At the Gate - Thursday
It’s Thanksgiving Day and we have plenty of good racing today including a nine-race card at Aqueduct with an early post time of 11:50 ET. We have three stakes on tap this afternoon before the effects of Tryptophan kicks in.
The stakes action at the Big A starts early in the third race with a field of six going 1 1/16 miles on turf in the $125,000 Gio Ponti.
A son of Gio Ponti may get the job done. I like Italian Charm at his 5-1 morning line. The colt has won three of his first four career starts and makes his stakes debut this afternoon.
The fifth race on the card is the $100,000 Furlough for juvenile fillies that will go six furlongs on the main track.
Six go to the post led by Eloquent Riddle, the even money morning line favorite who will be saddled by trainer Chad Brown. She comes off a third-place finish in the Tempted (G3) in her last outing.
The traditional Turkey Day feature is the $200,000 Fall Highweight Handicap (G3) which drew a field of nine older runners that will go six furlongs on the main track.
Stallwalkin’ Dude is the 2-1 morning line favorite and will carry 134 pounds. The David Jacobson trainee was a sharp winner of the Bold Ruler Handicap (G3) in his last start.
Coming up on Friday we will take a look at the $500,000 Clark Handicap (G1) from Churchill Downs which drew a solid field of older runners including Noble Bird, Hoppertunity and Effinex.
Saturday, we have a pair of Road to the Kentucky Derby points races—the $300,000 Remsen (G2) at Aqueduct and the Kentucky Jockey Club (G2) at Churchill Downs.
In addition, we have a strong field lining up for the $500,000 Cigar Mile (G1) at the Big A along with the $250,000 Comely (G3) and $300,000 Demoiselle (G2).
Here is the opening race from Aqueduct to get the day off to a good start:
AQU Race 1 Alw---s (11:50 ET)
#2 Three to Thirteen 3-1
#6 Always a Suspect 5-2
#3 Caledonian 5-1
#4 Breeze Burner 2-1
Analysis: Three to Thirteen set the early fractions and just held on to break his maiden last out against state bred $40,000 maiden claimers in his first start for a tag. He did not care for turf two back and had some trouble in his first two starts including dumping his jock three back. He draws the rail and owns solid early and mid pace numbers.
Always a Suspect did not fire in his debut on turf and came back with his maiden breaker last out in the mud in a race taken off the turf and tagged. Only our top pick earned a higher last out speed fig and this guy came back with a good breeze on Nov. 8 and looks capable of moving forward again in his first start over a fast dirt surface here.
Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 2-1 or better.
EX: 2,6 / 2,3,6
TRI: no play
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Aqueduct:
AQU Race 8 The Fall Highweight Hcp G3 (3:20 ET)
#9 Stallwalkin' Dude 2-1
#1 Weekend Hideaway 7-2
#3 Ready for Rye 5-1
#6 Angry Moon 4-1
Analysis: Stallwalkin' Dude made a good late rally drew clear late to win the Bold Ruler 'Cap (G3) last out at Belmont Park going seven furlongs. The gelding earned a career top speed fig two back in a runner up finish in the Vosburgh (G1) behind Joking in the mud. The Jacobson trainee comes in here in the best form of his career and he can handle the cut back to six furlongs and the extra weight.
Weekend Hideaway pressed the early pace and battled on gamely in the stretch in the sloppy state bred Hudson last out at Belmont Park. The winner Breakin Fever came back to beat non-conditioned allowance foes at Finger Lakes in his next outing with a 97 Beyer. The six-year-old is also entered in Wednesday night's Fabulous Strike at Penn. He draws the rail and owns solid early and mid pace numbers. He was just a length behind our top pick two back in a third place finish in the Vosburgh.
Wagering
WIN: #9 to win at 9-5 or better.
EX: 1,9 / 1,3,6,9
TRI: 1,9 / 1,3,6,9 / 1,3,6,7,9
Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.
Aqueduct
R4: #4 Dark as Midnight 20-1
R5: #1 Yorkiepoo Princess 8-1
R5: #4 Whistle Stop 15-1
R6: #8 Priest N the rabbi 8-1
R9: #8 J C My Way 30-1
Good luck today!
It’s Thanksgiving Day and we have plenty of good racing today including a nine-race card at Aqueduct with an early post time of 11:50 ET. We have three stakes on tap this afternoon before the effects of Tryptophan kicks in.
The stakes action at the Big A starts early in the third race with a field of six going 1 1/16 miles on turf in the $125,000 Gio Ponti.
A son of Gio Ponti may get the job done. I like Italian Charm at his 5-1 morning line. The colt has won three of his first four career starts and makes his stakes debut this afternoon.
The fifth race on the card is the $100,000 Furlough for juvenile fillies that will go six furlongs on the main track.
Six go to the post led by Eloquent Riddle, the even money morning line favorite who will be saddled by trainer Chad Brown. She comes off a third-place finish in the Tempted (G3) in her last outing.
The traditional Turkey Day feature is the $200,000 Fall Highweight Handicap (G3) which drew a field of nine older runners that will go six furlongs on the main track.
Stallwalkin’ Dude is the 2-1 morning line favorite and will carry 134 pounds. The David Jacobson trainee was a sharp winner of the Bold Ruler Handicap (G3) in his last start.
Coming up on Friday we will take a look at the $500,000 Clark Handicap (G1) from Churchill Downs which drew a solid field of older runners including Noble Bird, Hoppertunity and Effinex.
Saturday, we have a pair of Road to the Kentucky Derby points races—the $300,000 Remsen (G2) at Aqueduct and the Kentucky Jockey Club (G2) at Churchill Downs.
In addition, we have a strong field lining up for the $500,000 Cigar Mile (G1) at the Big A along with the $250,000 Comely (G3) and $300,000 Demoiselle (G2).
Here is the opening race from Aqueduct to get the day off to a good start:
AQU Race 1 Alw---s (11:50 ET)
#2 Three to Thirteen 3-1
#6 Always a Suspect 5-2
#3 Caledonian 5-1
#4 Breeze Burner 2-1
Analysis: Three to Thirteen set the early fractions and just held on to break his maiden last out against state bred $40,000 maiden claimers in his first start for a tag. He did not care for turf two back and had some trouble in his first two starts including dumping his jock three back. He draws the rail and owns solid early and mid pace numbers.
Always a Suspect did not fire in his debut on turf and came back with his maiden breaker last out in the mud in a race taken off the turf and tagged. Only our top pick earned a higher last out speed fig and this guy came back with a good breeze on Nov. 8 and looks capable of moving forward again in his first start over a fast dirt surface here.
Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 2-1 or better.
EX: 2,6 / 2,3,6
TRI: no play
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Aqueduct:
AQU Race 8 The Fall Highweight Hcp G3 (3:20 ET)
#9 Stallwalkin' Dude 2-1
#1 Weekend Hideaway 7-2
#3 Ready for Rye 5-1
#6 Angry Moon 4-1
Analysis: Stallwalkin' Dude made a good late rally drew clear late to win the Bold Ruler 'Cap (G3) last out at Belmont Park going seven furlongs. The gelding earned a career top speed fig two back in a runner up finish in the Vosburgh (G1) behind Joking in the mud. The Jacobson trainee comes in here in the best form of his career and he can handle the cut back to six furlongs and the extra weight.
Weekend Hideaway pressed the early pace and battled on gamely in the stretch in the sloppy state bred Hudson last out at Belmont Park. The winner Breakin Fever came back to beat non-conditioned allowance foes at Finger Lakes in his next outing with a 97 Beyer. The six-year-old is also entered in Wednesday night's Fabulous Strike at Penn. He draws the rail and owns solid early and mid pace numbers. He was just a length behind our top pick two back in a third place finish in the Vosburgh.
Wagering
WIN: #9 to win at 9-5 or better.
EX: 1,9 / 1,3,6,9
TRI: 1,9 / 1,3,6,9 / 1,3,6,7,9
Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.
Aqueduct
R4: #4 Dark as Midnight 20-1
R5: #1 Yorkiepoo Princess 8-1
R5: #4 Whistle Stop 15-1
R6: #8 Priest N the rabbi 8-1
R9: #8 J C My Way 30-1
Good luck today!
Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Flamboro Downs
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 11 - Post: 9:20 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 65 - Purse:$7200 - FILLIES & MARES - N/W $12500. LIFETIME
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES
# 5 TAURIEL 5/2
# 4 POETIC DREAM 2/1
# 2 MAKE A SHADOW 6/1
After thorough analysis by the consortium, TAURIEL comes out as the top pick. She's squaring off in fine form, recording very strong speed ratings. An excellent pick. Seems to have a good class edge based on the field of horses she has faced. The panel of smart guys noted a huge effort out of this interesting entrant last time. Looking for a duplicate of that to score. POETIC DREAM - This horse and Paulic have some sort of connection going. In the money clip for this twosome is high. The consortium noted a very compelling effort out of this entrant last time. Looking for a repeat of that to take the whole enchilada. MAKE A SHADOW - Within the recent past McClure has been tearing it up, which may give the edge to this mare in this one. Look for Mainguy and this contender to end up in the winner's circle for this one. Great in the money percentage for the trainer/horse combo.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 11 - Post: 9:20 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 65 - Purse:$7200 - FILLIES & MARES - N/W $12500. LIFETIME
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES
# 5 TAURIEL 5/2
# 4 POETIC DREAM 2/1
# 2 MAKE A SHADOW 6/1
After thorough analysis by the consortium, TAURIEL comes out as the top pick. She's squaring off in fine form, recording very strong speed ratings. An excellent pick. Seems to have a good class edge based on the field of horses she has faced. The panel of smart guys noted a huge effort out of this interesting entrant last time. Looking for a duplicate of that to score. POETIC DREAM - This horse and Paulic have some sort of connection going. In the money clip for this twosome is high. The consortium noted a very compelling effort out of this entrant last time. Looking for a repeat of that to take the whole enchilada. MAKE A SHADOW - Within the recent past McClure has been tearing it up, which may give the edge to this mare in this one. Look for Mainguy and this contender to end up in the winner's circle for this one. Great in the money percentage for the trainer/horse combo.
Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Rideau Carleton
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 2 - Post: 6:50 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 61 - Purse:$4650 - NW $7,500
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES
# 1 NOPLAY 2/1
# 4 SPOIL SPORT 5/1
# 6 BRADYS PLAY 7/1
All signs point to NOPLAY for the pick. Could unquestionably better this group of horses given the 66 TrackMaster Speed Rating achieved in his most recent race. When Pouliot drives this horse you can bet they'll be in the top 3, figures show them there 100 percent of the time. Look for Plourde and this interesting entrant to dominate in here. Exemplary in the money figure for the trainer/horse partnership. SPOIL SPORT - Can't forget based on speed ratings which have been top notch (66 avg) recently. Comes into this contest with really strong TrackMaster class stats relative to the field of horses - could be worth a shot. BRADYS PLAY - Recent stats for the driver - 23 percent win - make this gelding a clear choice in the pack.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 2 - Post: 6:50 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 61 - Purse:$4650 - NW $7,500
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES
# 1 NOPLAY 2/1
# 4 SPOIL SPORT 5/1
# 6 BRADYS PLAY 7/1
All signs point to NOPLAY for the pick. Could unquestionably better this group of horses given the 66 TrackMaster Speed Rating achieved in his most recent race. When Pouliot drives this horse you can bet they'll be in the top 3, figures show them there 100 percent of the time. Look for Plourde and this interesting entrant to dominate in here. Exemplary in the money figure for the trainer/horse partnership. SPOIL SPORT - Can't forget based on speed ratings which have been top notch (66 avg) recently. Comes into this contest with really strong TrackMaster class stats relative to the field of horses - could be worth a shot. BRADYS PLAY - Recent stats for the driver - 23 percent win - make this gelding a clear choice in the pack.
Handicapped by The Walker Group at Golden Gate Fields
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 4 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $9000 Class Rating: 88
FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NOT WON A RACE SINCE AUGUST 31 OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON FOUR RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 125 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $4,000
RECOMMENDED*CHOICES
# 1 ANYA AMASOVA 5/2
# 3 GIANNONATTI 4/1
# 2 LACEY'S RAINBOW 7/2
I think ANYA AMASOVA is a very good choice. Lately Gonzalez has been hot which may give the edge to this mare. Looks very good against this group and will almost certainly be one of the leaders. Seems to have a competitive class edge based on the recent company kept. GIANNONATTI - This mare is a key contender based on her earnings per start in dirt sprint contests. This equine could stun this field of horses at a nice price. LACEY'S RAINBOW - Posted a very good speed rating last time out. Looks formidable for the conditions of this contest today, showing solid numbers in dirt sprint races as of late.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 4 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $9000 Class Rating: 88
FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NOT WON A RACE SINCE AUGUST 31 OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON FOUR RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 125 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $4,000
RECOMMENDED*CHOICES
# 1 ANYA AMASOVA 5/2
# 3 GIANNONATTI 4/1
# 2 LACEY'S RAINBOW 7/2
I think ANYA AMASOVA is a very good choice. Lately Gonzalez has been hot which may give the edge to this mare. Looks very good against this group and will almost certainly be one of the leaders. Seems to have a competitive class edge based on the recent company kept. GIANNONATTI - This mare is a key contender based on her earnings per start in dirt sprint contests. This equine could stun this field of horses at a nice price. LACEY'S RAINBOW - Posted a very good speed rating last time out. Looks formidable for the conditions of this contest today, showing solid numbers in dirt sprint races as of late.
Handicapped by The Walker Group at Laurel
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 9 - Allowance - 8.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $35000 Class Rating: 91
FOR REGISTERED MARYLAND BRED THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING OR STARTER OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; WEIGHT, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE OTHER THAN CLAIMING AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE SEPTEMBER 24 ALLOWED 2 LBS. SUCH A RACE SINCE AUGUST 24 ALLOWED 4 LBS.
RECOMMENDED*CHOICES
# 4 ENOUGH IS ENOUGH 3/1
# 3 I'M MR. BLUE 8/1
# 7 SLICK WILLIAM 12/1
My pick here is ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. This gelding has a good winning percentage in dirt route races. Put up a quite good speed figure last time out. Is a strong contender based on figs garnered lately under today's conditions. I'M MR. BLUE - He should be carefully examined given the very good speed figures. The average Equibase class rating alone makes this one a key contender.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 9 - Allowance - 8.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $35000 Class Rating: 91
FOR REGISTERED MARYLAND BRED THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING OR STARTER OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; WEIGHT, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE OTHER THAN CLAIMING AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE SEPTEMBER 24 ALLOWED 2 LBS. SUCH A RACE SINCE AUGUST 24 ALLOWED 4 LBS.
RECOMMENDED*CHOICES
# 4 ENOUGH IS ENOUGH 3/1
# 3 I'M MR. BLUE 8/1
# 7 SLICK WILLIAM 12/1
My pick here is ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. This gelding has a good winning percentage in dirt route races. Put up a quite good speed figure last time out. Is a strong contender based on figs garnered lately under today's conditions. I'M MR. BLUE - He should be carefully examined given the very good speed figures. The average Equibase class rating alone makes this one a key contender.
Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts
Aqueduct - Race #6 - Post: 2:20pm - Claiming - 8.5 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $34,000 Class Rating: 92
Rating:
#1 MARKET STRENGTH (ML=3/1)
#10 PAR (ML=4/1)
#8 PRIEST N THE RABBI (ML=8/1)
MARKET STRENGTH - Taking this jockey/handler combination is a good decision. It looks like Carmouche had to know this colt on Oct 19th when riding him for the initial time. Back on again today. Horses out of the barn of Gargan have been strong on the grass. Should do well. This horse has recorded the best recent turf Equibase speed figure at the dist-surf. PAR - Faced tougher in the last race at Belmont Park. Based on Equibase class figures, this is a weaker group, so I will put this one on my list of probable winners in this race. PRIEST N THE RABBI - The jock/trainer twosome of Gallardo and Asmussen has a strong ROI together. I seem to always make money betting Asmussen horses on the turf. That barn has a powerful win percent for this distance/surface. Looking like a possible overlay today at morning line odds of 8/1. Finished fourth in last race at Aqueduct but was close at the wire.
Vulnerable Contenders: #15 THAT MAKES SENSE (ML=5/2), #1A MR. SAM (ML=3/1), #11 TYR (ML=7/2),
THAT MAKES SENSE - Didn't land in the top three on September 24th at Belmont Park. Followed it up with another less than stellar effort. When scrutinizing today's Equibase class figure, he will have to garner a much better speed fig than last out to be competitive in this turf route. MR. SAM - Tough to support any horse that runs as well as he did and then lays up and doesn't workout at all. TYR - Pace makes the race. Hard for this speedball to be able to deal with the suicidal fractions from the rest of this bunch.
GUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - PRIEST N THE RABBI - According to my data, dropped to a more suitable class last out. Meeting the same type of field today. Should perform well.*
*
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #1 Entry to win if we can get at least 2/1 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
1 with [8,10]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,8,10] Total Cost: $6
** Some or all wagers above involve entries and assume all parts of entry start the race **
Aqueduct - Race #6 - Post: 2:20pm - Claiming - 8.5 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $34,000 Class Rating: 92
Rating:
#1 MARKET STRENGTH (ML=3/1)
#10 PAR (ML=4/1)
#8 PRIEST N THE RABBI (ML=8/1)
MARKET STRENGTH - Taking this jockey/handler combination is a good decision. It looks like Carmouche had to know this colt on Oct 19th when riding him for the initial time. Back on again today. Horses out of the barn of Gargan have been strong on the grass. Should do well. This horse has recorded the best recent turf Equibase speed figure at the dist-surf. PAR - Faced tougher in the last race at Belmont Park. Based on Equibase class figures, this is a weaker group, so I will put this one on my list of probable winners in this race. PRIEST N THE RABBI - The jock/trainer twosome of Gallardo and Asmussen has a strong ROI together. I seem to always make money betting Asmussen horses on the turf. That barn has a powerful win percent for this distance/surface. Looking like a possible overlay today at morning line odds of 8/1. Finished fourth in last race at Aqueduct but was close at the wire.
Vulnerable Contenders: #15 THAT MAKES SENSE (ML=5/2), #1A MR. SAM (ML=3/1), #11 TYR (ML=7/2),
THAT MAKES SENSE - Didn't land in the top three on September 24th at Belmont Park. Followed it up with another less than stellar effort. When scrutinizing today's Equibase class figure, he will have to garner a much better speed fig than last out to be competitive in this turf route. MR. SAM - Tough to support any horse that runs as well as he did and then lays up and doesn't workout at all. TYR - Pace makes the race. Hard for this speedball to be able to deal with the suicidal fractions from the rest of this bunch.
GUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - PRIEST N THE RABBI - According to my data, dropped to a more suitable class last out. Meeting the same type of field today. Should perform well.*
*
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #1 Entry to win if we can get at least 2/1 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
1 with [8,10]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,8,10] Total Cost: $6
** Some or all wagers above involve entries and assume all parts of entry start the race **
Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts
Churchill Downs - Race #8 - Post: 2:54pm - Maiden Special - 9.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $58,000 Class Rating: 93
Rating:
#7 SISTINE SISTA (ML=5/1)
#9 PAY THE KITTEN (ML=5/1)
#11 JOYFUL JOYFUL (ML=10/1)
SISTINE SISTA - I like the piece of information that this filly's last figure, 93, is tops in this group. Ranks at the top in earnings per race. A dominant performance right here in this race can increase that bankroll. PAY THE KITTEN - I seem to always make money betting Maker horses on the grass. That barn has a dominant win pct for this distance/surface. JOYFUL JOYFUL - I like to wager on this handicapping theory, a thoroughbred coming back off a solid outing within the last month.
Vulnerable Contenders: #1 SIGHT READING (ML=4/1), #1A BROOKS HOUSE (ML=4/1), #10 LEMON SQUEEZE (ML=6/1),
SIGHT READING - Tough to invest in any horse to turn things around if there is no value to taking the chance. The speed fig last time around the track doesn't fit very well in this event when I look at the class rating of today's event. Mark this horse as a likely underlay. BROOKS HOUSE - This stretch-runner should have a rough go of it to get up in time with an absence of pace in this race. When checking today's class rating, she will have to earn a much better speed figure than in the last race to be competitive in this turf route. LEMON SQUEEZE - This filly didn't do much for me last time. This entrant ran a common speed rating last out. She shouldn't show signs of improvement and will likely get beat today running that figure.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #7 SISTINE SISTA on the nose if you can get odds of 2/1 or more
EXACTA WAGERS:
7 with [9,11]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [7,9,11] Total Cost: $6
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass
Churchill Downs - Race #8 - Post: 2:54pm - Maiden Special - 9.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $58,000 Class Rating: 93
Rating:
#7 SISTINE SISTA (ML=5/1)
#9 PAY THE KITTEN (ML=5/1)
#11 JOYFUL JOYFUL (ML=10/1)
SISTINE SISTA - I like the piece of information that this filly's last figure, 93, is tops in this group. Ranks at the top in earnings per race. A dominant performance right here in this race can increase that bankroll. PAY THE KITTEN - I seem to always make money betting Maker horses on the grass. That barn has a dominant win pct for this distance/surface. JOYFUL JOYFUL - I like to wager on this handicapping theory, a thoroughbred coming back off a solid outing within the last month.
Vulnerable Contenders: #1 SIGHT READING (ML=4/1), #1A BROOKS HOUSE (ML=4/1), #10 LEMON SQUEEZE (ML=6/1),
SIGHT READING - Tough to invest in any horse to turn things around if there is no value to taking the chance. The speed fig last time around the track doesn't fit very well in this event when I look at the class rating of today's event. Mark this horse as a likely underlay. BROOKS HOUSE - This stretch-runner should have a rough go of it to get up in time with an absence of pace in this race. When checking today's class rating, she will have to earn a much better speed figure than in the last race to be competitive in this turf route. LEMON SQUEEZE - This filly didn't do much for me last time. This entrant ran a common speed rating last out. She shouldn't show signs of improvement and will likely get beat today running that figure.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #7 SISTINE SISTA on the nose if you can get odds of 2/1 or more
EXACTA WAGERS:
7 with [9,11]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [7,9,11] Total Cost: $6
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass
Handicapped by Rick Needham at Aqueduct
RACE #8 -AQUEDUCT - 3:20 PM EASTERN POST
The Fall Highweight Handicap
6.0 FURLONGS DIRT GRADE III THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $200.000.00 PURSE
#9 STALLWALKIN' DUDE
#1 WEEKEND HIDEAWAY
#3 READY FOR RYE
#6 ANGRY MOON
The Fall Highweight Handicap was inaugurated at Belmont Park in 1914. Now restricted to 3-year-olds and up, this race was open to all ages prior to 1959. The inaugural running was won by the 2-year-old-filly Comely. The Racing Secretary must assign at least 140 pounds to the top-weighted horse in this event. Here in the 103rd running of The Highweight, #9 STALLWALKIN' DUDE has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in each of his last four outings, winning twice in this recent streak of racing consistency. Jockey Irad Ortiz and Trainer David Jacobson send him to the post ... they've hit the board with 67% of their entries saddled as a team to date. #1 WEEKEND HIDEAWAY has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in four of her respective last five outings, winning in both his 3rd and 5th races back.
RACE #8 -AQUEDUCT - 3:20 PM EASTERN POST
The Fall Highweight Handicap
6.0 FURLONGS DIRT GRADE III THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $200.000.00 PURSE
#9 STALLWALKIN' DUDE
#1 WEEKEND HIDEAWAY
#3 READY FOR RYE
#6 ANGRY MOON
The Fall Highweight Handicap was inaugurated at Belmont Park in 1914. Now restricted to 3-year-olds and up, this race was open to all ages prior to 1959. The inaugural running was won by the 2-year-old-filly Comely. The Racing Secretary must assign at least 140 pounds to the top-weighted horse in this event. Here in the 103rd running of The Highweight, #9 STALLWALKIN' DUDE has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in each of his last four outings, winning twice in this recent streak of racing consistency. Jockey Irad Ortiz and Trainer David Jacobson send him to the post ... they've hit the board with 67% of their entries saddled as a team to date. #1 WEEKEND HIDEAWAY has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in four of her respective last five outings, winning in both his 3rd and 5th races back.
Woodbine Harness: Thursday 11/24 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale
DRF
Race 1 - $40,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool
Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
PICK 5: 3,4,8/9/2,4,6/1,4,5/3,5,8 = $16.20
EARLY PICK 4: 1,4,5/3,5,8/1,3,9/3 = $27
LATE PICK 4: 3/2,7,10/1,4,7,10/2,3,7 = $36
MEET STATS: 19 - 85 / $120.00 BEST BETS: 4 - 8 / $11.90
SPOT PLAYS: 0 - 8 / $0.00
Best Bet: HOOTER SHOOTER (7th)
Spot Play: BADSTORMANYPORT (1st)
Race 1
(3) BADSTORMANYPORT really cranked it up in his November 17th qualifier. He looks ready to produce a good effort vs. a suspect group here. (4) TOY COP's early speed is dangerous as he has been lasting longer on the lead recently. (8) EAS IDEAL gets hammered at the windows every week, but he did show some life late in the mile last time. (9) MR MATCH ON BEACH could wake up here dropping from the Autumn series.
Race 2
(9) ANDOVERS CHOICE goes from Fontaine to Moreau here, which has been a profitable angle so far at this meet. (1) STORMONT DUNDAS was close to his initial win last time, but was overtaken by the pocket-sitter late. His presence here could provide some value for the choice. (2) MISTER BLUES wouldn't need to improve much on his qualifiers to compete. (5) GOLDEN MAN is a two-time winner facing foes that are winless in more than 100 starts combined. He isn't impossible here.
Race 3
(2) FIVE BELOW goes for the top barn here off a decent qualifier. There isn't much to beat here if Moreau has this gelding close to being right. (6) ENTRANCED's first-over move was repelled by a strong class-dropping winner last time, but that was an improved performance and he should be a player here. (4) AMITYVILLE LINDY should be heard from on the class drop if he stays trotting. (7) CLASS ME NICE could sneak into the tri or super here at a big price.
Race 4
(5) TWO SIDES OF LOVE should go forward off her sharp debut and score here. (1) SUNSET FILLY is the main danger if she stays flat this time. (4) WARAWEE STAR is worth a look on the barn change coming off a break. Notice the sharp final 1/4 in her November 17th qualifier. (2) DORABELLA seems likely to grab a minor share.
Race 5
(3) P H BLACKJACK comes up tagged after one start vs. much tougher since shipping west. He should fit this class and Hudon will likely put him into play early. (5) SUTTON SEELSTER shows a big win two back, the only time he was entered for a tag; using. (8) IMSPORTY will be passing horses late, as is typical for him. (2) NEW STANDARD is another that figures to land on the fringes again.
Race 6
(1) COVERT OPERATIVE closed well last week despite having missed a month's action and now he picks up a catch driver here; top call. (3) LEXUS ROCKY won in a similar class three back then drew the 10-hole twice and went for two non-productive spins of the oval. He is in with a good chance. (9) HUBBY NUMBER ONE raced decently last time chasing a strong winner. He could crack the exotics at a price. (6) ROCKIN WITH DEWEY moves up off a sharp score but she isn't likely to lead unbothered this time.
Race 7
(3) HOOTER SHOOTER paced a big mile on the rim last time. Tonight's the night for his maiden score. (6) ABOUT A BOY showed some late interest in the same race in his debut effort. If he leaves better here, he should be much closer at the wire. (1) SPANIARD can follow along for a minor share. (2) D M REACHER races better on fast tracks and he should get one here.
Race 8
(2) ESCUELA has been getting closer and she looks as good as any in this wide-open low level conditioned trot. (7) CROWN CLASSIC was held up in traffic when making her move last time, which may have cost her a win. She rates highly here. (10) GRANA PADANNO drops in class again and he is obviously one of the best in here but he needs to overcome his post. (3) HLDONTGHTTOYURDREAMS raced better last time, but he was over bet then and could also be over bet here on the perceived 'back class' angle.
Race 9
(7) SHADOW MARGEAUX improved sharply with McNair driving for the first time last week. He sticks here. Expect a more aggressive steer this time. (4) ST LADS LOTTO made a couple of moves from the worst post in an effort that is probably better than it looks on paper; now he moves inside; using. (10) HES A SENSATION takes a massive class drop here, but post 10 isn't good for him if he employs his usual racing style; your call. (1) CS EYE could improve sharply in his second start off a break; consider for Pick 4 tickets.
Race 10
(3) CRANKIN IT UP ships in and goes for Weller, who should have him ready to roll; top call. (2) SCOTTY MACH N figures to improve his chances with a better start from a better post; using. (7) JAC SPADE is racing well as he typically does at this winter meet. It wouldn't be a shock if he passed them all down the lane. (5) CURATOR will be passing horses late for a slice. (10) BEIBER HANOVER re-qualified nicely which may be an indication that Auciello has him fixed up. If he has done so, he should make the ticket.
By Garnet Barnsdale
DRF
Race 1 - $40,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool
Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
PICK 5: 3,4,8/9/2,4,6/1,4,5/3,5,8 = $16.20
EARLY PICK 4: 1,4,5/3,5,8/1,3,9/3 = $27
LATE PICK 4: 3/2,7,10/1,4,7,10/2,3,7 = $36
MEET STATS: 19 - 85 / $120.00 BEST BETS: 4 - 8 / $11.90
SPOT PLAYS: 0 - 8 / $0.00
Best Bet: HOOTER SHOOTER (7th)
Spot Play: BADSTORMANYPORT (1st)
Race 1
(3) BADSTORMANYPORT really cranked it up in his November 17th qualifier. He looks ready to produce a good effort vs. a suspect group here. (4) TOY COP's early speed is dangerous as he has been lasting longer on the lead recently. (8) EAS IDEAL gets hammered at the windows every week, but he did show some life late in the mile last time. (9) MR MATCH ON BEACH could wake up here dropping from the Autumn series.
Race 2
(9) ANDOVERS CHOICE goes from Fontaine to Moreau here, which has been a profitable angle so far at this meet. (1) STORMONT DUNDAS was close to his initial win last time, but was overtaken by the pocket-sitter late. His presence here could provide some value for the choice. (2) MISTER BLUES wouldn't need to improve much on his qualifiers to compete. (5) GOLDEN MAN is a two-time winner facing foes that are winless in more than 100 starts combined. He isn't impossible here.
Race 3
(2) FIVE BELOW goes for the top barn here off a decent qualifier. There isn't much to beat here if Moreau has this gelding close to being right. (6) ENTRANCED's first-over move was repelled by a strong class-dropping winner last time, but that was an improved performance and he should be a player here. (4) AMITYVILLE LINDY should be heard from on the class drop if he stays trotting. (7) CLASS ME NICE could sneak into the tri or super here at a big price.
Race 4
(5) TWO SIDES OF LOVE should go forward off her sharp debut and score here. (1) SUNSET FILLY is the main danger if she stays flat this time. (4) WARAWEE STAR is worth a look on the barn change coming off a break. Notice the sharp final 1/4 in her November 17th qualifier. (2) DORABELLA seems likely to grab a minor share.
Race 5
(3) P H BLACKJACK comes up tagged after one start vs. much tougher since shipping west. He should fit this class and Hudon will likely put him into play early. (5) SUTTON SEELSTER shows a big win two back, the only time he was entered for a tag; using. (8) IMSPORTY will be passing horses late, as is typical for him. (2) NEW STANDARD is another that figures to land on the fringes again.
Race 6
(1) COVERT OPERATIVE closed well last week despite having missed a month's action and now he picks up a catch driver here; top call. (3) LEXUS ROCKY won in a similar class three back then drew the 10-hole twice and went for two non-productive spins of the oval. He is in with a good chance. (9) HUBBY NUMBER ONE raced decently last time chasing a strong winner. He could crack the exotics at a price. (6) ROCKIN WITH DEWEY moves up off a sharp score but she isn't likely to lead unbothered this time.
Race 7
(3) HOOTER SHOOTER paced a big mile on the rim last time. Tonight's the night for his maiden score. (6) ABOUT A BOY showed some late interest in the same race in his debut effort. If he leaves better here, he should be much closer at the wire. (1) SPANIARD can follow along for a minor share. (2) D M REACHER races better on fast tracks and he should get one here.
Race 8
(2) ESCUELA has been getting closer and she looks as good as any in this wide-open low level conditioned trot. (7) CROWN CLASSIC was held up in traffic when making her move last time, which may have cost her a win. She rates highly here. (10) GRANA PADANNO drops in class again and he is obviously one of the best in here but he needs to overcome his post. (3) HLDONTGHTTOYURDREAMS raced better last time, but he was over bet then and could also be over bet here on the perceived 'back class' angle.
Race 9
(7) SHADOW MARGEAUX improved sharply with McNair driving for the first time last week. He sticks here. Expect a more aggressive steer this time. (4) ST LADS LOTTO made a couple of moves from the worst post in an effort that is probably better than it looks on paper; now he moves inside; using. (10) HES A SENSATION takes a massive class drop here, but post 10 isn't good for him if he employs his usual racing style; your call. (1) CS EYE could improve sharply in his second start off a break; consider for Pick 4 tickets.
Race 10
(3) CRANKIN IT UP ships in and goes for Weller, who should have him ready to roll; top call. (2) SCOTTY MACH N figures to improve his chances with a better start from a better post; using. (7) JAC SPADE is racing well as he typically does at this winter meet. It wouldn't be a shock if he passed them all down the lane. (5) CURATOR will be passing horses late for a slice. (10) BEIBER HANOVER re-qualified nicely which may be an indication that Auciello has him fixed up. If he has done so, he should make the ticket.
SPOT PLAYS
For Thursday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Aqueduct (8th) Weekend Hideaway, 7-2
(9th) Aussie Awakening, 3-1
Churchill Downs (6th) Rhythm Park, 7-2
(8th) Sistine Sista, 5-1
Del Mar (3rd) Sky Preacher, 7-2
(4th) Heir of Storm, 7-2
Fair Grounds (2nd) Toughjudgement, 9-2
(5th) Idol Cat, 7-2
Golden Gate Fields (3rd) Dynamite Ride, 4-1
(5th) Later My Love, 3-1
Laurel Park (2nd) Northern Prancer, 4-1
(8th) Justcallme K L, 4-1
For Thursday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Aqueduct (8th) Weekend Hideaway, 7-2
(9th) Aussie Awakening, 3-1
Churchill Downs (6th) Rhythm Park, 7-2
(8th) Sistine Sista, 5-1
Del Mar (3rd) Sky Preacher, 7-2
(4th) Heir of Storm, 7-2
Fair Grounds (2nd) Toughjudgement, 9-2
(5th) Idol Cat, 7-2
Golden Gate Fields (3rd) Dynamite Ride, 4-1
(5th) Later My Love, 3-1
Laurel Park (2nd) Northern Prancer, 4-1
(8th) Justcallme K L, 4-1
