Another interesting day at Belmont. There will be some prices today. I hope we find some of them.

Race 1

• 6 Star Magnolia – has been off since May but Michelle Nevin has been strong with this move. Big drop from a $40K starter allowance but broke her maiden for this price in Feb. Steady works since early September for the return. Best figures.
• 1 Shesgotthemoves – the other Nevin trainee was claimed last out for $25K. Wouldn’t be a financial loss if she won and was claimed, but still have to wonder why she’s being dropped. Don’t care for the two week break in workouts. Nevin 25% first off the claim.
• 7 Mononoke – 21 start maiden not a high probability to win but does have 2 seconds and 7 thirds.

Race 2

Only three starters remain in the race, making it unbetable. Most likely 5 Bold Runner will be a strong favorite. 

• 1a Jimmy Fillpot – Rudy Rodriguez has been on fire at the BEL meet and drops this one from MSW to a $50K claimer. Rodriguez 20% with the drops. Good speed and perhaps the drop allows him to keep it to the wire. 
• 8 American Strong – ran a bang up race off a one-year layoff and is another one being dropped into the claiming ranks. Excellent win prospects.
• 6 Professor Pegasus – has been knocking around this level a while but his last race was his best. 
• 3 Tree Fire – Hasn’t gone off at less than 25-1 but does have a couple of close 4th place finishes in four lifetime starts. Not a surprise if he fills out the exotics.

Race 3

• 5 Cara Marie – Expensive yearling purchase looked green in her first start but did show a bit of speed. Dutrow is huge with second time maidens. Nice work 5 days ago at Fair Hill where Dutrow keeps a barn. Lots of positives including Castellano staying aboard.
• 3 Puca – broke poorly in her dirt sprint debut race. Tried the turf last time and didn’t disgrace herself.  Mott horses always improve with experience.
• 2 – Summer Forever – Toner tried her on the turf first out and she ran fairly evenly. Well-bred for the dirt.

Race 4     One of the two races remaining on the turf 

• 10 First Summation – has been off a year, but Clement is above average with this move. Nice steady series of works. If she is wound and ready, should be right there at the wire.
• 9 Super City – had a clear lead in her last after breaking slow and rushing to the front. Competitive figure and some useful intervening workouts.
• 8 Gu Gu Beans – heartbreaking sort has been running well since June but can’t crack the winner’s circle. Starting to get that look of a professional maiden but has the talent to win.
• 3 Joshans Giant – Has been running evenly but given her best race was a $40K maiden she may have trouble graduating at the MSW level.

Race 5    

Off the turf and both MTOs 5 Island Candy and 6 Kiss Cat are in. Island Candy is likely to be a big favorite.

• 8 Outer Orbit – back at the $25K level after trying ALW NW1X with no success last out a week ago. I like the quick return and I like the wire to wire capability. 
• 2 Under Scrutiny – stumbled at the start last out but prior to that was very game in winning a NW1X on the SAR lawn. Connections are not the best for a third of trainer Rodrigo Ubilo’s wins this year have come with this horse and jockey Arroyo up.
• 1 Chow Fun – last win came at BEL in June at this distance. Best pace figure in the field.
• 4 Ready’s Legend – Pletcher drops the horse in an effort to get a win. Was well enough thought of to be placed in stakes races but had no success there. Ran much better in last when dropped to $50K. If she’s going to win again, looks like this might be the level.

Race 6

• 4 Nuffsaid Nuffsaid – dropped her rider out of the gate last out but Nevin wheels her back so we can assume she came out of the race in good shape. More than 50% first and second in her career. Off her best she should beat this field.
• 2 Madre Ditutticapi – the mother of all bosses is 2 for 4 over the BEL main. Has been running consistent figures and switches back to Arroyo, last jockey to win on the horse. Should go off at attractive odds.
• 1 Bobby Jo – riding a three race winning streak for three different trainers. No reason to expect she won’t run another good one.
• 6 La Belle Valeria – the best speed in the race. She’s been a little short in the stretch but should be winging on the lead again.

Race 7

• 2 Blue Pigeon – 9-5 on the ML and looks like it on paper. Clement trainee was unlucky not to win either of his last two. His poorest start came in a graded stakes event a year ago. Clement is 31% route to sprint, although to be fair the BEL miles on the turf are still only one turn.
• 3 Archer Hill – just missed last time out. Definitely has possibilities.
• 4 Hooked Forever – the 1 for 24 record has to make him a low win prospect, but he has 9 place and show finishes which makes him a good prospect to be part of the exotics.
• 6 Saltine Warrior – has been heartless with longer distances, but is 5 of 6 in the money at BEL.

Race 8

• 2 Three Alarm Fire – Broke his maiden in impressive fashion last out for Albertrani. Should have no trouble with the mile and a sixteenth distance.
• 4 Lawmaker – takes the blinkers off for Pletcher and he is 33% with that move. Trained by Chad Brown up until March and he thought enough of the horse to start him in the Grade 2 Jerome. Hasn’t been proven on the BEL main, but definitely a quality horse.
• 1 Encryption – ran well in an ALW NW1X at BEL last out. Prior race was the Haskell and he was well over his head there. Graded stakes placed and powerful pace figures.

Race 9

Off the turf but no MTOs in the field.

• 2 Classic Aussie – finished with interest after going wide around the turn. Nice work between races. Orseno is not having a good year and has not had a second out winner yet, but Classic Aussie may break that string.
• 9 Summersault – Lots of traffic trouble in her debut bit still managed to finish within three lengths of the winner. Like her chances today.
• 1 Jadam – steady close in her debut, the same race as Summersault.  Given the pace, the small close is more impressive. Will need a good ride not to get buried on the rail.
• 10 Sky Fortune – puts the blinkers on for Jeremiah Englehart. Showed some early interest last out but has a couple of nice workouts since that race.

It was a great day of racing yesterday capped by the impressive win by Tonalist in the JCGC. Today features the two year old turf races that will define the main BC contenders.

Race 1

• 7 Delta Outlaw – puts the blinkers on for Weaver and gets a rider switch to Franco. Ran evenly around the track last time at MTH and improvement can be expected.
• 3 Prima Storm – Clement trainee has a nice series of works for this one and gets the services of Rosario. Clement always dangerous with first time turfers.
• 2 Battle Red – has shown a lot of speed and has the highest figures of any of the starters, but you have to question his heart in the stretch. No surprise if he wins, but no odds either.
• 8 A Lot – Second time starter for Mott and we all know Mott is ineffective with first timers. Didn’t break well in his last, showed mild interest while wide of horses and was ridden out. Could be any kind at this point.

Race 2

• 5 Alexa’s Spirit – First start was in a state bred stakes at FL. Ran evenly in that one after breaking poorly. Very  nice gate work at KEE a week ago. Looks much speedier than the first race would suggest and should revel in the one turn mile.
• 3 Persuasive Devil – caught two sloppy tracks in his starts at SAR and although he is bred well for a wet track couldn’t find the winners circle. The added distance today should help.
• 2 Interior Secretary – Monster work nine days ago, although Mineshaft’s are not noted for precociousness. Could be the one to catch.

Race 3

• 5 Buy Or Steal – First out in February at GP was a good one. Drops to a lower claiming price and gets top turf rider Ortiz today.
• 4 Acrostic – Six starts already but the last was the best. Low profile trainer has had success this meet at BEL
• 6 Veronica Bay – Eleven time starter seems a low probability to crack the win column but could be part of the exotics.

Race 4 

• 3 Awakino Cat – Hard-knocking nine year old always gives a good effort. Runs well at BEL and does have a close second at the 7F distance. In a race where it looks wide open, we’ll try to get some odds.
• 7 Mish Mosh – has never been the 7F trip and shows no BEL races, but has good tactical speed and gets a big boost from the claim by Jacobson last out.
• 4 Tigah – was racing with better at DMR and takes the blinkers off today. Last race was over at the start and he gets another chance today
• 2 Thomas Hill – 0 for 9 this year and only one win in the last two years. But he was claimed by Bruce Brown last out and we’ll give him some of the benefit of the doubt and look for him in the back holes.

Race 5

• 1 Abilio – In what I thought was an odd move Jacobson scratched the 1a Le Deluge but left Abilio in. Abilio looks more like a turf horse, although he does have a win on the dirt. Jacobson is 28% with that turf to dirt move. Will go off greater than the 2-1 ML.
• 6 Summit County – Ran a poor race after getting re-claimed by Englehart for $15K two back. Maragh will be off al his mounts today and is replaced here by the always unpredictable Louis Saez. Has a shot at some odds, but certainly not a horse (or race) to empty your pockets.
• 8 Stephan A – threw in the towel in his last at SAR but before that was running competitively for a slightly higher price at BEL. You don’t see Zito too often at this level. He may be looking for a win and the loss of the horse.

Race 6

• 3 Broadway Bay – broke his maiden for Bruce Brown in the SAR mud and came back at BEL 18 days ago with a decent after after having to go wide coming out of the turn. Castellano stays and that is a good sign
• 2 Jesses Giant Dunk – Trained by Abigail Adsit after being claimed for $16K two back. Last race was at this level and was respectable. Has some nice workouts since then. Gets a good switch from Taylor Rice to Johnny V. Adsit 5 for 8 in the money at BEL this fall
• 7 Gridley Here – ran poorly on the turf last out but the race prior gave the winner all he could handle at 1 1/8 on the dirt. McPeek decided to give him another chance to get it done.
• 9 Futurazo – eight year old gelding having a good year in 2014 with 3 wins in 8 starts. Has won at BEL previously

Race 7    Miss Grillo     Grade 3    2-1-10-3

• 1 Tammy the Torpedo – best last race pace figure. Beat nice field after having to swing wide in the stretch. Chad Brown is the king of the 2 year old turf. Rosario stays up.
• 2 Ancient Goddess – third in the P G Johnson, the main SAR prep for this race. Almost certainly shipped from Europe to acclimate and prep for the BC Juvenile Fillies Turf. I’m looking for a big jump up in her second race stateside.
• 1a Greywalls – takes the blinkers off and looks to crack the winner’s ranks. Ran well last out and with her stablemate makes a formidable coupling.
• 3 Skinner Box – comes out of the Natalma at WO. This is always a powerful prep for the BC. In that race she broke in and bumped with rivals but still finished with good run. Ran much better on the firm turf and gets that back today. Ortiz jumps back aboard for Violette.
• 4 Lady Bling – beat a nice group of state-bred fillies last out but looks perhaps overmatched today.
• 5 Titanium Jo – hasn’t been on the turf yet but is bred well-enough for it. Would be a surprise for me.
• 6 Nicky’s Brown Miss – won a stakes at KD and ran well in the Colleen at MTH. Not completely hopeless.
• 7 Margaret Reay – another looking for her maiden win. Obviously liked the turf better than the dirt. Another that doesn’t figure on top but could improve.
• 8 Amazing Anne – raced a good one on the turf at SAR although the pace looks a bit slow. Probably up against it here.
• 9 Lady Eli – Chad Brown runner was the narrowest of winners at SAR. You can’t eliminate any Chad Brown runner, but you can’t bet every horse.
• 10 Partisan Politics – winner of the P G Johnson at SAR and that makes her one of the top contenders.
• 11 My Cara Mia – Sprint winner opening week at BEL. Looks up against it from the far outside post, but is not without possibilities.

Race 8

• 10 Quick Money – 7 year old gelding still getting it done. Last race was in over his head, but drops to the proper level today.
• 3 Effinex – place finisher in the Albany. Jimmy Jerkens picked up the horse from low profile trainer and is looking to crack the winner’s circle at BEL for the fall.
• 4 Onecats Chance – has been nothing but steady since June although he seems to prefer finishing second. Solid in the money play.
• 7 Petrocelli and 9 Goodtolook look like they will hook up in a speed dual and I’m not sure either of them lasts the mile.

Race 9    Pilgrim     Grade 3     2-5-8

• 1 Vision Perfect – Donk runner in a lot tougher than his maiden win, but like all of these is eligible to improve by leaps each start.
• 2 Startup Nation – looked very powerful winning the With Anticipation at SAR
• 3 Face the Music – Another that is not without chances but has been beaten by Strong Coffee already
• 4 Imperia – second in his maiden race to Face the Music. Probably an also ran today.
• 5 Offering Plan – another Chad Brown runner, and a lot of them look exactly like this horse. Track early and explode in the stretch. Definite contender.
• 6 All I Karabout – ships in from lesser circuit. You have to give the trainer credit for taking a chance but this doesn’t look like the spot where he’ll thrive
• 7 Nutty Futty – third in the With Anticipation but no match for the winner. Not likely to turn that around today.
• 8 Strong Coffee – gets Lasix today and that may be the ticket.
• 9 Artie’s Flight – looks like the longest shot in the race.

Race 10

• 9 Freudex – ran a good one at AQU in Apr, but then took a pause for what was either an injury or an “equipment change.” Englehart has been training him regularly for his return.
• 10 Readyheartandsoul – five start maiden not really getting better but not getting worse either. Has the figures to compete with this field
• 5 Wildniteattheopera – Ran well in the mud at SAR. Cuts back half a furlong. Should be competitive.
• 6 McQauid – first timer for Violette has been working well and the Violette/Franco combo is hitting at 21%

It’s the big Saturday at Belmont. Lots of races and lots of opportunities.

Race 1

• 2/2b Tradesman/Zennor – Albertrani lately has been bringing his charges ready to race first out. Zennor has one sneaky good race and went off as the favorite in that one. McLaughlin much better second time out.
• 7 Midhmaar – has been working well for Chad Brown. Tapit progeny tend toward the precocious.
• 3 Easy Comparison – has had two chances to break his maiden. Last race was his best. Pace was slow early and he couldn’t keep up with the fast finish but experience counts.
• 10 Moon Over Cuzco – the other Brown trainee has been working just as well and is listed 12-1 on the ML. Not often a Brown trainee goes off double digits.

Race 2

• 5 Noble Cornerstone – Looked very good in state bred races, but was never a danger in the Kings Bishop. Certainly fast enough to win this race.
• 6 Chapman – Englehart trainee came off a three month layoff and just missed after having trouble at the start. Should be prompting the early pace.
• 8 Round – Broke his maiden at BEL in June after giving Wicked Strong a run in his first start on a sloppy BEL track. Improving each out and Mott should have him wound up today.
• 2 John’s Island – Useful NY bred might be a little over his head today but James Jerkens has been dangerous with everything he starts. Last out he was bothered at the start  and was forced wide around the turn.

Race 3

• 5 Vespers At Eight – trouble at the start last out but finished with good energy. Better break should put him in the mix.
• 6 Gustnado – ran wide in the same race as the 5 and 7, took the lead in the stretch and couldn’t hang on. Could be the pacesetter and may have an easier time getting a good spot.
• 7 Congrats to Ken – Just missed last out. Weaver/Velasquez winning about a quarter of their starts. Two good maintenance works to keep him on edge.
• 3 King of New York – two starts, two seconds but both wide races. Has some early lick and may run a much more efficient race.

Race 4     Kelso Grade 2

• 1 Capo Bastone – one of the also rans in two graded stakes at SAR, although he closed well from dead last to finish within five lengths. Last graded win came over a year ago and has never won at this distance. Hard to like here.
• 2 Golden Ticket – won his last at this distance, and has never finished worse that second at a mile. Can’t be completely discounted but probably not the highest probability win horse.
• 3 Vyjack – Seems more adept at the sprint distances – his one win his year came at 7F. Would be a surprise from my perspective.
• 4 River Rocks – speedy runner has been dominating cheaper. Hasn’t been the mile distance but does have a second at the mile and a 16th. Likes to win and has some outstanding figures. It looks like any horse that wants to win will have to run by him in the stretch.
• 5 Bradester – His last six starts have been graded stakes and he has two wins, two places. Does well at the mile distance. Very consistent figures in his last three. He no worse than second best in this spot.
• 6 Scarly Charly – five year old just broke his maiden in March and came back two races later to win his NW1X. Seems up against it in this field and until he shows he’s graded material I’ll pass.
• 7 Itsmyluckyday – classy four year old has speed and staying power. Best figures in the group. Will be a low price, but it doesn’t look like there is a better horse in here.

Race 5     Beldame Invitational   Grade 1

• 1 Endless Chatter – is a quality animal but is not a Grade 1 horse. May be part of the early pace.
• 2 Toasting – Plenty of graded stakes in her pp’s, but no wins. Did win the overnight Sky Beauty at Belmont three weeks ago, but would be a surprise if she was in front at the wire today.
• 3 Stopchargingmaria – Nothing but graded races for this Pletcher trainee, but hasn’t gone against older yet. Ducked the top 3 year old filly Untapable, passing the Cotillion for this spot. Pletcher is being very strategic with the horse as they get ready for the Breeder’s Cup. Her figures are competitive but not dominant. The lukewarm favorite in my mind.
• 4 Stanwyk – Two muddy tracks at SAR and that probably kept us from seeing the best of her. Has a graded win at BEL and hasn’t run a bad race this year. Will give the 3 all she can handle.
• 5 Fiftyshadesofhay – Baffert runner is another getting ready for the BC. Has been a shade or fifty below the best graded fillies. One win on the BEL surface. Unlikely to win but should be in the mix in the stretch.
• 6 Oasis at Midnight – doesn’t look good enough to have a say here.
• 7  Belle Gallantey – Did win a Grade 1 at DEL but was pounded in the Personal Ensign. Competitive figures, but seems a cut below the 3 and 4.

Race 6

• 11 Tetradrachm – Mott trainee has the best last race figure, plenty of speed and takes the blinkers off today.
• 2 Escapist – broke his maiden at GP and immediately followed that up with a NW1X at BEL. Good speed and should appreciate the return to BEL.
• 3 Compliance Officer – hard knocking eight year old had excuses in his last two but before that looked good at BEL. Will need a deft ride to run by them all here.
• 4 Great Attack – claimed last out by Jacobson and he is just lights out first off the claim.
• 1 Shock Leader – has better races at a mile and perhaps cutting back from longer routes will bring out the best in him.

Race 7     Flower Bowl    Grade 1

• 1 Abaco – winner of the Ballston Spa at the SAR meet and finished a length behind Stephanie’s Kitten in the slow paced Diana. Never seems to run a bad one. In the money choice.
• 2 Maximova – Not a grade 1 horse.
• 3 Viva Rafaela – has every opportunity to set comfortable fractions and hold off the closers. Pletcher is always super dangerous in Graded stakes. Have to play her on top at the odds.
• 4 Strathnaver – Another that is always competitive. Wouldn’t be an enormous surpise, but looks fourth best to me.
• 5 Starstruck – Won the Grade 3 Matchmaker at MTH, but obviously likes that surface. A minor award at best.
• 6 Whatsdachances – another of the runners that seems to be on the edge of Grade 1. More like to be in the money than a winner.
• 7 Alterite – has really not shown her potential this year. Two 2014 races were discouraging, compared to 2013 when she was a length behind at the wire in the BC F&M Turf. Unless Brown did something to turn her around, it doesn’t look like she is in condition to win.
• 8 Tannery – did have a second earlier this year at BEL but her last two Grade 1 runs have not been inspiring. Not likely.
• 9 Stephanie’s Kitten – will inevitably be flying at the end and it is just a question of what fractions she has to run at. Shouldn’t be worse than second.

Race 8     Vosburgh Invitational    Grade 1

• 1 Palace – Perhaps the best sprinter on the east coast. Three wins in five starts at BEL. Should be the favorite and looks like the winner.
• 2 Coup de Grace – has not yet faced older but has been strong against three year olds. I’m looking elsewhere.
• 3 Zee Bros – Plenty of speed but doesn’t look like he can hold off the pressers and closers.
• 4 Salutos Amigos – not a grade 1 horse
• 5 Dads Caps – ran well in the slop at SAR but looks up against it here. In the money at best
• 6 Happy My Way – speed, speed and speed for this gelding. Probably the best of the front runners but may be compromised by the cheaper speed. Place/show prospect for me.
• 7 Private Zone – First out of 2014 was a troubled sprint on the turf at Parx. Won this race last year so can’t be discounted. Should be wound up to run today. Place/show prospect for me.
• 8 Ribo Bibo – a nice horse but not a Grade 1 runner

Race 9     Hirsch Classic    Grade 1

• 2 Twilight Eclipse – has been beaten by Main Sequence in his last two, no reason to expect a different result today. Likes the BEL turf and at his best can be competitive with these.
• 3 Imagining – Just missed in the Sword Dancer and won the Man O’War in the spring at BEL. Looks second best to me.
• 4 Hangover Kid – has the win in the Bowling Green in his favor, and is three of six at BEL. Big odds, but certainly can’t be thrown out completely.
• 1 Big Blue Kitten – Starting to regain 2013 form. You can never discount a horse that has won half its starts. I think he has to be used.
• 1a Real Solution – Did not disgrace himself in the Arlington Million. Makes the entry super tough.
• 5 Main Sequence – Group placed in Europe and two for two here in the U.S. Both his wins were highly impressive. Lasix seemed to be exactly what this horse needed. On his best he is the winner.
• 6 Medal Count – Has been running in graded events this year with moderate success. Hasn’t faced older yet. A first and a second on the turf. Definitely the X factor here. Improving three year olds are always dangerous. While he doesn’t look like the winner on paper, if he is first at the wire don’t be surprised.

Race 10     Jockey Club Gold Cup     Grade 1

• 1 Micromanage – Not having a bad 2014, but looks a step or two below the best in here.
• 2 Last Gunfighter – has not looked like a grade 1 horse this year. Chad Brown is always dangerous, but I think you have to look elsewhere.
• 3 Wicked Strong – Ran well enough to win the Travers and is just one of the strong three year old crop going to the BC Classic. Perhaps not the top choice, but definitely one of the horses to beat.
• 4 Zivo – Looked strong in the middle of the year, but didn’t run particularly well in the Woodward. Not in my top three.
• 5 Prayer for Relief – 0 for 8 this year. Not likely in this field.
• 6 Long River – has not had a bang-up four year old season. Not a contender.
• 7 Speak Logistics – Unlikeliest of them all
• 8 Tonalist – This colt has done nothing wrong this year. Although he hasn’t faced older, has plenty of talent and has to be put in the top three.
• 9 Stephanoatsee – Another that simply doesn’t look good enough to crack the board.
• 10 V.E. Day – Surprise winner of the Travers is simply at the top of his game. He’s won on the BEL surface and had a good tightening workout five days ago. No reason to expect he won’t run as well as he did last time.
• 11 Moreno – Runs to the front and is hard to catch. May be compromised by Big Cazanova, but don’t mistake this horse for a heartless speed horse. He is fast and can finish. Perhaps today he is just a bit short.
• 12 Big Cazanova – Seriously? It seems like the only purpose this horse has is to compromise Moreno’s chance.

Race 11

• 4 Grand Rapport – Jacobson trainee hasn’t run a bad race this year. Has the figures and should have no issue with the distance.
• 5 Belisarius – as is typical of horses coming under Mott’s care, they often race to their top form. Had a difficult run the last time. Was wide around the turns, had to drop back on the backstretch and make a huge run in the stretch. Puts the shades on today and Rosario returns as the pilot.
• 6 Capitan Futuro – didn’t do a lot last out on the BEL turf but that was at a higher price. Should be far more competitive at this level.
• 3 Innovation Economy – Lightly raced three year old makes his second start of 2014 and his first against older horses. Improvement today makes him a dangerous player.

Not a bad day yesterday. I selected five winners on top including $23 horse Chasin Chama in the nightcap. We’ll try to keep it going today.

Update: It has been raining steadily at BEL and all the races are off the turf. As you can see, many of the original selections have been scratched and I’ll probably be passing on most of the card since my selections were made for fast and firm.

Race 1

A poor race just got a little poorer. 5 Heidi’s Holiday has a win in seven starts on a wet track so could be thrown into the mix.

• 3 Vinhdication Spot – has been off since mid-July. Early speed sort had seriously lost condition and the rest undoubtedly will do her well. Given there is no other real front-running sort in the race, she should be able to control her destiny. Seven pound bug Jean Pierre Vallellanes makes his BEL debut 
• 6 Wisdom of Oz – Obviously didn’t fare well at SAR but won her last start at BEL. Dropping down the class ladder to where she belongs.
• 4 Marcy – seems to be better on the dirt than on the turf. Rudy Rodriguez takes over from low percentage trainer Gabriel Goodwin and he is 27% with new charges. Better figures than the field on the dirt. If Rodriguez has her cranked, she is the danger.

Race 2 

No MTOs in this off the turf race. 4 Kelly’s Prize probably becomes the front runner and does have a third on a wet track.

• 7 Wine Burglar – Moves from Chad Brown to Rudy Rodriguez who is a high percentage first off the claim. A win and a place in four turf starts at BEL.
• 2 Zafiro Azul – another that likes the BEL turf. 1 for 3 with a place negotiating this distance. Taylor Rice has had the best success with her and returns today. 
• 3 Too Good to B True – Bob Dunham takes over for Phil Gleaves on runner that has been racing in Florida. Has competitive figures.
• 6 Flirtatious Spring – 1 for 19 Linda Rice trainee not as likely for win as somewhere in the money.

Race 3 

• 4 Canal Six – Broke her maiden in November at AQU, was on the shelf until the SAR meet. First race on a muddy track not a sparkling effort, but ran respectably in the Fleet Indian. Third off the layoff looks like a charm.
• 5 Annie Walker – Speedy filly ran lights out to break her maiden at BEL at today’s distance. Should be the controlling speed here.
• 7 Jcs American Dream – had a good second to Accomplish First at BEL in June but  was unimpressive in two state-bred stakes at SAR. Plodder looks to turn the tables back at BEL.

Race 4

• 6 In Spite of Mama – showed some speed in debut on the dirt. Lost all chance at the break when bumped hard, didn’t appear to care for the turf, back at dirt today. Puts blinkers on; should help her focus.
• 3 Raiza Sultana – bred for the distance and the dirt. Has been well bet in her two starts. Has been working well since her last start.
• 5 Building Permit – Rare Chad Brown trainee that looked mediocre in her first start in the same race as Raiza Sultana. Has been working like Brown is serious about making her comeback a successful one.

Race 5

• 5 Overthespeedlimit – first-timer for Anthony Dutrow has been working steadily for debut. Dutrow fair with first starters, a little better with MCL debut horses.
• 3 Oh Poggibonsi – first-timer for Englehart. Tiz Wonderful progeny win at a fairly high percentage first start and trainer has high ROI with MCL debuts.
• 2 Special Invitation – ran poorly in his debut race, but should have things figured out today. Rudy Rodriguez fair with short layoff horses, better with MCL.

Race 6

Three horses are left in this race including the two MROs 3 Ginny’s Grey and 4 My Place.

• 6 Flamingo Lane – Adsit trainee five wins in her last seven starts. 2 for 2 on the BEL turf. Has been masterfully handled and all systems look go.
• 1 Edie – Two wins in her last two starts at BEL. Castellano goes over to One Penny Place but Maragh a good substitute.
• 7 Scenario Analysis – Competitive figures. Second off the claim for Mike Maker. Expecting an improved performance today.
• 2 Indian Starlight – beat Edie and Scenario Analysis in her last at SAR but 0 for 5 on the BEL turf. Has some talent and wouldn’t be a surprise.

Race 7

• 5 Shore Runner – three seconds in three tries at BEL. Been claimed both times in last two outs. Consistent and just needs to show a little more heart.
• 7 Sandy’z Slew – another that seems to like the BEL turf. Plenty of tactical speed .
• 4 Shatak – One start at SAR of a seven month layoff. Should be improved second start and with the turnback in distance.
• 8 Bluegrass Springs – 2 of 6 on the BEL turf. Plodder that should be closing in stretch. Claimed last out by Assmussen and we’ll see if he changes tactics. Not a lot of pace to set it up, so may be up against it.

Race 8 

MTOs One More Chief and Stalagmite are likely to be the horses that get bet. One More Chief probably the better of the two. Wake Up in Malibu has a win on the muddy BEL track.

• 11 Latigo Trail – hard trying front runner gets a slight nod in a very competitive race. Took 7 tries to break his maiden but came back with a good race in his NW1X. Will run and hope he doesn’t get caught this time.
• 3 Saltine Warrior – runs his best at BEL where he has five in the money finishes in six starts.
• 6 Ogermeister – Beaten by the very tough Billy the Bull last out. Has placed in state-bred stakes and this is as good a spot as any to try to pick up a win.
• 1 Wake Up in Malibu – Weaver trainee finished second in his only try at this distance on the BEL turf. Didn’t negotiate the distance last out at SAR and the turnback should help today.

Race 9

The MTOs are Invasion Point and Hidden Warrior and both are likely to be bet heavily. Hidden Warrior has the best one race figure.

• 8 Manoffire – shortens up today after fading at a mile and a sixteenth. Drops into MCL also.
• 9 New Dude – first back off the claim by Barker in April. Adds blinkers.
• 7 Leatherhead Lurie – Another that seems to need a shorter distance to be successful. 
• 2 Junger – 11 starts with only one second but that was at BEL. Has speed and may hold on for a piece.

A pretty good mid-week card. Fairly full fields and competitive races. Let’s get handicapping.

Race 1

• 7 Ave’s Halo – Claimed by David Cannizo after a win at this level, jumped him up and brings him back to the level at which he was claimed. Pressing style and competitive figures.
• 1 Pura Vida Zen – Speedy sort should be the front runner. First time on turf but has had success on synth. Weak in the stretch on the dirt but expect her to carry speed farther on the turf.
• 9 C C’s Pride – better on the turf. Drops into winning claiming level.

Race 2 

• 8 Flag On the Play – drops into MCL and gets Lasix after being off for 10 months. McLaughlin high percentage with this move.
• 5 Inca Saint – blinkers on for Chad Brown trainee. Originally had the horse, lost him and claimed him back at SAR. should be live.
• 7 Nicholoson – Just missed at SAR. Steady runner had a couple of fast workouts in preparation for this. 
• 1 Inception – long layoff after running a big race at Woodbine against well regarded Kaigun. Will be long odds but if he returns healthy could outclass the field.

Race 3 

• 1 Sweet Sweet Afleet – broke out at the start, solidly bumping with rivals, bolted to the center of the track coming out of the turn, reacted badly to the whip and finally got going to finish a clear second. If she runs clear today, she is the likely winner.
• 2 Kleptocrat – puts the blinkers on  and jumps up to MSW again. Perhaps he is strong enough to finish in this field.
• 7 All Luv Me – takes blinkers off and makes his 9th start at this level. More likely to be in the money than win.
• 6 Moonlight Fantasy – horrible looking race first time out, but was off slow and raced very greenly. Mike Hushion is good off the layof and has been very good so far at BEL. Could be any kind and is a must use

Race 4

• 2 Galaroyale – has had trouble getting out of the gate but has still run competitively. With a clean break she should graduate.
• 9 Miss Lech – in the money three of four starts, 6F should be a perfect distance. Chad Brown trainee has a good second at BEL and has worked steadily up to this race.
• 3 Harp N Halo – exits same SAR turf race as Galaroyale and D’Kennesaw Cat. With less trouble she is highly competitive here.
• 1 Korite – took the worst of the bumper car start and is another that can be competitive with a clean trip.
• 4 D; Kennesaw Cat is not a likely winner, but should be used in tri’s and supers

Race 5

• 3 Takeoff Your Hat – Steady sort always seems to make a race of it. Right there off her best effort.
• 4 Willow U – just missed last out at SAR. Has looked more focused in her last five with the addition of blinkers.
• 9 Take It Inside – should be the controlling speed and that makes her dangerous. High percentage trainer Michael Gorham looks to surpise the NY crowd again at long odds.
• 5 Lady Kressa – Donk trainee has been with better and has been close in all her races. Switch to Ortiz may help.

Race 6

• 1/1A Back Forty/Glickman – Glickman has already won at the meet and has been consistent at BEL. Back Forty the weaker of the two, but still has a high win percentage and Jacobson behind him.
• 7 Street Shark – front running sort has won half his starts. Claimed last out by Englehart  and looms the danger.
• 4 Regulus – Contessa runner looked like a tired horse last out but has been competitive most of the year. We’ll see if the three week rest recharges him.
• 9 The Big Deluxe – Toscano has the four year old colt rolling on the lead. But he looks a bit heartless in the stretch. Could hang on for a piece.

Race 7

• 2 Bio Pro – has been 7F once with a second place finish on the BEL turf. In good form off of a 2 length beat in the Grade 2 Bernard Baruch where he was steadied in the stretch.
• 3 Golden Rifle – in his last six has four wins and two seconds. Chad Brown has him well spotted here.
• 1A Strong Impact – slightly stronger than his entry mate. One of the two will be scratched early. Not quite the horse he was earlier in his career but still a quality runner.

Race 8

• 7 Zindaya – broke her maiden at SAR after three good second place finishes. Hasn’t gone 6F yet but looks to be getting stronger. Lezcano stays.
• 8 Ballerina Belle – a horse with some serious seconditis, but still can’t be counted out. Only win came on the BEL turf.
• 9 Scatcapade – just missed at 5 1/2 last time out. Pressing style so needs to establish position and stay clear of trouble.
• 2 Tasmona – Chad Brown trainee adds blinkers for this trip. Appears to be a little short at longer distances, but 6F should be perfect. 

Race 9

• 7 Cody’s Notes – Looked like a winner last out but hung in the stretch. Seems to ready for a big one.
• 12 Chasin Chama – Drops back to MCL after trying straight maidens last time. Competitive with these.
• 11 Hushhushmushmush – another one coming back to MCL where he looked good. Brown/Ortiz combo hitting at 28%
• 6 Fictional Character – did not like the slop last out and has had two difficult breaks in his last two. Lezcano has to put the horse in a good spot so he can do what he seems to prefer – run on in the stretch. At 10-1 an interesting longshot.
• 10 Wake Up and Go – has been knocking around with this type for a while. Most likely in the money rather than win.
• 13 Lotza Heat – Dangerous if he draws in

The Belmont cards have been tough all week. Today is no exception.

Race 1

• 3 Path to Power – has one start where he showed a little early interest. Puts the blinkers on today. Is he a heartless front runner or just a horse that needs some focus? If he goes off at odds it is worth paying to find out. DRF says Lisa Lewis 0 for 5 with blinkers on but she won with Saratoga Heater in August with that move.
• 2 It’s Easy – That’s not true whether you are running or playing, but I’ve been liking the Abby Adsit angle lately and given the horse has had a good rest and a nice series of comeback works, she deserves a chance.
• 8 Bella Fachi – has had two golden chances to win and has flopped both times. Perhaps third time is a charm.

Race 2

• 1 Saratoga Heater – won his last on a sloppy track in a respectable if not flashy time.  More closer than presser. Rosario back from PA to ride.
• 2 Banana Thief – broke his maiden in his third try at 5 1/2 on the turf in SAR. Probably better bred for the turf, and this is his first fast dirt try. Minor awards at best.
• 3 Market Conduct – Chad Brown trainee popped first out at SAR in a middling time. We’ll see today just how much talent he has.
• 4 Tizquick – will be the choice. Got beat first out by the well-regarded Upstart, who simply overpowered the field in the stretch. Tizquick still ran with great courage and I like his chances today despite the fact this will be his maiden win.
• 5 Bullheaded Boy – ran third to the previously mentioned Upstart. He obviously has chances as his 9-5 ML indicates, but you certainly can’t say he is lengths better than the field – yet.
• 6 Chloe’s Wonderboy – $25K maiden claiming winner jumps up today. High percentage mid-Atlantic trainer ships in. Can’t totally dismiss, but I think other starters are more likely.

Race 3

• 3 Make a Fortune – hard knocking 6 year old has already won for Chris Englehart off the claim. Didn’t care for the PID surface last out and is 3 of 4 on the BEL dirt.
• 1/1A Be Bullish/Glickman – Be Bullish’s better days are probably behind him but he could still be dangerous. Glickman wired a field first off the claim for Jacobson and looks to repeat. I think this is a positive drop – the horse obviously has had some physical issues in his career having been off close to two years before his first 2014 start – and I don’t think Jacobson cares if he loses him for a few dollars less than he paid.
• 8 Deadicated Deal – claimed off a win at $20K by Imperio. Another that can drop for a win.

Race 4

• 1 Temper Mint Patty – Competitive figure and wouldn’t surprise, but I’m looking elsewhere.
• 2 Hard to Stay Notgo – Destroyed a field first out and finished second to Myfourchix in the Seeking the Ante. Looks second best again.
• 3 Evrybdymstgetstonz – SCR
• 4 Freudie Anne – Ran a strong turf race opening week and wouldn’t be any surprise here on the dirt.
• 5 Majestic Blook – SCR
• 6 My Super Nova – a neck behind Temper Mint Patty despite being 2 lengths clear in the stretch. Perhaps she holds her speed better this time, and young horses do improve from race to race. Would have to be odds for me to get excited.
• 7 Myfourchix – Winner of the Seeking the Ante. Looks like the longer they go, the better she’ll like it. Looks best to me.

Race 5

This race is now off the turf and MTO 13 Better Man is in. He doesn’t look overpowering in here, but you always have to give the MTO’s a second look. The selections in this race were for the turf, but I’m not going to adjust them. By this race you’ll know how the track is playing and you can bet accordingly.

• 7 Giant Slayer – Clement trainee dropped to MCL last out and made an improved run. In the right spot today.
• 12 Morse – has shown speed and not a lot of heart at longer distances. Sprinting could be his thing.
• 4 Bolt From the Blue – ran right behind Giant Slayer and may do it again.
• 11 Jimmy Soul – developing seconditis but can still grab a piece.

Race 6

• 5 G Note – drops in distance off a 3 month layoff. We’ll give her the nod fresh.
• 1 Aesthetique – has looked competitive with this sort. I think 7F could be the right distance.
• 8 Nonnie Connie – lots of starts, two wins and reasonable chances to finish in the money.
• 9 All Mine Tonight – just missed last out. Been in these conditions a while.

Race 7

• 6 Back Stop – Chad Brown and first timer. Enough about that.
• 8 Arctic Ocean – tried hard after going wide on a muddy track. Jumps up to straight maidens and is not without chances.
• 3 Co – steadied early in her last and lost all chance. Gets another chance today
• 4 Jacaranda – working well for Mike Husion
• 9 Tizthefastlaine – Albertrani lately has been putting live firsters on the track. Can use in the exotics.

Race 8

• 6 Street Game – three lengths behind the well regarded King Kressa in the West Point at a very big number. I think Nevin has kept the horse sharp.
• 1 Sanctify – has not run a bad race this year and no reason why he might start now.
• 8 Carson Bandit – has some speed and will use  it. Longshot that could get buried or skip away
• 4 Majestic Raffy – Softer ground shouldn’t hurt. Just missed behind Sanctify in last.

Race 9

• 8 Given Fire – didn’t quite handle the 7F last time she was at the distance, but does have good speed. Not unreasonable in this field.
• 1 Rumble Doll – decided plodder needs the right trip. Should save ground and depends on Maragh to keep her clear for a the stretch one.
• 9 Thatza Wrap – Pressing style; only six starts and eligible to improve

Race 10

• 3 The Spotted Wonder – tried this level last out and missed just over a length. Should be controlling the pace and at long odds is worth a look
• 1 Permanent Campaign – drops the the level at which he broke his maiden. Figures say he has a big shot.
• 9 Toy Cannon – only lost by a half length last time he was in for $40K. Starting to look like a professional NW2L though.

What a chaotic day yesterday. Only one favorite won, and that was the last race.  We’ll look for a little more form today. The late pick-4 unnecessarily has two maiden 2 year old races and may be difficult to play.

Race 1

• 2 Tiz May West – Claimed last out by Jacobson after just missing on a sloppy SAR track. Has a win and place on fast dirt. Jumps way up today, but Jacobson has a way of placing his horses where they can win first after the claim.
• 1 Wraith – has been knocking at the door and switches jockeys back to Maragh. In a race with good early speed her pressing style may be  the right formula.

• 5 Angel Code – broke her maiden at Parx last out and figures to be the pacesetter here. Izzy Rodriguez looks to get another win at BEL.

Race 2

• 4 Steve – Phil Serpe drops the horse to the lowest level he’s ever been in an attempt to get a win. Threw in a clunker last out, but that was in the mud and the race can be discarded. Race prior at this level was first on a fast dirt track in a while and he nearly wired a field.
• 6 Betweenhereandcool – another Jacobson claim and he wheels her back at this level. Was highly regarded at a 3 year old in the Assmussen barn; betting that Jacobson gets him back on the winning track.
• 7 Silver Morgan – claimed last two and now in Michael Maker barn. On his best he could handle this field.

Race 3

• 4 Stage Name – puts the blinkers on for Patrick Reynolds who has had no success with that move from a limited sample. Drops down to $25K for this race. Has shown some interest after switching to the turf his last two.
• 1 Barbara’s Smile – has run creditably her last two and should move forward today for Sciacca.
• 3 A P Johnson – showed good speed in sprints and should get to the front in this field. One stakes race on the BEL turf was a good effort considering the troubled start.

Race 4

• 3 Big Business – better than 1/3 of his starts have resulted in wins. Last in a Grade 1 outran his odds to finish second to the highly regarded Palace. Plenty of tactical speed.
• 6 Saratoga Snacks – ran evenly in the Morrissey coming off an 8 month layoff. Mott horses often need a race so expecting improved performance today.
• 2 Eye Luv Lulu – been running decently in state bred stakes. Drops down to winning level and should be competitive today.

Race 5

• 5 Cheyenne Nation – won for $40K last out at SAR and once he gets going he can string them. Not sure how to read the price drop today but if he is in top form he is a major contender. Rodriguez barn has been cranked for this meet and Franco riding well for them.
• 3 Abilio – has been showing good speed but not a great proclivity to win. However, this will be the second off the claim for Jacobson and if anyone can get the horse pointed in the right direction he can.
• 6 Emkanaat – was a middling horse in Europe and about the same here. Tries hard and can be there with a top effort.
• 9 Karakorum Legend – Already started at the meet and looked good in both 2014 runs at SAR. Should be close at the wire.

Race 6

• 1 Lady Lavery – was a little short last out but was never going to close on a dawdling pace, especially after getting bumped in the stretch. Has plenty of tactical speed and eligible to move up.
• 2 Forensic – just missed last time at SAR. Has a decidedly closing style and has only been out of the money once. Solid if not spectacular.
• 4 Love and Marriage – one start where he closed furiously, only to fall short. Probably needs to break a little better and stay out of trouble; should be fine with the slightly extra distance.
• 6 Miz Lee – three in the money finishes at GP and KEE. Back off 5 months rest; not Tagg’s best move but the horse did run very well first out.

Race 7

• 5 Sky Painter – hard to take a favorite in this super competitive field but this horse barely missed in the Miss Grillo and ran a bang up race first out of 2014, losing to Invading Humor who came back to win a stakes on Sunday. Like her chances here.
• 6 Seda Francesa – ran two disappointing races at BEL earlier this year. Was rank in her last which compromised her chances, and Clement has been working with her since then. Betting she’s learned her lessons and will be ready for this start.
• 12 Distorted Beauty – has been dominating state bred optional claiming fields and moves up to take on open allowance company. Can never discount the chances of horses that like to win.
• 4 Cash For Ever – easily defeated a maiden field at Longchamp in the puzzlingly slow time of 2:03 for a mile and an eighth. Kenneally has had success with first time Euros, she gets Lasix and go-to jock Lezcano.

Race 8     The Gallant Bloom

• 1 Artemis Agrotera – two powerful races in a row at SAR, one in the grade 1 Ballerina. Has dominating figures plenty of tactical speed and looks like she couldn’t be coming to the race in better shape. Two eye catching workouts since last. Will be a solid favorite and figures best on paper.
• 2 Merry Meadow – has been solid in graded events, although at best looks like a grade 3 horse. Double the number of places as wins. Chances here.
• 3 Bridgehampton – lots of early speed but looks a cut below these horses.
• 4 Classic Point – looks in over her head. Only win this year came at OC $62.
• 5 Willet – useful horse in state bred stakes, but couldn’t handle Artemis Agrotera last time and not a lot of reason to think she can today. Bobbled at the break in the Ballerina and with a better break should be the second best horse in the race.
• 6 La Verdad – set the early fractions in the Ballerina and should be winging today. No reason to expect her to get a soft early lead. Depending on how the track is playing, could fade or hang on for a piece.

Race 9

• 5 Skill Not Luck – Chad Brown firster and all his horses are live. Solid workout pattern.
• 7 Whateveryouwant – Bumped at the start first out and went wide around the turn as a result. Should improve today.
• 2 Frosted/First Down – Frosted is a second time starter that figures to improve after getting punished by Bayerd. Probably not going to have that issue today. Stablemate First Down is a first timer coming in off a series of slower works. Albertrani horses usually need a start.

Race 10

• 6 Dubai Sky – puts the blinkers on and everyone knows Mott horses always need a start.
• 7 Escondido – Pletcher returns the horse after a two month break. At this point you have to believe the $370,000 purchase is a keeper and will be ready to run this time.
• 9 Andalusite – closed with gusto after not showing much interest in the early going first out. Looking for improvement this start.

A lot of favorites came in on Thursday, highlighted by a new track record by Transparent. The track generally played fairly. Of the four dirt races two were won by horses on the front end, one by a pace presser, one by a sustained runner. Of the four turf races, one was won wire to wire (the 10th where Resolutely was the only real speed), one by a presser, and two by sustained runners. The dirt obviously had not only dried, but got very firm, and I expect track maintenance will work to slow it down a bit for Friday.

Race 1

• 2 Dr Disco – claimed 2 back by Contessa and back at the level of his claim; plenty of tactical speed and the highest recent figure of any. Another race where the favorite is a must use in the pick-3/5.
• 5 Say Mr. Sandman – dropping from state-bred NW1X, but he was pretty much at the $20K level until Chris Englehart found a NW3X that he dominated at FL. Another with good tactical speed and a proclivity to run well.
• 1 Star of New York – seems to have a tendency to finish in the money more often than win, but could get a piece of this pie.

Race 2

• 3 Maximus Mike – puts the blinkers on after being claimed by Scott Schwartz last out for $16K. Has been running longer so well see if he has the right combination of tactical speed and closing kick to run by this field.
• 4 Master Yank – I’ve said this three days in a row, but everything Abigail Adsit has been putting on the track is live and competitive. First off the claim she brought the horse to FL and won a MSW and brings him back to BEL in a $25K NW2. Leave him out at your own peril.
• 8 Q Two – Claimed by Terranova for $25K, jumped up to $40K, and placed back down at $25K today. His last race was totally uninspiring but prior to that he had been front running effectively.
• 7 Ice Wagon – has been knocking around at this level a while. 6 of 9 in the money, but only one win.

Race 3

• 5 Sunny Desert – Massive pace figure in the slop at AQU earlier this year, came back on the slop at SAR and just missed by three quarters. Not just a mudlark – 6 of 11 on a fast dirt surface. 8-5 on the ML and looks like it.
• 1 Girlaboutown – defeated Blithely in her last and that one came back to win here two days ago. Given the poor start in her last and the patient ride from Ortiz, she should give Sunny  Desert all she can handle.
• 4 Carameaway – has been looking for the right spot and I’m not sure this is it. Slightly slower than the top two, but did win a state-bred stakes last out at SAR.

Race 4

• 8 Blue Collar Cat – finished last season by being crushed in the NY Breeders Futurity at FL, but prior to that was developing nicely. Michael Dilger takes over training duties and he is 20% first time out. Good 2 year old figures could translate well in his first of 2014.
• 7 Discreet Kaz – goes first time out for Peter Kazamias who is 1 for 6 with that move. He has a limited workout tab and will be long odds, but given this field of professional maidens, he might be worth a wager.
• 4 No Nukes – 19 starts, 4 seconds and 5 thirds, so not inspiring for the win slot, but this field is fairly week and he can’t be completely discounted as a win prospect.
• 1 King Gettigan – another maiden with a dozen starts and 8 seconds and thirds.

Race 5

• 6 Monument Hill – ran lights out at SAR last time and does show some good BEL races. George Weaver good off the layoff. Should be in a pressing spot with run left in the stretch.
• 4 Helm – recently got through his NW1X race. Nice starts, eight in the money. Looks very competitive for Graham Motion.
• 3 Dangerous Lad – ran well last out against slightly higher and has been in good form this year. Good at the distance.
• 7 Admiral Perry – does his best running in the stretch. Ships in from PID but has shown a liking for the BEL turf. Definite chances here.

Race 6 

• 1 Hundred Percent – ran a good race first out. He battled hard for the lead and was beaten by runaway winner Skerkis. As long as there isn’t another monster lurking out there
• 12 Jacapo – Hushion was the king of NY at one time and he can still get it done. He’s hitting at a 24% clip this year overall and 23% with his 2 year olds. Has a nice workout pattern including a bullet 12 days ago.
• 7 Watergate – a bit of a puzzle. Ran well first out on the slop, came back on the turf and performed poorly. Back on the dirt today and plenty of tactical speed. We’ll see if he’s learned his lessons.
• 4 Eddie Boots – goes first time for Gary Gullo who has a good ROI with first timers. Nice blowout work two weeks ago. Probably will show speed in a race with a lot of horses who like traveling toward the front.

Race 7 

With Ziptronic out of the race Billy the Bull inherits the front running spot. This makes him dangerous and worth using in the verticals and horizontals.

• 10 Ziptronic – is riding a 3 race winning streak including two races at this level. Horse is definitely “zippy” and Bruce Levine is good at keeping horses on their toes.
• 6 Hear the Footsteps – didn’t fare so well at SAR but prior to that was competitive at this level and above. Hard knocker rarely runs a bad one
• 7 Dowse’s Beach – is riding a two race winning streak. His last was a hard drive  and Clement gave him six weeks rest. He has a few good works for this race.
• 5 Isn’tlovegrand – Did not break well in his last at SAR but prior to that was very competitive. Seems to hang a bit in the stretch but is good enough to get a minor award.

Race 8

• 5 McIlroy – in a race with minimal early speed, McIlroy represents the best of the group. Winner of his last at this distance; has been steady and working  well.
• 4 Middleburg – goes for Clement. He’s another that hasn’t run a bad lifetime race (after his maiden debacle. Two seconds in two tries on the BEL turf. Pressing style so should be close enough to get into the hunt early.
• 10 Mills – an interesting horse at long odds. He switched to the Bill Mott barn in August and Mott has been working him steadily. Takes the blinkers off, and frankly other than the first time he ran with blinkers they haven’t made a difference. Something of an angle play but will be good odds.
• 1 Barrel of Love – has been running well this year and likes the BEL turf. Coming out of slightly better races.

Race 9

With the scratch of Nellinger Path makes it into the top four. Path did not break well last out in the mud and can be excused for that race. McGaughey does well with 2nd time starters.

• 3 Ocean Foam – jumped to the front last race and gave it up in the stretch. Excellent out for her first try ever. Fastest of the horses that have started before.
• 9 Nellinger – looks like she has been crying for distance. She didn’t embarrass herself in the Colleen which was run on a fast pace. Could be the value horse today.
• 6 My Senses – drew the dreaded rail first out, broke in the middle of the group and was basically pinned there the entire trip. Has a better post today and one race of experience. Dangerous.
• 2 Twist ‘n Bake  – first timer for 18% trainer George Weaver. Nice steady work pattern. Should be ready to run.