A few items to mention prior to getting to the listings. All races are `capped for either ‘fast’ or ‘firm’ surfaces (unless otherwise stated) - if the track comes off from either, use your best judgment. In the event there is a scratch, the race’s selection(s) should be avoided as the fractions/pace will be altered. Generally speaking, selections are meant to be played as win and place unless otherwise stated. Anyone who knows a lick or two about this sport will tell you at times there is a bias and when this occurs, if one’s been paying attention, you’ll recognize it and take it as an advantage and adjust your wagers accordingly. Not every day will have complete listings with/without comment(s) and at times a race will just have either the name/number or a significant ‘clue’ as to whom the selection is. Be prepared to lose more races than win because looking for value. What is meant by that is, if there are ten races on the card we only need to hit a pair of winners to break roughly even. In the event three are won, we’ve made money for the day based upon one selection per race ($40 wagering money). Obviously, when there’s more choices to play for the win, the cost increases. There’s other items to discuss, but they will have to wait for a future post. Best of luck this season to all.
Day 1: Saturday, 12.08.07
Race 1/ Tradition says to play every horse to win this race to ensure a cash positive meet - considerate done. The two that have gotten extra attention are Mt Greylock and Fish Fly Soup. They will be used as keys for the exotics and have w/p action.
Race 2/ Key Stone Point is given top billing for this race but with the lowly m/l of 2:1, there’s no value to that. The solution, use as key for exotics over Imacraftychoice, Elusive Knight, Billy’s Ace, Poundcake and Toast to Monty.
Race 3/ After Mr. Chalky wins a race, the following one has generated some nice double-digit winners. With that in mind, going to use So Honorie, A Crafty Fellow, North Stardom and Smarty Smith on top and in an exacta box.
Race 4/ In this race, there is but one choice for this person. Nickel Candy is whom will be used as a key for exotics. The other Z-man historically has done well on the lawn even off layoffs (applies here). This one does qualify for a play-back in next outing if doesn’t win (less injury).
Race 5/ Going to give Brown Eyed Cat and Dependabilty an extra look in the paddock, walking ring and post parade.
Race 6/ This is the chalkiest race on the card as one of these two should win the race, either Oasis Storm or Classy and Elusive. Both have m/l’s of 3:1 or less. Take a good look at the place and show pools for those who’ll be hitting the exotics as there is usually enough insight to be hand from them to complete your ticket(s).
Race 7/ Let’s take a shot at pulling a $20+ winner (based upon m/l) this race with Cartage Agent and Robyn Chief. Both will be used as keys for exotic tickets as well as w/p action.
Race 8/ How about a double keyed ticket? Ok, you got. Lets use Anjiz Crypto and Causin Confusion on top with both under as well as Smooth Lover and Barney Smith for an exacta and trifecta/triple.
Race 9/ Best horse in the race is Ivannarun. The lone question is, will fire today? If chalk’s not your thing, take another look at Alex Ingram and/or Price Cortez. An exacta is worth taking a chance for those with a few extra dollars.
Race 10/ For the day’s featured race, Message of a Myth, Charlie Papa, Avante and Robin des Concorde have all gotten my attention. Can see some nice exotics if this falls the right way.
Race 11/ Going to box Commander Bay, Gallant Lover, Fiore De, Replete and Eleanor’s Groom in the exotics and have a ticket on each one’s nose to close the day’s action.