Double (races 4-5, $18.20)
Pick 3 (races 3-5, $28.50)
SA EARLY PICK 4 (races 2-5, $91.60)
Article by Jarrod Horak
Please visit The Runaway Horse Sales page to purchase our daily Santa Anita Park and Breeders' Cup picks.
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile 2019 Video Preview Featuring Omaha Beach
Check out my Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile 2019 video preview below!
Santa Anita Park Weekly Report 2019 (October 10-14)
Santa Anita Recap for Thursday (10-10-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners on dirt (5.5f, 8f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at five panels, and a closer at one mile. (rail at 30 feet).
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Just Grazed Me capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Tyler Baze booted home a pair.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $67,830, and multiple winning tickets paid $18,116.16 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $82,759 when live racing resumes on Friday, Oct. 11.
Oct 10 Claims: Race 2 - I Belong to Becky ($16k, Peter Miller).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-10-19
SA 5 Howbeit/Riding With Dino/Vastly Deep Trifecta (SA Best Bet #1, $17.80)
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Santa Anita Recap for Friday (10-11-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Four front running sprint winners on dirt (6f, 6f, 5.5f, 6f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at one mile, a pace presser at one mile, and an outside presser/stalker at one mile (rail at 30 feet).
Doug O’Neill saddled two dirt sprint winners.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $98,485, and multiple winning tickets paid $9,149.84 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $105,307 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Oct. 12.
Oct 11 Claims: Race 2 - Vegan ($40k, Bill Spawr). Race 5 - Top Brass ($32k, Bob Hess Jr.).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-11-19
SA 2 Vegan/Freedom Ride Exacta ($6.40)
SA 4 Rineshaft/Truest Reward Exacta ($17.20)
SA 6 MOONLIGHT DRIVE (SA Best Bet #1, $10.80)
Double (races 6-7, $151.80)
SA 8 Heathers Gray/Kittyhawk Lass Exacta (SA Best Bet #2, $15.90)
Pick 3 (races 6-8, $84.85)
KEE 9 Oleksandra/Morticia/Girls Know Best Trifecta ($18.40)
You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse
Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners on dirt (5.5f, 8f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at five panels, and a closer at one mile. (rail at 30 feet).
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Just Grazed Me capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Tyler Baze booted home a pair.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $67,830, and multiple winning tickets paid $18,116.16 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $82,759 when live racing resumes on Friday, Oct. 11.
Oct 10 Claims: Race 2 - I Belong to Becky ($16k, Peter Miller).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-10-19
SA 5 Howbeit/Riding With Dino/Vastly Deep Trifecta (SA Best Bet #1, $17.80)
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Santa Anita Recap for Friday (10-11-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Four front running sprint winners on dirt (6f, 6f, 5.5f, 6f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at one mile, a pace presser at one mile, and an outside presser/stalker at one mile (rail at 30 feet).
Doug O’Neill saddled two dirt sprint winners.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $98,485, and multiple winning tickets paid $9,149.84 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $105,307 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Oct. 12.
Oct 11 Claims: Race 2 - Vegan ($40k, Bill Spawr). Race 5 - Top Brass ($32k, Bob Hess Jr.).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-11-19
SA 2 Vegan/Freedom Ride Exacta ($6.40)
SA 4 Rineshaft/Truest Reward Exacta ($17.20)
SA 6 MOONLIGHT DRIVE (SA Best Bet #1, $10.80)
Double (races 6-7, $151.80)
SA 8 Heathers Gray/Kittyhawk Lass Exacta (SA Best Bet #2, $15.90)
Pick 3 (races 6-8, $84.85)
KEE 9 Oleksandra/Morticia/Girls Know Best Trifecta ($18.40)
You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse
Breeders' Cup Distaff 2019 Video Preview Featuring Midnight Bisou
Check out my Breeders' Cup Distaff 2019 video preview below!
Santa Anita Park Weekly Recap (October 3-6)
Santa Anita Recap for Thursday (10-3-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners at 6.5 furlongs on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at 5.5 furlongs, a patient runner at one mile, a two stalkers at one mile (rail at 20 feet).
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Omaha Beach capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Tiago Pereira booted home a pair. Evin Roman and Vann Belvoir teamed up for two wins.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $86,939, and one winning ticket took down the entire jackpot to the tune of $144,893.
Oct 3 Claims: Race 2 - Rattle ($16k, Reed Saldana). Race 3 - Muthhila ($25k, Bill Spawr). Race 5 - Poster Girl ($62.5k, Bill Spawr). Race 7 - Bella Figura ($50k, Alfredo Marquez).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-3-19
SA 3 Avalon Ride/Lucky Stepper Exacta ($208.40)
SA 4 SHEZA FACTOR ($5.20)
Double (races 3-4, $174.00)
Pick 3 (races 2-4, $92.40)
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Santa Anita Recap for Friday (10-4-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners at six furlongs on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at nine furlongs, a front runner at 5.5 furlongs, a front runner at one mile, and a stalker at one mile (rail at 20 feet).
Abel Cedillo won three races. Riding double for Geovanni Franco.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $58,656, and multiple winning tickets paid $305.70 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $13,430 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Oct. 5.
Oct 4 Claims: Race 8 - Combat Zone ($25k, Mark Glatt).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-4-19
SA 1 PAPA TURF ($3.00)
Double (races 1-2, $6.60)
Pick 3 (races 1-3, $7.30)
SA 7 Platinum Equity/Dukes Up Exacta ($5.10)
KEE 8 Engage/Whitmore Exacta ($44.70)
You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse
Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners at 6.5 furlongs on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at 5.5 furlongs, a patient runner at one mile, a two stalkers at one mile (rail at 20 feet).
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Omaha Beach capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Tiago Pereira booted home a pair. Evin Roman and Vann Belvoir teamed up for two wins.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $86,939, and one winning ticket took down the entire jackpot to the tune of $144,893.
Oct 3 Claims: Race 2 - Rattle ($16k, Reed Saldana). Race 3 - Muthhila ($25k, Bill Spawr). Race 5 - Poster Girl ($62.5k, Bill Spawr). Race 7 - Bella Figura ($50k, Alfredo Marquez).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-3-19
SA 3 Avalon Ride/Lucky Stepper Exacta ($208.40)
SA 4 SHEZA FACTOR ($5.20)
Double (races 3-4, $174.00)
Pick 3 (races 2-4, $92.40)
————--
Santa Anita Recap for Friday (10-4-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners at six furlongs on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at nine furlongs, a front runner at 5.5 furlongs, a front runner at one mile, and a stalker at one mile (rail at 20 feet).
Abel Cedillo won three races. Riding double for Geovanni Franco.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $58,656, and multiple winning tickets paid $305.70 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $13,430 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Oct. 5.
Oct 4 Claims: Race 8 - Combat Zone ($25k, Mark Glatt).
SA Full Card Highlights for 10-4-19
SA 1 PAPA TURF ($3.00)
Double (races 1-2, $6.60)
Pick 3 (races 1-3, $7.30)
SA 7 Platinum Equity/Dukes Up Exacta ($5.10)
KEE 8 Engage/Whitmore Exacta ($44.70)
You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse
Breeders' Cup Classic 2019 Video Preview Featuring Code of Honor & McKinzie
Check out my Breeders' Cup Classic 2019 video preview below!
Saturday, October 5, 2019
Santa Anita Park 2019 Weekly Recap (Sept 27-29)
Santa Anita Recap for Friday (9-27-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running winners on dirt (6.5f, 6.5f, 8.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at one mile, a patient runner at one mile, an inside stalker at five panels, and a stalker at one mile.
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Mongolian Groom capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
John Velazquez and Bob Baffert teamed up for two grade one wins in the juvenile ranks (Bast, Eight Rings). Phil D’Amato saddled two winners including Pee Wee Reese in the Eddie D Stakes (G3).
Chandelier Stakes (G1) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Bast ($2.40)
It was not easy but overwhelming favorite Bast got the job done, and I thought she ran well. The race shape completely changed after expected front runner Leucothea bobbled at the start and threw the rider. The pace really failed to develop after that, and Comical had a short advantage over Been Studying Her and Bast. There were three dirt routes on the day and this race by far had the slowest fractions (24.92, 49.54, and 1:13.98). Comical almost stole this one, but Bast pressed outside and got by the stubborn early runner to score by a neck. The top two were 3-lengths clear of K P Dreamin, and Been Studying Her was 15+ clear of Buyer’s Remorse. Bast remains my top ranked 2-year-old filly, and she looks like a solid threat in the BC Juvenile Fillies (G1).
Eddie D Stakes (G3) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Pee Wee Reese ($7.00)
Pee Wee Reese loves the Santa Anita turf course, and you have to like his early-pressing versatility. In this local prep for the BC Turf Sprint (G1), he chased inside, got first run, and held off an unlucky Eddie Haskell. The latter was shuffled back a bit from the inside post, and he stormed home from next-to-last to finish a clear 2nd. The top two ran well. Stormy Liberal just held 3rd over late runner Double Touch. Tribalist, Lombo, Boa Nova, and Mr Vargas trailed.
American Pharoah Stakes (G1) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Eight Rings ($4.40)
It looks like we have a solid BC Juvenile (G1) favorite. Eight Rings was so impressive in his debut, but I was not quite sure what we would get from him in this spot after he behaved badly and dumped his rider as the strong favorite in the Del Mar Futurity (G1). His new rider John Velazquez was not playing around in this spot. As soon as the gates opened, he shot straight to the front through fractions of 23.34, 47.06, and 1:11.71. He was clear throughout and the result was never in doubt. He increased his lead throughout and won by 6-lengths over inside stalker American Theorem. Storm the Court was a neck better than Express Train in the battle for 3rd, and they were followed by Shoplifted, Defense Wins, Fore Left, Nucky, and Collusion Illusion (pulled up, walked off). The winner was much the best, and the runner-up ran a quality race. The others never really got involved.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $114,213, and multiple winning tickets paid $2,568.74. There will be a jackpot carryover of $26,146 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Sept. 28.
SA Full Card Highlights for 9-27-19
SA 1 Gate Speed/Zorich Exacta ($8.40), Trifecta ($8.45)
SA 4 CURLIN’S JOURNEY ($8.40), Exacta ($11.10), Trifecta ($15.45)
Double (races 3-4, $30.40)
SA 5 BAST ($2.40)
Double (races 4-5, $11.00)
Pick 3 (races 3-5, $10.05)
SA 6 Pee Wee Reese/Eddie Haskell Exacta ($9.30)
Double (races 5-6, $10.20)
Pick 3 (races 4-6, $12.00)
SA 7 GROUND ATTACK ($21.80), Exacta ($29.70), Trifecta ($63.20)
Double (races 6-7, $75.80)
Pick 3 (races 5-7, $41.45)
SA 8 Eight Rings/American Theorem/Storm the Court Trifecta ($66.00)
Double (races 7-8, $60.00)
Pick 3 (races 6-8, $72.150
————--
Santa Anita Recap for Saturday (9-28-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running winners on dirt (6f, 8f, 6.5f, 9f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at one mile, a stalker at one mile, a stalker at a mile and a quarter, a front runner at a mile and a quarter, and a stalker at 5.5 furlongs.
Hat trick for Abel Cedillo (2 graded wins). Riding double for Flavien Prat. Training double for Richard Mandella, and both winners were 2-year-old first time starters at one mile on turf. Bob Baffert and Doug O’Neill both saddled two winners. Phil D’Amato saddled two graded turf route winners (Cleopatra’s Strike, Mirth).
The Rainbow 6 pool was $143,185, and nobody had all six winners. Multiple winning tickets with five paid $381.96. There will be a jackpot carryover of $58,927 when live racing resumes on Sunday, Sept. 29.
John Henry Turf Championship (G2) Recap (9-28-19) - Winner: Cleopatra’s Strike ($20.60)
Cleopatra’s Strike was playable at 9-1. The consistent gelding with stalking speed looked like a bigger threat to finished 2nd or 3rd, but was definitely worth considering at that price. Acclimate set the pace as expected, but had to go fast from the outside post. He was rolling right along for a mile and a quarter race (22.79, 46.05, and 1:09.75). This was a strung out field, and the three runners behind Acclimate were in a good spot, along with United. Cleopatra’s Strike challenged Acclimate in the stretch, but the front runner was stubborn. In the end, Cleopatra’s Strike got clear by a length, and Acclimate would not let United pass him for the place. Oscar Dominguez, Ritzy A. P., and Grecian Fire were next, followed by Ya Gotta Wanna and The Street Fighter. Good race, and a good ride by Abel Cedillo. I don’t think he is going back to Golden Gate Fields any time soon.
You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse
Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running winners on dirt (6.5f, 6.5f, 8.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at one mile, a patient runner at one mile, an inside stalker at five panels, and a stalker at one mile.
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John Velazquez and Bob Baffert teamed up for two grade one wins in the juvenile ranks (Bast, Eight Rings). Phil D’Amato saddled two winners including Pee Wee Reese in the Eddie D Stakes (G3).
Chandelier Stakes (G1) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Bast ($2.40)
It was not easy but overwhelming favorite Bast got the job done, and I thought she ran well. The race shape completely changed after expected front runner Leucothea bobbled at the start and threw the rider. The pace really failed to develop after that, and Comical had a short advantage over Been Studying Her and Bast. There were three dirt routes on the day and this race by far had the slowest fractions (24.92, 49.54, and 1:13.98). Comical almost stole this one, but Bast pressed outside and got by the stubborn early runner to score by a neck. The top two were 3-lengths clear of K P Dreamin, and Been Studying Her was 15+ clear of Buyer’s Remorse. Bast remains my top ranked 2-year-old filly, and she looks like a solid threat in the BC Juvenile Fillies (G1).
Eddie D Stakes (G3) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Pee Wee Reese ($7.00)
Pee Wee Reese loves the Santa Anita turf course, and you have to like his early-pressing versatility. In this local prep for the BC Turf Sprint (G1), he chased inside, got first run, and held off an unlucky Eddie Haskell. The latter was shuffled back a bit from the inside post, and he stormed home from next-to-last to finish a clear 2nd. The top two ran well. Stormy Liberal just held 3rd over late runner Double Touch. Tribalist, Lombo, Boa Nova, and Mr Vargas trailed.
American Pharoah Stakes (G1) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Eight Rings ($4.40)
It looks like we have a solid BC Juvenile (G1) favorite. Eight Rings was so impressive in his debut, but I was not quite sure what we would get from him in this spot after he behaved badly and dumped his rider as the strong favorite in the Del Mar Futurity (G1). His new rider John Velazquez was not playing around in this spot. As soon as the gates opened, he shot straight to the front through fractions of 23.34, 47.06, and 1:11.71. He was clear throughout and the result was never in doubt. He increased his lead throughout and won by 6-lengths over inside stalker American Theorem. Storm the Court was a neck better than Express Train in the battle for 3rd, and they were followed by Shoplifted, Defense Wins, Fore Left, Nucky, and Collusion Illusion (pulled up, walked off). The winner was much the best, and the runner-up ran a quality race. The others never really got involved.
The Rainbow 6 pool was $114,213, and multiple winning tickets paid $2,568.74. There will be a jackpot carryover of $26,146 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Sept. 28.
SA Full Card Highlights for 9-27-19
SA 1 Gate Speed/Zorich Exacta ($8.40), Trifecta ($8.45)
SA 4 CURLIN’S JOURNEY ($8.40), Exacta ($11.10), Trifecta ($15.45)
Double (races 3-4, $30.40)
SA 5 BAST ($2.40)
Double (races 4-5, $11.00)
Pick 3 (races 3-5, $10.05)
SA 6 Pee Wee Reese/Eddie Haskell Exacta ($9.30)
Double (races 5-6, $10.20)
Pick 3 (races 4-6, $12.00)
SA 7 GROUND ATTACK ($21.80), Exacta ($29.70), Trifecta ($63.20)
Double (races 6-7, $75.80)
Pick 3 (races 5-7, $41.45)
SA 8 Eight Rings/American Theorem/Storm the Court Trifecta ($66.00)
Double (races 7-8, $60.00)
Pick 3 (races 6-8, $72.150
————--
Santa Anita Recap for Saturday (9-28-19)
Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running winners on dirt (6f, 8f, 6.5f, 9f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at one mile, a stalker at one mile, a stalker at a mile and a quarter, a front runner at a mile and a quarter, and a stalker at 5.5 furlongs.
Hat trick for Abel Cedillo (2 graded wins). Riding double for Flavien Prat. Training double for Richard Mandella, and both winners were 2-year-old first time starters at one mile on turf. Bob Baffert and Doug O’Neill both saddled two winners. Phil D’Amato saddled two graded turf route winners (Cleopatra’s Strike, Mirth).
The Rainbow 6 pool was $143,185, and nobody had all six winners. Multiple winning tickets with five paid $381.96. There will be a jackpot carryover of $58,927 when live racing resumes on Sunday, Sept. 29.
John Henry Turf Championship (G2) Recap (9-28-19) - Winner: Cleopatra’s Strike ($20.60)
Cleopatra’s Strike was playable at 9-1. The consistent gelding with stalking speed looked like a bigger threat to finished 2nd or 3rd, but was definitely worth considering at that price. Acclimate set the pace as expected, but had to go fast from the outside post. He was rolling right along for a mile and a quarter race (22.79, 46.05, and 1:09.75). This was a strung out field, and the three runners behind Acclimate were in a good spot, along with United. Cleopatra’s Strike challenged Acclimate in the stretch, but the front runner was stubborn. In the end, Cleopatra’s Strike got clear by a length, and Acclimate would not let United pass him for the place. Oscar Dominguez, Ritzy A. P., and Grecian Fire were next, followed by Ya Gotta Wanna and The Street Fighter. Good race, and a good ride by Abel Cedillo. I don’t think he is going back to Golden Gate Fields any time soon.
You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse
Dr. Atlas: Champagne Stakes 2019 Picks: Gozilla, Alpha Sixty Six, Tiz the Law, Green Light Go
Belmont Park (10/5/2019)
Race 10: Gr. I Champagne Stakes (8F on Dirt, $500,000 for 3yr Olds)
Kentucky Derby 2020 Points Race (10-4-2-1) - Check out our first Kentucky Derby 2020 blog post here!
1 – Alpha Sixty Six (5-1): The $400K purchase won here on September 7th and has two quality works since. Johnny V. will be in the saddle and he’s been red hot as of late winning races on both coasts. This is a horse that has the pedigree of a derby contender, so we’ll see what he does from the rail.
2 –Truculent (30-1): Get blinkers and moves back to the dirt for Jack Sisterton. The distance should not be a problem and I think this one could get better with age.
3 – Green Light Go (8-5): The morning line favorite has won two in a row for James Jerkens and should only improve with distance. He’s the only graded stakes winner in here and his Saratoga Stakes victory sure looked strong.
4 – Three Technique (7-2): Broke his maiden in his third start where he rallied from off the pace to win by five-plus lengths. Irad Ortiz will replace his brother. This guy was favored in each of his previous starts.
5 – Gozilla (6-1): Super impressive first time out at Saratoga then followed that up with a decent third in the Gr. I Hopeful. He may not have liked the track conditions that day and with his speed I think he has a great shot to rebound.
6 – Big City Bob (20-1): Has won two in a row for Jorge Duarte with her last coming over 8F. He won at big odds that day and the time was nothing impressive, so I think he has his work cut out for him.
7 – Tiz the Law (5-2): Won impressively first time out at Saratoga going 6.5F for Barclay Tagg (State-bred Md Sp Wt). He’s had four works since that race with two bullets and seems ready to roll for his second start.
Wagers:
#5 to win
Exacta Key 5 – 1,3
Exacta Key 1,3 – 5
Trifecta 1,3,5 – 1,3,5 – 2,7
Analysis by Dr. Atlas
Race 10: Gr. I Champagne Stakes (8F on Dirt, $500,000 for 3yr Olds)
Kentucky Derby 2020 Points Race (10-4-2-1) - Check out our first Kentucky Derby 2020 blog post here!
1 – Alpha Sixty Six (5-1): The $400K purchase won here on September 7th and has two quality works since. Johnny V. will be in the saddle and he’s been red hot as of late winning races on both coasts. This is a horse that has the pedigree of a derby contender, so we’ll see what he does from the rail.
2 –Truculent (30-1): Get blinkers and moves back to the dirt for Jack Sisterton. The distance should not be a problem and I think this one could get better with age.
3 – Green Light Go (8-5): The morning line favorite has won two in a row for James Jerkens and should only improve with distance. He’s the only graded stakes winner in here and his Saratoga Stakes victory sure looked strong.
4 – Three Technique (7-2): Broke his maiden in his third start where he rallied from off the pace to win by five-plus lengths. Irad Ortiz will replace his brother. This guy was favored in each of his previous starts.
5 – Gozilla (6-1): Super impressive first time out at Saratoga then followed that up with a decent third in the Gr. I Hopeful. He may not have liked the track conditions that day and with his speed I think he has a great shot to rebound.
6 – Big City Bob (20-1): Has won two in a row for Jorge Duarte with her last coming over 8F. He won at big odds that day and the time was nothing impressive, so I think he has his work cut out for him.
7 – Tiz the Law (5-2): Won impressively first time out at Saratoga going 6.5F for Barclay Tagg (State-bred Md Sp Wt). He’s had four works since that race with two bullets and seems ready to roll for his second start.
Wagers:
#5 to win
Exacta Key 5 – 1,3
Exacta Key 1,3 – 5
Trifecta 1,3,5 – 1,3,5 – 2,7
Analysis by Dr. Atlas
Breeders' Cup 2019 Preps from Keeneland: Phoenix, Alcibiades, Breeders' Futurity
Check out my Breeders' Cup 2019 Win & You're In video from Keeneland for Oct. 4 & 5 below!
Kentucky Derby 2020 Exceptional Eleven: Gouverneur Morris, Eight Rings, Dennis' Moment
It’s that time again! September means Derby fever. Well, not quite, but it is time to roll out my annual Kentucky Derby contenders list.
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Before meeting the first “exceptional eleven” of 2020, let’s look at some recent historical facts.
Having experience as a 2-year-old is a major plus. Justify ended the Apollo jinx in 2018. Apollo won the Kentucky Derby in 1882. He was an unraced 2-year-old, and it took 136 years for another late blooming sophomore to break the streak. This remains a very strong angle.
The last three Derby winners did not graduate until their 3-year-old seasons (Country House, Justify, Always Dreaming). All of the Derby winners from 2002-2016 graduated during their juvenile campaigns. During that 15 year run, starting with War Emblem and ending with Nyquist, 13 of those runners graduated by October 4. Orb and Smarty Jones were the exceptions. They graduated in November.
From 2000-2003, 3 of the 4 Derby winners had their final prep in the Wood Memorial (Funny Ride, Monarchos, Fusaichi Pegasus). It has been crickets for the Wood ever since.
From 2004-2019, most of the Derby winners exited the Arkansas Derby (4), Florida Derby (5), or SA Derby (4). You can make the Florida Derby a six pack if you count Maximum Security. The other Derby winners with different final preps were Animal Kingdom (Spiral Stakes), Mind That Bird (Sunland Derby), and Street Sense (Blue Grass).
Looking back, some of my initial September Derby blog juvenile contenders panned out, like my early 2010-2011 Number 1’s Stay Thirsty and Alpha. Both won the G1 Travers during their 3-year-old seasons. Others turn out to be disappointments like Fortify, and others got hurt along the way like Mastery.
International Star was my initial number one Kentucky Derby 2015 contender, and he was scratched the morning of the Derby. Three of my original eleven Derby contenders made it to the starting gate that year including Triple Crown winner American Pharoah. The other two were Frosted and Carpe Diem.
Mohaymen was my initial number one Kentucky Derby 2016 contender, and the 4-time grade 2 winner (Nashua, Remsen, Holy Bull, Fountain of Youth) finished 4th on the first Saturday in May.
Endorsed was my first number one Derby 2019 contender, and he was shelved after the Champagne. He did not make the Derby, but has shown promise in New York this summer with an allowance sprint win, a 2nd in the Curlin Stakes, and a solid 4th in the Travers. He is one to watch heading into 2020. Three of my original September “exceptional eleven” contenders made it to the starting gate in Derby 2019 (Code of Honor, Game Winner, Roadster).
An ideal Kentucky Derby contender would have a solid juvenile foundation, a blended speed-stamina pedigree, sharp graded stakes form, tactical speed, quality late pace ratings, and winning connections. Strong pre-Derby works are the icing on the cake.
The 2020 Derby points race series kicked off with the G3 Iroquois at Churchill Downs Sept. 14. Dennis’ Moment looks like a good one for Dale Romans, and he figures to vie for favoritism in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile with recent G1 American Pharoah Stakes hero Eight Rings.
Iroquois Stakes (G3) Recap (9-14-19) - Winner: Dennis’ Moment ($2.80)
This was a better than average renewal of the Iroquois, at least in regards to the top two finishers. The pace was honest and strong favorite Dennis’ Moment stalked from fourth, got the jump on Scabbard, and scored comfortably by a length and three-quarters. Irad Ortiz Jr. had the winner under wraps. Scabbard did not have the smoothest trip and was well clear of the rest. Lebda chased the pace and held 3rd, and was followed by Letmeno, Rowdy Yates, January Won, Flute Maker, Automate, Juggernaut, and Zyramid.
American Pharoah Stakes (G1) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Eight Rings ($4.40)
It looks like we have a solid BC Juvenile (G1) favorite. Eight Rings was so impressive in his debut, but I was not quite sure what we would get from him in this spot after he behaved badly and dumped his rider as the strong favorite in the Del Mar Futurity (G1). His new rider John Velazquez was not playing around in this race. As soon as the gates opened, he shot straight to the front through fractions of 23.34, 47.06, and 1:11.71. He was clear throughout and the result was never in doubt. He increased his lead throughout and won by 6-lengths over inside stalker American Theorem. Storm the Court was a neck better than Express Train in the battle for 3rd, and they were followed by Shoplifted, Defense Wins, Fore Left, Nucky, and Collusion Illusion (pulled up, walked off). The winner was much the best, and the runner-up was clearly second best in a quality effort. The others never really got involved.
Jarrod Horak’s “Exceptional Eleven" Kentucky Derby 2020 Contenders (9-29-19)
(1) GOUVERNEUR MORRIS (Constitution - Addison Run, by Unbridled’s Song)
Trainer (Todd Pletcher) - Owner (Team Valor International & WinStar Farm LLC)
Latest Workout: 5f in 1:00.80 (2/11) at Belmont Park on Sept. 27.
Comments: This was a very strong debut in the SAR slop at 5.5f on Sept. 2. He was bumped at the break and chased the pace, cruised up outside in the stretch, and finished with plenty in reserve to win by a very easy nine lengths. He has worked three times since his bow, including a Sept. 20 bullet. Todd Pletcher seems to have some talented youngsters, and this one is targeting the G1 Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland Oct. 5.
————--
(2) EIGHT RINGS (Empire Maker - Purely Hot, by Pure Prize)
Trainer (Bob Baffert) - Owner (SF Racing, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables)
Comments: He looked like the real deal dusting sharp next-out winner Express Train in his 5.5f debut at DMR Aug. 4. The G1 Del Mar Futurity should have been a stroll in the park, but he ducked in sharply while bumping into Storm the Court, and both tossed their riders. He worked three times at SA after that fiasco, and returned with a vengeance in the G1 American Pharoah Stakes Sept. 28. In the latter race, he went straight to the front and was never seriously threatened in an easy two turn victory. He is the early favorite for the G1 BC Juvenile Nov. 1.
Derby Points (10)
————--
(3) DENNIS’ MOMENT (Tiznow - Transplendid, by Elusive Quality)
Trainer (Dale Romans) - Owner (Albaugh Family Racing LLC)
Comments: Clipped heels and dumped Robby Albarado in his June 23 bow at CD, and it has been all smiles since. He graduated by 19+ lengths in a 7f affair at Ellis Park July 27, and followed that up with a sharp win in the first points race in Churchill’s G3 Iroquois Sept. 14. Miguel Mena was aboard for both wins. He has all the tools to be a player on the Derby trail.
Derby Points (10)
You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Eight Rings capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Before meeting the first “exceptional eleven” of 2020, let’s look at some recent historical facts.
Having experience as a 2-year-old is a major plus. Justify ended the Apollo jinx in 2018. Apollo won the Kentucky Derby in 1882. He was an unraced 2-year-old, and it took 136 years for another late blooming sophomore to break the streak. This remains a very strong angle.
The last three Derby winners did not graduate until their 3-year-old seasons (Country House, Justify, Always Dreaming). All of the Derby winners from 2002-2016 graduated during their juvenile campaigns. During that 15 year run, starting with War Emblem and ending with Nyquist, 13 of those runners graduated by October 4. Orb and Smarty Jones were the exceptions. They graduated in November.
From 2000-2003, 3 of the 4 Derby winners had their final prep in the Wood Memorial (Funny Ride, Monarchos, Fusaichi Pegasus). It has been crickets for the Wood ever since.
From 2004-2019, most of the Derby winners exited the Arkansas Derby (4), Florida Derby (5), or SA Derby (4). You can make the Florida Derby a six pack if you count Maximum Security. The other Derby winners with different final preps were Animal Kingdom (Spiral Stakes), Mind That Bird (Sunland Derby), and Street Sense (Blue Grass).
Looking back, some of my initial September Derby blog juvenile contenders panned out, like my early 2010-2011 Number 1’s Stay Thirsty and Alpha. Both won the G1 Travers during their 3-year-old seasons. Others turn out to be disappointments like Fortify, and others got hurt along the way like Mastery.
International Star was my initial number one Kentucky Derby 2015 contender, and he was scratched the morning of the Derby. Three of my original eleven Derby contenders made it to the starting gate that year including Triple Crown winner American Pharoah. The other two were Frosted and Carpe Diem.
Mohaymen was my initial number one Kentucky Derby 2016 contender, and the 4-time grade 2 winner (Nashua, Remsen, Holy Bull, Fountain of Youth) finished 4th on the first Saturday in May.
Endorsed was my first number one Derby 2019 contender, and he was shelved after the Champagne. He did not make the Derby, but has shown promise in New York this summer with an allowance sprint win, a 2nd in the Curlin Stakes, and a solid 4th in the Travers. He is one to watch heading into 2020. Three of my original September “exceptional eleven” contenders made it to the starting gate in Derby 2019 (Code of Honor, Game Winner, Roadster).
An ideal Kentucky Derby contender would have a solid juvenile foundation, a blended speed-stamina pedigree, sharp graded stakes form, tactical speed, quality late pace ratings, and winning connections. Strong pre-Derby works are the icing on the cake.
The 2020 Derby points race series kicked off with the G3 Iroquois at Churchill Downs Sept. 14. Dennis’ Moment looks like a good one for Dale Romans, and he figures to vie for favoritism in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile with recent G1 American Pharoah Stakes hero Eight Rings.
Iroquois Stakes (G3) Recap (9-14-19) - Winner: Dennis’ Moment ($2.80)
This was a better than average renewal of the Iroquois, at least in regards to the top two finishers. The pace was honest and strong favorite Dennis’ Moment stalked from fourth, got the jump on Scabbard, and scored comfortably by a length and three-quarters. Irad Ortiz Jr. had the winner under wraps. Scabbard did not have the smoothest trip and was well clear of the rest. Lebda chased the pace and held 3rd, and was followed by Letmeno, Rowdy Yates, January Won, Flute Maker, Automate, Juggernaut, and Zyramid.
American Pharoah Stakes (G1) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Eight Rings ($4.40)
It looks like we have a solid BC Juvenile (G1) favorite. Eight Rings was so impressive in his debut, but I was not quite sure what we would get from him in this spot after he behaved badly and dumped his rider as the strong favorite in the Del Mar Futurity (G1). His new rider John Velazquez was not playing around in this race. As soon as the gates opened, he shot straight to the front through fractions of 23.34, 47.06, and 1:11.71. He was clear throughout and the result was never in doubt. He increased his lead throughout and won by 6-lengths over inside stalker American Theorem. Storm the Court was a neck better than Express Train in the battle for 3rd, and they were followed by Shoplifted, Defense Wins, Fore Left, Nucky, and Collusion Illusion (pulled up, walked off). The winner was much the best, and the runner-up was clearly second best in a quality effort. The others never really got involved.
Jarrod Horak’s “Exceptional Eleven" Kentucky Derby 2020 Contenders (9-29-19)
(1) GOUVERNEUR MORRIS (Constitution - Addison Run, by Unbridled’s Song)
Trainer (Todd Pletcher) - Owner (Team Valor International & WinStar Farm LLC)
Latest Workout: 5f in 1:00.80 (2/11) at Belmont Park on Sept. 27.
Comments: This was a very strong debut in the SAR slop at 5.5f on Sept. 2. He was bumped at the break and chased the pace, cruised up outside in the stretch, and finished with plenty in reserve to win by a very easy nine lengths. He has worked three times since his bow, including a Sept. 20 bullet. Todd Pletcher seems to have some talented youngsters, and this one is targeting the G1 Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland Oct. 5.
————--
(2) EIGHT RINGS (Empire Maker - Purely Hot, by Pure Prize)
Trainer (Bob Baffert) - Owner (SF Racing, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables)
Comments: He looked like the real deal dusting sharp next-out winner Express Train in his 5.5f debut at DMR Aug. 4. The G1 Del Mar Futurity should have been a stroll in the park, but he ducked in sharply while bumping into Storm the Court, and both tossed their riders. He worked three times at SA after that fiasco, and returned with a vengeance in the G1 American Pharoah Stakes Sept. 28. In the latter race, he went straight to the front and was never seriously threatened in an easy two turn victory. He is the early favorite for the G1 BC Juvenile Nov. 1.
Derby Points (10)
————--
(3) DENNIS’ MOMENT (Tiznow - Transplendid, by Elusive Quality)
Trainer (Dale Romans) - Owner (Albaugh Family Racing LLC)
Comments: Clipped heels and dumped Robby Albarado in his June 23 bow at CD, and it has been all smiles since. He graduated by 19+ lengths in a 7f affair at Ellis Park July 27, and followed that up with a sharp win in the first points race in Churchill’s G3 Iroquois Sept. 14. Miguel Mena was aboard for both wins. He has all the tools to be a player on the Derby trail.
Derby Points (10)
You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse
Kentucky Oaks 2020 Top 5: Bast, Donna Veloce
The Kentucky Oaks points race series for 2020 is officially off and running. Lazy Daisy won the Pocahontas (G3) at Churchill Downs on Saturday, Sept. 14, and Bast captured the Chandelier Stakes (G1) for Bob Baffert at Santa Anita Park Sept. 27. The next points race is the Alcibaides (G1) at Keeneland Oct. 4, followed by Belmont’s Frizette (G1) Oct. 6.
Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Bast capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.
Kentucky Oaks 2020 Points Race Recaps
Pocahontas Recap (9-14-19) - Winner: Lazy Daisy ($16.40)
Serengeti Empress won this race by a mile last year. In the first Oaks points race, Lazy Daisy and His Glory basically battled from start to finish. In the end, it was California shipper Lazy Daisy prevailing by a hard fought length and a quarter. 43-1 longshot His Glory was clearly second best beaten favorite Portrait was miles best of the rest in 3rd. This was a very well-spaced field. Blood Curdling was 9+ back in 4th, and it was three more lengths to Morning Gold. Lotta Love was another five back in 6th place, and it was 12+ to Shadilee. The distant trailer was Addilyn. The winner completed her 8.5f journey in 1:44.89. If nothing else, she flattered runaway Del Mar Debutante (G1) winner Bast. For final time comparison, Dennis’ Moment traveled the same distance in the Iroquois (G3) in 1:43.58.
Chandelier Stakes (G1) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Bast ($2.40)
It was not easy but overwhelming favorite Bast got the job done, and I thought she ran well. The race shape completely changed after expected front runner Leucothea bobbled at the start and threw the rider. The pace really failed to develop after that, and Comical had a short advantage over Been Studying Her and Bast. There were three dirt routes on the day and this race by far had the slowest fractions (24.92, 49.54, and 1:13.98). Comical almost stole this one, but Bast pressed outside and got by the stubborn early runner to score by a neck. The top two were 3-lengths clear of K P Dreamin, and Been Studying Her was 15+ clear of Buyer’s Remorse. Bast remains my top ranked 2-year-old filly, and she looks like a solid threat in the BC Juvenile Fillies (G1).
Kentucky Oaks 2020 Points Leaderboard (after Chandelier)
1. Lazy Daisy - 10 points
1. Bast - 10 points
3. His Glory - 4 points
3. Comical - 4 points
5. Portrait - 2 points
5. K P Dreamin - 2 points
7. Blood Curdling - 1 point
7. Been Studying Her - 1 point
Jarrod Horak’s Fabulous Five Kentucky Oaks 2020 Contenders (9-29-19)
#1 - BAST - Early division leader after G1 wins in Del Mar Futurity and Chandelier.
#2 - DONNA VELOCE - Sensational in SA bow Sept. 28. The next Bellafina for Callaghan?
#3 - ALANDRA - Gritty 7f bow at SAR Sept. 1. Shug’s filly breezed at Belmont Sept. 28.
#4 - PERFECT ALIBI - Adirondack & Spinaway winner goes next in Alcibiades Oct. 4.
#5 - FRANK’S ROCKETTE - 2nd in Adirondack & Spinaway. Breezed at SAR Sept. 23.
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Kentucky Oaks 2020 Points Race Recaps
Pocahontas Recap (9-14-19) - Winner: Lazy Daisy ($16.40)
Serengeti Empress won this race by a mile last year. In the first Oaks points race, Lazy Daisy and His Glory basically battled from start to finish. In the end, it was California shipper Lazy Daisy prevailing by a hard fought length and a quarter. 43-1 longshot His Glory was clearly second best beaten favorite Portrait was miles best of the rest in 3rd. This was a very well-spaced field. Blood Curdling was 9+ back in 4th, and it was three more lengths to Morning Gold. Lotta Love was another five back in 6th place, and it was 12+ to Shadilee. The distant trailer was Addilyn. The winner completed her 8.5f journey in 1:44.89. If nothing else, she flattered runaway Del Mar Debutante (G1) winner Bast. For final time comparison, Dennis’ Moment traveled the same distance in the Iroquois (G3) in 1:43.58.
Chandelier Stakes (G1) Recap (9-27-19) - Winner: Bast ($2.40)
It was not easy but overwhelming favorite Bast got the job done, and I thought she ran well. The race shape completely changed after expected front runner Leucothea bobbled at the start and threw the rider. The pace really failed to develop after that, and Comical had a short advantage over Been Studying Her and Bast. There were three dirt routes on the day and this race by far had the slowest fractions (24.92, 49.54, and 1:13.98). Comical almost stole this one, but Bast pressed outside and got by the stubborn early runner to score by a neck. The top two were 3-lengths clear of K P Dreamin, and Been Studying Her was 15+ clear of Buyer’s Remorse. Bast remains my top ranked 2-year-old filly, and she looks like a solid threat in the BC Juvenile Fillies (G1).
Kentucky Oaks 2020 Points Leaderboard (after Chandelier)
1. Lazy Daisy - 10 points
1. Bast - 10 points
3. His Glory - 4 points
3. Comical - 4 points
5. Portrait - 2 points
5. K P Dreamin - 2 points
7. Blood Curdling - 1 point
7. Been Studying Her - 1 point
Jarrod Horak’s Fabulous Five Kentucky Oaks 2020 Contenders (9-29-19)
#1 - BAST - Early division leader after G1 wins in Del Mar Futurity and Chandelier.
#2 - DONNA VELOCE - Sensational in SA bow Sept. 28. The next Bellafina for Callaghan?
#3 - ALANDRA - Gritty 7f bow at SAR Sept. 1. Shug’s filly breezed at Belmont Sept. 28.
#4 - PERFECT ALIBI - Adirondack & Spinaway winner goes next in Alcibiades Oct. 4.
#5 - FRANK’S ROCKETTE - 2nd in Adirondack & Spinaway. Breezed at SAR Sept. 23.
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