By Dennis Miller | 2026

March 12

We have one Kentucky Derby prep this weekend and it’s the Virginia Derby at Colonial Downs.

It is the final 50-25-15-10-5 points race of the preps as it gets real starting next week with the 100-50-25-15-10 qualifying points get underway.

In addition to the Virginia Derby, I took a quick look at a pair of graded races this weekend.

After the preview, look at the current Kentucky Derby/Oaks futures!

Colonial Downs

Virginia Derby

(9th race, 2:10 p.m.)

Here you have a spot where horses are coming in trying to steal 50 Kentucky Derby qualifying points as the race may be perceived as not as solid as some preps at the bigger tracks.

There are also three entered here that come in in from the Sam Davis at Tampa Bay Downs. There are some horses here you have certainly heard of, mixed in with some you may be reading their names for the first time, and quite possibly the last time.

This is a fish or cut bait moment for several horses.

Buetane (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat) is a $1.15 million purchase that has hit the board in all four starts but at the same time has underperformed. He has one win and that came in his debut against straight maidens on August 3 at Del Mar. Since then he has been second in the Grade I Hopeful, second in the Grade II San Vincente, and third in the Grade III Southwest. Not a bad start to a career but one where the connections have expected more.

Incredibolt (Riley Mott, J.A. Torres) had great back-to-back starts when he broke on September 28 at Churchill, then followed it up with a win in the Grade III Street Sense on October 26. He went to the bench after that, returning Jan. 31 in the Grade III Holy Bull at Gulfstream. He never got going on his return, finishing sixth and last, 25 lengths back. He has been strong in the mornings and I expect a much better effort here.

Grittiness (Todd Pletcher, Rajvegh Maragh) is a $800,000 runner has been in New York until this race and he has yet to win one. He missed in three maiden races, then was fifth in the Grade II Remsen followed by a second in the Withers, 11 lengths back if the winner. I will guarantee the connections are looking for more return on the investment, and I am not surprised to see this horse here.

Confessional (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz) showed major promise in his first two starts, breaking in his debut on Oct. 16, then coming back Jan. 2 run second in a tough $75,000 optional claimer at Gulfstream Park. He then came in at 5/2 in the Sam Davis at Tampa Bay Downs and ran seventh, getting beat by 11 lengths in his first route start. He has worked well for the return and throws blinkers on for the first time. I think this race may go away towards setting his future.

$1Lockstocknpharoah (Thomas Drury, E Morales) is named for his parents Lockstep and American Pharoah. He had two starts over the artificial surface at Turfway Park and won both. He won his debut on Dec. 19 by two lengths, then came back on February 7 to win $62,000 optional claimer by over eight lengths. This is his toughest start but this one may have the makings of a good one. We shall see here.

High Camp (William Walden, John Velazquez) has made a pair of starts, coming in second in his debut on Dec. 28, then winning his second start on Feb. 7 with both races at Gulfstream. This will be his toughest start as well as his first route. He has prepped well in the mornings and he showed some gas at the end of the first two starts so he should handle the distance. He has two 80-plus Beyer marks for his two starts.

Oaklawn Park

Grade III Whitmore

(10th race, 3:21 p.m.)

This six-furlong sprint always makes for a good race with some top sprinters.

There are seven runners set to go here.

Wendelssohn (Chris Hartman, D Cabrera) comes in with a third-place effort in the King Cotton on February 8 here at Oaklawn, earning a 95 Beyer in the process. He battled the pace throughout before falling off just a touch late. He likes the track and has hit the board in all six starts over the surface. He has shown both speed and a closing ability, giving him the versatility to adjust to a style from the break.

Tejano Twist (Chris Hartman, F Arrieta) is the stablemate of the first horse and was second in the King Cotton. Following that he ran in an $80,000 optional claimer and won it by over three lengths. His last two Beyer marks have been 99 and 93 for his off-the-pace running style. This 7-year-old still has some gas and was third here last year. He has $1.7 million in career earnings

Ryvit (Steve Asmussen, E Asmussen) is a 6-year-old with $1.1 million in career earnings. He has three starts this year with a win and two thirds to show. His last two starts have come at Sunland Park and were a pair of thirds in minor stakes. He likes to sit close to the pace.

Santa Anita

Grade III San Simeon

(3rd race, 2 p.m.)

There are six entered here as we go down the hill on the turf for a purse of $100,000.

Sumter (Richard Mandella, Mike Smith) is now a 7-year-old and it’s very possible he has seen better days. He has one race this year and ran five times last year, winning once. He has taken part in several graded races. He had four straight bullet works, the last of which was March 4 before turning in a maintenance work on March 9.

Genius Jimmy (Michael McCarthy, Juan Hernandez) is making his biggest start to date, and he cuts from a route to a sprint. He ran well in his last two starts and was second last out in an $80,000 optional claimer on February 8. The pilot has been up the last two starts and goes here for the third time when he might have had other options.

Seal Team (Richard Mandella, Hector Berrios) had only two starts last year and just three in 2024. The last four starts were in graded company, with the last start came in May of last year when he was sixth in the Grade I Shoemaker Mile. Now he comes back almost a year later, going from a route to a sprint. In fact, his last sprint start was in November of 2022. Been working well and I think the tote will be a huge indicator.

Sorrento Sky (Phil D’Amato, Florent Geroux) is a sprinter and is making his second start of the year. He has received 90-plus Beyer marks in his last four starts and is coming off a second in the Clocker’s Corner at Santa Anita on February 8. Solid works for the return and is the one to beat I think.

Derby/Oaks features

As the countdown to the 152nd runnings of the $5 million Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve (Grade I) and $1.5 million Longines Kentucky Oaks (GI) continues, fans will have another opportunity to wager on their favorites in the fifth pool of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager and lone Kentucky Oaks Future Wager, which begins Friday at noon (all times Eastern) and closes Sunday evening.

Both pools feature $2 Win and Exacta wagering, as well as a separate Oaks/Derby Future Double linking selections in both races. The Kentucky Derby Future Wager closes Sunday at 6 p.m. (all times Eastern) while the Kentucky Oaks Future Wager remains open until 6:30 p.m.

Pool 5 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager is headlined by Mrs. John Magnier, Michael B. Tabor, Derrick Smith, Peter Brant, Brook T. Smith and Summer Wind Equine’s Fasig-Tipton Risen Star (GII) winner Paladin. The talented son of Gun Runner is expected to make his next start in the April 4 Blue Grass (GI) as his final prep for the Kentucky Derby.

Also included in the 39 individual interests are Wathnan Racing’s Fountain of Youth (GII) winner Commandment (6-1) and Centennial Farm’s Holy Bull (GIII) winner Nearly (8-1). The pool also includes a 40th interest for “All Other 3-Year-Olds” not listed among the other 39.

In the Kentucky Oaks Future Wager, Repole Stable’s Zany was made the morning line favorite in the field of 39 3-year-old fillies and a 40th interest for “All Other 3-Year-Old Fillies” not listed. A daughter of Triple Crown winner American Pharoah, Zany’s resumé includes victories in the Demoiselle (GII) and Suncoast Stakes (Listed).

Other top interests include Godolphin’s Fasig-Tipton Rachel Alexandra (GII) winner Bella Ballerina (6-1); Mike Pegram, Karl Watson and Paul Weitman’s multiple graded stakes winner Explora (10-1); and Calumet Farm’s Davona Dale (GII) winner She Be Smooth (10-1).

The field for Pool 5 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager:

#1 Blackout Time (Kenny McPeek, Not This Time, 40-1)

#2 Brant (Bob Baffert, Gun Runner, 40-1)

#3 Buetane (Bob Baffert, Tiz the Law, 50-1)

#4 Canaletto (Chad Brown, Into Mischief, 30-1)

#5 Cherokee Nation (Bob Baffert, Not This Time, 20-1)

#6 Chief Wallabee (Bill Mott, Constitution, 10-1)

#7 Chip Honcho (Steve Asmussen, Connect, 50-1)

#8 Class President (Todd Pletcher, Uncle Mo, 20-1)

#9 Commandment (Brad Cox, Into Mischief, 6-1)

#10 Confessional (Brad Cox, Essential Quality, 90-1)

#11 Danon Bourbon (Manabu Ikezoe, Maxfield, 75-1)

#12 Emerging Market (Chad Brown, Candy Ride, 40-1)

#13 Express Kid (Justin Evans, Bodexpress, 75-1)

#14 Fulleffort (Brad Cox, Liam’s Map, 90-1)

#15 Further Ado (Brad Cox, Gun Runner, 20-1)

#16 Golden Tempo (Cherie DeVaux, Curlin, 30-1)

#17 Great White (John Ennis, Volatile, 50-1)

#18 Incredibolt (Riley Mott, Bolt d’Oro, 90-1)

#19 Intrepido (Jeff Mullins, Maximus Mischief, 50-1)

#20 Iron Honor (Chad Brown, Nyquist, 25-1)

#21 Litmus Test (Bob Baffert, Nyquist, 50-1)

#22 Lucky Kid (JPN) (Yukihiro Kato, Discreet Cat, 90-1)

#23 Napoleon Solo (Chad Summers, Liam’s Map, 60-1)

#24 Nearly (Todd Pletcher, Not This Time, 8-1)

#25 Paladin (Chad Brown, Gun Runner, 5-1)

#26 Pavlovian (Doug O’Neill, Pavel, 90-1)

#27 Potente (Bob Baffert, Into Mischief, 15-1)

#28 Pyromancer (JPN) (Keiji Yoshimura, Pyro, 90-1)

#29 Reagan’s Honor (Cherie DeVaux, Honor A.P., 25-1)

#30 Renegade (Todd Pletcher, Into Mischief, 20-1)

#31 Robusta (Doug O’Neill, Accelerate, 40-1)

#32 Salloom (Bhupat Seemar, Authentic, 90-1)

#33 Secured Freedom (Tim Yakteen, Practical Joke, 90-1)

#34 Silent Tactic (Mark Casse, Tacitus, 20-1)

#35 Six Speed (Bhupat Seemar, Not This Time, 90-1)

#36 So Happy (Mark Glatt, Runhappy, 90-1)

#37 Stark Contrast (Michael McCarthy, Caravaggio, 90-1)

#38 Talk to Me Jimmy (Rudy Rodriguez, Modernist, 90-1)

#39 The Puma (Gustavo Delgado, Essential Quality, 25-1)

#40 All Other 3-Year-Olds (12-1)

The field for the Kentucky Oaks Future Wager:

#1 A. P.’s Girl (Peter Eurton, Honor A.P., 90-1)

#2 Bank Shot (Ryan Hanson, Game Winner, 30-1)

#3 Bella Ballerina (Brendan Walsh, Street Sense, 6-1)

#4 Bottle of Rouge (Bob Baffert, Vino Rosso, 20-1)

#5 Brooklyn Blonde (Michael McCarthy, Gun Runner, 90-1)

#6 Counting Stars (Mark Casse, Honor A.P., 20-1)

#7 Dazzling Dame (Brittany Russell, Girvin, 30-1)

#8 Explora (Bob Baffert, Blame, 10-1)

#9 Forced Entry (Bob Baffert, Charlatan, 15-1)

#10 French Blue (Bob Baffert, Gun Runner, 50-1)

#11 French Friction (Mark Casse, City of Light, 60-1)

#12 Hit Parade (Brad Cox, Street Sense, 50-1)

#13 Just Singing (Kent Sweezey, Justify, 50-1)

#14 Kadabra (Todd Pletcher, Good Magic, 90-1)

#15 Knickleandime (Randy Morse, Knicks Go, 90-1)

#16 Labwah (Salem bin Ghadayer, Charlatan, 80-1)

#17 Life of Joy (Brad Cox, Gun Runner, 20-1)

#18 Love and Trust (Cherie DeVaux, Constitution, 90-1)

#19 Luv Your Neighbor (Mike Stidham, Constitution, 30-1)

#20 Market Chill (Chad Brown, Not This Time, 90-1)

#21 Maximum Offer (Kenny McPeek, Maxfield, 60-1)

#22 Meaning (Michael McCarthy, Gun Runner, 15-1)

#23 My Miss Mo (Saffie Joseph Jr., Uncle Mo, 50-1)

#24 Newtown Pike (Lindsay Schultz, McKinzie, 60-1)

#25 Nycon (Whit Beckman, Nyquist, 80-1)

#26 On Time Girl (Brad Cox, Not This Time, 50-1)

#27 Paradise (Brad Cox, Gun Runner, 30-1)

#28 Pashmina (Rob Atras, Constitution, 90-1)

#29 Percy’s Bar (Ben Colebrook, Upstart, 30-1)

#30 Powered by Family (Cherie DeVaux, Quality Road, 30-1)

#31 Prom Queen (Brad Cox, Quality Road, 20-1)

#32 Resplendence (Paulo Lobo, Justify, 30-1)

#33 Search Party (Mark Casse, Gun Runner, 50-1)

#34 She Be Smooth (Todd Pletcher, Lexitonian, 10-1)

#35 Sneaky Good (Brad Cox, Into Mischief, 50-1)

#36 Sticker Shock (Brad Cox, Uncle Mo, 30-1)

#37 Swing Vote (Bill Mott, Constitution, 80-1)

#38 Taken by the Wind (Kenny McPeek, Rock Your World, 80-1)

#39 Zany (Todd Pletcher, American Pharoah, 3-1)

#40 All Other 3-Year-Old Fillies (20-1)

There are no refunds in the Kentucky Derby Future Wager. If Churchill Downs officials determine during the duration of this week’s pool that one of the wagering interests experiences an injury, illness, or other circumstance that would prevent the horse from participating in the Kentucky Derby, betting on the individual horse will be suspended immediately.

The final Future Wager date is set for April 2-4 (Pool 6).

          More information, Brisnet.com past performances and real-time odds on the Kentucky Derby Future Wager will be available before the pools open Thursday at KentuckyDerby.com.

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March 5

We’ve got a pair of Kentucky Derby prep races set for Saturday, one taking part on each coast.

We’ve got the San Felipe at Santa Anita, along with the Tampa Bay Derby that is set for Tampa Bay Downs.

There are series of great races at Santa Anita, featuring the Santa Anita Handicap, also known as the Big Cap.

Following is a look at the two Kentucky Derby prep races, both of which are worth 50-25-15-10-5 qualifying points.

Tampa Bay Downs

Tampa Bay Derby

(11th race, 2:35 p.m.)

There are nine horses entering here with a few legitimate Derby runners vying for the points.

Canaletto (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat) is a $1,000,000 purchase price that has run all of one race. He went one mile in a straight maiden race on January 29 at Gulfstream and crushed the field, winning by over nine lengths. He’s come back with a strong series of works during February, and it will be interesting to see how he fares in this field.

Further Ado (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz) is an interesting runner to break down into two parts, with the third chapter set for today. His first two starts were in July and August at Saratoga and neither were anything to brag about. He went to the bench until Oct. 10 when he came back against straight maidens at Keeneland. A new horse appeared as he blew away the field by over 20 lengths. He came back a month later and took the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club at Churchill and came from a stalking trip to win by over a length. He’s been off since then but has been burning up the track in the mornings and if the horse from Part II shows up, we could be looking at a major Derby threat.

Powershift (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) is a $750,000 horse who has won his only start. That came February 7 over the Tampa track, but it was only a $32,000 straight maiden field, not as much of an accomplishment as others here. He did get a 96 Beyer that day and he certainly likes the track. Watch the tote here for clues.

Talkin (Danny Gargan, Joel Rosario) won at first asking August 30 at Saratoga, closing to win by a length against a good field that included Further Ado. He came back Oct. 4 in the Grade I Champagne at Aqueduct and ran a solid third. He went to the shelf, not returning until Dec. 6 in the Grade II Remsen, also at Aqueduct, and laid an egg, finishing ninth, beaten by 18 lengths. The question that will be answered today is – was it just one bad race or is this what we can expect.

Santa Anita

San Felipe

(8th race, 3:30 p.m.)

This one has seven horses going 1-1/16-miles including perhaps Bob Baffert’s top 3-year-old – Brant.

Brant (Bob Baffert, Florent Geroux) is a $3 million horse that debuted last July, winning a maiden start by over five lengths at Del Mar. He came two months later in September and took the Del Mar Debutante by a length. On October 31 in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Del Mar, he set the early pace, then battled all the way through the end, finishing third behind Ted Noffey and Mr. A.P.  He has been off since that race, but Baffert does hit at 31 percent with this length of break. He’s been quick in the mornings, and a win here stamps him as a Derby contender, maybe the favorite.

Secured Freedom (Tim Yakteen, Kazushi Kimura) broke on his second start against straight maidens on December 28 at Santa Anita. Came back on February 7 in the Lewis – the prep for this race – and closed well to finish third. He has worked well for this spot, and the barn has learned from the best.

So Happy (Mark Glatt, Mike Smith) has two starts and two wins. The debut came Nov. 22 against straight maidens and was a half-length win following a tough stretch run. He came back Jan. 10n in the San Vincente at Santa Anita and won by two lengths. That was at seven furlongs, and this will be the first time he is going for two turns. He has two real strong works for this spot and certainly has bloodlines for the distance.

Start the Ride (Ban Blacker, Armando Ayuso) is the sentimental horse in the race as he runs for Harris Farms Inc., the organization formed by the late and legendary California horseman John Harris. He’s run into two Cal-bred races, finishing fourth in his debut in November, then came back to win the Cal Cup Derby at 14/1 on Jan. 17 at Santa Anita. Appears to favor a close and he will get a pace to run at here.

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February 25

By Dennis Miller

Big weekend ahead for the Pleasanton OTB community as we have three Kentucky Derby prep races this weekend, as well as another FREE handicapping contest on Saturday.

The three preps, which are previewed below are the Gotham at Aqueduct and Fountain of Youth at Gulfstream Park on Saturday, and the Rebel at Oaklawn on Sunday.

Aqueduct

Grade III Gotham

(10th race, 2:18 p.m.)

There nine horses entered to go to post in the one-mile race over the main track.

Balboa (Brittany Russell, S. Russell) has been a strong and consistent runner since moving out to the East from the West Coast back in November. He won a stake at Laurel back in November, then moved to Aqueduct and has run third, then second in a pair of Derby preps over the track. He was third in the Remsen in December, then was second in the Jerome in January. He likes to be a pace factor, getting near the lead in his last three starts.

Iron Honor (Chad Brown, Manny Franco) has only his start against straight maidens on Dec. 13 at Aqueduct as his only race but what a debut it was. He pushed the pace until they turned for home, then took over, winning by over a length and earning

a 95 Beyer for the debut. He also beat a horse that came back to win his next starts and is also entered here.

Right to Party (Kenny McPeek, Christopher Elliott) ran third to Iron Honor in both runner’s debut, then came back and won his next start, also against straight maidens, coming from well back to get the win by over a length. Both starts were over the Aqueduct track.

Crown the Buckeye (Michael Maker, Ricardo Santana) ran in a pair of prep races at the Fair Grounds before shipping up to New York for this spot. He set the pace in the Gun Runner on Dec. 20 before fading to third late. He came back a month later in the Grade III Lecomte and set the pace early again but this time he faded to eighth. Has been off since then and has had some good works. I have to think if he fades here, he’s done with the Derby trail and possibly becomes a sprinter.

Gulfstream Park

Grade II Fountain of Youth

(14th race, 3:11 p.m.)

There are 11 horses entering here, going 1-1/16-miles on the main track. This is the best field of any of the preps up to this point as there at least five entered here that at this time, I could make a strong case to be in the Derby field come May. Obviously, things change in the next two-plus months but there does appear to be some runners here.

Jackson Hole (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) is almost a $1.5 million dollar horse that has run twice and won twice. First it was straight maidens Dec. 13 at Gulfstream where he stalked the pace and charged home over a length in front. Then it was a $125,000 optional claimer on Jan. 17 at the Fair Grounds where he wired the field and drew off to win by over five lengths. He has been working well and reconnects with Johnny V who rode the debut.

Commandment (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz) is a $750,000 purchase that had his debut back in early October, started poorly and moved through the field to finish fourth. He took some time off coming back at Churchill on Nov. 1 and got it done, drawing off to win by five. His most recent start was Jan. 3 at Gulfstream in the Mucho Macho Man and once again he stalked then drew off winning by over six lengths. He has been working well in the mornings and looks ready to roll here.

Bravaro (Saffie Joseph, Tyler Gaffalione) was second in the Holy Bull on Jan. 31, finishing five lengths behind Nearly who was impressive that day. That was his first start since late October, and it was a strong return. He has strong works for this, and I fully expect him to be influencing the pace. Is also entered in the Rebel on Sunday at Oaklawn.

Napoleon Solo (Chad Summers, Kendrick Carmouche) has been off since October when he was amazing in winning the Grade I Champagne at Aqueduct. The works for the last two months have been consistent and strong, making me think he

will be live here. And with the other runners in this race, he might end up being your value play here.

Solitude Dude (Saffie Joseph, Flavien Prat) has run three races since debuting Nov. 1 and has turned three wins, all impressive performances. The debut came at Gulfstream against straight maidens, and he won by nine lengths. Five weeks later he came back in a $102,000 stake at Tampa Bay Downs and won by eighth lengths. Finally on Jan. 31 in the Swale at Gulfstream and won by three lengths. Is this the toughest group he’s faced? Yes, but this is also the time when someone seemingly steps up and solidifies themselves as contenders.

Sunday

Oaklawn Park

Grade II Rebel

(11th race, 3:23 p.m.)

Another top-notch race with no fewer than five potential Derby threats and one more that may be at the crossroads here.

Ten are entered for the 1-1/16-mile race and is the second big prep of early Derby campaigns.

Litmus Test (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat) has gotten a lot of love for a horse that has one win in four starts against winners. After breaking in his debut back in August at Del Mar he has not been able to find the winners circle until his last start. That was the Los Alamitos Futurity against an average field of six on December 13. He has been off since that race on Dec. 13 but he has been working well and Baffert brings horses off that length of break at 32 percent. There are questions but he is on my Derby list.

Bravaro (Saffie Joseph, Tyler Gaffalione) was second in the Holy Bull on Jan. 31, finishing five lengths behind Nearly who was impressive that day. That was his first start since late October, and it was a strong return. He has strong works for this, and I fully expect him to be influencing the pace. Is also entered in the Fountain of Youth at Gulfstream Park on Saturday.

Blackout Time (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr.) has three starts and hasn’t had a bad one. He broke in his second start in August at Ellis Park crushing the field by over nine-lengths. Jumped into a big one Oct. 4 at Keeneland, running second to Ted Noffey in the Grade I Breeders’ Futurity. Ted Noffey would have been the likely heavy favorite for the Derby had he not been taken off the trail. He has been off since then but his steady work tab and connections warrant, he has consideration.

Strategic Risk (Mark Casse, Javier Castellano) is one that is facing a potential fish or cut bait race. Two back he won the Smarty Jones at Oaklawn on January 3, an early Derby prep. He

came back a little over a month later in the Grade III Southwest and messed up the bed, finishing 10th beaten 10 lengths. A decent work tab and the win in the Smarty Jones at 5/2 warrants him getting another chance here. Another poor showing may find him off the trail.

Silent Tactic (Mark Casse, Christian Torres) is looking for respect here after a second in the Smarty Jones followed by a win in the Southwest – pair of races where he was 14/1 and 12/1. I would be shocked if you got anywhere near that here. A big closer that will get pace to run at and has every right to be a factor off the pace here.

Soldier N Diplomat (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz) was second in the Kentucky Jockey Club on Nov. 29 at Churchill, then took a break before coming back here at Oaklawn with a second in the Southwest. Likes the track and has seen some strong races. He should be part of the pace factor here but doesn’t need the lead. Worth a good look.

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February 19

There is only one Kentucky Derby prep race this weekend and that is the John Battaglia Memorial on the synthetic at Turfway Park by Florence Kentucky.

A full field of 12 are entered to go 1-1/16-miles for the right to Kentucky Derby qualifying points of 20-10-6-4-2.

Post time is 6:55 p.m. PDT.

John Battaglia

(9th race)

Street Beast (Ben Colebrook, Luan Machado) was the winner if the $124,000 Leonatus over the track at Turfway on Jan. 17 at 5/2. That day he wired the field coming off an almost three-month break. He has won three of five starts and has shown speed in all five starts. He took to the synthetic so should be a contender here.

Fulleffort (Brad Cox, Vincent Cheminaud) was second in the Leonatus as the favorite, closing strong but didn’t have enough the catch the winner that day. It too was his first start on the synthetic and he appeared to take to it as well. Has won two of five career starts and always favors a closing run.

Stop the Car (Brendan Walsh, Edgar Morales) was last seen finishing seventh in the Grade III Lecomte at the Fair Grounds on Jan. 17. He came into that start with two wins to start his career but after stalking the pace he faded into the lane. This is

an easier spot to be sure, and this must be a fish or cut bait type race. A bad showing here and I am thinking he is off the Derby trail.

Two Out Hero (Kevin Attard, Rafeal Hernandez) has three starts, all at Woodbine, the last two bring on the turf. The last start came Sept. 13 in the Grade I Summer where he was third. He has been training well for the return and does have a win over the synthetic and figures to be a pace factor here.

Attfield (Thomas Marley, Ricardo Santana Jr.) has won two of three career starts but all three starts have come on the turf. In his last start on Nov. 7, he took the $150,000 Central Park on the turf at Aqueduct. He is always close to the pace and if he takes to the synthetic, he should be a factor.

Upcoming contests at Pleasanton OTB!

We have two more new, FREE handicapping contests taking place at the Pleasanton OTB.

On February 28, we will be having a contest including races from Gulfstream Park and Aqueduct, highlighted by a pair of Kentucky Derby prep races in the Fountain of Youth (Gulfstream) and the Gotham (Aqueduct).

The contest will include the two preps and other races on the undercard. Entry forms will be available on Thursday, Feb. 26 at the Pleasanton OTB.

April 4 will be the next contest, featuring races at Santa Anita, Keeneland, and Aqueduct.

The Derby preps that day are the Santa Anita Derby, the Blue Grass Stakes (Keeneland), and the Wood Memorial (Aqueduct).

Once again, races on the undercard at those three racetracks, with the entry forms available Thursday, April 2.

Of course, our traditional contests will take place May 2 for the Kentucky Derby, May 16 for the Preakness Stakes, and June 6 for the Belmont Stakes.

Latest Derby futures

With the Kentucky Derby 11 weeks away, the pari-mutuel field of “All Other 3-Year-olds” closed as the 9-2 favorite in Pool 4 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager (KDFW) and Saturday’s Risen Star (Grade II) winner Paladin from the barn of trainer Chad Brown was the 9-1 second choice.

Other horses who attracted interest from bettors: the Todd Pletcher-trained Holy Bull (GIII) winner Nearly (10-1); Brown’s Gulfstream Park maiden winner Canaletto (15-1); the Pletcher-trained Sam F. Davis winner Renegade (16-1); and the Mark Casse-trained Southwest (GIII) winner Silent Tactic (19-1).

Horses in order of the public’s betting choice (with trainer, sire, Pool 4 odds and $2 Win Will Pays):

#40 All Other 3-Year-Olds (9-2, $11.30)

#25 Paladin (Chad Brown, Gun Runner, 9-1, $20.80)

#24 Nearly (Todd Pletcher, Not This Time, 10-1, $22.76)

#5 Canaletto (Chad Brown, Into Mischief, 15-1, $32.86)

#30 Renegade (Todd Pletcher, Into Mischief, 16-1, $35.08)

#32 Silent Tactic (Mark Casse, Tacitus, 19-1, $40.02)

#7 Chief Wallabee (Bill Mott, Constitution, 21-1, $45.98)

#10 Commandment (Brad Cox, Into Mischief, 23-1, $49.18)

#15 Further Ado (Brad Cox, Gun Runner, 24-1, $50.74)

#3 Brant (Bob Baffert, Gun Runner, 26-1, $55.72)

#26 Plutarch (Bob Baffert, Into Mischief, 27-1, $56.64)

#23 Napoleon Solo (Chad Summers, Liam’s Map, 30-1, $62.10)

#1 Blackout Time (Kenny McPeek, Not This Time, 32-1, $66.16)

#16 Golden Tempo (Cherie DeVaux, Curlin, 32-1, $67.20)

#2 Boyd (Bob Baffert, Violence, 34-1, $71.54)

#13 Englishman (Cherie DeVaux, Maxfield, 37-1, $77.14)

#20 Litmus Test (Bob Baffert, Nyquist, 38-1, $78.38)

#37 Talk to Me Jimmy (Rudy Rodriguez, Modernist, 42-1, $86.34)

#12 Emerging Market (Chad Brown, Candy Ride-ARG, 42-1, $87.78)

#27 Potente (Bob Baffert, Into Mischief, 44-1, $90.34)

#19 Jackson Hole (Todd Pletcher, Nyquist, 45-1, $93.68)

#34 So Happy (Mark Glatt, Runhappy, 53-1, $108.90)

#11 Courting (Todd Pletcher, Curlin, 54-1, $110.58)

#4 Bravaro (Saffie Joseph Jr., Upstart, 60-1, $123.42)

#31 Secured Freedom (Tim Yakteen, Practical Joke, 61-1, $124.36)

#14 Ewing (Mark Casse, Knicks Go, 62-1, $127.90)

#8 Chip Honcho (Steve Asmussen, Connect, 65-1, $133.20)

#28 Powershift (Todd Pletcher, Constitution, 69-1, $141.66)

#33 Six Speed (Bhupat Seemar, Not This Time, 73-1, $148.80)

#9 Class President (Todd Pletcher, Uncle Mo, 75-1, $152.48)

#29 Pyromancer (JPN) (Kenji Yoshimura, Pyro, 77-1, $157.70)

#17 Intrepido (Jeff Mullins, Maximus Mischief, 82-1, $167.76)

#36 Solitude Dude (Saffie Joseph Jr., Yaupon, 83-1, $168.66)

#18 Iron Honor (Chad Brown, Nyquist, 122-1, $247.62)

#38 The Puma (Gustavo Delgado, Essential Quality, 123-1, $248.12)

#35 Soldier N Diplomat (Steve Asmussen, Army Mule, 129-1, $260.84)

#22 My World (Brad Cox, Essential Quality, 207-1, $416.26)

#6 Carson Street (Brendan Walsh, Street Sense, 307-1, $616.26)

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February 12

After a week where we saw four Kentucky Derby preps run over the course of two days, we return to a more normal weekend with only two Derby preps and one Kentucky Oaks prep set to run this weekend.

The Risen Star and the Rachel Alexandra are set for the Fair Grounds in Louisiana on Saturday. On Sunday, the Sunland Park Derby will take place.

The Risen Star and Rachel Alexandra are worth 50-25-15-10-5 point races, with the Sunland race worth 20-10-6-4-2 qualifying points.

Saturday

Fair Grounds

Grade II Rachel Alexandra

(11^th race, 3 p.m. PDT)

The ladies go 1-1/16-miles with eight horses entered, trying to secure Kentucky Oaks qualifying points.

Luv Your Neighbor (Michael Stidham, Luis Saez) is the lone horse with two, 80-plus Beyer ratings. In fact, there are only three that had gotten that mark, with this girl owning two in her last two races. The concern is that can she get up for the win, as in the last two starts – the two 80-plus Beyer marks – she lost by a head, then by a neck. She will probably sit mid-pack and move when they hit the lane.

Powered by Family (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz) has the highest Beyer figure as she scored an 84 in breaking against straight maidens at the Fair Grounds on January 10. She got away slowly and was last by 14 lengths early. Undaunted, she picked them off one at a time and crossed the line four lengths in front. In both starts she has come from well back, meaning she needs some pace to run at, and I am not sure there’s enough signed on here.

Bella Ballerina (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione) has two starts and two wins. The first came Oct. 5 at Keeneland winning by over four lengths. Next up was the Grade II Golden Rod on Nov. 29 at Churchill where she pushed the pace, took control at the top of the lane, then held on for the win by just under a length. Has been off since then but she has been working well in the mornings for the return.

Just Singing (JK Sweezey, John Velazquez) was third in the Golden Rod, also with a big close. There’s every indicator that she prefers to come from off the pace but as was my concern with another closer entered here, will there be eound front end speed to set up for a closer.

Grade II Risen Star

(12^th race, 3:30 p.m.)

It’s time for the boys to knock heads, fighting for Kentucky Derby qualifying points. There are eight horses entered here to battle through 1-1/8-miles.

There are four horses entering here that ran in the Lecomte, the prep race for this one at the Fair Grounds.

Golden Tempo (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz) was the winner of the Lecomte as the favorite just blowing down the stretch to go from last to first and win by just under a length. The win gave him wins in both of his starts, both efforts where he came from well back, hitting another gear in the lane. There looks like there maybe enough speed signed up here.

Paladin (Chad Brown, Tyler Gaffalione) is coming off a win in the Grade II Remsen, December 6 at Aqueduct. In both starts he was favored and in both he sat at the back of the pace. Interesting in that he shipped out of New York for this spot. Then again, with the weather as it is in New York, it looks like Brown is looking for some better weather conditions.

Chip Honcho (Steve Asmussen, Luis Saez) was the winner of the Gun Runner at the Fair Grounds, the prep for the Lecomte in a front running trip. He came back in the Lecomte and was pushing the pace when they turned home but he was caught and finished fourth. Saez rides for the first time.

Carson Street (Brendan Walsh, Ben Curtis) was third in the Lecomte after leading the field around the track through the turn before Golden Tempo came flying. It took him until his fourth start to break against straight maidens but although he didn’t win, he did hit the board in the first three starts.

Courting (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) was the fourth-place runner in the Remsen, and like Paladin, ships from his home base in New York for this spot. Twice he has tried to come from the back and both times he was fourth. In his maiden win, he wired the field. I think he must be out front early here to have a chance.

Sunday

Sunland Park

Sunland Park Derby

(9^th race, 3:17 p.m.)

Daneyko (Edward J. Kereluk, Alfredo Juarez) was the winner of the $100,000 Riley Allison Derby, Jan. 18 at Sunland. He came back from the back early, survived a bump in the lane and got up to win by a nose. He will face better here but he did win over the track which could make a difference.

Express Kid (Justin Evans, Juan Hernandez) was the winner of the Springboard Mile at Remington Park on Dec. 20 at 34/1. The $800,000 purchase has had four big works over the track since the last start. He should be part of the pace.

Bricklin (Rodolphe Brisset, Christian Torres) was sixth in the Grade III Street Sense back on Oct. 26 at Churchill Downs. Took a break until Jan. 3 on a $125,000 optional claimer at Oaklawn where he wired the field that day, winning by over three lengths. Put together a nice series of works at Oaklawn before shipping down for this one.

Way Beyond (Steve Asmussen, Keith Asmussen) has only one win in seven career starts but has seen some good races. He was fifth in the Springboard Mile, but he came off that one and was second in the Riley Allison Derby over the Sunland Track at 5/2. I think he is worth watching.

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February 5

The frigid weather took two Kentucky Derby preps away last weekend, which leaves us now with four this coming weekend with two scheduled for Friday and two more set for Friday.

The Southwest and the Withers were the two that were postponed and will be run on Friday this week.

The Sam F. Davis and the Robert D. Lewis are set for Saturday at Tampa Bay Downs and Santa Anita respectively.

Friday, February 6

Oaklawn Park

Grade III Southwest

(11th race, 2:40 p.m. PDT)

This 1-1/16-miles with 14 horses entered to run, five of whom ran in the Smarty Jones at Oaklawn back on January 3.

Buetane (Bob Baffert, Joel Rosario) is the $1.15 million purchase out of the Baffert barn. Baffert aways keeps a solid group at Oaklawn. Buetane is coming off a second in the Grade II San Vicente on January 10 at Santa Anita as the heavy favorite. You go back to Sept. 1 for the Grade I Hopeful where he was second, beaten eighth lengths by eventual Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Ted Noffey. The maiden debut was impressive where he seized control at the top of the lane and drew off to win by over three at Del Mar against straight

maiden competition on August 3. This will be his third different pilot in four races.

Litmus Test (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) is another $1 million runner out of the Baffert barn and had two wins in five starts last year. He did win his last start on Dec. 13 in the Los Alamitos Futurity, earning a 96 Beyer in the process. Before that he was a strong fourth in the BC Juvenile at 21/1, getting a 95 Beyer for the effort. I expect him to be pushing the pace here.

Liberty National (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr.) has three career starts with the most recent being a second-place finish in the Gun Runner at the Fair Grounds on December 20. Has shown a fondness for coming off the pace in all three starts. He had a blowout work on Jan. 17 for this race and followed with a solid maintenance work on Jan. 23.

Strategic Risk (Mark Casse, Javier Castellanos) was the winner of the Smarty Jones – the prep for this race – on Jan. 3 taking the lead on the last turn, then drawing off to win by four. Last year he won two of his five starts including his last start of 2025 on Nov. 29. That gives him two consecutive wins.

Silent Traffic (Mark Casse, Christian Torres) was second in the Smarty Jones, gaining on the entire field except for the winner, his stablemate. He is likely to stalk the pace and try to make the late run again.

Soldier N Diplomat (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz) was third in the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Clun on Nov. 29 at Churchill Downs

in his last start. Been off since then but has a strong and consistent work tab for the return.

Aqueduct

Withers

(10th race, 1:20 p.m.)

There are seven entered here to go 1-1/8-miles on the main track.

Mailata (Robert Reid, Mychel Sanchez) has won his last three races, all at Parx. After a lackluster first two starts, he broke against straight maidens on Oct. 29, wiring the field to win by over two lengths. He next ran Nov. 26 in a state-bred stake and won again, this time by over three lengths. His most recent was in the $67,000 Future Stars and crushed the field by 19 lengths.

Ottinho (Chad Brown, Jose Lezcano) was third in his debut on Nov. 23, coming back from a poor start where he hit the starting gate. December 31 he was back on the track at Aqueduct facing straight maidens again, got a better start, set the pace through most of the race, got passed at the top of the lane, then battled back and got the win. I fully expect him to be part of the pace factor.

Fourth and One (Jeremiah Englehart, Jaime Rodriguez) has worked backwards in that his first three starts were in state-bred stakes at Aqueduct, and he ran second, second, and third.

His fourth start was December 5 against straight maidens for the first time, and he blew doors on the field by over seven lengths. He has been off since then, but the work tab has been consistent and strong. He steps up to face open competition for the first time, and I expect him to be part of the pace factor.

Schoolyardsuperman (Brad Cox, Manny Franco) clipped heels in his debut in September, then ran second in his second start, chasing the pace throughout, finally he put it altogether in start three facing straight maidens Dec. 6 at Aqueduct. He broke first, stretched the lead throughout and won by over five lengths. A strong work on Jan. 23 for this spot. His 86 Beyer for the last race is the highest mark for the field.

Saturday

Tampa Bay Downs

Sam F. Davis

(11th race, 2:30 p.m.)

There are nine runners here going 1-1/16-miles on the main track. Tampa Bay Downs is the place where a runner like Todd Pletcher sends what I will call the “B” team, with most of top runners going from New York to Gulfstream for the winter.

Pletcher has two entered here, with Brad Cox having one.

Confessional (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat) won his debut on Oct. 16 at Keeneland, then came back Jan. 2 after a break was second in

an optional claimer at Gulfstream. He earned an 88 Beyer, the best last race figure in the field. A speed horse, look for him to be a big pace factor in this.

Renegade (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz) is one of the two Pletcher runners with this one coming off a second in the Grade II Remsen Dec. 6 at Aqueduct. His last two works have been strong, and he has Irad Ortiz in the irons for the third time in four starts.

The Puma (Gustavo Delgado, Javier Castellano) got off slow in his only start but recovered to run second against straight maidens at Gulfstream on Jan. 10. He got an 86 Beyer, the best debut number in the field. He has two works since then and I look forward to what his running style will be like here.

Dr. Kapur (Saffie Joseph, Samuel Martin) had two impressive straight maiden runs, winning the second on Oct. 16 at Keeneland. His third start came Nov. 29 at Churchill in the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club where he set the pace through the first half before weakening and running 6th, beaten 11 lengths. He is making the return coming off a series of solid works and through his first three starts, he appears to like the lead, just fading in the last start.

Santa Anita

Robert B. Lewis

(8th race, 4:00 p.m.)

There are seven horses entering here to go one mile on the main track at Santa Anita, with three of the seven horses trained by Bob Baffert.

Desert Gate (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) is the best of the three Baffert entries with two wins and two seconds in four career starts. The two wins came in the first two starts, a straight maiden win on June 13 at Santa Anita, and the Grade III Best Pal at Del Mar on August 9. September saw him run second in the Grade I Del Mar Futurity with a troubled trip. The last time out he was a close second in the Grade I American Pharoah on Oct. 4 at Santa Anita where he led most of the way and grudgingly gave up the lead, finishing a half-length behind Intrepido, who is entered here.

Intrepido (Jeff Mullins, Hector Berrios) followed his win in the American Pharoah by running fifth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile on October 31, getting away slowly and never engaging in the race. He’s been off since then and has had a solid work tab. Has shown he can wire a field, and he can win by stalking the pace.

Plutarch (Bob Baffert, Florent Geroux) took a path of running in three stakes races – two on the turf, running second once and third twice. He finally got his first win, coming from off the pace to win by over four lengths on November 30 at Del Mar on the

turf. Now it’s back to man the track and he has fired off a pair of bullet works.

Secured Freedom (Tim Yakteen, Kazushi Kimura) was fourth in his debut with a wide trip on Nov. 22 at Del Mar. His second start – Dec. 28 at Santa Anita – against straight maiden. He sat fourth early on, then brought it home on the final turn, winning by over four lengths. The work tab was impressive in January and he will look to benefit from a quick pace in this race.

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January 29

Saturday marks the first time for multiple Kentucky Derby prep races to run.

There were three races scheduled for the day but the winter storm affecting large parts of the United States has canceled two of three races.

The three scheduled races were are the Southwest (Oaklawn Park/Arkansas), the Holy Bull (Gulfstream/Forida), and the Withers (Aqueduct/NewYork).

The Holy Bull will certainly be run as scheduled as the race takes place at Gulfstream Park in Miami.

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced the cancelation of Saturday’s live racing program at Aqueduct Racetrack due to arctic temperatures and sub-zero wind chill values forecast to impact the New York metropolitan area throughout the day.

Oaklawn Park in Arkansas has also opted to cancel racing for this weekend and the Southwest has been reschedules for Friday, February 6.

Following is a look at the Holy Bull.

Gulfstream Park

The Grade III Holy Bull

(12^th race, 2:45 p.m.)

Cannoneer (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz) is a $2 million horse that appears to have speed to burn. In his debut he was wiring the field until he weakened in the lane and finished third, beaten three lengths. He took almost six months off, then came back against straight maidens and crushed it, winning over seven lengths. I don’t think it’s any secret what his running style will be here.

Nearly (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) had an inauspicious debut on Oct. 26, running sixth, beaten 13 lengths. Since then it’s been lights out. On Nov. 22 against straight maidens at Gulfstream, he assumed control of the race and drew off to win by over nine lengths. He came back six weeks later on Jan. 2 in a $75,000 optional claimer, survived a hard bump at the start and pulled away to win by over five lengths. A step-up, sure, but he’s done all that’s been asked of him so far.

Bravaro (Saffie Joseph, Tyler Gaffalione) has two starts and two wins, both at Aqueduct. The debut on Sept. 28 came against straight maidens and saw close strong to win by a length. On Oct. 25 he faced state bred in the Sleepy Hollow, running the same type of race, clearing the field by two lengths. It has been a consistent and solid series of works for this one.

Buetane (Bob Baffert, Joel Rosario) has been entered in both the Holy Bull and the Southwest and it is believed he will run at Oaklawn. But if he does go in the Holy Bull, following is a look at the horse.

Buetane is the $1.15 million purchase out of the Baffert barn. Baffert aways keeps a solid group at Oaklawn. Buetane is coming off a second in the Grade II San Vicente on January 10 at Santa Anita as the heavy favorite. You go back to Sept. 1 for the Grade I Hopeful where he was second, beaten eighth lengths by eventual Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Ted Noffey. The maiden debut was impressive where he seized control at the top of the lane and drew off to win by over three at Del Mar against straight maiden competition on August 3. This will be his third different pilot in four races.

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January 22

A big day of racing awaits this Saturday at the Pleasanton OTB located on the Alameda County Fairgrounds.

The Pegasus World Cup takes place at Gulfstream Park in Florida and we will be running our first Pegasus World Cup Pick’em contest.

The contest is straight-forward. You pick the winner in nine of the Pegasus Day stake races and get points based on how your horse runs. You will get points on a 5-3-1 basis depending on if your horse runs in the top three.

If your horse scratches, you get the post-time favorite.

The person with the most points is the winner. The tie breakers are: Closest to the winning time in the Cup without going over. If it remains tied, then we will go to the trainer with the most wins, and finally, the jockey with the most wins. If it is still tied, it will be determined by a toss of a coin.

The contest is free to enter but you must be present at the Pleasanton OTB on Saturday, January 24 to be eligible to win. If you finish in the top three and you’re not there, the prize will be awarded to the fourth-place finisher.

The deadline to enter is post-time of the first race of the contest – 10:02 a.m. – The Grade III Christophe Clement.

Entry forms are available on Thursday at the Pleasanton OTB!

Following are the nine races in the contest.

Grade III Christophe Clement

(5^th race, 10:02 a.m.)

We get going with a long one as a group of fillies and mares head 1.5 miles on the turf.

Fionn (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 5/2) is coming off an amazing 2025 where she won six of eight starts and almost $2 million. The last six starts have been graded races, with the last being the Jockey Club Oaks on November 15 at Aqueduct. She’s been off since then, but the barn does hit almost 30 percent coming off the break. She’s a closer so the added distance should not be a problem. This is the first start at Gulfstream and first time at the distance.

No Show Sammy Jo (Graham Motion, Jorge Ruiz, 9/5) is coming off a win in the Via Borghese Stakes, a race where three others runner entered here competed. That day she went to the back and saved ground, used the rail to take the lead on the turn, then drew off in the lane to win by over five. She has been a closer in every start, and the last win gave her two for the year along with two seconds in seven starts. Had one work since the race and it was more like a maintenance drill.

Gallant Greta (Michael Maker, Manny Franco, 12/1) was second in the Via Borghese. She bumped at the break, went to the rail to save ground, but had to go five wide to get clear and could never close on No Show Sammy Jo. She won three of nine starts and finished second five times in nine starts but most of the races allowance or optional claimers. It did take her six starts to break maiden.

Venencia (Saffie Joseph, Oisin Murphy, 12/1) got caught in an early duel in the Via Borghese then faded and finished sixth, beaten 10 lengths. Two back she did tackle the distance in the Grade III Dowager at Keeneland where she stalked the lead early, took the lead midway through the race and held on for the win by over two lengths.

$100,000 Handicap

(6^th race, 10:33 a.m.)

This 4-year-olds and up going one mile, 70 yards on the Tapeta track. A field of 12 is signed up for this race.

Private Thoughts (Ronald Spatz, Tyler Gaffalione, 6/1) is an interesting runner. Six starts in 2025 resulted in four wins and a pair of seconds. He has also won four of his eight starts over the Tapeta at Gulfstream. The question is all off his starts have been and a similar level. Normally not a bad thing but you have some horses here that are dropping down from graded stakes races. His style is to sit mid-pack and move as they head for home. My advice – check the tote for clues.

Classic Mo Town (Martin Drexler, Junior Alvarado, 10/1) is one of those horses I was talking about above. He’s race in six graded races in his last six starts. On the flip side he’s hit the board once, winning six starts ago. Also all the races have been at Woodbine. He does have nine career starts over the track at Gulfstream and does have three wins. Not sure how the betting public is going to read this one.

Jokestar (Kevin Attard, Flavien Prat, 4/1) has two consecutive place showings in Grade III races at Woodbine, meaning he has seen better and ran solid, earning a 94 Beyer in both races. He has been a deep closer and there appears to be plenty of speed entered so it should set up nicely.

Horsepower (Joseph Orseno, Jose Ortiz, 9/2) might be my top pick in this spot. He has speed but doesn’t need the lead and could find a perfect trip here. Had nine starts in 2025, all in stake races and had three wins, three seconds, and one show. He has two starts over the surface, winning once.

Gulfstream Park Turf Sprint

(7^th race, 11:04 p.m.)

Don’t blink or you will miss this one as the golf five furlongs on the turf for a purse of $175,000.

A field of 12 is set to go to post.

Coppola (Dale Romans, Irad Ortiz, 9/2) only has two wins in eight starts in 2025 but there is a lot to like here. This is likely the speed of the speed and there are other things to like. He has won four of eight starts on the turf at Gulfstream and is 6-of-12 lifetime at the distance. Concern is he gets locked up in a speed duel.
Incanto (Peter Eurton, Flavien Prat, 8/1) had a solid 2025, hitting the board six of his nine starts, sprinkling some stakes races along with some optional claiming races. His last start came in late November when he was second by a neck at Del Mar. He usually shows speed at this distance. He has some good works for the return.

Unconquerable Keen (Phil D’Amato, Umberto Rispoli, 4/1) had only three starts last year, running once in February, May, and the end of November. He did have a win and two thirds, winning his last start, the Stormy Liberal at Del Mar on Nov. 30. Another deep closer so will need some horses to be winging it out front. His last work was strong for his first start over the Gulfstream surface.

Grade III Fred Hooper

(8^th race, 11:41 a.m.)

This is a one-turn mile on the main track for 4-year-olds and up.

Life and Times (Todd Pletcher, Jose Lezcano, 8/5) is the least experienced horse in the race with only two starts. He has won both starts and had over 100 Beyer marks for both races. He broke on Nov. 5 at Aqueduct when he wired the field. He then came back Dec. 6, also at Aqueduct in allowance company when he started second, took the lead mid-way through and then drew off to win by over six lengths. He is a lightly raced 5-year-old that has thrown in bullet works in the last two morning sessions.

Tour Player (Whitworth Beckman, Javier Castellano, 20/1) won all three starts last year for two different barns. Won for both Bob Baffert and D Wayne Lukas and is now in another barn – Whitworth Beckman. This will be his first stakes race, but he has got speed and the last two works were quick. Pretty sure he will either be on the lead or right off it. Major player in the pace factor. Big time value play.

Knightsbridge (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 6/5) ended 2025 with a win in the Grade  III Mt. Prospect over the Gulfstream track.  Also got a 103 Beyer that day and had a big work in preparation for this.

Nelson Avenue (Jorge Abreu, Flavien Prat, 8/1) has seen some good races and run well in them. The last start was the Grade III Forty Niner at Aqueduct where he started near the back then closed strong to finish second at 7/1. He will run off the pace and move when they turn for home.

Grade III William L. McKnight

(9^th race, 12:13p.m.)

Zverev (Michael Maker, Irad Ortiz, 6/1) has three straight wins but two came in optional claimers and the third in $125,000 stake. Big step up here but he does know how to win races. The last race he came from well off the pace, while two back saw him wire the field. This is the first start at Gulfstream.

Act a Fool (Laura Cazares, Joe Bravo, 30/1) comes in with two straight wins, but like the horse above they come against softer. The two wins came in optional claimers with different running styles. Two back, he came from mid-pack early and closed strong and the last race he wired the field, dueling throughout. He has been on or pushing the pace most of the time in his 12-race career

Layabout (Patrick Biancone, David Egan, 10/1) has had three decent runs in his last three, all stakes races. Three back in the Gun Runner on September 6 at Kentucky Downs he came from well back to get up to fourth. Two back in the Showing Up at Gulfstream on November 1 he came from mid-pack to finish second. In the last start in the Tropical Park Derby at Gulfstream on Dec. 13. He pushed the pace and got up to win by a nose.

Hammerhead (Kevin Attard, Jose Ortiz, 12/1) has the last race to prove he’s in the conversation to win. In the Grade III Valedictory at Woodbine on Dec. 6 he took the lead in the middle of the race, then held on for the win.

Grade II Filly and Mare Turf Invitational

(10^th race, 12:45 p.m.)

Caitlinhergrtness (Kevin Attard, John Velazquez, 8/1) has been no worse than second in her last four starts with two wins and two places. Two back it was a second in the Grade III Bessarabian at Woodbine he was second. In her last race she took the My Charmer at Turfway Park. Loves to be close but not on the lead early.

Whiskey Decision (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 9/2) won two of three starts in 2025 but her most recent start was Sept. 14 when she won the Athenia at Aqueduct. After that strong close to win it, she went to the shelf. The barn fires at 26 percent off this length of a break, a solid number in the industry. While not spectacular, the works have been solid and consistent and the connections certainly warrant respect.

Proctor Street (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione, 12/1) has three wins in her last five starts. The last race was Nov. 27 at Churchill in the $300,000 Cardinal where he took the lead at the top of the lane and held on at 3/1. Wants nothing to do with the early lead and loves to close hard.

And One More Time (Mark Casse, Javier Castellano, 12/1) ran only two races last year, winning an optional claimer in September and a second in the Tropical Park Oaks in December at Gulfstream. In the win she pushed the pace while in the stake she came late from mid-pack.

Grade II Inside Information

(11^th race, 1:18 p.m.)

Indy Bay (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 9/2) had won four of six races last year until he eased in the Grade I Cotillin on September 20 and was sent to the shelf for the rest of the year. Before then she was real good, running third in the Grade III Victory Ride, then winning the Grade II CT Oaks. The works for the return have been strong and the connections tell me she is ready to come back a winner.

Sterling Silver (Anthony Margotta, Javier Castellano, 8/1) hit the board in seven of eight starts in 2025. Has won the last two starts, taking the Iroquois October 25 at Aqueduct, then went to bench for a bit and changed barns. She came back strong, winning the $125,000 Rampart on December 26 at Gulfstream.

One Magic Philly (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione, 10/1) has started at six different tracks in her six races in 2025 and run well so shipping has not been a problem. She was fourth in the Rampart behind three other horses entered here. She was in a good spot to win it but bumped in the lane and finished fourth. In the Grade III Chilukki she chased the leader all the way around the track and finished second. She loves to push the pace and will be part of the pace factor here.

Verity (Eoin Harty, Vincent Cheminaud, 12/1) had trouble two back in the Grade II Eight Belles on the Derby undercard, finishing fifth and went to the bench. She came back Nov. 27 and was second in a $100,000 optional claimer, closing strongly to make up two spots.

Grade I Turf Invitational

(12^th race, 1:54 p.m.)

Program Trading (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 5/2) only ran three times in 2025 and was on the shelf for over a year. In August of last year he was second by a neck in the Burt Bacharach at Saratoga. He followed that with a second in the Turf Mile on October 4 at Keeneland. Nov. 1 of 2025 was his start and he found all kinds of trouble, finishing 10^th in the Breeders’ Cup Mile at Del Mar. At 6-years-oldhe doesn’t appear to be the horse he was at four but a strong series of works throws him in the mix.

Gugino (Claude McGaughey, John Velazquez, 7/2) has two wins and a second in his last three starts. He won the Red Bank at Monmouth on Sept. 1, then came a month later to win the Grade II Red Smith by a nose at Aqueduct. The most recent start was in the Grade III Ft. Lauderdale Dec. 20 at Gulfstream. In the last three he also pushed the pace, always keeping within striking distance.

Cabo Spirit (George Papaprodromo, Mike Smith, 8/1) ships out from the West Coast where he has been making a living in graded races in Southern California. He has hit the board in seven of his nine starts this year, winning twice, running second twice, and showing three times. In his last start he wired the field in the Grade III San Gabriel, earning a 97 Beyer in the process.

Fort Washington (Claude McGaughey, Junior Alvarado, 10/1) won three of six starts last year but ended on a disappointing note when he was sixth in the Grade II Turf Cup at Kentucky Downs. That was September 6 and he went to the bench at that point until this spot. He did win the Grade I Arlington Million and the Grade III Dinner Party last year. He has been burning up the track in the morning for this.

Grade I Pegasus World Cup

(13^th race, 2:39 p.m.)

This is the big dog. There are 12 horses set to go 1-1/8-miles with a $3 million purse. It’s a great field with some great story lines.

Disco Time (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 8/5) is always exciting to watch and is a perfect 5-for-5 in his career. Last year as a 3-year-old he was on the early Derby list, winning the Lecomte with a thrilling stretch run but after the race he was sent to the bench until September, but when he came back – wow! First came the St. Louis Derby, an over five-length win, and a 101 Beyer. Next up was the Dwyer at Aqueduct on Nov. 8 where he won by over nine lengths and a 107 Beyer. Since then, he’s been drilling and doing so sharply, racking up a pair of bullet works in January alone. There is no secret as to what to expect – he will be with the leaders out of the game.

Tappan Street (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 6/1) another big dog from the Cox barn, he was second in the Holy Bull and won the Florida Derby to put his name the Kentucky Derby favorite mix. But he went to the shelf as well, not coming back until December. He came back to an optional claimer at Gulfstream and got the win. His work has been sharp as well in January.

Captain Cook (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 15/1) is one I am throwing in as a value play to have on your ticket. Yes, only one win in six starts last year, but he ran second twice and third twice. His last start was Oct. 18 at Keeneland in the Grade III Perryville where he fought through to finish second.

Mika (Michael Maker, Manny Franco, 10/1) is another value play consideration. The last start was a second in the Grade II Cigar Mile at Aqueduct and he got a 106 Beyer. He’s a speed burner with all three wins coming by double digits.

White Abarrio (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 4/1) is the defending champion and what a race that was, crossing the line over six lengths ahead of second place. The warning signs – the last three starts have been less than impressive with two fourths and a fifth in three Grade I races, the last of which was the Grade I Jockey Club Gold Cup August 31 of last year at Saratoga

Full Serrano (John Sadler, Joel Rosario) would have been the one to beat if this race was last year as he closed 2024 by running second in the Pacific Classic, then winning the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. He tried to defend the BC title in 2025 but was fifth, beaten 12-lengths.

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January 13

Saturday is a great day of racing at the Fair Grounds in Louisiana, highlighted by Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks preps, as well as a Grade III stake for 4-year-olds and up.
There are also a series of stake races at Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita.
Here is a look at the three races at the Fair Grounds.

Silverbulletday
(10th race, 2:30 p.m.)
These are 3-year-old fillies fighting for Kentucky Oaks qualifying points, going one-mile and 70-yards. Six horses are entered.

White Smoke (Cherie DeVaux, Flavien Prat, 9/2) is a $500,000 purchase. Has one start and it was impressive, overcoming a slow start where she broke eighth out of eight, but stayed calm, picking them off one at a time, then cruising in with the win. That was December 20 at the Fair Grounds. Has had one maintenance work since then.

Taken by the Wind (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr., 5/2) has two starts and two wins, a nice resume for the $20,000 purchase price. The debut came August 21 at Saratoga against optional claimers and was a 3-length cruise. She came back a month later at Churchill in the Grade III Pocahontas, taking a much better break and turning it into a 5-length win. She has been off since then and has put together a series of works, some were very strong, for the return.

Atropa (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz, 2/1) is another expensive horse for the barn, this one being a $450,000 purchase. She stunk in her July debut at Saratoga, then went to the shelf until Oct. 9 at Keeneland and put together a big win in straight maidens, winning by 10-lengths. Followed that with a second on Nov. 29 at Churchill in the Grade II Golden Rod.

Pashmina (Rob Atras, Ben Curtis, 5/1) is a $350,000 purchase has a win and a third in three starts. It took two starts to break, getting it done Nov. 28 against straight maidens. Came back in the Untapable at the Fair Grounds on Dec. 20, set the pace through the first half then faded to third.

Luv Your Neighbor (Michael Stidham, Axel Concepcion, 4/1) is another $350,000 purchase that broke in his debut, then came back to turn in a poor effort at Woodbine in early October. Took some time off, then came back in early December at the Fair Grouns with a second in an optional claimer. Came back a little over two weeks later and ran second in the Untapable at 8/1.

Dancin In Old Town (Keith Desormeaux, James Graham, 10/1) has two starts, both against straight maidens at Churchill in September and October and ran third, then second. Has been off since Oct. 16 but has turned in strong works for the return.

Grade III Louisiana
(12th race, 3:30 p.m.)
This is 1-1/16 miles on the main track for 4-year-olds and up on the main track. There are eight horses entered to run.

Just a Touch (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz, 8/5) has won two of four starts this year and has hit the board in all four starts. He was third in the Met Mile on June 7 at Saratoga and was second in the Monmouth Cup on July 19. Before then he rolled in two straight in an allowance and an optional claimer, winning by 10 lengths and seven lengths. Has been off since July 19 but has been blowing up the morning for the return.

Moonlight (Chris Block, Jose Ortiz, 9/2) has won four of eight starts this year. He is coming off a win in the Cherokee Mile at Churchill Downs on Nov. 30. He is a monster closer and it was on full display the last race when he started last in a field of 11 and was still third at the top of the lane before getting it done at the end.
Willy D’s (Michael Maker, Ricardo Santana, 4/1) likes to be on the lead and two back in the Lukas Classic he was doing just that until they hit the top of the stretch when he weakened and finished seventh. He went to the shelf for three months and came back December 20 in the Tinsell at Oaklawn Park where he sent the pace again, this time holding on for second. He had a very solid work for this one and figures to be even stronger here.

Sir Greylind (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez, 5/1) has hit the board in all six starts this year with two wins, three seconds, and one show. The last start was the Tenacious at the Fairgrounds where he came from sixth and last to second by less than a length. He will need a pace to run at.
Accelerize (Todd Pletcher, Flavien Prat, 8/1) might be the value play of the day. Won his debut back in March, then went to the bench until November in an optional-claimer at Gulfstream where he was third. Came back Dec. 14 in another optional-claimer at Gulfstream and won it by two lengths, nearly wiring the field. Very little experience compared to others in here but you have to respect the connections.

Grade III Lecomte
(13th race, 4 p.m.)
The 3-year-old boys are going 1-1/16 miles fighting for Kentucky Derby qualifying points. There are 11 entered here.

Crown the Buckeye (Michael Maker, Ricardo Santana, 4/1) is the morning line favorite and that he is 4/1 shows how this race could be wide open. This a speed horse, always wanting the lead. That’s where he was Dec. 20 in the Gun Runner at the Fair Grounds, but in that race, he was passed by a pair of horses, one of which is entered here.

Chip Honcho (Steve Asmussen, Paco Lopez, 9/2) is the second choice here but he was one that ran down Crown the Buckeye in the Gun Runner. That was his first time against winners and having seen that race I was surprised he wasn’t the morning line favorite here. I think he will be by the time the race goes off. Will be right there either setting the pace or be pushing it.
Thunder Buck (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 6/1) has run a pair of straight maiden races, finishing fourth on Oct. 16 and winning Dec. 20 at the Fair Grounds. In neither of the starts did he show speed, but he closed very strong in the win. Last two works have been very pedestrian. I would look elsewhere.

White Tiger (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz, 8/1) was second in his debut on Sept. 19, then came back October 26 to wire the field of straight maidens. He has been off since then but has put in a consistent number of works.
Stop the Car (Brendan Walsh, Ben Curtis, 8/1) is interesting to me. Has run two races and won both. He broke on October 24 at Keeneland, then came back Nov. 29 at Churchill in a $100,000 optional claimer and won by three lengths. He has come from off the pace in both starts. His last work was quick in preparation for this spot.
Pegasus Day Handicapping Contest!

We will be having another free handicapping/pick the winners contest on Saturday, January 24 for the Pegasus World Cup day from Gulfstream Park.

The contest will involve picking the winners from the stake races from Gulfstream, earning points based on how your pick fares.

Once again, the contest is free, but you do have to be on site at the Pleasanton OTB. The prizes are a $200 voucher for first, $100 for second, and $50 for third.

Entry forms/rules will be available starting Thursday, Jan. 22 at the OTB. Deadline is the first stakes race from Gulfstream on Saturday, the 24th.January 13

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January 8, 2026

Technically they are not “official Kentucky Derby/Kentucky Oaks preps” but the eyes of Kentucky Derby fans will be on Santa Anita for the running of the San Vicente and Santa Ynez stakes this Saturday at Santa Anita.
Some of top 3-year colts and fillies on the west coast and are going 7 furlongs and setting up races such as the Lewis, San Felipe, and Santa Anita Derby.
Santa Anita
Santa Ynez
(3rd race, 1 p.m.)

A field of five, 3-year-old fillies will go seven furlongs, with three of the five trained by Bob Baffert.
Explora (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) has four career starts with two wins and two seconds, but all four races came by Oct. 31. The last start came in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies where she was second. Back in early October she won the Grade II Oak Leaf. Before then she was second in the Grade I Debutante on Sept. 6. The first two races she set the pace while in the third and fourth starts she pushed the pace then closed strong.
Revera (John Sadler, Hector Berrios) is coming off a win in the Desi Arnez on Nov. 16 at Del Mar, beating one other entered here. Overall, she has two wins and two seconds in four career efforts. She always wants to be at least near the pace.

Himika (Bob Baffert, Kazushi Kimura) was second in the Desi Arnez, taking the lead at the top of the lane, then getting passed late. Has been on or near the lead in all six starts. The most experienced horse in the field.
Bottle of Rouge (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith) came into the BC Juvenile Fillies race with two straight wins but never got going and finished sixth. She was the winner of the Del Mar Debutante at 9/1 beating three others entered here. Except for her maiden score she preferred to come from off the pace.

La Wally (Mark Glatt, Umberto Rispoli) pushed the pace early in the BC Juvenile Fillies, then dropped off and finished sixth. The lone win came back July 19 against straight maidens.

Grade II San Vicente
(5th race, 2 p.m.)
Also, a field of five, with the colts also going seven furlongs. Two from Baffert, two from the barn of Doug O’Neill, and one from Mark Glatt.
Buetane (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) is a $1.15 million purchase that wired the field in his debut, then came back in the Grade I Hopeful to finish second beaten by eight lengths by Ted Noffey. Did not have a great start in the Hopeful and took some time off. Has come back blistering the mornings for the return.
Greenwich Village (Bob Baffert, Hector Berrios) is a $450,000 purchase that made his debut December 6 at Los Al, beating a field of eight in a straight maiden race. Has had two nice moves in the morning for this one.
So Happy (Mark Glatt, Mike Smith) also has one start and one win, this one beating straight maidens on November 22 at Del Mar. Stalked the pace in the lone start then flew home to get the win.

Acknowledgemeplz (Doug O’Neill, Kazushi Kimura) broke in his second start on Oct. 25 at Santa Anita, then came back in the Los Al Futurity fourth of six horses, beaten over 16 lengths. The work was pretty average for this one.
Thirsty Rebel (Doug O’Neill, Abel Lexcano) was going no where in stakes races so dropped back to a $20,000 optional claimer on December 12 at Los Al and rolled the field by six lengths. Has got a lot to prove he belongs at this level.

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December 30, 2025

With the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, all the 2-year-old horses became three and that means the pursuit of the 2026 Kentucky Derby is on!

The first Derby preps of the new year begin on Saturday, setting up a number of prep races at the two tracks.

Aqueduct

The Jerome

(3rd race, 10:10 a.m.)

There are only five horses entering for this prep for the Withers, Gotham, and ultimately the Wood Memorial. The horses will go one mile for points of 10-5-3-2-1.

In post-position order:

Enforced Agenda (George Weaver, Flavien Prat) has one start and that was a winning one on Nov. 23 against straight maidens at Aqueduct. On that day he tracked for the first half of the race, took the lead at the top of the lane, then finished a length in front.

Freedom’s Echo (Guadalupe Preciado, Dexter Haddock) made his debut at PARX on August 15 and was sixth, beaten 17 lengths. He came back Nov. 1 and rolled in a $40,000 open maiden race, wiring the field by 11 lengths. He has been off since then and has had a solid series of works.

My World (Brad Cox, Jaime Rodriguez) tired in his debut August 23 at Saratoga and finished fourth in a field of eight. Came back on Oct. 4 and brought home a win over straight maidens at Aqueduct. On Nov. 1 he took down a field of five in the Nashua, also at Aqueduct. If not setting the pace he will be pushing it.

Balboa (Brittany Russell, Manny Franco) has already had six starts, starting back on July 26. He has two wins and two thirds in his six starts, including a third in his most recent start – the Grade II Remsen on December 6 at Aqueduct. He was 29/1 that day but got on the pace early and contested throughout.

Mailata (Robert Reid, Mychel Sanchez) rounds out the field and is coming off a pair of wins at PARX. On Oct. 29 he made his third start, a winning one, topping a straight maiden field. He came back Nov. 26 and won the Pennsylvania Nursery Stakes. In both wins he wired the field so expect to see speed here as well. The work on Dec. 22 was a strong one.

Oaklawn Park

The Smarty Jones

(10th race, 2:25 p.m.)

This one starts the run at Oaklawn for the preps Southwest, Rebel, and Arkansas Derby. There are nine ready to go 1-1/16 miles for a purse of $250,000.

Here are some of the more intriguing runners.

Silent Tactic (Mark Casse, Jaime Torres, 12/1) is the most expensive horse in the field, carrying a $500,000 purchase price but sits at 12/1 on the morning line. A debut win against straight maidens on Oct. 10 was followed by a second in the Grade III Grey on Nov. 2 at Woodbine. He has been off since then and the works for the return have been average.

Rancho Santa Fe (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 5/2) has been perfect in two starts, with the last one coming Oct. 11 in a $100,000 optional claimer at Keeneland. He has been off since then but has been on fire in the mornings, setting the standard multiple times. In both starts he has come from off the pace.

Universe (Kenny McPeek, Joel Rosario, 3/1) has four career starts with three coming in graded races. He was second in the Grade III Street Sense two back and then was second in the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club on Nov. 29. Both starts were at Churchill Downs. He doesn’t want the lead early, opting to come with the big close.

Boca Beach Club (James DiVito, Luis Saez, 4/1) is getting some love following his second-place finish in the Advent Stakes at Oaklawn on Dec. 12. Both starts have been sprints, so this is a stretch out.

Sleepingonfreedom (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez, Jr., 5/1) ran well in the slop, winning on Nov. 22 at Churchill so if its an off-track, take notice. Also, broke against straight maidens on

Oct. 11 on a fast track at Keeneland so there is versatility in his resume.

Kentucky Derby Fantasy Contest

I have been running a Kentucky Derby fantasy stable contest for 16 years and wanted to let you all know about the contest in case you are interested in participating this year.

Here is the basic information:

This pool is now in its 17th year and is a tremendous way to follow the top 3-year-olds from January through the Kentucky Derby! Our retention of the contestants is amazing as we have many original members!

Our point structure will follow the system being used by the Derby.

Once again, the contest is all about building a fantasy stable of 3-year-old horses and following them through the pursuit of making the Kentucky Derby.

The first race in the contest is Saturday, January 17 with the running of the Lecomte at the Fair Grounds and runs through the Kentucky Derby on Saturday May 2!

THE DEADLINE TO ENTER IS FRIDAY, JANUARY 30! The Holy Bull, Southwest, and Withers are set for January 31 at Gulfstream, Oaklawn, and Aqueduct.

To start, pick a stable of 10, 3-year-old horses that you feel will be running in Kentucky Derby prep races.

Points are earned by how the horses finish in the string of races throughout the Derby prep season. The first five finishers in each prep race earn points for their owners. The points are the same used to determine the field for the Kentucky Derby.

The prep races used will be the ones in the United States beginning Jan. 17. This year I will once again include the UAE Derby on March 28. It is a 100-60-30-15-10- point race and will be run on the same day as the Arkansas and Florida Derby. There are 24 preps we will be playing, plus the Kentucky Derby for 25 races in all.

You can make TEN (10) drops/additions along the way. At the end of the Kentucky Derby the final standings will be determined!

If you are interested in joining or finding out more about the contest, send me an email to dennismillerracing@aol.com, and I will send up the full rules and entry form.

Here is a graded race set for Saturday at Gulfstream Park, as well as the six graded races at Santa Anita on Sunday.

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December 22

I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday season, and hope you have a wonderful holiday season.

While this week brings us Christmas, it also brings us a busy time for horse racing. Santa Anita’s opening day is usually always Dec. 26, but with an eye on the upcoming weather front, they have moved opening day to Sunday, December 28.

Santa Anita opening day features six graded stake races and get horse racing world front and center following Christmas.

Next week brings us New Year’s Day, which in the horse racing world means all the 2-year-old horses turn three, taking us fully on the Kentucky Derby/Kentucky Oaks trail.

I have been running a Kentucky Derby fantasy stable contest for 16 years and wanted to let you all know about the contest in case you are interested in participating this year.

Here is the basic information:

This pool is now in its 17^th year and is a tremendous way to follow the top 3-year-olds from January through the Kentucky Derby! Our retention of the contestants is amazing as we have many original members!

Our point structure will follow the system being used by the Derby.

Once again, the contest is all about building a fantasy stable of 3-year-old horses and following them through the pursuit of making the Kentucky Derby.

The first race in the contest is Saturday, January 17 with the running of the Lecomte at the Fair Grounds and runs through the Kentucky Derby on Saturday May 2!

THE DEADLINE TO ENTER IS FRIDAY, JANUARY 30! The Holy Bull, Southwest, and Withers are set for January 31 at Gulfstream, Oaklawn, and Aqueduct.

To start, pick a stable of 10, 3-year-old horses that you feel will be running in Kentucky Derby prep races.

Points are earned by how the horses finish in the string of races throughout the Derby prep season. The first five finishers in each prep race earn points for their owners. The points are the same used to determine the field for the Kentucky Derby.

The prep races used will be the ones in the United States beginning Jan. 17. This year I will once again include the UAE Derby on March 28. It is a 100-60-30-15-10- point race and will be run on the same day as the Arkansas and Florida Derby. There are 24 preps we will be playing, plus the Kentucky Derby for 25 races in all.

You can make TEN (10) drops/additions along the way. At the end of the Kentucky Derby the final standings will be determined!

If you are interested in joining or finding out more about the contest, send me an email to dennismillerracing@aol.com, and I will send up the full rules and entry form.

Here is a graded race set for Saturday at Gulfstream Park, as well as the six graded races at Santa Anita on Sunday.

Gulfstream Park

Grade III Mr. Prospector

(10^th race, 1:48 p.m.)

There are eight horses entering to tackle the seven furlong race on the main track.zxc

White Abarrio (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz) has struggled recently, finishing fourth twice and fifth once in his last three races. All three were Grade I events but fourth in the Met Mile and the Whitney, followed by a fifth in the Jockey Club Gold Cup does not bode well heading into this one.

Knightsbridge (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado) made a return to the track after nine months off, winning a $75,000 optional claimer on Nov. 22 in the mud at Aqueduct. He came back from that race with a sharp pair of works and should find himself in the mix.

Wound Up (Jose D’Angelo, Edgar Zayas) was invincible earlier this year winning his first five starts. Then August 30^th he was 12^th in the Green Flash at Del Mar, followed by a sixth in the Santa Anita Sprint Challenge. He went back east and was second, beaten by a head in an allowance race at Churchill Downs on Nov. 15. He should be part of the pace factor.

Santa Anita

Grade II Mathis Mile

(5^th race, 1 p.m.)

This is a one-mile test for 3-year-olds and up on the turf with a purse of $200,000.

Friendly Confines (Richard Baltas, Irad Ortiz) was on a role, running first or second in four straight races, then hit the Grade I Hollywood Derby on November 29 at Del Mar. In that start, he never fully got going and finished sixth out of eight horses. Has shown he can win off the pace, as well as pushing or setting the pace. He has had a pair of strong works since the last start.

Namaron (John Sadler, Flavien Prat) may be coming off the best last effort when he was third in the Twilight Derby back on Oct. 25 at Santa Anita. He went to the shelf after that, and the German born horse has been putting together some strong, consistent moves in the morning. He puts the blinkers on for this one.

Tempus Volat (Leonard Powell, Mirco Demuro) took the Let It Ride at Del Mar two back on Oct. 30 with a strong close, then came back to run a solid fourth after pushing the pace throughout the Hollywood Derby on November 29, also at Del Mar. Now he cuts back to a mile and has put together a pair of good works for this.

Grade II Laffit Pincay, Jr.

(6^th race, 1:30 p.m.)

This is a 1-1/16-mile test for 3-year-olds and up with seven horses entered.

Nysos (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat) has been favored in all four starts this year, winning three and running second in the fourth. He has won his last three starts, all graded races with the degree of difficulty going up in each. Three back it was the Grade III Triple Bend, followed by the Grade II San Diego Handicap. The last start was the Grade I Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile on Nov. 1 at Del Mar. He comes from off the pace and has been awarded 100-plus Beyer marks in all three wins.

Nevada Beach (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) may be the biggest threat to his stablemate. He is coming off a win in the Grade III Native Diver on Nov. 22 at Del Mar with Hernandez in the irons. Three back won the Grade I Goodwood at Santa Anita on Sept. 27., earning a 101 Beyer in the process. He likes to sit mid-pack and move late.

British Isles (Richard Baltas, Diego Herrera) was second by less than a length in the Native Diver at 16/1. Before that, he took an $80,000 optional claimer at Santa Anita on Oct. 11. I would plan on this one being part of the pace and possibly getting first run at the leaders.

Vodka Vodka (Aggie Ordonez, Kent Desormeaux) has won two straight although they came against much easier than the horses in this race. The barn is sneaky good and if there is an honest pace, this could be one to watch as a value play.

Grade I La Brea

(8^th race, 2:30 p.m.)

A nearly full field of 11 horses will battle in this seven-furlong battle between 3-year-old fillies.

Five G (George Weaver, Irad Ortiz) makes her first start in California and shortens up from routes to seven furlongs. Has been on the shelf since March 29 after establishing herself as a Kentucky Oaks contender. She started her year January 1, winning the Cash Run at Gulfstream by nine lengths. From there is was a second in the Grade III Honeybee in February, then a win in the Gulfstream Oaks by over two lengths on March 29. But that win was the last race for her until this one. There has been consistent good works in the morning, but we won’t know for sure until the race starts.

Formula Rossa (Mark Glatt, Mike Smith) had a nice start to her career, winning her first two starts, then running second in the Grade III Rancho Bernardo in late August at Del Mar. She hasn’t raced since and chose today as the time to return. The works have been consistent but unspectacular for the return. She was on or near the lead in all three starts so would expect early speed today but the question to be answered is her condition.

Magnificat (Richard Mandella, Mirco Demuro) has shown one thing in all three starts – her toughness and willingness battle. She has two wins and a second, all by a neck or less. The last two have been wins, both by a neck. The last was a $50,000 optional claimer at Del Mar I mid-November so this is a big step up, but she will fight throughout the race.

Silent Law (Bob Baffert, Joel Rosario) has seen three graded races in her last three starts, running second in the Santa Anita Oaks and the Chillingworth, sandwiched around an eighth in the Grade II San Clemente on the turf. Toss out the turf race and she figures to be in the mix here.

Grade III San Gabriel

(9^th race, 3 p.m.)

Another big field of 11 horses, this time going 1-1/8-mile on the turf.

Flashiest (Leonard Powell, Armando Ayuso) was second in his last two starts, both at a price. Two back on Nov. 2 he was second in a $100,000 optional claimer at Del Mar at 15/1. He came back three weeks later in the Grade II Hollywood Turf Cup at Del Mar and was second again, but this was at 40/1. He has not been in single digit odds in a race since November of 2024. Might be a reach, but I love closers in a long turf race.

Stay Hot (Peter Eurton, Irad Ortiz) is coming off a bad effort in the Grade II Seabiscuit on Nov. 29 at Del Mar when he was sixth. Before that he was second to Gold Phoenix in back-to-back races, the Grade II Del Mar Handicap and the Grade II John Henry Turf Classic. There is talent and a record on the Santa Anita turf of three wins and three seconds in seven starts, makes for an interesting runner.

Cabo Spirit (George Papaprodromou, Mike Smith) is coming off an eighth and last place finish in the Seabiscuit where he turned for home in third but faded to last. Before that he was solid, running second in the Del Mar Mile on August 30 and third in the City of Hope Mile on Sept. 27 at Santa Anita. He has 15 starts over the Santa Anita turf and has hit the board 11 times, four of them which were wins

Astronomer (Simon Callaghan, Antonio Fresu) is coming off an inspired second in the Seabiscuit, coming off a three-month break. He was solid late last year and earlier this year but until the last start, had not done much.

Grade I Malibu

(10^th race, 3:30 p.m.)

We have 10, 3-year-old horses going seven furlongs for a $300,000 purse.

Madaket Road (Bob Baffert, Irad Ortiz) came back after almost three months on the shelf to run fifth in the Jerkins at Saratoga in late August. He went to the shelf again and returns today with a consistent work tab. He was in the Derby conversation earlier this year, running in three prep races. He settled for the Pat Day Mile on the Derby undercard where he chased the leader all the way around the track to finish second.

Berlin Wall (Steve Knapp, Tiago Pereira) is an interesting one in that he has hit the board in all five starts in his career although they have come against decidedly easier company. His last start was Nov. 16 at Del Mar in a $20,000 optional claimer where he dusted the field by over seven lengths with a powerful close.

Barnes (Bob Baffert, Jose Ortiz) was on my fantasy Derby roster with a win in the San Vincente and a second in the San Felipe. Then came the Santa Anita Derby and his dreams of the Kentucky Derby ended with a fifth, beaten 19 lengths. His last start showed some promise when he won the Grade III Perryville at Keeneland on October 18. He’s been off since then but has had some nice works for the return.

Goal Oriented (Bob Baffert, Joel Rosario) was sixth in his most recent start, the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. Before then he drew interest with a series of solid efforts finishing fourth in the Preakness, third in the Haskell and third in the Pennsylvania Derby. He has three real good works for this race.

Grade I American Oaks

(11^th race, 4 p.m.)

We’ve got 11 horses entered to go 1-1/4 miles on the downhill turf course for 3-year-olds. This appears to be a pretty open race.

A Thousand Miles (Vann Belvoir, Mike Smith) has hit the board in five of his nine starts this year and is coming off an eight-length win in the Zia Park Oaks on November 25. This horse has raced all over the country and on any given day can be tough. She beat a couple others entered in the Autmn Miss.

Cliffs (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz) is making her stake debut but the last three have been solid and has put her in the conversation. A straight maiden win was followed by a second in a $100,000 optional claimer and then an allowance win at Churchill Downs on Nov. 7. The mornings say she is ready, including a quick four furlong over the track.

Take A Breath (Mark Glatt, Irad Ortiz) won three times in Europe this year before shipping over. The results have been shaky in some good races, finishing fourth in the Grade I Del Mar Oaks and sixth in the Grade III Autumn Miss on Oct. 26 at Santa Anita.

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December 18

It’s not a graded race and it will not be a major race, but there is a race on Saturday you can bet I will be watching.

The Toby Keith Stakes will be the 9^th race at Remington Park in Oklahoma. The one-mile race for 2-year-old fillies is only for a $75,000 purse but is honoring the late country music superstar who passed away February 5, 2024.

Known for his passionate country songs and performances, Keith was into horse racing from a breeding and racing angle. Keith’s horses won over 900 races and earlier this year one of Keith’s horses – Render Judgement – ran in the Kentucky Derby.

Remington Park is where Keith had a stable and it is awesome way to honor the man who brought so many good times to so many people.

As for the 2-year-old boys running Saturday, there are a pair of Kentucky Derby prep races, one at Remington and one at the Fair Grounds.

The Fair Grounds will also be holding a Kentuck Oaks prep race as well. The point values for all three races are 10-5-3-2-1.

Fair Grounds

The Untapable

(10^th race, 3:15 p.m. PDT)

This one-mile-70-yards race for 2-year-old fillies has drawn eight horses trying to earn Kentucky Oaks qualifying points.

Hit Parade (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 5/2) is the morning line favorite and seems one of the major runners here, especially based on her last two starts. She got her first win in her second start, overcoming a bump early to win by two lengths in a $50,000 maiden race at Churchill Downs on September 20. Five weeks later she was in the winners’ circle again, this time in an allowance race at Churchill. This time she stalked the pace and made her move in the lane to grab the win.

Miss Call (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez Jr., 3/1) two back was second to Hit Parade in the allowance race. She had the lead in the lane but was passed late. She did come back a month later and ran third in another allowance race. She appears to like being close to the lead but doesn’t need the lead.

Have Faith (Dallas Stewart, Paco Lopez, 9/2) has two wins in three career starts – a win in an open maiden, followed by a second place run in an allowance race, and on October 31, a win in an allowance at Churchill Downs. She has no early speed, preferring to sit off the pace and make one, late run.

Pashmina (Rob Atras, Ben Curtis, 5/1) maybe a bit of reach but the straight maiden score in her second start at the Fair Grounds is intriguing in that she sat just off the pace most of the race, took the lead at the top of the lane, then drew off to win by over 16 lengths. A step up perhaps but she was seen tougher maiden races than most of these.

The Gun Runner

(11^th race, 3:45 p.m.

It is time for the 2-year-old boys to have a shot at Kentucky Derby qualifying points in this 1-1/16-mile race worth 10-5-3-2-1 points.

Liberty National (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr., 7/2) had a very green debut on October 16, sixth, 11-lengths off the winner. He came back six weeks later to beat a straight maiden field, taking control at the top of the lane, and drawing off to win by over four lengths. He had decent maintenance work for this one.

Mesquite (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz, 9/2) was sixth out of 12 in his debut but came back in a big way, coming from the back of the back to beat straight maidens on November 7 at Churchill by almost a length, surviving a bump in the process. Has been slow in the mornings.

Very Connected (Kenny McPeek, CJ Hernandez, 9/2) is coming out of the middle of the pack finishing in the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club on November 29 at Churchill. It took until the third straight to beat a straight maiden field on Sept. 21, then he followed on Oct. 26 in the Grade III Street Sense, running third. One win in five starts is not a ringing endorsement.

Chip Honcho (Steve Asmussen, Paco Lopez, 9/2) has run twice, second in his debut on Oct. 16, then getting it done in the mud on Nov. 20 at Churchill. He came back with a nice work in the slop on Dec. 8. In the win, he wired the field so look for early speed here.

Remington Park

Springboard Mile

(12^th race, 8:26 p.m.)

We’ve got a full field of 12 runners set to tackle the one-mile race for Kentucky Derby qualifying points of 10-5-3-2-1.

Arctic Beast (Michael Maker, Ricardo Santana) has won all three starts but the last two came at Fingers Lake. He has been involved in the pace in all three starts so everyone reason to believe he will as well here.

Royalamerican (C.R. Trout, David Cabrera) has run four times, all at Remington Park and has two wins and two seconds. His last two starts were both wins and came in state-bred stakes. They were both impressive wins and both came from off the pace.

Spice Runner (Steve Asmussen, Stewart Elliot) was seventh in the Kentucky Jockey’s Club and fifth in the Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland. He did win the Grade III Iroquois at Churchill three back on September 13 at 5/1, so there is some class in his resume.

Western Man (Joe Offolter, Richard Eramia) is interesting in that he has one start, a $38,000 straight maiden race that he won in impressive fashion crossing the finish line nine lengths clear of the field. The win was at six furlongs and now he gets a mile, which he should take to as he appeared to have plenty left.

Supreme Good (Kenny McPeek, Christopher Elliot) caught my eye as a horse that strolled through two maiden starts at Saratoga back in August. He then shifted to Belmont on September 29, running in the mud in a $75,000 maiden optional claimer, winning by over eight lengths, even going five-wide on the final turn. If it’s an off-track, maybe take a look here for a value play.

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December 11

The pickings are slim for graded stakes this weekend but there is still so good racing to watch this weekend.
Following are a pair of races I find interesting, with one being the last Kentucky Derby prep of 2025 on the West Coast.

Los Alamitos Race Course
Grade II Los Alamitos Futurity
(8th race, 4 p.m.)

We have six horses going 1-1/16 miles in the final Kentucky Derby prep on the West Coast of 2025. The next time we see potential Derby runners out here will be after the first of the year when they are running as 3-year-olds.
Litmus Test (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) is a $1 million horse that has been a bit of a disappointment on paper thus far with only a score against straight maidens as the lone win in four starts. But look at the other three races where he has a third and a pair of fourths, as he’s the lone runner in this race that has seen a race against winners. His last start was the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile where he was fourth around the track at 21/1. I think he will look for a trip on the front end as he tries for a statement win.

Provenance (Bob Baffert, Kyle Frey) has been first and third in his two starts, both straight maiden races. The last start came on September 27 at Santa Anita in a six-furlong event. He went wire to wire to get the win.
Blacksmith (Bob Baffert, Kazushi Kimura) is the third and final Baffert horse here. He has yet to get a win and was fifth in his most recent start he was fifth, beaten four lengths going six furlongs at Del Mar on Nov. 22. Has had a pair of good works for this spot. The first start he showed speed an in the second he came from the back after a poor start.

Acknowledgemeplz (Doug O’Neill, Armando Ayuso) looks to have the best recent form with a second, followed by a win in straight maiden races. The last start was October 25 at Santa Anita where he wired the field. Has two good works followed by a maintenance effort for the return.

Captivator (John Sadler, Hector Isaac Berrios) had the most impressive effort in the last start, at least on paper. Running in a maiden/optional claiming race on Nov. 8, he went out quick and built on the lead throughout the race, winning by over 10-lengths. Before then it was a second in another maiden/optional claimer. The last two works have been quick, and this could be the value play so watch the tote.

American King (Rueben Gomez, Geovanni Franco) is the final horse entered but don’t spend too much time here as he has a sixth and a fourth in his two starts.

Aqueduct
Go For Wand
(7th race, 12:10 a.m.)
The Go For Wand was a Grade III race last year but is now just a $150,000 stake race.
Fillies and mares, 3-years-old and up will tackle one mile over the main track at Aqueduct.
Weigh the Risks (Chad Brown, Manny Franco) has won three of four starts this year, including the last two. The last was the $150,000 Pumpkin Pie at Aqueduct where she stalked early, took control at the midway point, then brought it home. She has three wins in four career starts at Aqueduct.

Scalable (Todd Pletcher, Kendrick Carmouche) was third in the Pumpkin Pie at 6/1, coming from off the pace and bouncing outside with the late move. Has one win and a third in three starts this year.

Tipple (Linda Rice, Jose Lezcano) has won three times in seven starts this year but the last two have left questions on the track. In the last start she led through the first half of the race, then faded to fourth. Two back, she started poorly, being seventh at the first call and never improved, finishing seventh.

Stonewell Star (Horacio De Paz, J Rodriguez) last ran on Oct. 25 and that was the was the first start since Dec. 27 of last year. In the return she bobbled at the start, regrouped, and closed to finish second. Now she stretches from six furlongs to one mile on a track where she has won five of 10 career starts. This could be your value play.

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December 4

More time in the spotlight this weekend for the 2-year-olds as there are Kentucky Derby/Oaks preps as we get closer to January 1 when the juveniles become 3-year-olds.

Of course, there are other graded races as well that have no bearing on the Triple Crown season.

Next week on December 13 we have the Los Alamitos Futurity, the final Derby prep of the year on the West Coast!

Here’s what looks good this weekend!

Aqueduct

Grade II Demoiselle

(3^rd race, 9:17 p.m.)

The 2-year-old fillies will be going 1-1/8-miles for qualifying points for the Kentucky Oaks. We have six horses entered to go to post.

Shilling (Kenny McPeek, Christopher Elliott) had an average debut, running fourth back on September 20 but then came back and ran off a pair of wins. The first came Oct. 16 when she wired the field and held on by a neck to beat straight maidens. She then came back to take a $145,000 stake on Nov. 6 at Aqueduct by over four lengths. That was at one mile, and she was drawing clear so the extra length should not be an issue.

Zany (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz) is a $350,000 purchase that debuted Nov. 2 against straight maidens at six furlongs and drew off after a bobble at the start to win by over six lengths. Obviously, this spot is much tougher but given the connections and the success in the debut, this one bears watching.

Believable (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) is a $1 million horse out of Curlin that has the look for a big one. But after overcoming a tough duel in the lane to win her debut, she came back in the Tempted and was beaten soundly by Shilling, running second, four lengths back. The connections are putting the blinkers on here.

Jumping the Gun (Andrew Simoff, Julio Hernandez) is a $250,000 filly out of Gun Runner. She has run all four starts at Delaware Downs, winning her first three and finishing second in the fourth. Has faced tougher in each start but has yet to break from the rail, which she will today. You’re going to get a price here but does she have what it takes.

Grade III Elite Power

(5^th race, 10:13 a.m.)

We’ve got six horses going six furlongs on the main track for a purse of $250,000.

El Grande O (Linda Rice, Flavien Prat) has the race Beyer with a 100 after winning a $100,000 optional claimer over the Aqueduct rack on Oct. 9. He has 11 starts over the track and has five wins to go with two seconds, and two thirds. He doesn’t want the lead but does not like to be far from it. He has what appears to be the perfect style for this race.

Full Moon Madness (Michelle Nevin, Ricardo Santana) has also found success over the track, hitting the board in eight of 12 starts, winning four times. Is coming off a third in the Grade III Bold Ruler on November 2 over the track. The last three starts have been at three different tracks, and he has run well in all three.

Just Beat the Odds (Gregory Sacco, Manny Franco) has been off since April after a two-race stretch. Back on March 9 he won a $62,000 optional claimer by six lengths and was given a 103 Beyer. He came back a month later and was second by a neck in an $80,000 optional claimer in the slop, getting a 97 Beyer. Both races were at Aqueduct.

Acoustic Ave (Linda Rice, Jose Lezcano) is a 5-year-old that is the most experienced horse in the field with 25 starts. The year he has hit the board in 9-for-10 starts, with three wins, three seconds, and three thirds. The last start was October 29 in the $200,000 Hudson Bay at Aqueduct. He came home third with a mild closing. He preferred to come from off the pace and had a bullet work on November 25.

Grade II Remsen

(9^th race, 12:08 p.m.)

Here is our Derby prep for the weekend with 12 horses entering, fighting for 10-5-3-2-1 Kentucky Derby qualifying points.  There are a few expensive horses here.

Courting (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) is a $5.2 million purchase. After starting with a pedestrian debut where he was fourth against straight maidens he charged back and beat similar by over two lengths. In the debut he was near the back most of the race but in the win, he wired the field. Has been off since Nov. 9 but has a very solid and consistent work tab.

Paladin (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat) is a $2.1 million purchase that was second in his lone start. That race was Oct. 17 and there was a battle on the front end throughout where he finished second by a head. Renegade was your winner by a head that day, but was disqualified and placed second, moving up Paladin. He prepped for this with a series of consistent works.

Renegade (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz) is a $1.2 million purchase that was two starts. The first he was third, beaten 18 lengths, then came back and crossed the line first but he was DQ’d after a bumping incident and placed second. In the second start he came from off the pace, but I think it’s too early to stick him with a specific style.

Balboa (Brittany Russell, Ricardo Santana) is a $1 million purchase was in the Bob Baffert barn for the first four starts. After uninspiring starts in the Del Mar Futurity at Del Mar, then the American Pharoh at San Anita he was moved to the Russell barn. His last start came in the James F. Lewis III at Laurel and he nearly wired the field and won by over five lengths. Big step up here but it will be interesting to see if the barn has made a difference.

 Grade II Cigar Mile

(10^th race, 12:37 p.m.)

This has seven entered to go one mile in this $500,000 race for 3-year-olds and up.

Bishops Bay (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat) has won five-of-seven starts this year with the last four races coming in graded races. The last start came in the Grade III Forty Niner where he sat right off the pace, then came on and won by half a length. The one misstep came two back when he stumbled out of the gate and never recovered, finishing sixth in the Grade I Forego on August 23.

Phileas Fogg (Gustavo Rodriguez, Joel Rosario) was second in his last start, the Grade II Woodward September 27 at Aqueduct. The two starts before that, he earned a 104 Beyer in winning the Grade II Suburban, and a 105 for running third in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. He is part of the speed brigade in this race.

Crazy Mason (Gregory Sacco, Irad Ortiz) has run in graded races his last five starts, winning one, running second in one, and third in two others. The last start came in the Grade III Vosburgh, a 7-furlong race on Sept. 17. He loves to come from off the pace and will have plenty of speed to chase here. He has won three of five starts at Aqueduct.

Los Alamitos Race Course

Grade II Starlet

There are six horses set to go in this Kentucky Oaks qualifier that travels 1-1/16-miles. The point structure is 10-5-3-2-1.

Nimah (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) is an $800,000 purchase price that wired the field in her debut, a straight maiden race back on November 23 at Del Mar. Juan Hernandez has ridden all three Bob Baffert horses entered and makes the call to ride here.

Himka (Bob Baffert, Tyler Baze) is a $1.125 million purchase and has already gotten in six races. She has won three of the six starts, including the most recent, the $100,000 Desi Arnez at Del Mar. Took a beating in two graded stakes races but has come back strong in a pair of lower stakes. Looks a notch below the others entered here.

Consequent (Bob Baffert, Kazushi Kimura) is the third Baffert horse entered in the race and seems like a bargain at a $250,000 purchase price. Had one start – a straight maiden race Nov. 14 at Del Mar and was a winner with a strong close. We will find out a lot about this one today.

Cosmic Heat (Doug O’Neill, Armando Ayuso) is a horse that looks comfortable closing and with plenty of speed, this might be won to take a flyer. Was third in the Desi Arnez, four lengths back of Himika following a bad start.

November 25

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and is ready for a big weekend of horse racing as there are big cards starting Friday throughout the weekend!

A lot of tracks are taking advantage of Black Friday being a holiday for so many. Here’s a great chance to get out and make some money so you can turn around and spend on the retail side!

There are a pair of graded races that interest me Friday, with Saturday featuring a pair of graded 2-year-old stakes that can earn points for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks.

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Friday, Nov. 28

The Grade II Mrs. Revere

(10^th race, 2:25 p.m.)

Three-year-old fillies will travel 1-1/16 miles on the turf with a $300,000 purse. There are 12 entered.

Lush Lips (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione, 7/5) is the morning line favorite and has had a great year with three wins and three seconds in six starts this year. The last start came Oct. 11 in the Grade I QEII Cup at Keeneland. In that start, she sat right off the pace, took the lead at the top of the lane, and held on for the win. She has shown the ability to push the pace or come from off the pace.

Classic Q (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 3/1) is making her 10^th start of the year and has three wins and two seconds in the nine starts. The last start was October 24 in the Grade II Valley View at Keeneland where she came from well back to run second, missing a little over a length. The last two starts have been deep closes, after a series of races where she was setting or pushing the pace.

Somethinabouther (Brendan Walsh, Axel Concepcion, 8/1) is the only other horse in single-digit odds in the morning line. She was the third-place horse in the Valley View, finishing only a head back of Classic Q. She seems to prefer running off the pace in mid-pack before running late.

Pretty Picture (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 10/1) is an interesting runner. She won a straight maiden, followed by an allowance race in her first two starts. The third – and latest – start came in the Grade II Sands Point at Aqueduct on October 18 when she was third in a closing effort. It was a solid start for the first against graded company, and you can expect better here.

Fast Market (John Terranova, Samuel Marin, 10/1) was second in the Sands Point just missing by a neck. The warning sign to me is it took nine starts for the horse to break maiden and she has only hit the board in five of nine starts this year.

The Grade II Clark

(11^th race, 2:54 p.m.)

There are nine 3-year-olds set to go 1-1/8 miles on the main track for a purse of $600,000. At first glance, a solid case could be made for five horses.

Hit Show (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz, 3/1) is the morning line favorite and is coming off a win in the Grade III Hagyard Fayette States on Oct. 25, using a strong closing kick. He has shown to like from coming off the pace. Won the Dubai World Cup in early April and now looks fully recovered from the trip.

Gosger (Brendan Walsh, Luis Sael, 4/1) is the horse that was second in the Preakness and picked up a fan base following that race. But he has yet to win a race since then despite some solid efforts. He was third in the Fayette, taking the lead at the top of the lane only to get passed by a pair of horses that are entered here.

First Mission (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 5/1) has hit the board in four of five starts this year but has only one win. That came back in April in the Oaklawn Handicap. Will be pushing the pace and hoping to get first run. He was a badly beaten fourth in the Grade I Goodwood at Santa Anita on Sept. 27.

Rattle N Roll (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez Jr., 7/2) was a fast closing second in the Fayette coming from last in a 11-horse field. He looks like he recovered from his trip to the Middle East where he was four months earlier this year.

Magnitude (Stev Asmussen, Jose Ortiz, 9/2) has been strong his last four starts going back to February where he rolled to a 9-length win in the Risen Star derby prep. He was third in the Travers and most recently was second in the Grade I Pennsylvania Derby. Prefers to be on or pushing the pace but has shown the ability to come from well back.

Saturday

Churchill Downs

Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club

(10^th race, 2:25 p.m.)

The 2-year-old boys take center stage here going 1-1/16 miles in an official Kentucky Derby prep race. The point totals are 10-5-3-2-1 in hopes of securing a spot here on May 2 for the Derby.

Cherokee Nation (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat) is a $1.15 million horse and has a fourth and a second in two straight maiden starts. In his last start at Santa Anita on October 13, he set the pace through the first half of the race, then got passed, battled back, and fell by a nose.

Soldier N Diplomat (Steven Asmussen, Tyler Gaffalione) has two wins in three starts. After winning his debut in a straight maiden race in July, he was fourth in the Grade I Hopeful at Saratoga in September. He dropped into a $100,000 optional claimer at Churchill on October 26 and crushed the field by nine lengths.

Universe (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez, Jr.) was second in the Grade III Street Sense Oct. 26 at Churchill. He pushed the pace through the first half, took the lead at the top of the lane, then was passed late. Before that he was third in the Grade I Champagne on Oct. 4. There’s talent there but is it enough to get him across the line first?

Further Ado (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz) took to until his third start to get his maiden score but what a win it was. After breaking second, he took control and took off, crossing the line 20 lengths in front. Big step up here but that is flat out impressive speed and he earned a 98 Beyer for the effort. This one will be interesting to watch. He was a $550,000 purchase and is out of Gun Runner.

Grade II Golden Rod

(11^th race, 2:54 p.m.)

It’s time for the ladies to earn points towards the Kentucky Oaks as they will also go 1-1/16 miles for the right to earn points in the 10-5-3-2-1 race.

Explora (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat) is one you might remember from the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies when she ran strong and finished second. She stalked the pace that day and closed strong but just couldn’t get past the winner. Has speed and has been favored in all four of her races.

Letmecounttheways (Michael Maker, Joel Rosario) has two races and has won both of them, and both by over five lengths. The first was against straight maidens and was by over five lengths. The second was in a $200,000 race on October 25 at Aqueduct. She has never trailed at any point of call in her two races.

Life of Joy (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz) took her maiden race by 14 lengths in early October, then came back and won the Rags to Riches on Oct. 26 at Churchill. She came from way back in her debut, then sat closer to the pace in her second start.

Atropa (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz) made her debut on July 20 in the slop at Saratoga. Went to the shelf for a while and came back a monster, winning a straight maiden race at Keeneland on Oct. 2, wiring the field and winning by 10 lengths. She carries a $450,000 purchase price.

Derby futures

The latest from Churchill Downs regarding the future wagers for the Kentucky Derby.

Fans will have their second of six opportunities to bet on the 152^nd running of the Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve (Grade I) Thursday-Sunday with Pool 2 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager where Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (GI) winner Ted Noffey was made the 6-1 individual favorite and “All Others Foaled in 2023” as the overall 9-5 favorite.

         Running concurrently with Pool 2 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager is the lone Kentucky Derby Sire Future Wager where fans can wager on sires of Derby prospects. Top stallion Into Mischief, who is the sire of Ted Noffey, was made the 4-1 favorite.

The four-day pools, featuring $2 Win and Exacta wagering, opens Thursday at noon (all times Eastern) and will close Sunday at 6 p.m.

The complete field for Pool 2 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager (with trainer, sire and odds):

#1 Blackout Time (Kenny McPeek, Not This Time, 20-1)

#2 Boyd (Bob Baffert, Violence, 40-1)

#3 Brant (Bob Baffert, Gun Runner, 10-1)

#4 Buetane (Bob Baffert, Tiz the Law, 80-1)

#5 Cherokee Nation (Bob Baffert, Not This Time, 80-1)

#6 Chip Honcho (Steve Asmussen, Connect, 99-1)

#7 Commandment (Brad Cox, Into Mischief, 99-1)

#8 Confessional (Brad Cox, Essential Quality, 60-1)

#9 Courting (Todd Pletcher, Curlin, 60-1)

#10 Desert Gate (Bob Baffert, Omaha Beach, 60-1)

#11 Dr. Kapur (Saffie Joseph Jr., McKinzie, 50-1)

#12 Englishman (Cherie DeVaux, Maxfield, 40-1)

#13 Ewing (Mark Casse, Knicks Go, 40-1)

#14 Further Ado (Brad Cox, Gun Runner, 20-1)

#15 Gallivant (Ben Colebrook, Into Mischief, 99-1)

#16 Golden Tornado (Danny Gargan, McKinzie, 40-1)

#17 Incredibolt (Riley Mott, Bolt d’Oro, 40-1)

#18 Infiltrate (Brendan Walsh, Oscar Performance, 99-1)

#19 Into the Beast (Dale Romans, Into Mischief, 99-1)

#20 Intrepido (Jeff Mullins, Maximus Mischief, 80-1)

#21 It’s Our Time (Tom Amoss, Not This Time, 50-1)

#22 Litmus Test (Bob Baffert, Nyquist, 99-1)

#23 Local Knowledge (Todd Pletcher, Yaupon, 99-1)

#24 Mesquite (Cherie DeVaux, Union Rags, 99-1)

#25 Mob (Brian Lynch, Gun Runner, 80-1)

#26 Mr. A. P. (Vladimir Cerin, American Pharoah, 30-1)

#27 My World (Brad Cox, Essential Quality, 30-1)

#28 Napoleon Solo (Chad Summers, Liam’s Map, 30-1)

#29 Paladin (Chad Brown, Gun Runner, 40-1)

#30 Provenance (Bob Baffert, Into Mischief, 99-1)

#31 Rancho Santa Fe (Brad Cox, Tapit, 80-1)

#32 Rebel Instinct (Chad Brown, Into Mischief, 75-1)

#33 Renegade (Todd Pletcher, Into Mischief, 50-1)

#34 Soldier N Diplomat (Steve Asmussen, Gun Runner, 99-1)

#35 Spice Runner (Steve Asmussen, Gun Runner, 99-1)

#36 Talkin (Danny Gargan, Good Magic, 60-1)

#37 Ted Noffey (Todd Pletcher, Into Mischief, 6-1)

#38 Universe (Kenny McPeek, Global Campaign, 99-1)

#39 White Tiger (Brad Cox, Constitution, 99-1)

#40 All Others Foaled in 2023 (9-5)

Kentucky Derby Sire Future Wager (with morning line odds):

#1 American Pharoah (30-1)

#2 Army Mule (99-1)

#3 Blame (80-1)

#4 Bolt d’Oro (30-1)

#5 Candy Ride (ARG) (80-1)

#6 Charlatan (99-1)

#7 City of Light (80-1)

#8 Constitution (75-1)

#9 Curlin (50-1)

#10 Essential Quality (50-1)

#11 Goldencents (99-1)

#12 Good Magic (40-1)

#13 Gun Runner (8-1)

#14 Hard Spun (99-1)

#15 Independence Hall (99-1)

#16 Into Mischief (4-1)

#17 Justify (60-1)

#18 Knicks Go (40-1)

#19 Liam’s Map (25-1)

#20 Maxfield (40-1)

#21 Maximus Mischief (40-1)

#22 McKinzie (40-1)

#23 Medaglia d’Oro (99-1)

#24 Munnings (99-1)

#25 Not This Time (6-1)

#26 Nyquist (40-1)

#27 Omaha Beach (60-1)

#28 Oscar Performance (99-1)

#29 Practical Joke (99-1)

#30 Quality Road (99-1)

#31 Street Sense (80-1)

#32 Tapit (80-1)

#33 Tiz the Law (80-1)

#34 Twirling Candy (80-1)

#35 Uncle Mo (80-1)

#36 Union Rags (99-1)

#37 Vekoma (99-1)

#38 Violence (40-1)

#39 Yaupon (75-1)

#40 All Other Sires (8-1)

 In last year’s second Kentucky Derby Future Wager Pool and Sire Future Wager, eventual Kentucky Derby 151 winner Sovereignty closed at 19-1 and his sire, Into Mischief, closed at 5-1.

There are no refunds in the Kentucky Derby Future Wager or Kentucky Derby Sire Future Wager. If Churchill Downs officials determine during the duration of this week’s pools that one of the wagering interests experiences an injury, illness, or other circumstance that would prevent the horse from participating in the May 2 Kentucky Derby, betting on the individual horse will be suspended immediately.

Other Future Wager dates are set for Jan. 16-18 (Pool 3); Feb. 13-15 (Pool 4); March 13-15 (Pool 5); and April 2-4 (Pool 6). Pool 5 will include the Longines Kentucky Oaks Future Wager.

More information, Brisnet.com past performances and real-time odds on the Kentucky Derby Future Wager will be available before the pools open Thursday at KentuckyDerby.com.

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November 20

By Dennis Miller

There is no real offseason for horse racing, but this time of year can seem like the sport is slowing down.

There is one thing to watch over the next two months – the emergence of 2-year-olds. You can get an early look at potential Kentucky Derby horses as they begin their fight to run in a Triple Crown race.

There is one this weekend taking place at Gulfstream, then we have multiple one’s next weekend between Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, and then again on Saturday.

Let’s look at the lone graded race, as well as the top 2-year-old race this weekend, then get to the other races next week.

Gulfstream

Juvenile Sprint

(6th race, 11:47 a.m.)

As the winter continues to roll in, Florida is always a good place to watch the 2-year-olds this time of year, and after the turn of the year, the emerging 3-year-olds.

We have six 2-year-olds going 6.5 furlongs here on the main track at Gulfstream.

Local Knowledge (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) is a $625,000 purchase and is perfect, winning his only start. On October 4 at Keeneland he had trouble at the gate, then came back strong, getting up to win by over a length, getting a 94 Beyer mark for

the debut. Hard to figure a running style yet with the early trouble early in his debut. One thing for sure – he will be well bet.

Strategic Reserve (Saffie Joseph, Micha Husbands) is a $435,000 purchase that has seen two races – a win by six lengths in his straight maiden debut, followed by a third in a minor stake Sept. 20. Both starts have seen him go to the front out of the gate. He went from a sprint in the debut to a mile in the second start. Now he comes to a sprint and will be interesting to see how he responds. The last three works have all been great.

Camigol (Saffie Joseph, Antonio Sano) has only one win in five starts and that came against straight maidens in his second start. On Aug. 2 he was third in the Grade II Saratoga Special then came back on Sept. 6 and ran second in a $100,000 stake at Gulfstream. Everything went south on Oct. 18 in the Affirmed Stakes, also at Gulfstream, when he started slowly and then was eased and walked off. He has had three pedestrian works for this spot. Has seen the best races of this group and with the exception one, has run well.

Churchill Downs

The Grade III Commonwealth

(10th race, 2:25 p.m.)

We have 3-year-olds going 1-1/16 miles on the turf. There are 11 horses entered to run in this spot.

Troubleshooting (Gregory Foley, Tyler Gaffalione, 7/2) is the lukewarm favorite on the morning line, showing how wide-open this race may be. He has won four of seven starts this year and the last race came Oct. 25. He beat out a field of 12 pushing the pace throughout and getting up to win by a neck in the Bryan Station at Keeneland. His preferred style looks to be stalking the pace and putting in a late run.

Giocoso (Keith Desormeaux, Jose Ortiz, 4/1) has seen some good races this year but has only won once in six starts. He was on the Derby trail this year but was 12th in the Risen Star and fifth in the Jeff Ruby. Once off the Derby trail he went to the turf and performed better. On August 9 he won the Grade II Secretariat at Colonial Downs. In his last start, he was third in the Bryan Station. Looks like a big closer.

Chapman’s Peak (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz, 9/2) has won two straight but that’s been a straight maiden followed by an allowance race. The two wins came via different styles, coming off the pace in the maiden race, then setting the pace in the allowance race.

Mansetti (Kevin Attard, Pietro Moran, 6/1) has been either first or second in five of his seven starts this year. The kicker – the races all except for one have been at Woodbine and on the dirt. In fact, this is his first start on the turf. He has a very solid work tab for this spot.

November 11

The ladies are on display this weekend in a pair of graded stakes races.

Churchill Downs

Grade III Chilukki

(3^rd race, 10:58 a.m.

This one-mile, one-turn race is for fillies and mares 3-year-old and up for a purse of $300,000. There are seven horses set to go to post.

Rag Time (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado) certainly seems the one to beat here. She has seen the best races and has hit the board in all five career starts. There is the concern that she is a 3-year-old facing older but it’s hard to argue with the level of success she’s seen. A closer in all five starts, she will need a fair pace to set her up. I have some concerns about what the pace will be. Also, this is her first start in a route.

Shred the Gnar (Brian Lynch, Luis Saez) is the clear speed horse here and has wired the field in her last two starts. She has three career starts and after her debut where she started slowly to finish second by a neck, she’s been unstoppable on the front end. In maiden start she won by over six lengths, then came in a $125,000 optional claimer and crushed the field again, this time by seven lengths. This is a big step up but there’s no doubt she will be out front early.

Literate (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz) makes her first start for Brad Cox who hits at 35 percent for first time in the barn. The last five starts have all been against graded company, with the last two ending with poor results. Both were at Woodbine with two back being a sixth beaten 14 lengths in the Grade I Taylor on August 16. The most recent start was the Grade III Ontario Matron where she was never a factor and was eighth. The barn switch came after the race, and the series of works have been solid. May have to see one.

One Magic Philly (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione) scored in his first start for the Walsh barn, taking a $100,000 optional claimer on Oct. 11 at Keeneland. She could be part of the pace as the last two starts have seen her pushing the pace. We will find out more today as she returns to graded company. Last year she was sixth in the Filly and Mare Sprint in the Breeders’ Cup.

Runaway Diva (Michelle Hemingway, Jose Ortiz) had been making a living in optional claimers until the last two starts where she ventured into stakes races. Two back she was second in a $100,000 stake at Laurel, then her last start in the Grade III Delaware Handicap, she again was second. She is a closer and will need some early speed to run at.

Aqueduct

Grade III Jockey Club Oaks

(7^th race, 11:39 a.m.)

This one is for 3-year-old fillies who will go 1-3/8-miles on the inner turf course. Eight horses have signed on for this marathon.

Laurelin (Graham Motion, Kendrick Carmouche) has the home track advantage with a 3-for-3 record on the Aqueduct turf, but she hasn’t been over the surface in her last three starts. Two back she won the Saratoga Oaks Invitational on August 9, then came back and was second in Grade I Queen Elizabeth Cup at Keeneland on Oct. 11. She likes to sit towards the back and make a late run.

Fionn (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat) has won five of seven starts this year, with the last five starts coming against graded company.  She came into her last start – the QEII Cup having won three in a row, but she had a troubled trip and finished fourth.  Before then she took Oaks Invitational at Kentucky Downs on Sept. 10. That win came after some time on the shelf after winning the Belmont Oaks Invitational on July 5 at Saratoga. She might be the deepest closer in the field so patience is a must when watching her run.

Hereforagoodtime (Brendan Walsh, John Velazquez) was third to Fionn in her last start, the Oaks Invitational at Kentucky Downs. The last three starts have all been in graded races and while she hasn’t gotten a win in those, she has run well with a second and two thirds. Took until her sixth starts to break but she’s been no worse than third since then. Probably deserves a spot on your ticket.

Scythian (Bill Mott, Sahin Civaci) had a good 2-year-old season right up until she was 12^th in the BC Juvenile Filly Turf after stumbling at the start. She went to the shelf until Aug. 30 where she was third in an optional claimer. The most recent start was Oct. 9 when she was third in another optional claimer at Aqueduct. Now the connections feel confident enough to send her here.

November 5

In many ways it’s amazing to me how quickly we move on from the incredible weekend of Breeders’ Cup races and get back to normal. Or at least normal in the world of horse racing.

Also, last weekend, we had another successful FREE Breeders’ Cup handicapping contest as the Pleasanton OTB, with the contest coming down to the final race of the 14 Breeders’ Cup races over the two days.

We are in the early stages of discussing another contest on January 24, 2026, the day of the Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park.

Of course, in 2026, look for handicapping contests on the days of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes. Finally, the 2026 Breeders’ Cup will feature another handicapping contest to top off the year.

But while those are events to look forward to, there is top racing going on this weekend.

Three graded races at Aqueduct this weekend and a fourth that is as good as the other three.

Aqueduct

The Dwyer

(3^rd race, 9:40 a.m. PDT)

This one is for 3-year-olds going one mile (the one-turn mile) on the main track.

Tip Top Thomas (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) has won three races in a row, including the Indiana Derby in July and the Smarty Jones at PARX on August 19. He is a speed horse and has been first or second at the first two calls in five of his six starts.

Disco Time (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux) has won all four starts of his career, with the most recent being the $250,000 St. Louis Derby on Sept. 19, drawing away to win by over five lengths, earning a 102 Beyer, the only triple digit mark in the field.

Stars and Stripes (William Mott, Jose Lezcano) is interesting in that he has been overly impressive winning his last two starts but they have come against straight maidens and an allowance race. Two back he took the maiden race over the Aqueduct surface by 10-lengths on June 15, then followed with the allowance race at Saratoga on July 17, winning by over seven. It is a tough spot to make his return but he has been working well in the mornings.

Crudo (Todd Pletcher, Kendrick Carmouche) throws the blinkers on and has only won two of seven starts in his career. His last three races he has run fourth. A note of interest here is the horse is owned by Bobby Flay.

Grade III Hill Prince

(7^th race, 11:39 a.m.)

This is another race for 3-year-olds with this one going 1-1/8-miles on the inner turf course.

Stars and Stripes (William Mott, Junior Alvarado) has won three times in four career starts and continues to climb the class ladder, with this being the biggest start of his career. Two back he took a $100,000 optional claimer on August 7 at Saratoga, stalking and winning just under a length. The most recent start came September 1 in the $135,000 Saranac at Saratoga. He once again stalked the pace, this time getting up to win by just over a length.

Mayor of Midnight (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat) is one you must consider because of the connections – and he’s not a bad runner. He is 2-for-3 over the turf at Aqueduct. His two wins were in straight maiden race on June 20, then a $50,000 optional claimer on Sept. 19 where he rallied late to get up and win by a neck. This is easily his toughest race yet but trust the connections.

Noble Confessor (Todd Pletcher, Kendrick Carmouche) has only one win in nine career starts but he has seen much tougher races than most of these. He ran in the Grade III Nashville Derby on August 30 at Kentucky Downs, then came back in the Grade II Jockey Club Derby Invitation at Aqueduct on Oct. 4 where he was second. He is an even runner and seems to run right around wherever he breaks. He has been a consistent runner as of late.

Grade II Mother Goose

(9^th race, 12:39 p.m.)

The 3-year-old fillies take center stage here in this 1-1/8-mile test on the main track.

Lemon Zest (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat) has two wins and a second in four career starts. Three back she broke in her second start, then followed that with a win in an allowance race August 16. In the last, she was second in the $200,000 Remington Park Oaks on September 28. She likes to be forwardly placed in all four starts.

Ourdaydreaminggirl (Louis Linder, Eliseo Ruiz) was third in her last start, the Grade I Cotillin at PARX on September 20. She looks like a runner who has a late run and that could be huge in this marathon. I think this horse is getting better every start and fully expect to see her with a late charge.

So There She Was (Doug O’Neill, Joel Rosario) is a west coast runner that shipped to win the Remington Park Oaks, beating Lemon Zest in her latest. The last two starts have seen a style change as she went from a closer to one pushing the pace and it’s made a difference. Before the race at Remington, she was second in the Grade III Torrey Pines at Del Mar. Both times she has been up front or pushing, she has been solid in good races. One to watch.

Drexel Hill (Whitworth Beckman, Ben Curtis) is an interesting one in that she was second in the Kentucky Oaks at 32/1 and has been off since then. She is a closer which I like in this spot but is she ready? The works have been okay but nothing spectacular. The barn does it at 21 percent coming off this type of break but it is a fairly small sample size. I will watch the tote board here as she might be good on the ticket as a value play.

Grade III Long Island

(10^th race, 1:09 p.m.)

Filles and Mares, 3-year-old and up tackle a marathon of 1-3/8-miles on the turf course for a $250,000 purse.

Beach Bomb (Graham Motion, Javier Castellano) has two wins and three seconds in seven starts this year. She has seen nothing but graded races in the last nine starts going back to last year.  In her last start, she took the lead in the lane but was beaten a neck in the Grade III Waya at Aqueduct on Oct. 5. In most races she has chosen to sit off the pace and move when they turn for home.

Amber Cascade (Michael Maker, Nik Juarez) has a win and three places in seven starts this year, the last two starts coming in graded company. Two back in the Grade II Flower Bowl at Saratoga on August 30, she overcame a bump at the break to run second. On Oct. 4 in the Grade II Rodeo Drive at Santa Anita she got out quick for a change but faded and finished fifth. Ships back to the east and is reunited with the pilot that has finished second in both their efforts together.

Immensitude (William Mott, Junior Alvarado) has hit the board in five of six starts this year but the last four have come in optional claimers. There are graded races in the past and she ran solid in them so don’t throw out. The last two starts – a second, then a first – she tried to wire the field, a different strategy than previously used. I would pay close attention to the tote with this one.

October 30

FRIDAY: Editor’s note: These previews were finished Wednesday night and do not include any late scratches or changes.

The most exciting two days in racing kicks off Friday with the running of the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar.

The weekend starts with five Breeders’ Cup races on Friday, featuring the “stars of tomorrow,” all 2-year-olds.

BC Turf Sprint

(6^th race, 2:45 p.m.)

True Love (Aidan O’Brien, Wayne Lordan, 7/2) is the morning-line favorite and with good reason. She has six career starts with three wins and three seconds. He seems to run best either on or near the lead.

Schwarzenegger (Wesley Ward, John Velezquez, 5/1) looks like the best American horse in the field. Was second by a neck in his debut against straight maidens, then came back and won the Indian Summer on October 5^th at Keeneland. The gate will open and he will go. Has only not led at one point of call in his last two starts. A ton of speed here.

Havana Anna (Donnacha O’Brien, Gavin Ryan, 6/1) has hit the board in all six career starts with two wins, three seconds, and a third. She had a nice two-race winning streak three and four back but has run second the last two races. Appears to be another that prefers to be out front.

Cy Fair (George Weaver, Irad Ortiz, 6/1) must be looked at off her last race alone. She came from off the pace to win a stake at Woodbine and with all the speed signed on here, a late runner will be key.

Lennilu (Patrick Biacone, Luis Saez, 8-1) might be the value play of all the single digit odds runners.  She has five career starts and four wins. Shipped over from England earlier this year and won a pair of stakes at Gulfstream. This is a big step up, but she knows how to win.

BC Juvenile Fillies

(7^th race, 3:25 p.m.)

Explora (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 5/2) comes from the right barn when it comes to juvenile runners. Won the debut by four, was second in the Del Mar Debutante, then took the Grade II Oak Leaf at Santa Anita on Oct. 4. She prefers being at the front during the race.

Tommy Jo (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 7/2) was beaten across the line in her last start but was placed first through a disqualification in the Grade I Alcibiades at Keeneland, leaving her with a perfect 3-for-3 record. Does need the lead but won’t far off it.

Percy’s Bar (Ben Colebrook, Luan Machado, 9/2) crossed the line first in the Alcibiades but was moved to second for bumping Tommy Jo late. That race was the first time the horse went early after three races of being a closer. With the speed in here, she should sit back and go late.

Battle of Rouge (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith, 9/2) took out Explora at 9/1 in the Del Mar Debutante with a strong stalking trip and gutsy stretch run. Broke maiden in her second start, beating straight maidens by over six lengths. The workouts for this one have been strong. Possible value play as the “other Baffert horse.”

Iron Orchard (Danny Gargan, Joel Rosario, 6/1) is an east coast runner if that’s what you prefer. Has a perfect 3-for-3 record and after a pair of front running wins, came from off the pace in the Grade I Frizzette at Aqueduct on Oct. 4

BC Juvenile Fillies Turf

(8^th race, 4:05 p.m.)

Precise (Aidan O’Brien, Christophe Soumillion, 6/5) is the overwhelming favorite in this spot and given the connections, she will be tough to beat. She had five starts, with four wins and a second. Looks to sit right off the pace then move late, overpowering the others in the lane. My big concern here will be the shipping to the United States. If she handles the trip, this race is over.

Time to Dream (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 5/1) is the top American horse in the field. A closer, she started her run in the Jessamine a little late and was third by a length. A cleaner run here and she could be flying home. Won her other two starts with closing trips.

Ultimate Love (Michael Trombetta, John Velazquez, 8/1) has three wins in three starts but has yet to face this level. Stalks and closes like a champ but has all of one stake race under her belt.

Brave Deb (Richard Mandella, Marco Demuro, 20/1) is like taking a swing for the fence with this runner. Two starts and two wins – a straight maiden score followed by a win in the Grade III Surfer Girl at Santa Anita on October 5. Likes to run on or near the lead and does have win over the course at Del Mar. Why not take a chance!

BC Juvenile

(9^th race, 4:45 p.m.)

Ted Noffey (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat, 4/5) is the heavy morning line favorite for the top 2-year-old conditioner over the last 20 years. Three starts, three convincing wins, all on the east coast, a bit strange for a Baffert runner. He took the Grade I Hopeful at Saratoga by over eight lengths in September, then came back and won the Grade I Breeders’ Futurity October 4 at Keeneland by over two lengths. Now comes out west to take on some other top Baffert runners.

Brant (Bob Baffert, Jose Ortiz, 5/2) has two starts, both at Del Mar and has won both of them. The last start was the Grade I Del Mar Futurity where she bumped at the start but still wired the field. Has been off since Sept. 7 but has an impressive work tab for this one.

Blackout Time (Kenny McPeek, Irad Ortiz, 5/1) chased Ted Noffey around the track in the Breeders’ Futurity, finishing second, almost three lengths back. Two back he broke against straight maidens, winning by nine lengths.

Litmus Test (Bob Baffert, Jose Ortiz, 15/1) has been beaten by Ted Noffey, Blackout Time, and Brant in the last couple of races. Given his youth and right to improve, he might be worth a look as he was not blown out in either of those starts. Perhaps consider underneath on your ticket.

BC Juvenile Turf

(10^th race, 5:25 p.m.)

Gstaad (Aidan O’Brien, Christophe Soumillon, 9/5) is the heavy favorite as is usually the case when O’Brien has a horse in a turf race. The interesting thing is that he has run second in the last three starts, all three where he was favored. That screams to try and beat this runner.

Hey Nay Nay (John Sadler, Joel Rosario, 8/1) is one where I am going to take a leap. He has won all three starts, the last of which came over the Del Mar turf in the Del Mar Juvenile Turf Stakes on Sept. 7. In that start he sat right off the pace, then cleared the field for the win. The other two wins, he went out and wired the field.

Argos (Matt Riley, Flavien Prat, 6/1) is coming off a win in the Grade I Summer at Woodbine. In all three starts he has been patient before moving late. He has a pair of wins and a third to show for his career.

Bottas (Miguel Clement, Manny Franco, 6/1) has been favored in both starts and has won both. The last was the Grade II Pilgrim at Aqueduct on Oct. 3. In both starts the horse has come from off the pace and has showed bold runs in the lane to get the wins.

SATURDAY**Editor’s note: These previews were finished Wednesday night and do not include any late scratches or changes.

Since the Breeders’ Cup is on the West Coast, the Breeders’ Cup Classic has once again been moved forward on the card and is the 9^th race of the day, set for an 3:25 p.m. post, right in prime time back east.

There are three more BC races after the classic, with the BC Filly and Mare Turf set to wrap up the day with a 5:25 p.m. post.

The first Breeders’ Cup race of the day is at 12 noon.

Following is a run through of all nine Breeders’ Cup races today, with 4-5 horses listed for each race.

BC Filly and Mare Sprint

(4^th race, 12 noon)

Sweet Azteca (Richard Baltas, Juan Hernandez, 2/1) has won two straight races since the barn change from Michael McCarthy to Baltas. Both starts have come this year as most recently she won the Grade III Rancho Bernardo on August 24 at Del Mar. There is no big secret here – the gate opens, and she goes and goes fast.

Tamara (Richard Mandella, Mike Smith, 7/2) has but one start this year and that came in the Grade III Chillingworth Stakes at Santa Anita. It was the first start in almost a year, and it was a beautiful stalking trip, with her drawing off in the lane. Has had three maintenance works since then and should be tough here.

Hope Road (Bob Baffert, Jose Ortiz, 4/1) has four starts this year and has hit the board in all four. The most recent was the best as she brought home the win in the Grade I Ballerina at Saratoga on August 23. After trouble while loading the gate, she ran a great stalking pace, took control as they turned for home, and drew off to win. She has been tearing up in the mornings and looks like she is sitting on a big one.

Richi (Bob Baffert, Luis Saez, 5/1) is another Baffert horse that has seen six either Grade I or Grade II races this year. The last two were a third in the Grade I Hirsch at Del Mar on August 2, followed by a second in the Zenyatta at Santa Anita on Sept. 28. Been moving well in the mornings and always beware of the other Baffert horse.

Splendora (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat, 8/1) is the third Baffert horse in the race and is coming off an impressive performance. On Sept. 1 she took the Tranquility Lakes at Del Mar. That day she went wire to wire and drew off to win by over five lengths and earned a 100 Beyer for the race.

BC Turf Sprint

(5^th race, 12:41 p.m.)

Motorious (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 7/2) has just two starts this year and they were both wins. In the most recent he crossed the line in second after a monster close but was moved up to first via disqualification. Two back he again came from off the pace in the Grade III Daytona on June 14 at Santa Anita. If the speed gets crazy out-front look for this one flying late.

Arizona Blaze (Adrian Murray, David Egan, 5/1) is one of the European runners, with this guy having four wins in eight starts this season. He prefers to be up front, adding to what should be a good pace.

Ag Bullet (Richard Baltas, John Velazquez, 4/1) has won two straight, taking the Grade I Jaipur at Saratoga on June 8, then after a break came back to take the Ladies Turf Sprint Stakes at Kentucky Downs. Two back he stalked the pace, then in the last race he wired the field. More pace.

Shisospicy (Jose D’Angelo, Irad Ortiz, 6/1) is yet another speedster as he has been first or second in every first call in his six starts. He has four wins and a second in the six starts this year. The last start was an impressive score in the Grade II Music City at Kentucky Downs on Sept. 6.

BC Sprint

(6^th race, 1:21 p.m.)

Bentornato (Jose D’Angelo, Irad Ortiz, 5/2) took almost a year off after running second in this race last year and looked like he didn’t miss a beat.

Kopion (Richard Mandella, Mike Smith, 7/2) has done very little wrong in her last five starts, all against graded stake company, winning three times and running second twice. In her most recent start, she was second in the Grade I Hirsch at Del Mar on August 2, earning a 107 Beyer in the process. She will be on or pushing the pace.

Imagination (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 6/1) is coming off a win in the Santa Anita Sprint Challenge, surviving a bump to win by almost two lengths. He does not go for the lead, but he wants to be right there pushing the pace.

Straight No Chaser (Dan Blacker, John Velazquez, 8/1) is your defending champ in this race in his only start at Del Mar. Since then, he went to the middle east where he was a badly beaten eighth in the Dubai Golden Shaeen in April. After some time away, he set the pace throughout the SA Sprint Challenge before getting collected in the lane and finishing third. Expect better fitness here and more lasting power.

Dr. Venkman (Mark Glatt, Umberto Rispoli, 15/1) has always been one of my favorite sprinters. Has won four of six starts at Del Mar, including the Grade II Pat O’Brien on August 23. In what should be a fast pace, a closer may be a good play and this will be mine.

BC Distaff

(7^th race, 2:01 p.m.)

Seismic Beauty (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 9/5) is the heavy favorite here and has won three races in a row. Three back it was a 10-length score in an optional claimer and two back it was the Grade II Santa Margarita by five lengths on May 25 at Santa Anita. Went to the shelf until August 2 at Del Mar when she stepped out and won the Grade I Hirsch. Not a bad career for a horse that ran in sprints for the first four starts before showing the routing capabilities. Has speed and will use it as she wired the field in all three wins recently.

Nitrogen (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 4/1) ships out from the east and has been sensational, winning six of eight starts this year. The last seven starts have all come in graded races and the last three have all been Grade I. In the most recent she got headed by Gin Gin in the Spinster at Keeneland on Oct. 5. She prefers a stalking style and pouncing when they turn for home.

Dorth Vader (George Weaver, John Velazquez, 5/1) last started Aug. 23 when she was second by a nose to Thorpedo Anna in the Grade I Personal Ensign at Saratoga. She earned a 100 Beyer that day and has been off since then. The works have been solid for the return.

Gin Gin (Brendan Walsh, Luis Saez, 12-1) pulled the shocker at 19/1, winning the Spinster and beating Nitrogen in the process. She wired the field that day and it was the first time she took the lead early in here career. Always has enjoyed being near the lead but never on the lead. Did a light finally go off?

BC Turf

(8^th race, 2:41 p.m.)

Minnie Hauk (Aiden O’Brien, Christophe Soumillon, 8/5) is no surprise to be the heavy favorite in a race traditionally dominated by European horses. He’s won four of five starts this year and had a four-race winning streak until he was headed in his last start. He likes to sit right off the pace, then take control in the lane. It will take a big effort to beat this one.

Rebel’s Romance (Charles Appelby, William Buick, 5/2) the defending champion in this race was running in Europe this year until shipping over early to the United States. He entered – and won – the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic at Aqueduct on Sept. 27, earning a 106 Beyer in the process. He pretty much wired the field that day, winning by over three lengths. He has won 5-for-7 races this year.

Goliath (Francis-Henri Graffard, Mickael Barzalona, 8/1) is the only other horse in single digit, morning-line odds. He has won two of his five starts this year, hardly a positive compared to the two favorites. This is another horse that wants to be close to the lead.

Golden Phoenix (Phil D’Amato, Umberto Rispoli, 20/1) was fourth in this race last year and as of late he has been running well, winning his last two starts, including the Del Mar Handicap on August 30 over the same course he’s running Saturday. In fact, he has won five of his nine starts over the Del Mar course. You can play the chalk or take a fly on a horse that will have a good pace to chase.

BC Classic

(9^th race, 3:25 p.m.)

Sovereignty (William Mott, Junior Alvarado, 6/5) is the one to beat and is your likely winner. He’s 5-for-6 this year with the lone loss coming five starts back when he was second in the Florida Derby. Since then, there’s been winning the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, Jim Dandy, and the Travers, the last of which was by 10 lengths in his most recent start, August 23. Here are the last four Beyer figures – 104, 109, 104, 115.

Fierceness (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 4/1) is a bit of surprise to me as the second choice. True, he is coming off an impressive win in the Grade I Pacific Classic at Del Mar on August 30. But two back he was running second to defending champion Sierra Leone in the Whitney.

Sierra Leone (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 8/1) is the defending cham and making his final start here. One of my all-time favorite horses closes from the parking lot. If there is a big pace to chase – and I am not sure there will be – then he is a must. He was beaten by Antiquarian in the Jockey Club but had some problems in the lane during his close. Still, he ran second that day.

Forever Young (Yoshito Yahagi, Ryusei Sakai, 6/1) is the Japanese runner that was third in the Kentucky Derby last year, then was third in this race last year. He closed like a monster in the Derby but then sat closer to the pace in this race a year ago.

Journalism (Michael McCarthy, Jose Ortiz, 10/1) is the big fella that captured the hearts of the racing world with wins in the Preakness and Haskell. He has four wins in seven starts this year, losing twice to Sovereignty and once to Fierceness. Hard to imagine him finishing out of the top two but it might happen here.

Mindframe (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 10/1) is one where it’s tough to look at the connections and not make the favorite. He has won three of four this year, with the one loss coming in the Jockey’s Club where he bumped coming out of the gate and lost the rider. He did hold off Sierra Leone in the Foster at Churchill Downs in June.

Baeza (John Shireffs, Hector Berrios, 15/1) has had a huge 3-year-old campaign except for losing to Sovereignty three times and Journalism once. He gets away from those two and he is the one to beat.

BC Mile

(10^th race, 4:05 p.m.)

Notable Speech (Charles Appleby, William Buick, 5/2) is the top European runner and as a result, the one to beat. There are some signs if you’re not enamored. His lone win this year came when he shipped to the United States early, entered and won the Woodbine Mile. Other than that, he was second one other time, then ran off the board in three other starts.

Rhetorical (William Walden, Irad Ortiz, 5/1) carries America’s hopes, winning all four of his starts this year. In the Turf Mile at Keeneland on Oct. 4 he got up late for the win, getting a 101 Beyer in the process. This one to take a long look at to beat what I think is a weak favorite.

Sahlan (Francis-Henri Graffard, Mickael Barzalona, 6/1) another European runner, this one sporting two straight wins in France. Can run either on the pace or can come from off of it.

The Lion In Winter (Aiden O’Brien, Christophe Soumillon) has not won in six starts this year, with one second and a pair of thirds on his resume. He was beaten by Sahlan two back and Notable Speech three back.

Johannes (Tim Yakteen, Umberto Rispoli, 8/1) is an American runner that last year was second in this race, and had a tremendous year with five wins and the one second in six starts. This year has not been as busy as he had two starts. The first was back in August when he was a bad ninth in the Forustardave Stakes at Saratoga. He shipped back west after the race and won the Grade II City of Hope Mile by almost two lengths. He doesn’t appear to be as formidable as last year but if he’s ready, take the odds!

BC Dirt Mile

(11^th race, 4:45 p.m.)

Nysos (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat, 8/5) is the big favorite in one of my favorite races of the Breeders’ Cup every year. The horse has run three times this year, starting with a second by a neck in the Grade I Churchill Downs on the Kentucky Derby undercard, then came back with wins in Triple Bend at Santa Anita and the San Diego Handicap at Del Mar.

Full Serrano (John Sadler, Joel Rosario, 7/2) has two starts this year – a win in a $100,000 optional claimer at Del Mar on Sept. 1, then a second in the Grade I Goodwood at Santa Anita on Sept. 27. Loves to run out front.

Mystik Dan (Kenny McPeek, Francisco Arrieta, 6/1) is the 2024 Kentucky Derby winner and his last start he returned to the scene of the crime to win the Grade II Lukas Classic. The 4-year-old has not started in a Breeders’ Cup race before.

Chancer McPatrick (Chad Brown, Jose Ortiz, 15/1) is a horse I liked early in the year on the Kentucky Derby trail but after a second in the Tampa Bay Derby feed into the hype, a poor sixth in the Blue Grass ended any Derby chances. His most recent race was a fourth in the Grade I Jerkins on August 23 at Saratoga. Not a great shot here but a horse I liked earlier this year.

BC Filly and Mare Turf

(12^th race, 5:25 p.m.)

Gezora (Francis-Henri Graffard, Mickael Barzalona, 7/2) is the lukewarm favorite in the final Breeders’ Cup race of the weekend. She has won two of five starts this year in France but she was 13^th taking on the boys in the Grade I Arc.

She Feels Pretty (Cherie DeVaux, John Velazquez, 4/1) is the American hope and brings in a strong resume for this year, with three wins and a second in four starts. The last three have all been Grade I races, and she has won in the New York at Saratoga and the Taylor at Woodbine. She will stalk the pace and be a big runner when they turn for home.

See The Fire (Andrew Balding, Oisin Murphy, 5/1) has one win in six starts this year across the pond. Likes to take back and make a late run.

Cinderella’s Dream (Charles Appleby, William Buick, 9/2) has been consistently strong this year, winning twice, running second twice, and third once in six starts this year. Also is a late runner.

October 23

It is the proverbial calm before the storm as the last weekend of racing takes place before the Breeders’ Cup takes place at Del Mar.

We have a pair of graded races this week to look at with both taking place at Keeneland.

Remember next weekend is our FREE Breeders’ Cup Handicapping contest at the Pleasanton OTB! Check www.pleasantonotb.com for more information beginning Monday!

Keeneland

Grade III Bryan Station

(8^th race, 1:44 p.m.)

A full field of 12 are entered here along with three also eligibles. This is a one-mile test on the turf for 3-year-olds, and it is a wide-open field.

I could probably make a case for 5-6 horses here, but it will only go four deep. Once again, do your diligence in this race, take a long look and watch the tote board.

Giocoso (Keith Desormeaux, Ben Curtis, 9/2) has turned it on in the last two starts, winning the Secretariat at Colonial Downs on August 9, then finishing second in the Gun Runner on Sept. 6 at Kentucky Downs.

The three starts earlier this year were nothing to brag about, but after going to the shelf in May until August he has been a different horse.

In the morning line favorite at 9/2 – that’s how wide open this race is.

Final Gambit (Brad Cox, Luan Machado, 5/1) has had the last three starts on the turf, all in graded races. On the negative side, all three races resulted in fifth place finishes. His best run of the year was fourth in the Kentucky Derby with a big close. He will come from off the pace.

Plensa (George Arnold, Florent Geroux, 5/1) has turned in three straight good starts. Three back he broke against straight maidens, then was third in a $100,000 optional claimer at Saratoga on July 18. The last start was September 6 at Kentucky Downs when he won the Gun Runner.

Salamis (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 6/1) broke maiden two back on his fourth try. He came back in the Gio Ponti and won again after stalking the pace and charging home.

Grade III Hagyard Fayette

(9^th race, 2:16 p.m.)

There are 11 3-year-olds entered here to go 1-1/8-miles on the main track for a $350,000 purse.

Gosger (Brendan Walsh, Luis Saez, 9/2) earned the right to be considered among the top 3-year-olds in the country this year with his run through the summer. He won the Grade III Lexington, then was second in the Preakness and second in the Haskell, losing both to Journalism. He came back after a two-month break and was sixth in the Pennsylvania Derby.

Bracket Buster (Victoria Oliver, John Velazquez, 3/1) has back-to-back 100-plus Beyer marks. Two back he was second in the Travers, beaten by Sovereignty. He came back from the effort to win the Oklahoma Derby by over three lengths with an impressive stalking trip. I like Gosger better but nothing wrong with your support going here.

Dragoon Guard (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 7/2) has three starts this year, with one win and two seconds. The warning is that all three were optional claimers. Last year he has some big runs, running third in the Pennsylvania Derby after winning the West Virginia Derby. Steps back up here and my thoughts are that I need to see one in graded company.

Hit Show (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz, 6/1) won the Dubai World Cup back in April but the results have been mixed since coming back to the United States. The first start was a fifth in the Stephen Foster at Churchill in June. Next was a win in the West Virginia Governor at Mountaineer, followed by the most recent, a fourth in the Lukas Classic at Churchill on Sept. 27.

October 16

Before we get into this week’s graded stakes races, of which there are three, let’s get out the basic information on our FREE Breeders’ Cup Handicapping contest that will take place at the Pleasanton OTB for the October 31-November 1 event!

The contest is straight-forward. You pick the winner of each of the 14 races over the two days. You will get points on a 5-3-1 basis depending on if your horse runs in the top three.

The person with the most points is the winner. The tie breaker is: Closest to the winning time in the Classic without going over. If it remains tied, then we will go to the trainer with the most wins, and finally, the jockey with the most wins. If everything is still tied, there will be a coin flip.

The contest is free to enter but you must be present at the Pleasanton OTB on Saturday, November 1 to be eligible to win. If you finish in the top three and you are not there, the fourth-place finisher will be eligible for a prize, provided they are in the building.

The prize pool is as follows:

First place: $200 voucher

Second place: $100 voucher

Third place: $50 voucher

Once again you must be present at the Pleasanton OTB on November 1 to be able to win the vouchers.

Graded races

As mentioned above there are three this weekend, with a pair taking place at Keeneland and one at Aqueduct in the Belmont at Big A meet. Once again, the times of the races are west coast time.

Aqueduct

Grade II Sands Point

(7^th race, 12:25 p.m.)

There are eight horses slated to run in this 1-1/8-mile test on the turf for the 3-year-old fillies.

Ready for Candy (Philip Antonacci, Ricardo Santana) could be ready for prime time. Ran two maiden races last year, and while he did not win, she ran well. The connections then ran her in a series of stake races, where once again, she didn’t win but ran well. After being off from November until August of this year, she was dropped to a straight maiden race and won. She came back in a Grade III at Belmont in late September and won again. She appears to like coming from off the pace.

Paradise City (Saffie Joseph, Manny Franco) has hit the board in five of seven starts with one win, three places, and one show. In her last start she was second by a nose in the Grade III at Belmont won by Ready for Candy. She does not want anything to do with setting the pace.

Pretty Picture (Chad Brown, Dylan Davis) is lightly raced with only two starts. Both were wins, the first against straight maidens, then the second in an allowance. Both were at Monmouth, with the last coming September. Any time the barn puts a horse in a graded race, they have a legitimate shot.

Keeneland

Grade III Perryville

(6^th race, 12:40 p.m.)

This is for the boys, as 3-year-olds will go seven furlongs for a $350,000 purse.

Gaming (Bob Baffert, John Velazquez) has hit the board in four of five starts this year with one win, one second, and two thirds. The lone win came in the Affirmed at Santa Anita on June 8.  He took a rest from then until August 31 when he was third but beaten 14 lengths in the Shared Belief at Del Mar. Has run in nothing but good races in his career and should be a good fit and a major contender here.

Barnes (Bob Baffert, Jose Ortiz) was on the Kentucky Derby trail early this year and was a horse many liked. Everything was derailed with a fifth in the Santa Anita Derby, beaten 15 lengths. He came back and was third in the Jerkens at Saratoga on August 23, then was fourth in the Gallant Bob at PARX on Sept. 20. He broke horribly that day and closed well but he prefers to be much closer to the pace.
Owen Almighty (Brian Lynch, Luis Saez) was a starter in the Kentucky Derby two back and was fifth, beaten nine lengths. He was sent to the shelf until August 22 when he came back in the Hilton at Charles Town but after showing a rally through the middle stages of the race he was eased. He has some great past class but has to show he can run again.

Captain Cook (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz) makes his second start for the barn and the first was an impressive one as he was second by a nose in the Jerkins, earning a 103 Beyer. He is the likely favorite in this spot, look for early speed out of this runner.

Grade II Raven Run

(9^th race, 2:16 p.m.)

We’ve got 3-year-old fillies dueling here as a full field of 12 is entered here for this seven-furlong sprint. This is a loaded field where I could talk about 6-7 horses but will focus on four. Do your diligence on this race as there will be some value!

Ragtime (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 3/1) has four starts and three of those have been wins. The last was the Grade III Dogwood at Churchill on September 20 where she was a two-length winner. Two back on August 2 at Saratoga she was second by a neck in the Grade I Test. Deserves every bit of the favorite’s role here!

Quietside (John Ortiz, Jose Ortiz, 4/1) the last start was the Kentucky Oaks on May 2, and she was sixth, beaten 11-lengths. Before then she won the last two Oaks preps at Oaklawn Park, taking the Fantasy and the Honeybee. Like the work tab for the return and expect her to be or near the pace.

Usha (Bob Baffert, Junior Alvarado, 9/2) is two-for-two this year after going 0-for-4 last year, all in straight maiden company. She did finish second twice and third in the other two spots. This year she broke July 27 at Del Mar, then was off until Sept. 5 when she won an optional claimer at Del Mar. She will be a pace factor.

Om N Joy (Aggie Ordonez, Kent Desormeaux, 15/1) is one I have on here as a possible long shot. She has six starts this year and has won five of them, with a third rounding out the six starts. The point of concern is that all six races were Cal-bred races at either Del Mar or Santa Anita. This is a big step up but she is a closer and there will be speed to chase here. Also, she has shown she likes to win races!

October 8

We are getting closer to the Breeders’ Cup and because we are, graded races are slowing down across the country to prepare for the two days of World Championship horse racing.

The Breeders’ Cup is set for October 31-November 1 at Del Mar.

Next week in this space we will have the rules for the FREE handicapping contest that will be taking place at the Pleasanton OTB.

It covers both days of the Breeders’ Cup, but you only need to be present on Saturday, November 1!

Remember to check back here next week for all the details regarding our FREE Breeders’ Cup Handicapping contest!

This week we have one Grade I race, the Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Keeneland, with the big day of racing taking place at Laurel Park with Maryland Millions Day!

We will look at three races on the day – the QEII race at Keeneland, followed by the Maryland Millions’ Ladies and the Maryland Millions’ Classic.

Laurel Park

Maryland Millions’ Ladies

(10 race, 1:09 p.m.)

There are nine horses set to go 1-1/16 miles on the turf for a purse of $125,000.

Mopo (Phillip Capuano, Mychel J. Sanchez) has found some success on the turf, with one win and four seconds in five career starts on the grass. Three back she broke over the turf, then followed with three straight runner-up finishes. She likes to be right on the pace and in the last three races she has been digging in and fighting late.

Concrete Faze (Jamie Ness, tba) has had a great year, hitting the board in 10-of-11 starts. The problem? There have been no starts on the turf this year. She has started five times on the turf at Laurel in the past and has one third to show for it. She is another runner that seems set to be up front when the gate opens.

Precious Avary (Tim Shaw, Silvestri Gonzales) has four wins and three seconds in 13 career turf starts. The last start was Sept. 13 at Monmouth in a $93,000 stake and was a strong closing second in a 5-furlong sprint on the turf.

Touisset (Edward Allard, Horacio Karamanos) has put a pair of good races together, finishing third in her last two races with strong closes. The problem is they were both sprints and now she stretches out. This is her first time at the distance but with the closing style it might be a fit. Could be one to take a shot with at a price.

Maryland Millions Classic

(11th race, 1:40 p.m.)

This has eight 3-year-old horses taking on the distance of 1-1/8 miles on the main track at Laurel.

Blue Kingdom (Jamie Ness, Mychael Sanchez) has won three in a row, all in impressive fashion but none at the distance. In fact, this is the first start at the distance, and he only has five routes in 16 starts. The last start did come at a mile and was in the slop at Delaware Downs, taking a $50,000 allowance race, wiring the field by seven lengths, earning a 94 Beyer. Will look to be on or near the lead.

Sacred Thunder (Gary Capuano, Yedsit Hazlewood) was second to Blue Kingdom in the last but was beaten four times by another entrant here.

Barbadian Runner (Henry Walters, Forest Boyce) has been turning in big race, after big race, with four wins, three seconds, and a third in nine starts this year. The last start was a win in the $500,000 Robert Hilton at Charles Town. He had three seconds before that, and a win back on May 31 in the Jersey Derby in Monmouth.

Post Time (Brittany Russell, Shelson Russell) has hit the board in five of six starts this year. His last start was a third in the Grade II Woodward at Aqueduct, chasing the leaders around the track. He has won all 10 of his starts over the Laurel surface, including the $90,000 Polynesian on Sept. 7 by 17 lengths.

Keeneland

Grade I Queen Elizabeth II Cup

(9th race, 2:16 p.m.)

The lone Grade I of the day in the United States is for 3-year-old fillies for a purse of $800,000. There are nine entered to go to post.

This is a loaded field, and I could make a case for 3-4 more horses than I have listed here.

Laurelin (Graham Motion, Kendrick Carmouche) has never been beaten in five career starts. The last start was a very impressive win in the Saratoga Oaks on August 9 at the Spa. She stalked the pace through the first half of the race, then pulled away and won by almost two lengths. Obviously, a major player here.

Lush Lips (Brandan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione) was second as the second choice in the Del Mar Oaks on August 16, now has shipped back across the country. Earlier this year she was a pace setter, but the last three starts have been all about coming from off the pace.

Fionn (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat) has won five of her last six starts, including three straight. Then last was the Dueling Grounds Oaks Invitational where she got up by a half-length, beating

others entered in this race. Two back was the Grade I Belmont Oaks at Saratoga where she was the winner by a nose. Big threat!

Candy Quest (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz) was well back in the Dueling Grounds Oaks midway through race, rallied and took the lead at the top of the lane, then got caught by Fionn at the end. He has been first or second in seven starts this year.

October 3

It’s early but the Road to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks have official points races this weekend.

Friday is for the ladies with the Darley Alcibiades taking place at Keeneland. Saturday sees the Champagne for the boys and the Frizette for the girls at Belmont at the Big A meet.

Saturday has the Breeders Futurity at Keeneland, and the American Pharoah at Santa Anita for the boys.

The races are worth 10-5-3-2-1 on the official Derby and Oaks standings.

Keeneland

Grade I Darley Alcibiades

We’ve got six, 2-year-old fillies going 1-1/16 miles, with a prohibitive favorite and five others chasing her.

Tommy Jo (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 2/5) has two starts and two convincing wins. Opened with a three length win against straight maidens on July 26 at Saratoga. She came back at Saratoga on August 30 in the Grade I Spinaway. Sitting third half-way through, she took control from there out, winning by over six lengths.

Percy’s Bay (Ben Coolebrook, Luan Machado, 3/1) was the second-place horse, six lengths back in the Spinaway. She got to that spot, beating straight-maidens by four, then on June 30 won the Debutante at Churchill by five lengths.

Haute Diva (Patrick Biancone, Luis Saez. 6/1) finally broke in her fourth start and then came on the turf after running second three times in a row on the main track.

On paper it looks like this is easily Tommy Jo’s race to lose, but when the horses are this young and this inexperienced, a horse can take a big jump forward.

Belmont at the Big A

Grade I Frizette

(6^th race, 11:49 a.m. PDT)

We have 11, 2-year-old fillies going one mile as the young season for Kentucky Oaks potential runners go to work.

Icecreamforeveryone (Todd Pletcher, Luis Saez) is a $600,000 purchase that ran second in her debut after a good but not great close. Now skips the maiden ranks for a Grade I. The works are solid but nothing earth-shattering. You’ve got to believe the barn pretty much knows what they have.

Iron Orchard (Danny Gargan, Joel Rosario) was purchased for $575,000 and has run like it, crushing the field in both her starts. On July 3 she took her straight maiden race by over five lengths at Saratoga, then came back at the Spa August 22 in a $145K stake and came away the winner by almost seven lengths. She wired the field in both races.

Chopsticks (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux) was a deal at $350,000 and has also opened with a pair of wins to start her career. Her last start was the Debutante at Ellis Park on August 10, and she closed like a champ, getting up to win by a length.

Secane (Saffie Joseph, Edgar Zayas) is one that you might get a decent price on from a very good barn. In her debut, August 15 at Gulfstream she wired the field, winning by seven lengths.

Grade I Champagne

(7^th race, 12:20 p.m.)

It’s the boys’ turn and a field of nine will go one mile on the main track.

It’s Our Time (Thomas Amoss, Luis Saez) is one that is going to get a lot of love as the $600K runner won his first start in a straight maiden race where he won by 17 lengths, August 16 at Saratoga, earning a 94 Beyer. Has come back with three good works since and stretches out from six furlongs to the mile.

Talkin (Danny Gargan, Kendrick Carmouche) is a $725K purchase and he did win his debut by a neck with a late charge on August 30 at Saratoga. Every reason to expect a bigger run here.

Universe (Kenny McPeek, Christopher Elliott) came home strong to win by over four lengths in his debut August 30 at Saratoga. Obviously a tougher go here but trust the barn as they have won some big ones.

Napoleon Solo (Chad Summers, Joel Rosario) scored an impressive win on August 8 at Saratoga against straight maidens in his only start, winning by over five lengths. Since then, he’s been throwing nothing, but bullet works on the board in the morning. In a race with higher profile barns, this is one where you need to watch the tote board. Sure, it seems there is talent there and this spot will let us know how much.

Santa Anita

Grade I American Pharoh

(3^rd race, 2:03 p.m.

There are six horses going to post in this 1-1/16-mile prep and as is usually the case in SoCal, four of the six horses are from the Bob Baffert barn.

Kristofferson (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith, 9/5) has one start and one win. On August 31 at Del Mar, he wired the field in a six-furlong effort, earning a 90 Beyer in the process. The jockey in the debut opted for another Baffert in the race. A $1,325,000 purchase

Desert Gate (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 3/2) started with a maiden in June, came back with an eight-length in the Grade III Best Pal at Del Mar. Finally, in the Grade I Del Mar Futurity on September 7, he was second. He found trouble early so with a cleaner trip here, he will be right there. A$295,000 purchase.

Civil Liberty (Doug O’Neill, Antonio Fresu, 5/1) was third in the Del Mar Futurity but over three lengths back of Desert Gate. Made his debut July 26 and was second against straight maidens so he still is waiting on his first victory. In two races he appears to want to be just off the lead. Appears to be a bargain at $167,000 purchase price.

Balboa (Bob Baffert, Umberto Rispoli, 8/1) has a $1.05 million purchase price and has been a disappointment thus far through three starts. Did win his second start against straight maidens but followed that with a fifth in the Del Mar Futurity, beaten by over nine lengths. Has put together some good works for this one and in case you don’t recognize the name of the trainer, he does hit 34 percent with 2-year-olds.

Keeneland

Grade I Breeders’ Futurity

(9^th race, 2:16 p.m.)

There are seven horses going to post here for the last of the Grade I Derby preps Saturday. They will be taking on 1-1/16 miles for the chance to earn qualifying points.

Litmus Test (Bob Baffert, Flavian Prat) is yet another Baffert runner, this one going most of the way cross the country. He was fourth in the Del Mar Futurity and Baffert sent him away from the others running at Santa Anita Saturday. After winning his debut he ran even in the Futurity and never really got into the race. Still, he’s a $1 million dollar horse and we will see how he does the first time he stretches out.

Ted Noffey (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) is from another powerhouse barn and was a $900,000 purchase. Has two starts at Saratoga and after winning his debut on August 2, came back on September 1 and nearly wired the field in the Grade I Hopeful, winning by over eight lengths after assuming control of the field midway through the race. He got a 98 Beyer that day and appears to be the one to catch.

Ewing (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz) had a smashing debut, destroying at straight maiden field July 5 by 12 lengths, then came back and wired the field again on August 2 in the Saratoga Special, winning by a length. He has been on the shelf since then, but I really like the work tab for the return.

Spice Runner (Steve Asmussen, Tyler Gaffalione) last out closed strong to win the Grade III Iroquois at Churchill getting up in the final strides. With the speed that is signed on here he may be one you want to look at at what figures to be a value play.

Before we get into Saturday’s key races, I wanted to make sure you all knew about our upcoming Breeders’ Cup Pick’em contest on October 31-November 1!

As usual, it is free to enter, with our only qualification being that you need be on site Saturday for the Cup. Winners who are not there will see your voucher handed out the next finisher.

Entry forms will be available Thursday, Oct. 30 at the Pleasanton OTB. The forms are due before post time of the first Breeders’ Cup race Friday.

Just pick the winner of every Breeders’ Cup over the two days and the 14 World Championship races.

That’s it – pick the winner of all races, as well as answer the tiebreaker questions, and you are entered!

Saturday we are going to focus on opening Saturday of the Santa Anita Autumn Meet.

Santa Anita

Grade II City of Hope Mile

(4^th race, 2:30 p.m.)

We’ve got six horses 3-and-up going one mile on the turf for a purse of $200,000.

It looks to me like there are two horses that are a cut above the rest.

Johannes (Tim Yakteen, Umberto Rispoli, 1/1) ended last year with five, 100-plus Beyer marks and ended the season with five wins in six starts, all on the turf. He’s had one start this year, that coming in August after being off since late December. He had nothing but trouble, bumping early and finishing ninth, beaten five lengths. Now he is back at it after seventh months off. Some of the works have been strong for the return but we are in uncharted territory here. Likes to come from off the pace and he should get something to run at in this one.

Cabo Spirit (George Papaprodromou, Mike Smith, 9/2) this is one of the runners that will guarantee a fast pace. He likes to go when the gate opens and has led his stakes races the last three times before giving up the lead in the lane. In the Shoemaker Mile he was third by a neck, followed by a second in the Eddie Read, and finally, third in the Del Mar Mile on August 9.

Grade II John Henry Turf Classic

(6^th race, 3:30 p.m.)

This has seven runners going 1-1/4-miles and is without a standout favorite that everyone has to beat. There should be some great prices but narrowing down the contenders might take some work.

Rastaman Vibe (Steve Knapp, Juan Hernandez, 5/1) has hit the board in all starts this year but all seven races were against either Allowance or Optional claimers.

Gold Phoenix (Philip D’Amato, Umberto Rispoli, 3/2) won the Grade II Del Mar Handicap in his last start as the 5/2 favorite. Has 15 career starts at Santa Anita with three wins, three seconds, and three thirds. Four starts this year have resulted in a win and two thirds.

Stay Hot (Peter Eurton, Mike Smith, 5/2) was second by a neck in the Del Mar Handicap to Gold Phoenix. He has three starts this year with a win that came three back in a stake at Lone Star. The last two were third in the Eddie Read and a second in the Del Mar Handicap. The last two were stalking trips, with the win being a wire job.

Mondego (Michael McCarthy, Kazushi Kimura, 9/2) is the last horse in single digit morning line horses. He has three starts this year and a single win which came in a $100,000 optional claimer at Del Mar in early in July.

Grade II Eddie Read

(8^th race, 4:30 p.m.)

We are staying on the turf here as well with 3-year-olds going 6.5 furlongs down the hill.

Reef Runner (David Fawkes, Paco Lopez, 3/1) has won his last two starts after a much-needed break from May 1 to August 3. First, he won a $70,000 handicap at Gulfstream, then came back in the Grade III Green Flash Handicap August 30 with a win before being disqualified and placed second at Del Mar.

Yellow Card (Michael McCarthy, Kazushi Kimura, 7/2) has two starts this year and both have come in $80,000 optional claimers at Del Mar. Did end 2024 running second in a Grade I at Kentucky Downs. He likes to sit third or fourth, stalking the pace before moving in the lane.

First Peace (Mark Glatt, Mike Smith, 9/2) came back in the Green Flash after nearly a year off and ran horribly, running 11^th in a field of 12. He is the defending champion in this race, utilizing a big close to go from third to first in the lane. That was his last start in 2024.

Nesso’s Lastharrah (Peter Eurton, Hector Berrios, 9/2) has been amazing his last eight starts over two years, with five wins in eight starts. He added two seconds and a third in the other three races. The big question is – both starts this year were in $80,000 optional claimers. He prefers to be out on the front end.

Grade I The Goodwood

(9^th race, 5 p.m.)

We end the day of graded races with this 1-1/8-miles on the main track. There are seven horses going to post.

First Mission (Brad Cox, Paco Lopez, 8/5) is the favorite and has hit the board in all four starts. One win goes with a second, and a pair of thirds comprise the season. The win came three back in the Oaklawn Handicap when as the favorite he was two clear of the second-place horse. He got a 109 Beyer for the race back in April. He went to the shelf for a couple months before coming back to run third in the Grade I Stephan Foster at Churchill. The last start was a second in the Grade III Iseline at Monmouth. Now ships back to the west for this Breeders’ Cup prep race. The race is a win and you’re in for the BC.

Full Serrano (John Sadler, Juan Hernandez, 2/1) was the winner of the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile last year at Del Mar in November. He went to the shelf for basically nine months, coming back in a $100,000 optional claimer at Del Mar and won for fun. Jumps back into graded company with a strong tab.

Nevada Beach (Bob Baffert, Kyle Frey, 12/1) is a horse I must look at since it is a Baffert horse and it’s 12/1. The three-race resume has seen a win against straight maiden company, a second in the Affirmed on June 8, then was a winner in the Los Al Derby. Wants to be part of the pace and at 12/1, I’m just saying!September 25

September 18

It’s a big day for stakes races at PARX as 3-year-olds will take center stage, with three graded stakes races for 3-year-olds set for Saturday.

The highlights are the Grade I Pennsylvania Derby and the Grade I Cotillion for fillies but don’t sleep on the Grade II Gallant Bob at six furlongs as well.

Grade II Gallant Bob

(12^th race, 1:35 p.m.)

This is six furlongs for 3-year-olds, some of which had Kentucky Derby aspirations earlier this year. There are 10 set to go to post here.

Barnes (Bob Baffert, Tyler Gaffalione, 2/1) much was expected of this $3.25 million purchase, and he teased early on, winning the San Vincente, then running second in the San Felipe. But a fifth in the Santa Anita Derby sidelined Derby dreams. He came back after an almost four-month break, shortening back to a sprint in the Grade I Jerkens at Saratoga and ran third. The barn hits at 24 percent for second off a break. Does have some speed and will be one to watch.

Neoequos (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 5/2) ran in the Derby and was 13^th, 27 lengths off the winner. He came back after two months into sprint company and was ninth in the Grade I Woody Stephens. Rolled into Monmouth for then Jersey Shore where he got the win by over three lengths. He was second in his next start, a $500,000 stake on August 22. The horse was won twice in three starts at the distance and with a lot of speed figures to be a contender here.

Donut Gold (Brian Lynch, Javier Castellano, 4/1) won his debut, then a $80,000 stake at Tampa B ay Downs last year in early December. Was off until the Jersey Shore in mid-July and was second to Neoquos. He appears to be a pure speed horse, which there are several in here.

Mad House (David Van Winkle, Paco Lopez, 6/1) has been a terror recently at Canterbury Park, winning his last three starts. They were a straight maiden – his seventh start – an allowance, then an optional claimer where he won by over eight lengths. This is a massive step up in class, but he sure does have speed which will set up for what should be a quick pace.

Retribution (Cherie DeVaux, Kendrick Carmouche, 5/1) doesn’t sport a sensational closer record but he has done it enough that he is worth mentioning with the front-end speed in this group. He breaks from the rail and can just drop off the pace while saving ground. Will have the decision to bounce outside before the lane or fight his way through on the rail.

Grade I Cotillion

(13^th race, 2:15 p.m.)

The fillies with go 1-1/16-mile in this Grade I event with eight entered for the race.

Scottish Lassie (Jorge Abreu, Joel Rosario, 9/5) is the morning line favorite based largely after winning her last start, the Grade I CCA Oaks at Saratoga on July 19. She was amazing that day, beating the other three entered by over 15-lengths. But that is the lone win in three starts this year and two back she was beaten by another horse entered here.

La Cara (Mark Casse, Dylan Davis, 7/2) is the horse that beat the favorite two back in the Grade I Acorn. The next start – the Grade I Alabama at Saratoga on August 16, she was fourth, beaten a tired 14 lengths. Not a lot of secrets here – when the gate opens, she will be flying.

Good Cheer (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 5/2) has won 3-of-5 starts this year and has a nice closing form that should set up well here against the early speed. In her last start she was second in the Grade I Alabama. She looked incredibly strong leading into the Kentucky Oaks, a race she won by over two lengths. In fact, she won her first seven starts but since the Oaks has lost both starts, running fifth in the Grade I Acorn, followed by the performance in the Alabama. I expect a return to form in this spot.

Clicquot (Brendan Walsh, Irad Ortiz, 8/1) had a poor debut, running sixth but since then has been tough, winning three straight. One was a maiden, one was an optional claimer, and the last was the Grade III Indiana Oaks. This is the toughest she has seen but she has looked impressive getting here. Might be the value play of this race. She will look to push the pace.

Grade I Pennsylvania Derby

(14^th race, 3 p.m.)

We’ve got a field on 10 going 1-1/8-miles with four strong runners leading the way.

Baeza (John Shirreffs, Hector Berrios, 2/1) has been a wise guy horse the last few starts but the run has produced no wins. He has been second twice and third twice. Those races were the Santa Anita Derby, Kentucky Derby, Belmont Derby, and the Jim Dandy. The four winners were Journalism in the Santa Anita and Sovereignty in the other three. Now he gets away from those two and gets the favorites role. A solid mid-pack closer he should get a fast pace which will put him in a good spot.

Goal Oriented (Bob Baffert, Irad Ortiz, 5/2) is a little bit of a surprise to be the second choice considering he finished behind Gosger. It is a Baffert horse, and they do get over bet at times. He doesn’t want the lead early, but he does like to stay in contact with the early speed.

Gosger (Brendan Walsh, Luis Saez, 4/1) has four starts this year with two wins and two seconds. The two seconds he finished behind Journalism, with the two wins without Journalism in the field. This race? No Journalism. He had a huge work on Sept. 12 for this race. I think I am going here.

Magnitude (Steve Asmussen, Ben Curtis, 6/1) is one not to sleep on and he has had some good runs in some big races. He had a pair of 100-plus Beyer marks in the last three starts. He likes to go out quick and had back-to-back efforts where he wired the field by over nine lengths in the Risen Star and the Iowa Derby. In the Grade I Travers he went out strong but there we a number pushing the pace. He gave up the lead midway then finished third, 20 lengths back. Then again that was to Sovereignty. Watch the tote for clues!

September 11

It is time for the 13^th annual Churchill Downs September meet, 14 days of racing, starting this weekend.

Five stakes’ races, including two important fixtures for juveniles that could produce starters in this year’s Breeders’ Cup and next spring’s Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve (Grade I) and the Longines Kentucky Oaks (GI), will be showcased Saturday afternoon.

Total prize money for the 11-race program is a hefty $2.189 million – the most lucrative day of the boutique meet.

The $300,000 Iroquois (GIII) kicks off the Road to the 152^nd Kentucky Derby series, while the $300,000 Pocahontas (GIII) starts the Road to the 152^nd Kentucky Oaks.

Additionally, both races are part of the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Dozen Bonus Series program that awards a tiered bonus bankroll which can be utilized towards pre-entry and entry fees at the Breeders’ Cup for horses that finish first, second or third.

The stakes-laden program also includes the $300,000 Louisville Thoroughbred Society, an open sprint for 3-year-olds and up at six furlongs, as well as two stakes for fillies and mares, the $400,000 Fasig-Tipton Locust Grove (GII) over 1 1/16 miles and the $300,000 Open Mind (Listed) at 6 ½ furlongs.

Other marque events during the September Meet include a stakes quartet on Saturday, Sept. 20: the $300,000 Dogwood presented by Resolute Racing (GIII) for 3-year-old fillies at seven furlongs; $300,000 Bourbon Flight for 3-year-olds at 1 3/16 miles; $300,000 Harrods Creek for 3-year-olds at seven furlongs; and $175,000 Seneca Overnight Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at 1 1/16 miles.

Closing weekend is anchored by the $500,000 Lukas Classic (GII) for 3-year-olds and up at 1 1/8 miles on Saturday, Sept. 27 and honors the late Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas, who passed away earlier this summer. The Lukas Classic serves as a prep for the $7 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic (GI) five weeks in advance of the Nov. 1 race at Del Mar.

Also run on Sept. 27 is the $400,000 Ack Ack (GIII) for 3-year-olds and up at one mile.

Let’s look at Saturday’s three graded stake races.

Grade III Pocahontas

(6^th race, 12:21 p.m.)

As mentioned above, this one-mile race is all about the fillies, setting up this year’s Juvenile Fillies at the Breeders’ Cup, as well as the path the Kentucky Oaks next year.

Dazzling Dame (Brittany Russell, Luis Saez) is your likely favorite for the race. She sports a 2-for-2 mark, with her most recent start being a win in the $100,000 Sorority at Monmouth on August 17. She has been no worse than second at any point of call in her two starts, with the Sorority she wired the field, comfortably hold the lead throughout.

Our Two Girls (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez) is a $165,000 purchase that has won her only start. In straight maiden company at Ellis Park on August 2, she broke third, took the lead at the top of the lane and went on to win by over two lengths.

Embrace the Moment (Greg Compton, Jaime Rodriguez) went wire to wire on August 28 in a straight maiden race, earning a 69 Beyer, the highest of any runner entered here. The $140,000 purchase had two big works heading into the debut. She looks the real deal.

Taken by the Wind (Kenny McPeek, Irad Ortiz) is another McPeek runner that has won her lone start. In maiden optional claiming company, she stalked the pace early, then opened it up heading for home, winning by over three lengths.

Grade II Locust Grove

(7^th race, 12:54 p.m.)

Fillies and mares, 3-and-up, go 1-1/16 miles and there are six horses entered.

Royal Spa (Rodolphe Brisset, Tyler Gaffalione) has raced in some big races across the United States, winning twice, finishing second, in six starts this year. In the last start she went west to the Grade I Clement L. Hirsch at Del Mar on August 2. She finished fourth that day after pressing the pace throughout, still earning a 97 Beyer. Two back she was second to Thorpedo Anna in the Fleur de Lis at Churchill Downs. Now back at Churchill, a track she has won 3-of-7 career, along with a pair a places, she figures to be a major factor.

Alpine Princess (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz) is one where the connections scream contender. But there has one been one win in six starts this year, with the lone win coming in a $100,000 stake on July 5.

Corningstone (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez) has seen some tough races and ran decent with the selling point here being a Churchill record of hitting the board in four of five starts over the track.

Our Pretty Woman (Steve Asmussen, Luis Saez) had a better 2024 than thus far in 2025. She had three wins in five starts last year but has a lone second in three starts this year. The $900,000 purchase has some past class – she just hasn’t shown it this year.

Grade III Iroquois

(8^th race, 1:26 p.m.)

It’s the 2-year-old boys turn to run on this card, as 10 horses are ready to take on the one-mile race.

Comport (Eddie Kenneally, Tyler Gaffalione) is coming off a solid win in the Juvenile on August 10 as the heavy favorite at Ellis Park. In all three starts has sat right off the lead until hitting the lane and making a move.

Nothing Personal (Greg Compton, Jamie Rodriguez) is a $300,000 purchase and threw out a huge debut August 9 in straight maiden company at Colonial Downs. In that start he broke middle of the pack, chased the pace, then took over at the top of the lane and won by over eight lengths.

So Special (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez) is $215,000 purchase and had a win and place in his two starts, both at Ellis Park. Both starts came on the turf so this will be the first time on the main track. Has shown a stalking trip in both starts.

Spice Runner (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz) is a $250,000 purchase that won his debut but has been a fifth and second in the two starts since. He looks like he will be a pace factor as well.

September 4

Before I get into the graded races for Saturday, I need to pass along some sad news regarding a member of the Northern California horse racing family.

Art Lobato, or as some of us knew him, “Party Artie,” passed away Tuesday. The former jockey started working for Bay Meadows and Golden Gate Fields once his jockey career ended because of injury.

I first got to know Lobato when I was the horse racing writer for the Oakland Tribune chain of newspapers. There are two things that          will always stand out for me.

Artie was always there, and he was always in a good mood. One thing was for sure – if you in any sort of bad mood, I fully believe Artie was there to make you smile.

There were countless times when we got done covering a stakes race and instead of heading home, which probably would have been the wise decision, we would head to downtown San Mateo if we were at Bay Meadows, or the greater Berkeley/Albany area if we were at Golden Gate Fields.

As racing at Bay Meadows and Golden Gate Fields came to an end, I didn’t see Lobato any longer. Now I greatly regret not reaching out to say hi as I know longer have the chance. We always enjoyed some bantering on FB during football season.

I will miss that smile and positive attitude, and I will miss all the trash talking we had about Artie’s Raiders and my 49ers. Always good natured and always fun.

Thanks for always being the life of the party Artie. You made life fun. Rest in Peace.

Big Saturday races

Kentucky Downs and Del Mar set the pace this Saturday, with Kentucky Downs offering multiple graded races headline by the Grade I Franklin-Simpson.

Del Mar boasts some big races on Saturday, headlined by the Grade I Del Mar Debutante. We are going to focus this week on the two Grade I races at the two tracks.

Kentucky Downs

Grade I Franklin-Simpson

(10^th race, 2:45 p.m.)

We’ve got a full field of 12, 3-year-olds going 6.5 furlongs on the turf, headlining a great day of racing at Kentucky Downs.

Spiced Up (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 7/2) has won two races in a row, including when he broke on his third start. Came back after the maiden score on June 20, with a win on August 10 in the Grade III Mahony at Saratoga. In the maiden score he sat near the pace and took control at the top of the lane. In the Mahony, he sat off the pace and was fifth at the top of the stretch before taking over in the lane to win by over a length.

Governor Sam (George Weaver, Irad Ortiz, 4/1) was run down by Spiced Up in the lane in the Mahony, finishing second. He has been the favorite in his last four starts but burned cash in three of those starts. He did win the Grade III Quik Call on July 13 at Saratoga. Takes the blinkers off for this one. He prefers ton be near the lead throughout.

Dream On (Mark Casse, Javier Castellano, 6/1) has won 3-of-5 starts this year. He was fifth in his last start, the Grade II Secretariat as he trudged around the track in the middle of the pack, not really making any movement. Two back in the Grade III Penn Mile he got the win on June 27, sitting just off the pace then taking control in the lane.

Troubleshooting (Gregory Foley, Tyler Gaffalione, 6/1) has two wins and two places in five starts this year. In his last start he was second by a nose in a $82,500 allowance race at Ellis Park. Has the least graded-stakes race experience among the contenders.

Chasing Liberty (Rob Atras, Manny Franco, 6/1) has hit the board in four of five starts this year. The one time off the board was in the Grade III Transylvania at Keeneland on April7, when he was fifth in the lone graded race of his career. Has stalking speed style.

Del Mar

Del Mar Debutante

(6^th race, 4 p.m.)

A great chance to see the 2-year-old fillies that could be potential Breeders’ Cup runners this year and Kentucky Oaks entrants next year.

The field will go 7 furlongs and has seven horses ready to run. Bob Baffert is running three horses, and they could sweep the board.

Explora (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) will be one of the favorites with Baffert, Hernandez, and Mike Pegram as one of the owners. Has one start and wired the field to win by over four at 5.5 furlongs on August 17. Has thrown a pair of good works over the track for this one. My lone concern would be breaking from the rail as with 2-year-olds you do not know what to expect.

Himika (Bob Baffert, Kazushi Kimura) another Baffert with this one being a $900,000 purchase. She has two starts with two wins. The first was a straight maiden score, with the second coming in the Grade III Sorrento at Del Mar. She ran just off the paces until they turned for home when she took over. Threw a big work out last week over the track for this one.

Bottle of Rogue (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith) is third Baffert runner. She was second to stablemate Himika in the debut, losing by six lengths. She came back two months after the debut and crushed the field by six lengths. I think she is the third best of the Baffert runners.

La Wally (Mark Glatt, Antonio Fresu) is the one I would look at if you want to try and beat the Baffert trio. I don’t think it is very likely but at least give some diligence to this one. Made her debut July 19 at Del Mar, using a stalking style, then just getting up to win by a nose. I think the connections give the horse the best chance of breaking up the Baffert sweep.

August 29

One of my favorite stake races of the year – the Grade I Pacific Classic – is Saturday at Del Mar, while the Grade I Spinaway highlights the action at Saratoga on Saturday.

But the best day of horse racing for the day takes place at Kentucky Downs with some graded races taking place, with enough purse money to lure away several of the top jockeys from bigger tracks.

Running through the entries for Kentucky Downs on Saturday, you see the names like Frankie Dettori, Tyler Gaffalione, Luis Saez, Brian Hernandez, Junior Alvarado, Joel Rosario, Manny Franco, Jose Ortiz, and Irad Ortiz riding multiple races at the Kentucky track.

This week we will focus on the Kentucky Downs races and pick out the Grade I races from Saratoga and Del Mar.

As usual, the Pleasanton OTB will open at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday morning.

Kentucky Downs

Grade II Ladies Turf Sprint

(8^th race, 1:14 p.m. PDT)

We get the graded races started with a 6.5-furlong sprint for fillies and mares, 3-and-up for a $2 million purse. There are 12 horses entered in the race.

Oujda (William Walden, Manny Franco) instantly drew my attention, as does any turf horse that ships in from Europe. She came across the pond and won her first start – a $128,000 stake at Woodbine on August 2. That came after winning her last two starts of 2024 in Europe. The horse does appear to like to be on the lead or just off.

Zeitlos (Steve Asmussen, Junior Alvarado) had a monster 2024, winning six of nine starts. This year has been a bit tempered, with a first, second, and third making up her three starts. The year started in mid-May with a win in a $125 stake at Pimlico. That was followed by a second in the Grade II Chicago at Churchill in June. The most recent race was a second in the Grade III  Caress at Saratoga on July 19. She has always been one to favor a closing pace and there looks to be enough front-end speed signed up to give her something to run at.

Kehoe Beach (Wesley Ward, Irad Ortiz) in her last two starts led throughout the race before getting caught in the lane and finishing fourth in both races. Those two races were seven furlongs and one mile. Now, she steps back to 6.5 furlongs, and the question is, is the cutback enough to put her over the top and hold on to the lead. The decision is yours.

Time to Dazzle (Mark Casse, Junior Ortiz) has gotten 95 Beyer marks in her last two races but didn’t win either. The most recent start she was third in the Caress where Zeitlos was second. She appears to like to close but recently she has not been the one to get first call. She might need to sit a little closer to the pace.

Ag Bullet (Ricard Baltas, Luis Saez) will be your favorite coming in off a win in the Grade I Jaipur on June 8 at Saratoga. She sat just off the lead through most of the race, took the lead at the top of the lane and pushed it out to a two-length margin of victory. Got a 101 Beyer, the third time she has been over 100 in the last six starts.

Grade II Turf Sprint

(9^th race, 1:52 p.m.)

This is six furlongs for 3-and-up on the turf course with a purse of $2 million.

Howard Wolowitz (Jose D’Angelo, Irad Ortiz, 7/2) last raced February in Saudi Arabia in a Grade II race where he was 10^th, beaten 11 lengths. That has been the lone race of this year but has electrified in the mornings at Saratoga. Last year he won three of six starts.

Khaadem (Charlie Hills, Frankie Dettori, 4/1) ships back to the United States from Great Britian. He was second in this race last year when he closed from the parking lot at 9/2. Has not run well in some races in Great Britan, finishing off the board in both starts.

Arrest Me Red (Wesley Ward, Junior Alvarado, 5/1) has three starts this year with a win and a second. The last start was in the Mighty Beau at Churchill on June 7 and he got beat by a neck for the win. He did get a 96 Beyer.

Nobals (Larry Rivelli, Tyler Gaffalione, 6/1) has hit the board in his last four starts. He was fourth in this race last year, beaten by two other horses entered here. He has shown he wants to be part of the pace.

Grade III Nashville Derby

(10^th race, 2:46 p.m.)

This is going to be interesting one, with another full field of 12 set to go 1-5/16-miles for 3-year-olds on the turf. There are five runners here that ran in at least one of the three Triple Crown races this year.

Sandman (Mark Casse, Junior Ortiz, 5/1) has been a popular horse this year and now makes his debut on the turf. Probably one of the races that will draw the most interest this weekend. The winner of the Arkansas Derby was also third in the Preakness. He turned in a really nice work on the grass at Saratoga for this race.

Burnham Square (Ian Wilkes, Brian Hernandez, 6/1) was sixth in the Kentucky Derby and was last seen running fifth in the Grade I Haskell July 19. The big win this year came when he won the Grade I Blue Grass this year. Also making his debut on the grass.

Test Score (Graham Motion, Manny Franco, 4/1) is coming off the Grade I Saratoga Derby Invitational on August 2, where he was a solid 3^rd against a talented field. He has hit the board in all five starts this year – all turf races. Seems like he prefers having a stalking style.

Wimbledon Hawkeye (James Owens, Frankie Dettori,7/2) ships across from Great Britan and is coming off a pair second-place finishes in stakes company. He has only one win in 10 turf starts but has hit the board eight times in that span.

Final Gambit (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 7/2) was fourth in the Kentucky Derby, following a win in the Jeff Ruby, Derby prep race at Turfway Park.

Grade III Ladies Turf

(11^th race, 3:25 p.m.)

The final graded race of the day at Kentucky Downs is for fillies and mares, 3-and-up going one mile. There are 11 horses set to go to post.

Special Wan (Brendan Walsh, Joel Rosario, 7/2) has really liked time off between races recently. Has only run twice this year, with the first coming March 1 at Gulfstream, winning the Grade III Honey Fox, then was third on June 6 in the Grade I Just A Game after being caught in a three-wide battle in the lane.

Lady Ilze (Andreas Wohler, Adrie de Vries, 9/2) ships over from Europe where she was one win in three starts this year. There is a lot to learn from watching this one.

Cheshire Dancer (Hugo Palmer, Frankie Dettori, 6/1) ships over from Europe where she had a pair of wins in five starts. She has hit the board in two other starts this year.

Charlene’s Dream (Ed Moger, Jr., Javier Castellano, 6/1) is coming off a big win in the Grade II Beverly D for Moger, a former Northern California trainer. A big speed horse, she will try to get out early and have the rest chase her.

Segesta (Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz, 8/1) is included in this list because of the connections. I have a hard time leaving a Brown/Irad horse out of the mix. On top of that the duo just combined for a win in the Grade III Matchmaker. A warning – that win was the lone time the horse hit the board in three starts this year.

Saratoga

Grade I Spinaway

(11^th race, 2:38 p.m.)

This one for 2-year-old fillies gives us chance to see Kentucky Oaks hopefuls for 2026, with some making their debut today.

Tommy Jo (Todd Pletcher, Kendrick Carmouche, 2/1) is your morning favorite but it also I think is a reach – making a horse with one start the favorite role in a 10-horse field. I mean, the debut was impressive, winning by over three lengths after having trouble at the start of the race. The $250,000 purchase may have all the tools of a big time horse, but I want to see a second race.

Mythical (Jorge Delgado, Emisael Jaramillo, 5/2) has run three races, won all three of them, and was easy all three wins. The debut was by eight lengths and the next two by three lengths. There is no secret to her running style as she has yet to trail at any call in her three races.

Ornellaia (Chad Brown, Dylan Davis, 9/2) has made one start, an impressive straight maiden win at Saratoga, as the $1.1 million purchase exploded in the lane, going from five down at the top of the lane to up by two lengths when she crossed the line. A poor start gave us nothing as to what her running style she offers, other than just having a ton of heart. Will be interested to see what she does with a clean break. I would be shocked if she is 9/2 by post time.

Percy’s Bar (Ben Colbrook, Luan Machado, 6/1) won her debut by four lengths, then came back and cruised by five in Debutante at Churchill June 29. She has done that’s been asked of her thus far.

Del Mar

Grade I Pacific Classic

(10^th race, 6 p.m.)

This is always one of my favorite races of the year, as the 1-1/4-mile race for 3-and-up has had some iconic horses win through the years.

Over the years horses such as Flightline, California Chrome, Beholder, Shared Belief, Game on Dude, Lava Man, Bertrando, and Best Pal have all won the race.

Over the years, the race has lost some luster nationally, but this year the Pacific Classic steps back up with a classic east vs. west battle between Fierceness and the California duo of Journalism and Nysos.

Journalism (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli) the Preakness winner has lost only to Sovereignty (twice) in his last nine races and in both of those he was second.

He has four wins in six starts this year falling only in the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. His last start was the Grade I Haskell on July 19, where in a traditional Journalism win, his big strides chewed up ground late, getting up for the win. This is his first start against older horses.

Fierceness (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) is a four-year-old that has run three times this year, producing a win and a place. He was second in the Breeders’ Cup Classic last year, getting gobbled up by late closing Sierra Leone. This year he opened with a win in the Alysheba on May 2 at Churchill, then was second in the Met Mile in the slop, June 7 at Saratoga. In his last start he was a beaten favorite in the Whitney, finishing fifth with Sierra Leone winning the race. He always sit near the pace and moves in the lane.

Nysos (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat) appears ready to take over as a horse to beat as he has won his last two and five of six over the last two years.  He has shown versatility as well, winning at 7 furlongs (the Triple Bend at Del Mar) and the San Diego Handicap at 1-1/16-miles (also at Del Mar) this year. He is 2-for-2 over the track and has been busting out one great workout after another. After the top three I have a hard time making a case for anyone else in the field.

August 21

It’s all about Saratoga this Saturday as Travers Day brings five Grade I races, along with one Grade II event.

Ironically, the lynchpin of the day – the Grade I Travers – is vastly over-hyped this year as the presence of Sovereignty – the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner – has held the field to five horses, only one of which has raced Sovereignty before. The Travers has the lowest number of entries since 1994.

The Pleasanton OTB will open at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday and will carry all the races listed!

The rest of the day more than makes up for the low entries in the Travers. Here is a look at each of the graded races, in order of post time, focusing on the horses I find interesting.

Time of the race is PDT.

Grade II Lake Placid

(7th race, 11:35 a.m.)

The graded races start off 3-year-old fillies going a mile on the inner turf course.

The inside of the gate seems where the favored horses sit but this is a wide-open event with no horse jumping up and saying “look at me.”

Play With Fire (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 2/1) is the morning line favorite but is jumping into graded races for the first time. Was second last out in the $150,000 Wild Applause on July 3, the first start in the Chad Brown barn after moving from Brendan Walsh barn. She has five starts and she has hit the board three times. I think this is a beatable favorite.

Eponine (Philippe Sogorb, Irad Ortiz Jr., 7/2) makes her first start in the United States after coming over from France. She has one win and a pair of places in five starts this year. Hard to figure as it’s the first start in America and the first time Ortiz gets the mount. Looks like a closer.

May Day Ready (Joseph Lee, Jose Ortiz, 5/2) was huge last year as a 2-year-old, winning 3-of-5 starts, including running second in the Breeders’ Cup Fillies Turf. Went to Japan in December for a Grade I and was 13th. Has run twice this year – both graded stake races – and was good but not great in either. The last race was July 5 in the Belmont Oaks at Saratoga, and she was fourth. The first start this year was June 7, also at Saratoga, and she was last in a 3-horse field, losing by 25 lengths.

Scarlet Sands (Carlos David, Joel Rosario, 10/1) has the last three starts in a straight maiden, optional claimer, a $75,000 stake. But what she has done, unlike the others here, she’s won all three. She has won wire to wire, as well as stalking so she should be good whatever she faces. A reach? For sure, but with this field why not take a chance.

Grade I Personal Ensign

(9th race, 12:45 p.m.)

We’ve got fillies and mares 4-and-up going 1-1/8-mile in one of the more anticipated races on the card. The anticipation comes with Thorpedo Anna, the winner of 11-of-14 career starts, she comes in as the obvious favorite.

Thorpedo Anna (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez, 6/5) is usually below even in the odds but there still seems to be enough people bothered by her run two back in the La Troienne Stakes at Churchill Downs, where she was bumped early and never recovered, finishing dead last in the 7-horse field, losing by eight lengths. She did come back in the Fleur De Lis on June 28, also at Churchill, getting back to her winning ways, stalking the pace early, then drawing off to win by three lengths. Will still be the heavy favorite and of little value but why try to beat here when you won’t.

Randomized (Chad Brown, Manny Franco, 4/1) was fourth in this race last year, losing by 15-lengths. She has run three races this year, winning the last, the Grade III Molly Pitcher on July 19 at Monmouth Park. She wired the field that day and won by three. Led most of the way in the La Troienne before getting run down and finishing third.

Raging Sea (Chad Brown, John Velezquez, 5/1) was the winner of the La Troienne to start her 2025 and followed with a pair of thirds in graded events, with the last coming in the Grade II Shuvee at Saratoga on July 8. A horse that likes to close.

Leslie’s Rose (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 9/2) was the winner of the Shuvee with a big close to win by almost 4-lengths. Will sit close to the pace or take it out if the field lets her.

Grade I H. Allen Jerkens

(10th race, 1:22 p.m.)

This one is seven furlongs for 3-year-olds, with a few that were on the Derby trail flirting and teasing the betting audience.

Patch Adams (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 3/1) is the lukewarm morning line favorite. Beat two others entered here in the Grade I Woody Stephens in his last start. At 3/1 that day, he took the lead at the top of the lane and pulled out to win by over two lengths.

Verify (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 4/1) is another out of the Cox barn but didn’t debut until March 15 of this year. Won a straight maiden that race by six lengths and has not looked back. Won by six again in an optional claimer, then won a $150,000 stake by two lengths on June 29 at Churchill, beating two others entered here. So, what you have here is a horse that has won all three starts but faces his toughest field yet.

Barnes (Bob Baffert, Jose Ortiz, 9/2) is a west coast runner than had Derby aspirations after winning San Vicente and running second in the San Felipe at Santa Anita, but was then fifth in the Santa Anita Derby, beaten 19 lengths. He has been on the shelf since but following a series of good works, flies across the country for his return.

Chancer McPatrick (Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz, 5/1) made me a fan after running second in the Tampa Bay Derby in March, but that was followed by sixth in the Blue Grass ending any Derby dreams. He was hammered in the Woody Stephens, finishing seventh but did come back seven weeks later and won the $135,000 Curlin at Saratoga. I would love to see him win here but the reality is it’s wishful thinking.

Grade I Ballerina

(11th race, 4:59 p.m.)

A field of nine fillies and mares, 3-and-up will tackle the seven-furlong race on the main track.

Scylla (Bill Mott, Flavien Prat, 5/2) is the morning line favorite is this contentious race. She ran her last two both at Saratoga and was second, then third in a pair of Grade II races. First it was the Bed of Roses June 6, but while she was second, she was seven lengths back of the winner as she bumped twice during the race. The last start was July 20 in the Honorable Miss where she was third. She looks to be a closer but hasn’t gotten there the last two.

Hope Road (Bob Baffert, Jose Ortiz, 3/1) is a west coast horse but then last two starts have been at Churchill Downs and both were solid. The first was May 3 on the Derby card and she was second in the Derby City Distaff. May 26 was the Grade III Winning Colors where she was third. Been off since then but she has been a monster in the mornings at Del Mar for this return. She will be on or pushing the pace.

My Mane Squeeze (Michael Maker, Luis Saez, 5/1) dropped from graded stakes company in her last but totally destroyed the field $150,000 Johnstone at Saratoga on July 30, getting a hand-ride and still winning by over six lengths and getting a 100 Beyer. Wired the field that day and there is every reason to expect the connections to try the same here.

Majestic Oops (Dan Ward, Kendrick Carmouche, 15/1) is one I will take a long look at for a value play here. Has not been facing this level but has three wins and second in her last four races. The last was the Grade III Molly Pletcher where she was second and got a 95 Beyer. In the two wins before that she got a pair of 93 Beyers. She likes to stalk the pace, and this could be a chance to pick up some good value.

Grade I Forgo

(12th race, 2:36 p.m.)

It is time for the boys to tackle a seven-furlong race for 4-and-up on the main track. There are 11 signed up for this one, with one the definitive favorite.

Book’em Danno (Derek Ryan, Paco Lopez, 8/5) is the heavy favorite and after the last two races, the simple thing to say is, why not. Two back he won the Grade III True North in the slop at Saratoga by a 1.5 length win, earning a 106 Beyer. He came back in the Grade II Vanderbilt, won by almost three and was awarded a 111 Beyer. He likes to sit mid-pack then let it go when they get to the lane.

Mullikin (Rodolphe Brisset, Flavien Prat, 7/2) is the second choice and once again, why not as he has run second to Book’em Danno in both the True North and Vanderbilt.

Most Wanted (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 5/1) has done a lot right recently, earning three consecutive 100-plus Beyers. There was a second in the Grade III Challenger back in March at Tampa Bay Downs, then a second in the Grade II Alysheba May 2 at Churchill. She came back a month later in a $175,000 optional claimer at Churchill and cruised by four lengths, getting a 101. He has been off since then but has been big in the mornings for a barn that hits at 22 percent of this length of break. No secret to the style – when the gates open, he goes.

Bishops Bay (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz, 6/1) is a contender for no other reason than the connections. But if you want some evidence, how about four wins in five starts this year, including four straight. He has been off since June 14 after winning a Grade III by five lengths. The works have been strong for the return for the horse that will fight for the early lead.

Grade I Travers

(13th race, 3:14 p.m.)

This is the feature race of the day but may be a letdown after some of the others. Only five are entered for the 1-1/4-mile feature event on the main track. And there is one reason why …

Sovereignty (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 2/5) is the heavy favorite and you’d be lucky to get anything less than 1/9. The lone loss this year was a stunning one in the Florida Derby. He has not lost since then, winning the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and Jim Dandy. The deep closer has changed his running style in the last two, sitting much closer to the lead. He has won over $5 million in purses, almost five times of the other horses combined.

Magnitude (Steve Asmussen, Ben Curtis, 2/1) seems almost sacrilegious to be this low in the odds. He has crushed in his last two, winning the Risen Star by nine in February, then after a long break, he came back July 5 to win the Iowa Derby by over nine again. The 108 and 105 Beyers are deserving but he is not going to get an easy lead here and doubt there is enough left in the tank for the final quarter mile when the big boy lets loose.

Honestly, there are no others I can mention in good conscious.

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August 14

We have got three decent graded races with Saratoga and Del Mar boasting Grade I races for the fillies, with Monmouth running a Grade III event.

Saratoga

Grade I Alabama

(10th race, 2:44 p.m.)

We’ve got 3-year-old fillies going 1-1/4-miles in a race with a purse of $600,000. There are six scheduled to go to post.

Good Cheer (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 8/5) had been about as good as you could get in her two-year career, winning all seven starts, including the Kentucky Oaks. Then, a month after the Oaks in the Grade 1 Acorn at Saratoga, contested in the slop, she brushed the gate, never took to the track and was fifth, nine lengths off the winner. After time off, she has come back with an outstanding work tab for the return. If the track is good on Saturday, it’s back to business for the star.

La Cara (Mark Casse, Dylan Davis, 5/2) is the horse that ended the Good Cheer winning streak in the Acorn at almost 8/1. The race before she was ninth, beaten 13 lengths by Good Cheer. Three back was a big win in the Grade I Ashland at Keeneland, wiring the field. She has won three of five starts this year.

Nitrogen (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 9/5) has done little wrong this year, winning five of six starts. Has exclusively been a turf horse and this will be her first start on the dirt. The lone loss this year came in her last start, the Belmont Oaks Invitational at Saratoga on July 5. She took the lead in the lane but then was nailed at the line. The race before then was the Grade III Wonder Again stakes in the slop with only three starters, she embarrassed the field winning by 17 lengths.

Queen Azteca (Niels Peterson, Joel Rosario, 12/1) makes the trip from Sweden to make her first start in the United States. She has three of five starts this between Sweden and the UAE. The most notable start this year was fifth in the Grade II UAE Derby, taking on the boys in a Kentucky Derby prep.

Kinzie Queen (Greg Compton, Junior Alvarado, 15/1) has only one win in seven races this year but has hit the board six times. Her best effort that year might have been third in the Grade II Black-Eyed Susan on Preakness weekend.

Del Mar

Grade I Del Mar Oaks

(8th race, 5:30 p.m.)

This is another good one for filles as they go 1-1/8-miles on the turf course where the turf meets the surf. It features the first through fourth finishers from the Grade II San Clemente Handicap on July 19 at Del Mar.

Thought Process (Philip D’Amato, Umberto Rispoli) was the heavy favorite in the San Clemente and came through, winning by almost two lengths. She has won both starts this year and three-of-five last year. Her first start this year was in an allowance race coming off a eight-month break and she blew doors on the field winning by over five lengths at Santa Anita. Will happily take lead from the start, but she doesn’t need it to win.

Casalu (Bob Baffert, Kazushi Kimura) was second in the San Clemente at a very unlike-Baffert odds of 16/1. Last year she hit the board six times in seven starts, including a pair of wins. She threw a huge bullet-work on the board August 7 at Del Mar.

Will Then (Jonathan Thomas, Juan Hernandez) was third in the San Clemente with a late move. She is going to want to sit closer in this spot as Thought Process looks to have the total package.

Firenze Flavor (Patrick Gallagher, Drayden Van Dyke) was fourth in the San Clemente at 22/1 and little reason to expect more here.

Lush Lips (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione) ships cross-country for this spot where she is coming off a three-length win in the $210,000 Tepin. Two wins and two seconds in four starts with both of her loses to Nitrogen, one of the favorites in the loaded Grade I Alabama at Saratoga today.

Take A Breath (Mark Glatt, Hector Berrios) ships to the United States from England and into the barn of Mark Glatt. She has won three of four races this year and when a European turf runner, likely here for the Breeders’ Cup, makes the trip, they need to be watched.

Monmouth Park

Grade III Phillip Iselin

(5th race, 11:51 a.m.)

We have six horses set to go in this race for 3-and-up at 1-1/16 miles on the main track.

First Mission (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux) should be the heavy favorite here. He has easily seen the best races in this field, running in three graded races, hitting the board in all three, and earned 100-plus Beyer marks in all three races. The last start was a third behind Mindframe and Sierra Leone in the Grade I Stephen Foster. Before that he won the Grade II Oaklawn Handicap in April, winning by two lengths and given a 109 Beyer.

Offaly Cool (Jacinto Solis, Abner Adorno) has six starts this year and has hit the board every time. In his career, the 5-year-old has hit the board 17-of-20 races. Rates the pace and closes strong. The last start was a $100,000 optional claimer at PARX and he won be three drawing off, earning a 99 Beyer.

Surface to Air (Panagiotis Synnefias, Samuel Marin) was the winner of the Monmouth Cup on July 19. He sat mid-pack early, took the lead at the top of the lane, then dug in to hold on to at 19/1, beating two others entered here. He has hit the board on both starts this year.

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August 7

Barrington Harvey, a fan favorite on the Northern California Fair circuit, passed away Sunday in his native Jamaica, at 62-years-old.

The cause of death was not announced

Harvey learned to be a jockey in Jamica before coming to the United States, first to the east coast before shifting to California in 1990.

He was a fixture on the NorCal fairs, twice winning the iconic Humboldt County Marathon, a 1-5/8-mile race where the horses cross the finish line four times. Harvey won the race 2010 and 2011.

He rode over 10,000 mounts, winning more than 740 races and his horses won $10 million in purses.

Racing

Something I have seldom, if at all said, the track to play Saturday is Colonial Downs.

Of course, Saratoga and Del Mar offer full cards of great races Saturday, but Colonial Downs, the track in New Kent County, Virginia and is owned and operated by Churchill Downs Inc., offers seven stakes on Saturday, including three graded races.

The highlight of the day is the Grade I Arlington Million on the turf. The race started in 2002 at Arlington Park in Illinois. By the time 2021 came around and it was the last year of racing at Arlington Park, the race was changed to the Mister D Stakes and offered a purse of $600,000.

Churchill Downs Inc. (CDI), who owned the land upon which Arlington Park sat upon, moved the race to Churchill after working a deal with Ellis Park in Kentucky, who owns the summer racing dates in the summer, help the race 2022.

After that, CDI moved the race to Colonial in 2023, where it will be in the third year of hosting the race.

Del Mar features a pair of graded races, with Saratoga offering two as well.

Colonial Downs

There are three graded races Saturday with the Grade II Secretariate and the Grade II running before the Grade I Arlington. There are four other, non-graded stakes race on the card.

Here is a look at the graded races with horses I find interesting.

Grade II Secretariat

(9^th race, 1:41p.m.)

This one is one mile on the inner turf course and is for 3-year-olds, with eight horses set to go to post.

Dream On (Mark Casse, Javier Castellano, 5/2) is your morning line favorite and has won three of four starts this year, including his last two starts. A stalker, he successfully chased the pace, then came on with a strong close to win by a length in the Grade III Penn Mile, beating a horse entered here as well. Ha has been absolutely burning up the morning works over the track.

Maui Strong (Dale Romans, Vincent Cheminaud, 7/2) was fourth in his most recent start, the Grade III Manila at Saratoga. In fact, he is 0-for-6 this year but maybe he has seen tougher races than most. I would look elsewhere.

Cairo Caper (Phil Schoenthal, Victor Carrasco, 9/2) was the runner one length behind Dream On in the Penn Mile. He also closed that but Dream On got first run and made the most of it. Has only two starts this year but did win 2-of-5 as a 2-year-old.

Grade II Beverly D.

(10^th race, 2:17 p.m.)

There are six horses set to go to post here in this 1-3/16-mile race on the turf for fillies and mares 3-and-up.

Be Your Best (Saffie Joseph, Tyler Gaffalione, 9/5) is the heavy favorite and coming off a win in the Grade I Gamely, it’s easy to see why. She wired the field and was up four-plus in the lane before winning by almost three lengths.

Duvet Day (Michael McCarthy, John Velazquez, 3/1) has one second in two starts, and that was her last start, the $152,000 Anchorage at Churchill Downs. Before she was sixth in the Grade II Mint Julep, also at Churchill. Has only four wins in 26 career starts, so not a strong endorsement on the win end.

Charlene’s Dream (Ed Moger, Javier Castellano, 7/2) is trained by a former Northern California conditioner and had the lead in the Anchorage but ended up fifth. The June 19 race was her third race in six weeks, and she showed it. Went to the shelf and while she has a consistent work tab for the return, the works have not been strong. The barn is only .05 percent off this length of break.

Beach Bomb (Graham Motion, Luis Saez, 4/1) is a great value play here as she looks as good as any here. Four starts this year – all graded races – and she has two wins and two seconds. A speed horse here, she has been either first or second at every point of call in her four starts this year. She last started June 6 when she was second in the Grade I New York, but the barn does hit at 23 percent off this length on break.

Grade I Arlington Millon

(11^th race, 2:54 p.m.)

This 1-1/4-mile test on the turf has been a longtime prestigious race. There have been some murmurs that this might be the last time is Grade I race, but the race has drawn some quality runners.

Integration (Claude McGaughey, John Velazquez, 8/5) is the heavy favorite, coming off a big effort to run second in the Grade I Manhattan, losing to winner Deterministic by a head. The lone concern In have is he has four starts and has run second three times. Is this a case of always the bridesmaid and never the bride?

Cairo (Alice Haynes, Ben Curtis, 7/2) makes his first start in the United States since shipping from England following a June 17 start. He has no wins in five starts this year but has run second twice and third once. European turf horses generally fare well when they start here.

Mystik Dan (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez, 9/2) has only won once in seven starts following his win in the Kentucky Derby in 2024. Now he tries the turf for the first time. His last win was May 31 in the Grade III Blame at Churchill Downs. His last start was a fourth in the loaded Stephen Foster on the main track at Churchill June 28.

Grand Sonata (Todd Pletcher, Tyler Gaffalione, 8/1) is my value play in this race. Two back in the Grade III Belmont Gold Cup at Saratoga in the slop, the horse race early, then went backwards before finally being eased. The important point is that he walked off. He came back six weeks later in the Grade II United Nations on July 19 at Monmouth, where he was second. He has competed well in several monster races.

Saratoga

Grade I Sword Dancer

(10^th race, 2:44 p.m.)

This is the lone Grade I at Saratoga and goes 1.5-miles on the turf. There are nine horses entered here, but Grand Sonata has entered here as well as in the Arlington Million as well. As of August 6, the official decision had not been announced – will include him in this one as well.

Far Bridge (Miguel Clement, Joel Rosario, 9/5) is the heavy favorite but also brings in the most polarizing jockey on social media. I read every week posts from all the experts that either love Rosario or will refuse to bet on him on any horse. All I can do is repeat the results, which speak volumes to me. He has ridden the horse all four starts this year and has won three times. He has won the Grade II Bowling Green, Grade II Man O’War, and the Grade III Pan American. The other start was third in the loaded Grade I Manhattan.

Nations Pride (Charles Appleby, William Buick, 3/1) is a well-traveled horse as he raced at Gulfstream in January, then went to the UAE for a pair of races, now is back here. Has three starts this year and won once in a Grade II in the UAE – the Singspiel Stake on March 1.

El Cordobes (Charles Appleby, Flavien Prat, 4/1) is the stablemate of Nations Pride but he ships to the United States for the first time. Has six starts this year and has hit the board all six times, going an even 2-2-2. Stays in contact with the leaders then moves late.

Grande Sonata (Todd Pletcher, Manny Franco, 10/1) as mentioned above, is also entered in the Arlington Million and for all the same reasons I like him as a value-play here. May get more out of the value here is this is where he runs.

Del Mar

Grade III Best Pal

(4^th race, 3:30 p.m.)

Early look at the possible Triple Crown runners for 2026 as five runners will go to post for six furlongs.

As usual in Southern California, there is not a big spread of trainers in big 2-year-old stake.

Three Doug O’Neill and two Bob Baffert horses are entered here. Here are the five in post-position order.

1) Brigante (Doug O’Neill, Hector Berrios) one start and was second in straight maiden (MSW) company to a horse that came back to win again.

2) Punto Forty (Doug Neill, Antonio Fresu) won his first start is MSW company on June 21 at the Los Alamitos Racecourse. Showed a very strong work over the Del Mar track on August 3.

3) St. Petersburg (Bob Baffert, Drayden Van Dyke) was third in the MSW race to Punto Forty, but the barn hits at 25 percent in second starts and he threw a bullet work on the Del Mar track August 1.

4) Pavlovian (Doug O’Neill, Umberto Rispoli) was second in his debut on May 25, then came back won his second start against MSW company June 15 at Santa Anita.

5) Desert Gate (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) came out the gate swinging, winning his first start June 13 at Santa Anita, winning by over two lengths.

Grade II Yellow Ribbon Handicap

(9^th race, 6 p.m.

1-1/16-mile race on the turf, with seven fillies and mares set to take on the race.

Musical Rhapsody (Phil D’Amato, Ricardo Gonzales) is one of four D’Amato runners entered, all of which have some talent. She has been off since August of 2024 and has all of one graded race experience, a fifth in the Grade III Santa Ana. But the jock in fully capable of bringing in a price-horse which we have here.

Hang the Moon (Phil D’Amato, Kazushi Kimura) is another D’Amato runner and another that has not run in 2025. Last year he won three of six starts, two of which were graded races. Has a closing style and has had a consistent work tab for the return.

Heredia (Graham Motion, Juan Hernadez) had not run since October of 2023 in England until May 4 of this year when he was third in the Grade III Beaugay at Belmont. She was third in a stake at Saratoga on July 10.  Has run well at Del Mar, with a win and a second in three Del Mar starts on the turf.

Public Assembly (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu) is another D’Amato runner and won that has three starts this year. She won the Grade III Royal Heroine April 26 at Santa Anita, then was fifth in the Grade I Gamely on May 26.

Liguria (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli) has three starts and has hit the board all three times this year. Is coming off a third-place finish in the Gamely and won the Grade II Buena Vista on May 1 at Santa Anita.

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July 31

There is nothing like Saratoga this time of year for horse racing!

Make no mistake about it, Del Mar is a beautiful track, with sensational vistas and a party atmosphere, and a good time had by all any day of racing.

But Saratoga can offer all the same, with graded stakes races taking place every single weekend. The beauty of upstate New York near Vermont is on full display.

And Saturday is no exception with five graded races, including four Grade I races, highlighted by the Whitney.

Del Mar ends the racing day with the Grade I Clement L. Hirsch at 6:30 p.m.

The Pleasanton OTB doors will open at 9:45 a.m. on this great day of racing.

The following are a look at the six races with some of the interesting horses in each race.

Saratoga

Grade II Saratoga Special

(3^rd race, 10:09 a.m.)

This one is a good chance to see possible 2026 Kentucky Derby runners, with this field of six 2-year-olds going 6.5 furlongs. The entire field has shown a propensity for speed, so this is going to be a quick one.

Obliteration (Steve Asmussen, Flavien Prat, 7/5) is aptly named given the performances in his first two races. A smashing debut saw a seven-plus-length win on June 12. Three weeks later he came back in the Grade III Sanford at Saratoga, going wire to wire and winning by over 10 lengths.

Ewing (Mark Casse, Irad Ortiz, 8/5) debuted July 5 at Saratoga and after brushing the gate, he kicked it into gear and rolled to a win by over 12 lengths. The $585,000 purchase has earned an 88 Beyer in the debut, the best debut mark in the field.

Dazzle d’Oro (Thomas Amoss, Jose Ortiz, 5/2) debuted on June 29 at Churchill Downs and wired the field to win by three. Came back after that won with a pair of solid works.

Comport (Eddie Kenneally, Luis Saez, 8/1) won his first start, then was second in the $194,000 Bashford Manor on June 29 at Churchill. He has come back with a pair of big works for this one. Two solid starts but I think he is a notch behind the top three.

Camigol (Antonio Sano, Jose Lezcano, 20/1) took two starts to break and did so by five lengths, wiring the field in the process. Both races came at 4.5 furlongs at Gulfstream Park. By the last start it looks as if he will take to the added distance.

Thunder Chuck (Jorge Delgado, Madison Olver, 30-1) also broke on his second start, wiring the field in a 5-furlong test at Monmouth in the mud. He got a 40 Beyer mark on the slop.

Grade I Fourstardave

(8^th race, 12:52 p.m.),

The first of four straight Grade I races, with this one going one mile on the inner turf with a field of 10 set to go.

Johannes (Tim Yakteen, Umberto Rispoli, 5/2) ventures back east for only the second time in his 13-race career. The morning line favorite has been off since December 26. Had a heck of a season last year, winning five of six starts and running second in the other. All were Grade I or Grade II races, and his last five starts all earned over 100 Beyer marks. The works for the comeback have been good, but not great. If ready, he will sit mid-pack until they turn for home.

Deterministic (Miguel Clement, Kendrick Carmouche, 9/2) has won his last two starts, with the most recent coming in the Grade I Manhattan. He went wire-to-wire, holding on to win by a head. Any extra distance and we would have had another winner. Cuts back slightly in distance, possibly deciding a plan for the Breeders’ Cup this year.

Intellect (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 5/1) is a runner I think will close well the rest of the year. Came to the United States back in April and into the Chad Brown barn. Has had three starts here and has gotten better in each start. The last was in the Grade III Kelso at Saratoga where he gave up a late lead, finishing second by a length. Had a bullet work over the inner turf for this one.

Think Big (Michael Stidham, Luis Saez, 6/1) has seen his last two starts be feast or famine. Two back in the Grade I Jaipur at Saratoga on June 8 he was seventh after a bad start as the betting favorite. He came back on July 5 for the Grade III Kelso, also a Saratoga, he came from fourth to first, passing three runners in the lane at 6/1. So which horse do we see here? We shall know right after the start. If he gets out good, he will be a factor.

Grade I Saratoga Derby Invitational

(9^th race, 1:28 p.m.)

Here we go with a 1-3/16-miles test on the turf for 3-year-olds. There are a couple of Kentucky Derby runners here.

Hotazhell (Jessica Harrington, Shane Foley, 7/5) ships over to the United States from Europe and is instantly the morning line favorite. He has two starts this year finishing third and then fifth in his most recent. Last year was a big year as he won four of six starts. I will try to beat this one.

Test Score (Graham Motion, Manny Franco, 7/2) enters this with some serious credentials with the last start being a hard closing win in the Grade I Belmont Derby on the Fourth of July. He had trouble early, hung in the race, entered the lane in third and got by two horses to win it. Two back was another good run, finishing second in the Grade I American Turf on Kentucky Derby day.

Final Gambit (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 6/1) was a legit Derby contender this year as he won the Jeff Ruby Steaks prep at Turfway Park, then was fourth behind three very strong runners in the Kentucky Derby. Came back in the Grade III Matt Winn and was fourth. From there he went to the turf for the first time in the Belmont Derby and was fifth behind Test Score. He tries the turf again in this race.

Grade I Test

(10^th race, 2:04 p.m.)

This is a seven-furlong sprint for 3-year-old fillies, with eight entries read to roll. There is a heavy favorite and after that it looks wide open.

Echo Sound (George Arnold, Luis Saez, 9/5) with five wins in six career starts, she is the easy favorite. She has won both starts this year. Two back it was the Grade III Miss Preakness, May 16 at Pimlico and that was followed by a four-length win in the Grade III Victory Ride at Saratoga on July 3. She loves to stalk the leaders and move on the final turn.

Rag Time (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 4/1) has two starts and has convincingly won both. In her maiden race on June 6 at Saratoga her start was average but by the hit the top of the lane, she was in first, then drew off to win by over three. Came back in a $100,000 allowance on July 5 at Saratoga. Here she started stronger, once again took control by the top of the stretch and drew off to win by one four. Has to he be very live here.

Cash Call (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat, 5/1) has won her last three starts, sitting right off the pace, taking control by the time they turn for home and pulled away in the lane. The last start was the first one in graded stakes company and she took it down after being pressured throughout.

Beauty Reigns (Bill Mott, Irad Ortiz, 6/1) bears watching I really think.  She was second to Echo Sound in the Victory Ride by four lengths. Yes, it was a resounding loss, but she got away slow that day. Was it worth four lengths – maybe not – but it was still a good run. Threw a bullet work over the track for this one so she appears to be dialed in.

Grade I Whitney

(11^th race, 2:41 p.m.)

The race of the day, not just at Saratoga, but the entire country. This premier event is for 4-year-olds. There are four really good runners but there will be little to no value on those four.

Then again, there is a reason why they are favored!

Fierceness (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 9/5) has won three and finished second twice in his five starts since the disastrous 15^th place finish in the 2024 Kentucky Derby. In his last start he ran second all the way around in the Metropolitan Handicap after bumping at the start. He has five consecutive 100-plus Beyer marks.

Sierra Leone (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 2/1) is my favorite horse that is still racing. His big moment was winning the Breeders Cup Classic. He was beaten by Fierceness twice last year. Closes from the parking lot, so if you are looking for a horse with that style, look no further.

Mindframe (Todd Pletcher, Jose Gomez, 5/2) has won three races in a row, the last two were Grade I races in the Churchill Downs and the Stephen Foster. In the Foster, he held off the late charge of Sierra Leone. Overall, he has five wins in seven starts. The interesting angle here is Irad Ortiz, who has ridden all seven races on Mindframe, is riding elsewhere. Rail draw is not a concern as he has won from the rail before. Not sure why Sierra Leone is favored over him.

White Abarrio (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 4/1) can beat any of the top three but is just a notch below them I think. In his last start he was fourth in the Met Mile in the slop. That was June 7 and comes out of a barn which hits at 26 percent off this length layoff. Won this race by six lengths two years ago but was fifth last year. He likes to be near the lead throughout.

Del Mar

Grade I Clement L. Hirsch

(10^th race, 6:30 p.m.)

There are seven fillies and mares, 3-years-old and up that will take on the 1-1/16-mile race. Bob Baffert trains three of the seven horses.

Seismic Beauty (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) has been the favorite in five of her six starts. She is coming off a win in the Grade II Santa Margarita at Santa Anita of May 25, earning a 104 Beyer in the process. She turned in bullet works at Santa Anita and Del Mar for the return. His preferred running style is to be on or near the pace.

Richi (Bob Baffert, Antonio Fresu) was last seen on the track on April 19 where she won the Grade II Santa Maria by four lengths, getting a 102 Beyer mark. After some time off, she came back and put together a series of strong, consistent works. Set the pace in his last two starts.

Little Hidden (John Sadler, Armando Ayuso) makes her first start in the United States after shipping up from Argentina where she had four wins and four places in nine starts last year. This is also her first start of the year, and we will find out a lot about her in this start.

Royal Spa (Rodolphe Brisset, Hector Berrios) comes west for the first time and will make her first start on the west coast. Ran second, three lengths back of Thorpedo Anna, certainly not embarrassing in the Fleur di Lis June 28 at Churchill Downs. Brings a running style of wanting to be a part of the pace factor, if not on the lead, then pushing it.

Kopion (Richard Mandella, Kazushi Kimura) is the last of the runners I think has a shot in this one. In the last start she was second in the Grade II Great Lady M stake at Los Alamitos behind Sweet Azteca. Two back she won the Derby City Distaff on Kentucky Derby day at Churchill Downs. Her first of her three starts this year she cooked the field of the Grade II Santa Monica by four lengths. She will be on or near the lead.

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July 24

Before we get into the big horse races this Saturday, NBC Sports gave us a shot of news this week, when they announced that Kentucky Oaks – the fillies race for 3-year-olds that always takes place the day before the Kentucky Derby – will be shown in prime time for the first time.

Previously the race was run usually between 4-5 p.m. ET, but starting in 2026 will be run at 8 p.m. back east, going off at 5 p.m. PDT.  I love the move for the West Coast fans, as it has always run during the workday, which won’t be the case this year.

The move may upset the apple cart for the Louisville restaurants, as Friday was a huge night as people flowed from the track following Oaks for a festive night.

Great move for the sport, maybe not for the area around Churchill Downs.

As far as racing goes Saturday, we’ve got two graded races at Saratoga and two more at Del Mar, giving us some great racing on both coasts.

Saratoga

Grade III Lake George

(9^th race, 2:04 p.m. PDT)

This one is a 1-1/16-mile race on the inner turf for 3-year-old fillies, with 10 horses set to go to post.

Classic Q (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 2/1) is your morning line favorite and has won three-of-six starts this year. The last race was a win in the $150,000 Wild Applause Stake on July 3 at Saratoga, beating others entered here.

The start before that was the Grade III Regret at Churchill and resulted in a seventh-place finish, beaten by over seven lengths. The last two starts have seen the horse set pace, going wire-to-wire in the win, while weakening in the Regret.

Lavender Disaster (Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz, 5/2) is your second choice and was third in the Wild Applause. The horse will push the pace and, in her win this year in an allowance start at Aqueduct, she took control in the lane.

Play With Fire (Chad Brown, Manny Franco, 4/1) was second in the Wild Applause, passing her stablemate late. In five starts this year, she has hit the board in three of the races, finishing in each spot the board.

Grade II Jim Dandy

(10^th race, 2:41 p.m.)

While half the top 3-year-olds ran in the Haskell last weekend, the other half run here, including the heavy favorite Sovereignty – the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes winner.

Sovereignty (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 2/5) has been a deep closer throughout his seven-race career until his last start, in the Belmont. There, he sat near the pace then took off in the lane, beating Journalism by over three lengths. In the Derby, he came from 16^th to take over in the lane, beating Journalism again in the process. Three back in the Florida Derby he was beaten, closing strong but he couldn’t catch Tappan Street.

Baeza (John Shirreffs, Hector Berrios, 3/1) has clearly been the third best 3-year-old this year, finishing third in both the Derby and the Belmont, and second in the Santa Anita Derby behind Journalism. Has had five starts this year and has hit the board all five times. Another deep closer I think he must sit closer to the pace to have any shot against Sovereignty.

Sandman (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 6/1) has been off since running third in the Preakness on May 17. That came off a seventh, beaten by 12 lengths in the Derby. Yet another closer in a five-horse field with only one speed horse.

Mo Plex (Jeremiah Englehart, Manny Franco, 10/1) is the lone speed horse in the field. Someone is going to have to keep him honest, which may turn out to be Sovereignty. If no one does and he gets an easy lead, it will make for one hell of a stretch run.

Hill Road (Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz, 12/1) is the final horse in the field and is coming off a fifth in the Belmont. He won the Grade III Peter Pan back in May at Aqueduct but given there are three other big closers in this spot, maybe he takes a shot and goes early here. And why not as he is in a can’t lose situation.

Del Mar

Grade II San Diego Handicap

(8^th race, 5:30 p.m.)

This goes 1-1/16-miles for 3-year-olds and up on the main track with seven scheduled to go to post.

Hall of Fame (Michael McCarthy, Kazushi Kimura) was on fire until running fourth in the Grade III Blame at Churchill Downs on May 31. The horse was coming off a four-race stretch where he had a pair of wins, a second and a third, earning 100-plus Beyer marks in all four. In the Blame, he ran his race that day but just couldn’t crack the top three. Goes from the Steve Asmussen barn into the barn of Michael McCarthy, the trainer of Journalism and makes his first start in the west.

Mirahmadi (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) is one of two Baffert horses in the race. He’s shown speed in the majority of his races and in the last – an $80,000 optional claimer at Santa Anita on June 12 at Santa Anita – he wired the field and won by over four lengths. Two back in the Santa Anita Handicap, he set the pace early, then hit a wall and finished eighth, 25 lengths off the winner.

Nysos (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat) is coming off a pair of 7-furlong races, including rolling to a win in the Grade III Triple Bend at Santa Anita on May 31 by over five lengths, earning a 108 in the process. He has been a monster in the morning, throwing in bullet works in the last three, including a first of 85 over the track.

Midnight Mammoth (Craig Dollase, Armando Ayuso) can be a player here, coming off a second in the Gold Cup May 26 at Santa Anita at 12/1. He will be on or pushing the pace here and has hit the board five of nine starts at the distance.

Express Train (John Shirreffs, Mike Smith) has run twice this year and both times he was second. Two back it was the Grade II San Pasqual, and he followed that with a second in the Santa Anita Handicap at 12/1. More of a stalker, he will hope they go fast out front.

Grade I Bing Crosby

(10^th race, 6:30 p.m.)

The six-furlong speed dual is one of the highlights of the Del Mar meet every year. There are nine horses entering the popular race and figures to be a good one.

Dr. Venkman (Mark Glatt, Antonio Fresu) is a versatile runner that won the San Diego Handicap last year at 1-1/16-miles, then was fourth in the Grade I Pacific Classic at 1-1/4-miles. This year he has two starts and was second in both the Grade III Triple Bend and the Grade III Kelly’s Landing Stakes at Churchill. He will look to sit right off the pace.

Mbagnick (John Sadler, Armando Ayuso) was the lone horse to post a last race 100 Beyer. That was a $80,000 optional claimer where the horse was claimed out of the Jeff Mullins barn. He had a huge work July 14, then followed it six days later with another strong work, this one over the track.

Roll On Big Joe (Robert Hess, Julien Leparoux) has won his last two starts, taking a $175,000 optional claimer, then the Grade III Kelly’s Landing, both at Churchill Downs. If he’s not on the lead he will be right there, as that has been his track record.

Hejazi (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) was the beaten favorite by Mbagnick in his last start, running second by half-a-length earning a 99 in the process. That was the first start back since January of 2024 when the graded stakes runner went to the bench. Baffert is one of the best in second starts following a break, hitting at 27 percent. The works for this one have been good.

Crazy Mason (Gregory Sacco, Christopher Elliot) makes his first start out west as he ships in from New York. He has won three of four starts this year, including the Grade II Carter at Aqueduct in April. He came back June 7 to run third in the Grade III True North at Saratoga. Interesting to see the big closer ship cross country for this race.

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July 17

A huge day of horse racing lies ahead for us with Haskell Day at Monmouth Park offering five graded stake races and three more at Saratoga, for Saturday to be a graded stake festival.

The Pleasanton OTB will be open at open at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday.

Following is a look at all the graded races at those tracks, with a more extensive look at the Grade I races.

Monmouth Park

Grade I The Haskell

(12th race, 2:45 p.m.)

Here we go with another round of the Triple Crown horses going to battle once again, this time at 1-1/8-miles. One of the two big boys are here – Journalism – as he ships across the country again. Next Saturday we have more of them running at the Jim Dandy at Saratoga.

Journalism (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli) has done almost everything that has been asked of him. Eight starts, eight times on the board, five wins, two places, and one show. Second in the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont, and winner of the Preakness. Comes into this with an impressive work tab and once again, looks ready to go.

Burnham Square (Ian Wilkes, Brian Hernandez) came into the Kentucky Derby with some momentum after winning the Blue Grass but after bumping and then checking in the 19-horse field, finished sixth. He came back and was second in the Matt Winn on June 8. He has put in several good works for this spot.

Gosger (Brendan Walsh, Luis Saez) has been a newcomer to the top-flight races but won the Lexington and was second in the Preakness, falling to Journalism by half a length. He is going to take plenty of action and is arguably the biggest threat to Journalism. Count on him to have first call on the front runners.

Goal Oriented (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat) is another potential monster out of the Bob Baffert barn. Also came to the party a little later than the rest, having just three starts. In his last, he was fourth in the Preakness, his first stake start. Since then, he has been the star of the morning, putting in five works at Santa Anita, four of which produced bullets. Baffert’s runners hit at 28 percent coming off this length of a break.

Grade III Matchmaker

(5th race, 10:52 a.m.)

The stake races get going with 1-1/8-miles on the turf for fillies and mares 3-and-up. Seven horses are entered.

No Mo Candy (Saffie Joseph, Javier Castellano) will be one to watch in this, her second off a lengthy break. She came of a 7-month break with a seventh in the Mint Julip on June 1 at

Churchill Downs. Had a big season last year when she won three and had a place in her other start.

Segesta (Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz) is another of interest to me. On June 6 she faced a turf course listed as yielding in the Grade I Just a Game and was seventh. That was the first start after a seven-month break, and I expect a much better start. The connections are certainly formidable.

Grade III Monmouth Cup

(6th race, 11:24 p.m.)

A 1-1/8-mile run for 4-year-olds and up on the main track.

Cadet Corps (Kelly Breen, Javier Castellano) is a 6-year-old that has two straight wins and was second three back. The were optional claimers and all came at different tracks, so he ships well. Now starting at his fourth different track in as many races, he will come from off the pace.

Just a Touch (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux) is your likely favorite and justifiably so. Three big starts, winning by 10 lengths three back, then seven lengths to back earning a 102 and 104 Beyer marks. The last start came in the Grade I Metropolitan, and he was third, running just behind Fierceness. Sticks close to the pace and goes late.

Grade III Molly Pitcher

(10th race, 1:37 p.m.)

We’ve got nine horses going 1-1/16-miles in this Grade III for fillies and mares 3-and-up.

Candied (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz) has been off since May 16 when she won the Dupont at Pimlico. She was huge last year, running in four Grade I races, including the Breeders’ Cup Distaff where she was third behind Thorpedo Anna. Should sit close and move in the lane.

Dorth Vader (George Weaver, John Velazquez) is coming off the best last race, winning the Grade I Ogden Phipps at Saratoga where she pushed the pace then took over in the lane. Could see the same race here.

Majestic Oops (Dan Ward, Isaac Castillo) has three wins in a row to her credit. The last start was a win in the Lady Secret in the slop over the Monmouth so if the weather is bad, this may be your play.

Grade II United Nations

(Race 11, 2:09 p.m.)

This race is 1-3/8 miles on the turf 3-year-olds and up with a full field of 12 set to go to post.

Corruption (Mark Casse, Javier Castellano) has won 4-of-6 starts this year but none of the wins have come in a stake race. His last start came in the Grade I Manhattan where he was fourth of seven horses at 18/1. Still, he does know how to win races.

Get Smokin (Mark Casse, Fernando De La Cruz) going to the lead is probably the only sure thing in this race. He has broken first in his last 11 races. Has only one start this year and was third in the Grade II Eclipse at Woodbine. Getting out early keeps the horse out of trouble in a big field.

Saratoga

Grade I Coaching Club American Oaks

(10th race, 2:38 p.m.)

A field of six are ready for this 1-1/8-miles on the main track for 3-year-old fillies.

Immersive (Brad Cox, Manny Franco) is a neck away from being 5-for-5. She started her career with four wins last year, including winning the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies to end the year. She went to the shelf until June 14, coming back in the $168,000 Monomoy Girl at Churchill Downs. She tracked the lead throughout the race, finishing second by a head. Had a big work on July 12 at Churchill and she appears muscled up for the return to graded races.

Take Charge Milady (Kenny McPeek, Kendrick Carmouche) was the winner of the Monomoy Girl, her sixth start of the year. Two back she was 12th, beaten 22-lengths in the Kentucky Oaks after brushing at the start. Monster work on July 12 at Saratoga. Usually prefers to be pushing the pace.

Le Cara (Mark Casse, Dylan Davis) is coming off a win in the Grade I Acorn at Saratoga on June 6. Before then was the Kentucky Oaks when she finished ninth after a substantial bump at the top of the lane. She has won three of five starts this season and should be the pacesetter. Before the Oaks, she wired the field in the Grade I Ashland at Keeneland.

Grade III Caress

(9th race, 2:04 p.m.)

This one is set for 5.5 furlongs on the turf course for fillies or mares, 3-year-old and up. There are nine signed for the turf race, with an additional three if the race is moved to the main track.

Pipsy (William Walden, Jose Ortiz) has won both starts this year by either setting the pace or being right off. The last race was June 5 at Saratoga and she took the Grade II Intercontinental, going wire to wire, under pressure throughout the race. She earned a 100 Beyer over the same course and beat five others entered at 5/1.

Future is Now (Michael Trombetta, Paco Lopez) was second in the Intercontinental as the 5/2 favorite. She is a speed horse as well and chased Pipsy around the track but could never pass her.

Grade II Alfred G. Vanderbilt

(11th race, 3:13 p.m.)

This is six furlongs on the main track with eight horses entered in the race for 4-year-olds and up.

Skelly (Steve Asmussen, Ricardo Santana) was heavily favored in all three starts this year, winning two of them. In the third, the Grade III Aristides at Churchill on May 31, he fought throughout and was a tight third until stopping in mid-stretch and finished dead last, nine lengths. He went to the bench until today, but the works have looked average. The first two starts this year he won by five, then 10 lengths, earning a 107, then 110 Beyers, but those both came against decidedly weaker fields.

Book’em Danno (Derek Ryan, Paco Lopez) is coming off a win in the Grade III True North June 7 at Saratoga, beating Mulliken who is also entered. He likes to sit mid-pack and begin his move around the last turn. He earned a 102 Beyer for the last start.

Nash (Brad Cox, Joel Rosario) has hit the board all four times this year and has a pair of wins, but all four have been optional claimers. Last year he did see some major races, running second in the Pat Day Mile as the favorite. In the next start last year – the Grade I Woody Stephens – he was a badly beaten ninth, well back of Book’em Danno.

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July 9

Northern California horse racing lost one of the best when John Harris passed away on July 2 at the age of 81.

Harris, who had been suffering from Parkinson’s for some time, was the first person that came to mind for me when you talk about Northern California and horse racing.

He was the chairman of the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) for three years and was also a board member of the Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) as well.

I can remember years ago when I heard from Harris after I had written a strongly opinioned piece about Fair racing. I had never met him at that point, but he complemented me for what I wrote and encouraged me to always keep fighting the fight.

That’s the type of Harris was, always fighting for every person in the industry. He loved the Fair racing circuit and was very big in the Big Fresno Fair every year.

Harris, along with George Schmitt, gave it their best shot, including putting up their own money in hopes of keeping racing alive in the Northern half of the state.

“I went and saw John and sat with him on the weekend of the Belmont Stakes,” said Schmitt. “Without him – we lost one of our best friends. He was still in the fight. Before he died, he reaffirmed he wanted to make sure (the effort to save racing in the north) went forward. I will carry his legacy on.”

Schmitt joined Harris as power brokers in the Northern horse racing family. With the tumultuous times horse racing has seen in the last few years, Harris and Schmitt spent much of their time fighting the good fight. Schmitt was still mourning the passing of Harris a week later. He couldn’t say enough and the character of Harris.

“I will miss him as a good friend,” said Schmitt. “You can say anything nice about John, and it would be true.”

Allen Aldrich, a member of the Alameda County Fair Board and formerly a TOC board member, was mentored by Harris and helped get Aldrich on to the TOC.

“Being in his presence was always magical,” said Aldrich. “He always took care of his people and was always rooting for the little guy.”

Harris’ passing was a huge blow to the industry. I always felt we had a shot as long as Harris was involved. Now he has passed but believe people like Schmitt will come together to indeed carry on the legacy of Harris.

“He is an icon and will be sorely missed,” said Schmitt.

Races to watch

There are a pair of graded stake races this Saturday across the country at Saratoga.

Be sure to come down to the Pleasanton OTB and get your bets in! The doors open at 9:45 p.m.

Saratoga

Grade II The Bowling Green

(8^th race, 1:29 p.m.)

This is a monster of a race, covering 1-3/8-miles on the Inner turf course with eight horses set to go. There are three more horses entering should the race be moved to the main track because of poor weather.

Far Bridge (Miguel Clement, Joel Rosario, 6/5) was third in the Grade I Manhattan on June 8 at Saratoga. That start was preceded by a pair of graded stake wins, taking the Grade III Pan American and Grade II Man O’War. Got a month off after the Manhattan for a barn that hits at 29 percent coming back that length of break. He will stalk the pace and make his move when they turn for home.

Corruption (Mark Casse, Javier Castellano, 5/1) has won four of six starts this year. The wins did not come in graded races but he was second three back in the Grade III Pan American at Gulfstream Park. In his last start he broke slowly, then ran evenly throughout finishing fourth in the Grade I Manhattan at Saratoga on June 8. He has had good efforts running just off ir setting the pace and has also had some quality runs coming from off the pace.

Tucson (Todd Pletcher, Luis Saez, 15/1) will be interesting to watch in this, his second start in a graded race at a tasty price. He had a great start to the year winning three races – a maiden, optional claimer, and an allowance race. He then made the jump to the Grade I Manhattan and finished 8^th, beaten 25 lengths. The highly respected barn sends the horse back here after a month off. Should be in the front half of the field and, except for the last race, comes on strong late.

Webslinger (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 7/2) has one start this year and he finished second May 31 in the Grade II Eclipse at Woodbine. Midway through the race he was eighth, down 13 lengths and closed like a madman, losing by less than a length. There is every reason to believe he will be even better here in the second start off of a break. Should be on your tickets as he has hit the board in 15-of-20 career starts.

The Grade I Diana

(11^th race, 3:14 p.m.)

This one goes 1-1/8-miles on the inner turf course with field of five fillies and mares going to post.

She Feels Pretty (Cherie DeVaux, John Velazquez, 1/1) is the heavy favorite and is seeking a fifth straight win. The four wins have come in three Grade I races and one Grade III. The two starts this year have been the Grade III Modesty on April 12 and the Grade I New York on June 6 at Saratoga. In both races she started near mid-pack, started her move on the far turn, then took the lead at the top of the lane and held it. There appears to be only one speedster here so it will be interesting to see how the pace turns out.

Excellent Truth (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 5/2) is your second choice and has finished second in both starts this year since shipping over from France. She was favored in both and lost to two other horses in this field. In her last – The Just a Game at Saratoga on June 6 – she fell to Dynamic Pricing who was (10/1). Her running style is to sit back and gradually come on, coming up short the last two.

Dynamic Pricing (Chad Brown, Dylan Davis, 9/2) has won two straight including the Just a Game as mentioned above at 10/1. Another closer – the top three all are – but with a lack of speed will have to see how the pace plays out.

Be Your Best (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 6/1) appears to be the lone speed merchant in the field and that’s just what she did in her last start, wiring the field in the Grade I Gamely at Santa Anita on May 26. She drew away in the lane, leading by almost five lengths at one point before holding on the to win by over two lengths. She might get loose here.

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July 3

• Before we get to a busy weekend of races with the Fourth of July holiday on Friday, I need to mention and honor the passing of D. Wayne Lukas on June 29 at the age of 89.

Lukas was Bob Baffert, before there was a Baffert. He won 15 Triple Crown races, taking four Kentucky Derby’s, seven Preakness’s, and four Belmont Stake’s.

He also captured 20 Breeders Cup races. He still was seen on horseback at the track, tending to his horses in the morning until recently.

He was iconic and highly thought of by everyone in the industry.

RIP Coach.

Racing this weekend

Saratoga has a huge card on Friday, July 4, featuring three graded stake races.

As usual, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting facility will be open, with one major change for the Fourth. There will be no night racing, with the OTB opening at 9:45 a.m. and will be open until 5 p.m. on the Fourth.

Regular hours on Saturday, July 5 will be 9:45 a.m. until 10:30 p.m.

Following are the three graded races from Saratoga on Friday, and the graded races for Saturday.

Saratoga, Friday, July 4

The Grade III Manilla

(8th race, 2:07 p.m.)

This one mile on the turf race has 12 runners going to post for 3-year-olds.

Zulu Kingdom (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 6/5) is the morning line favorite and has won both of his starts this year. Those were the Columbia at Tampa Bay Downs on March 8, followed by the Grade I, American Turf at Churchill Downs on the Kentucky Derby undercard. The winner of 5-of-6 career starts, he likes to be near the lead before making his run late.

Reagan’s Wit (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz, 7/2) scratched out of a race last weekend as the turf was on the soft side. The last start was May 17 at Pimlico as he drew off in the lane in the $100,000 JW Murphy. He likes to sit about mid-pack and move in the final turn.

Uncatalyzed (Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz, 8/1) debuted with a second on March 14, then came back and broke May 4 at Aqueduct going wire to wire. Obviously, the toughest field he has faced thus far but he has shown he is a runner.

Strate Cash (Cherie DeVaux, Brian Hernandez, 10/1) is one that may be worth a value play. Made his debut March 2 at Santa

Anita at six furlongs, taking the lead at the top of the lane and cruising home to win by over three lengths. He switches barns, stretches out, and crosses the country. Not a standard move, so the connections must really like what they see.

The Grade I Belmont Derby

(9th race, 2:45 p.m.)

We are going 1-1/8 miles on the turf for 3-year-olds in the Northern or Southern Hemisphere. A field of eight is set to go to post.

Final Gambit (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 5/2) is the morning line pick and is coming off two, fourth-place finishes, one of which was the Kentucky Derby at 18/1. Came back in the Grade III Matt Winn on June 8, also at Churchill Downs. Now this deep closer goes to the turf for the first time. Was the winner earlier this year of Jeff Ruby Steaks at 15/1 that got him into the Derby.

New Century (Brendan Walsh, Oisin Murphy, 3/1) was third in the American Turf in his last start, closing with a passion. Shipped from Great Britan last year for a pair of starts here, then went back across the pond for five months, then came back for the American Turf. Pretty sure he will be staying stateside through the Breeders’ Cup.

Test Score (Graham Motion, Manny Franco, 4/1) was second in the American Turf in the last start and before then was the winner of the Grade III Transylvania at Keeneland on April 7. Has

every reason to have a good shot here, sitting mid-pack before they turn for home.

The Grade II Suburban

(10th race, 3:19 p.m.)

The graded stake races come to an end with the classic distance of 1-1/4-mile marathon on the main track for 4-year-olds and up.

Locked (Todd Pletcher, Jose Ortiz, 8/5) has one win in three starts this year, winning the Santa Anita Handicap on March 1 as the heavy favorite. On May 2 he shipped to Churchill for the Grade II Alysheba at Churchill. He was fourth that day, six lengths back of Fierceness, the winner. Until the Alysheba, he had three consecutive 100-plus Beyers.

Awesome Aaron (Norm Cassee, Irad Ortiz, 7/2) has put together four straight solid races, the last of two of which were wins, both earning at least 100 Beyer marks. The last race was the Pimlico Special on May 16 where he tracked the pace then took over in the stretch. He prefers to be on or near the lead.

Antiquarian (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 4/1) was second in the Grade III Blame on May 31 at Churchill at 9/1. That came after a win in a $62,500 optional claimer at Gulfstream. A good, solid knocker that has three wins and two seconds in seven career starts.

Phileas Fogg (Gustavo Rodriguez, Kendrick Carmouche, 5/1) the speedster has been either first or second in his last six starts. He was second in the Pimlico Special to Awesome Again giving up the lead in the lane to finish second by less than a length. Two back he was the winner of the $150,000 Excelsior on April 5 at Aqueduct, cruising to a 5-plus length win.

Saturday, July 5

Horseshoe Indianapolis

Grade III Indiana Oaks

(11th race, 2:55 p.m.)

The 1-1/16-mile stake is for 3-year-old fillies with six horses entered.

Clicquot (Brendan Walsh, Edgar Morales, 8/5) is one of two heavy favorites. After debuting sixth in a straight maiden, she’s gone off winning by 6-lengths to break on April 17. May 31 was the most recent start, $125,000 optional claimer. Looks like the type of horse that wants to be on or right off the pace.

Heavenly Sunset (Brad Cox, Luan Machado, 9/5) is another speed demon and has three starts with one win. That came in start No. 2 when she wired the field in a straight maiden race at Keeneland. The last effort was a second at Churchill on May 31 in a $125,000 optional claimer, where she led for the first half before getting run down in the lane.

Top (Michelle Elliot, Fernando De La Cruz, 4/1) has two wins over the track, the last coming on June 7 in a six-furlong sprint winning by over three lengths in an $75,000 optional claimer as the heavy favorite. With three starts over the track, she’s the most experienced over the track but is she good enough to beat the shippers?

Grade III Indiana Derby

(12th race, 3:33 p.m.)

This is a 1-1/16-mile test for 3-year-olds with nine runners set to go post, including three horses that started in the Kentucky Derby this year.

Coal Battle (Lonnie Briley, Corey Lanerie, 7/2) was a great story heading into the Kentucky Derby then finished 11th, beaten 17 lengths. He was caught in trouble throughout the race. He came back in the Grade III Matt Winn on June 8, stalking the pace before finishing third. He has won 2-of-3 at the distance.

Publisher (Steve Asmussen, Mike Smith, 5/1) last started in the Kentucky Derby and finished 14th well back, 32 lengths behind the winner. He also found trouble throughout the race, He has been on the shelf since, with the works for the return spotty at best.

Chunk of Gold (Ethan West, Jareth Loveberry, 6/1) is the final of the Derby runners entered here and had the best effort, finishing ninth, beaten 15 lengths. He came back June 21 in the

Ohio Derby and was second after chasing the pace throughout as the betting favorite. He might be a great fit here but must question if he can win as he has four seconds in five starts this year.

Instant Replay (Brad Cox, Luan Machado, 4/1) was on the Derby trail for a few minutes as he was third in the Louisiana Derby. He did not move on to Churchill but did win two stake races in a row. He took the Bathhouse Row Stake at Oaklawn on April 19, then came back to win the Texas Derby at Lone Star on May 26. Has the best recent for than the others,

Big Truzz (Brian Lynch, Declan Cannon, 9/2) has three starts and each has been solid. He broke in his debut on April 12 at Keeneland, then came back to run second in a $125,000 optional claimer on the Derby undercard. His last start was in the Grade I Woody Stephans at Saratoga on June 7 where he was third. This field will not be as tough, so take a long look.

Los Alamitos Race Course

The Grade II Great Lady M.

(8th race, 4:30 p.m.)

A field of six runners will battle at 6.5 furlongs for fillies and mares at Los Al.

Kopion (Richard Mandella, Kazushi Kimura) has the best recent form, winning three in a row – either Grade I or Grade II. She ended last year winning the Grade I Le Brea on Dec. 26 at Santa Anita. After taking a month off, she took the Grade II Santa Monica by over four lengths, earning a 110 Beyer. Then after three months off she won the Grade I Derby City Distaff on the Kentucky Derby undercard by three lengths and getting a 109 Beyer.

Sweet Azteca (Richard Baltas, Juan Hernandez) is likely the one to beat provided she is ready. She’s been off since October 5 since she was fourth in the Grade III Chillingworth at Santa Anita. She took this race by five lengths last summer, then came back to win the Grade III Rancho Bernardo. Those two wins were part of a four-race win streak. The works for the return have been consistent and strong.

Barbara T (Michael McCarthy, Hector Berrios) has an interesting career, running one race in 2023, one in 2024, and one so far in 2025. The fact he actually going to run multiple races in 2025 is news worthy.

One Magic Philly (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu) could be a sneaky one here. The one start this year was a third as the favorite in the Skipat Stake at Pimlico on the Preakness undercard. That was the first start off a five-month break, and she stumbled at the start and bumped as well. Now she has a little break and has sizzled in the mornings. D’Amato always brings them ready.

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June 26

There is no right way to approach spending a day wagering on horse racing.

It’s all about personal preference and for me it’s always worked best to focus on one track, with maybe throwing in a graded race or two from around the country.

It’s just made sense to look at one track and play all their races. In my handicapping, a big part is how the track is playing each day and there is no better way than to watch the races and see with your own eyes, is it fast or slow? Can you come from off the pace or does the speed horse run and hide from the rest of the field?

It’s never made sense to me to play 4-5 tracks at one time, seemingly having a bet in a race every two minutes. It’s chaos. But at the same time, I have had friends that are happy being scattered, and at times, it works for them.

How do I find which track I am going to play for the day? I am very provincial and usually will play California tracks like either Del Mar or Santa Anita. I know a lot of people at these two tracks, be it the jockeys, trainers, or owners, I have found it gives me an edge right out of the gate when you have local knowledge.

But there are days when a track has a load of stake races and it makes it fun to change things up a bit. Such is the case this Saturday with Churchill Downs.

Stephan Foster Day at Churchill features six stake races, four of which are graded races. It’s a fantastic day of great racing coming from of America’s most iconic racetracks.

Let’s go through the six stakes and see what horses are the most interesting.

Grade II Fleur De Lis

(7th race, 12:52 p.m. PDT)

This one is fillies or mares, 4-year-olds and up 1-1/8-miles on the main track.

The first stake of the day may be the one that intrigues me most and that all centers on Thorpedo Anna (Kenny McPeek trainer, Brian Hernandez, 3/5). It all centers about seeing if she can recover from her last start. All she had done against the ladies was to win eight straight races (she was second to the boys in the Travers last year) as she headed into the La Troienne on the Kentucky Oaks undercard. She had problems early in the race, then tired and progressively went backwards, finishing seventh beaten by eight lengths. Her other two starts this year were wins by three and four lengths. It will be interesting to see how she bounces back.

Gin Gin (Brendan Walsh, Jose Ortiz, 7/2) is the second choice despite being beaten by the rail horse Royal Spa in her last start, finishing second in the Grade III Shawnee, running second throughout the race. She only has three wins in 11 career starts

but has looked strong this year with a win to go with her place in two starts.

Royal Spa (Rodolphe Brisset, Flavien Prat, 4/1) closed like a monster to take the Shawnee at 13/1. She won her start two back in the mud at Laurel, wiring the field and then came from off the pace in her last.

The $250,000 Tepin

(8th race, 1:25 p.m.)

This one-mile event for 3-year-old fillies on the turf course at Churchill has eight horses set to go.

Lush Lips (Brendan Walsh, Flavien Prat, 9/5) is the morning line choice despite winning one of three starts this year. She fell to Nitrogen twice after winning her two starts before that. With Nitrogen a no go here, it seems natural for her to go here. Her style is usually to be near the lead but in the last start came from off the pace. I think it is a very beatable favorite.

Vixen (Mark Casse, Irad Ortiz, 2/1) was beaten in her last two by Nitrogen, her finishing third behind Nitrogen and Lush Lips in the Grade II Edgewood on the Oaks undercard. She won’t sit far off the pace and will look to make a run at the top of the lane.

Ninth Island (William Calhoun, Brian Hernandez, 15/1) is an interesting one to me at a very good price. The horse has won all three starts on the grass, albeit against weaker fields than

she finds here. Tons of speed, she will be a major pace factor. Could get caught in a duel but if she gets loose …

Something Stronger (Albert Stall, James Graham, 10/1) may be a reach but the last start could give a big sign. The horse finished a well-beaten second in her first two starts, both coming on the main track, she switched the grass for the last start and came out as a winner with a strong close. Now she comes back on the grass and stretches back out. If she gets a good pace to run at, could surprise in the lane.

Grade III Kelly’s Landing

(9th race, 1:58 p.m.)

This is a 6.5-furlong sprint on the main track with some good sprinters in the eight-horse field.

Booth (Steve Asmussen, Erik Asmussen, 2/1) has four wins in a row and is the deserving favorite. Not only has he won four straight, but he has also not been behind at any point of call in all four races. There is some other speed here so there always is the chance of a speed dual, but with three 100-plus Beyer marks in the last four, he may be the speed of the speed.

Dr. Venkman (Mark Glatt, Antonio Fresu, 5/2) is a hard charger from the west coast, making the trip east. He has been first or second six times in seven starts. He has won a sprint and has won a route, so he is a versatile horse. Does not need the lead but wants to be close.

Roll on Big Joe (Robert Hess Jr., Julien Leparoux, 3/1) is another west coast runner but he has not met Dr. Venkman. Three wins in four starts this year including the Grade III Palos Verdes at Santa Anita in February. Has only been in stakes company twice in 17 career starts.

The Grade II Wise Dan

(10th race, 2:31 p.m.)

This is a 1-1-1/16-mile race for 4-year-olds and up on the turf at Churchill and has four horses that locked horns in the Grade III Arlington at Churchill, finishing first-through-fourth.

Mercante (Brian Knippenberg, Joseph Ramos, 5/2) was the winner of the Arlington, his third win in his last four starts. He stalked the pace until the top of the lane, then holding on to win by a neck.

Brilliant Berti (Cherie DeVaux, Brian Hernandez, 3/1) was the beaten favorite that day, setting the pace for most of the race before getting caught and passed by Mercante. It was the first time he had tried to wire the field in 10 career starts, normally coming from off the pace.

Lagynos (Steve Asmussen, Flavien Prat, 6/1) was third, running from near the back of the seven-horse field, then moving late but was unable to get by the two front runners.

Event Detail (William Walden, Irad Ortiz, 8/1) ran pretty even in the Arlington at 20-1. He broke third and ended up fourth finishing less than two lengths back. Worth a look for part of your ticket as should have great value.

Mi Hermano Ramon (Mark Glatt, Antonio Fresu, 9/2) was second in the Shoemaker Mile at Santa Anita on May 26. He is a closer that prefers to move in the lane. He has the one second as his only board appearance in three starts this year.

Fort Washington (Claude McGaughey, Junior Alvardo, 6/1) has won his last two starts, both Grade III races. He looks like he wants to close from the parking lot. Main concern would be that there does not appear to have a ton of speed signed up here.

Grade I Stephen Foster

(11th race, 3:03 p.m.)

This is the big race of the day with a million-dollar purse that has seven horses going to post in this 1-1/8-mile battle.

Sierra Leone (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 5/2) is my favorite horse in training right now, and one of my favorites of all time. Of course, over the last year it also meant a lot of heartbreak. He has never been worse than a third in any of his 10 career starts. To say he will close from the parking lot doesn’t do his justice – he closes from the next town over. He was third in the Derby last year flying home to lose by a nose. He was then third in the Belmont, second in the Jim Dandy and third in the

Travers. That brought him to the Breeders’ Cup Classic where he was 9-plus lengths back midway through before coming home on fire, winning the race by over a length. He went to the shelf until March 22 on this year and was third beaten four-lengths in his return. He was closer early in the race but could only pass two horses in the lane. I can’t wait for this one.

Mystic Dan (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez, 3/1) was the winner of the Derby, holding off Sierra Leone to win at almost 19/1. He did not win a race since, until his last start on May 3 on the Derby undercard. He ran his text-book style race, sitting around the middle of the pack, until turning it on when they turned home. He’s had two great works since for this spot and figures to be a major player.

Mindframe (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 7/2) has won both starts this year and looks loaded. He came from well back and got up to win the Grade I Churchill Downs by a neck on Derby day. The start before – The Gulfstream Mile – he took the lead midway through the race and held for a one length win. Has six career starts with four wins and two places.

First Mission (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 4/1) stationed in Arkansas this year, he won and was third in his two starts. In February he was third in the Grade III Razorback, earning a Beyer of 102 in his first start off a six-month break. He came back in April in the Grade II Oaklawn Handicap, beating a field of eight to the line and got a 109 Beyer. He was fourth in this race last year.

The $250,000 American Derby

(12th race, 3:32 p.m.)

We wrap up the day of stake races with the 1-1/16-mile race on the turf for 3-year-olds, featuring one Derby runner and few that were on the Derby trail.

Tiztastic (Steve Asmussen, Joel Rosario, 5/2) finished 10th in the Derby, 16-lengths back after coming into the race a popular play in tickets. Has been off since then and has had average works for the return.

Reagan’s Wit (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz, 3/1) was not on the Derby trail this year but has won two of four starts. In the $100,000 JW Murphy on Preakness day at Pimlico he took the lead at then top of the lane and then drew off as the favorite. Likes to come from off the pace but only one legit speed horse entered, he may not get the pace he needs.

Freedom’s Not Free (Mark Glatt, Antonio Fresu, 7/2) has been mowing down the grass at Santa Anita, winning his last two in similar fashion, sitting second until taking the lead at the top of the lane. In fact, he has had the lead turning home in the last four starts, winning three of them and finishing fourth in the other.

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June 19

As we start into the summer of horse racing and try to adjust to no live horse racing throughout Northern California, we look across the country for races to Watch and Wager.

This week we checked out three races, from three different tracks on Saturday.

We have a turf race on the east coast, a sprint at Churchill Downs, and a mile test on the west coast. Take a look at all three.

$100,000 Goldwood

(Monmouth Park, 6th race, 12:25 p.m.)

We have a field of eight fillies and mares on the turf here at Monmouth in a 5.5-furlong sprint.

Rosie Jeeks (Chad Brown, Samy Camacho) has one start this year, and it was a winner, May 25 at Monmouth in a $51,000 allowance. She sat right off the pace and wore down the front runner to win by almost two lengths. She has only shown speed in two of her four starts and both times she won the race.

Bel Pensiero (Anthony Margotta, Ramon Mara) won a $25,000 optional claimer at Gulfstream, then came back May 17 at Monmouth in the $90,000 Spruce Fir. Had a nice, four race stretch where he was either first or second, stalking the pace, then moving late. Has won 2-of-3 over the Monmouth turf.

Epona’s Hope (John Servis, Paco Lopez) is a speedster that looks like the horse to beat. Four starts this year have produced three wins and a show. The last start was the first for the barn and she was third in the Grade III Unbridled Sydney. Not a big hidden agenda with this one and once the gate opens, off she goes. Six career starts on the turf have turned out four wins and two shows.

$100,000 Bertrando

(Los Alamitos Race Course, 8th race, 4:30 p.m.)

This race goes one mile at Los Al and is for 3-year-olds and up, with a field of seven to go to post.

Kings River Knight (John Sadler, Juan Hernandez) is the horse to beat here. Five races this year – pretty much all stake races – and has racked up two wins, a second, and a third. No secret strategy as he will get out and go, playing catch me if you can. The last start was the $101,000 Crystal Water Stake where she took the lead early, withstood some pressure turning for home, then drew away and won by three. He has won 11 of 18 career starts.

Mr. Disrespectful (Martin Valenzuela, Hector Berrios) is starting right inside of Kings River Knight and could be the key to this race. Also, a speed burner, he could go out with the favorite and force a pace duel which could set it up for a big

closer. He has a pair of wins, one second, and one third in five starts. Two very nice works for this one.

Royal and Rando (Mike Puype, Kazushi Kimura) might be the best closer in this field, and really that comes from the last race. He was sixth by nine lengths turning for home and he finished third, five lengths back. If that sounds like a lukewarm endorsement, you are correct. You would need a horrible pace meltdown from the two front runners but at only a mile, the should run 1-2.

Grade II Chicago

(Churchill Downs, 9th race, 7:11 p.m.)

Fillies and mares, 4-year-olds and up will go seven furlongs on the main track on their Saturday night card.

Vahava (Cherie De Vaux, Irad Ortiz, 3/1) is the second choice on the morning line. The last eight starts, going back to July of 2023, have all been graded races. The last three starts were Grade I, but they were less than high quality, finishing eighth, then seventh. The last win came a year ago when she won this race as the betting favorite. Overall, she has won four of the five starts at Churchill Downs.

Emery (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 5/2) is the top pick for the morning line and has put together several big races, until the last that is. In the Derby City Distaff, a Grade I race on the Kentucky Derby undercard, she finished fifth, beaten over nine

lengths. Before that she ran seven races where she was first or second. In that span she was third or better at every point of call, with the lone time coming was in a race where she was 4th at the first call before coming back to win this race.

My Mane Squeeze (Michael Maker, Luis Saez, 5/1) two races this year – both graded – and two, third-place finishes. She has been a board-hitting machine with 13 top three finishes in 15 career starts. The two this year was a third in the Grade I Madison at Keeneland in April, then a third in the Grade II Ruffian at Aqueduct on May 10. Looks to prefer to stalk the pace from the middle of the pack. Is also a perfect 2-for-2 over the Churchill.

Claret Beret (Saffie Joseph, Micah Husbands, 6/1) the last race, a starter handicap at Gulfstream Park, was nuts. She broke third, quickly took control and then disappeared, winning by over 19 lengths. The race line “drew off,” is a vast understatement. The connections were so impressed they made the move to her first graded race in 16 starts. Has won five races in her first 15 starts. May be too much here but coule be fun to watch.

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June 12

We are seeing four graded races Saturday with one on the West Coast.

Below see the four races in post-time order!

Grade III Delaware Oaks

(Delaware Park, 9th race, 1:51 p.m.)

This is a 1-1/16-mile for 3-year-old fillies, with a field of nine going to post.

Margie’s Intention (Brad Cox, Luan Machado, 5/2) is the morning-line favorite for one of the best conditioners in the country. She won the Black Eyed Susan in her last start in her first start for the Cox barn. She will stalk the pace, moving at the top of the lane.

Fondly (Graham Motion, Irad Ortiz, 7/2) enters the wagering the second choice. Lightly raced she won her first two starts and had a spot in the Kentucky Oaks. She was close early but went backwards throughout the race, finishing 11th, 19-lengths off the winner. In the two wins, she hung with the front pack and then moved late.

Paris Lily (Brendan Walsh, Joel Rosario, 9/2) completes the top three and was second in the Blak Eyed Susan in her last start. She was the pace setter then got caught in the lane. Should be the pace setter again here but will be facing the horse that ran her down in her last.

Grade III Salvator Mile

(Monmouth Park, 10th race, 1:55 p.m.)

One mile event for horses 3-and-up with a field of nine runners set to go to post. It looks to be a two horse race.

Bishops Bay (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 6/5) looks like the horse to beat here. Four starts this year and has produced three wins and a second. He’s got speed and is not afraid to use it as he has only been lower than first once at any point of call in his last two starts. The last was the Grade III Westchester at Aqueduct in the mud. He broke second, then took the lead and dueled throughout, winning by a half-length. Guts and speed will be a tough combo to beat here.

Tuscan Sky (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 7/2) has the connections that want to make you take a look. He has run in four graded races in a row, but they haven’t been the best efforts. He hit the board once in those four and that came two back where he was third in the Grade III Ghostzapper at Gulfstream. He seems to prefer running in the middle of the pack and try to close late but he has not been able to make that work. His last win came a year ago right here when he easily won a $100,000 stake by wiring the field.

Grade III The Eatontown

(Monmouth Park, 11th race, 2:24 p.m.)

Seven horses are scheduled to go to post for 1-1/16-mile race on the turf chute course for fillies, 3-year-olds and up. Maggie Go (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 8/5) makes her first start in the United States after coming from Argentina and into the barn than wins 32 percent with the first time in the barn. Last year she hit the board in all five of her starts in Argentina and it appears she is full of run at the end of the race.

Ozara (Miguel Clement, Samuel Marin, 7/2) is coming off a win in the $75,000 Monroe at Gulfstream on April 26. Back on Jan. 3 she took a $100,000 optional claimer at Tampa Bay Downs, giving her two wins in three starts this year. Won’t be on the lead but won’t be far off.

Five Towns (Graham Motion, Jorge Ruiz, 3/1) came over from England in February of 2024 and has run well ever since. The latest start was the Distaff Turf Mile on the Kentucky Derby undercard. She was fourth by a length in a blanket finish. She is a closer in a race where they may not be enough speed.

Whiskey Decision (Chad Brown, Samy Camacho, 4/1) makes her first start of the year, as well as first for Chad Brown. Brown’s runners in this spot bookend the field. She saw some good races last year but when she got to graded races, she seemed to struggle.

Grade III Daytona

(Santa Anita, 10th race, 5 p.m.)

This turf sprint is about 6.5 furlongs and is for 3-year-olds and-up. There are eight horses signed up for this one.

Motorious (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 6/5) is making his first start of the year, after finishing his final three races of 2024 with two wins and a place. He ended last year in late December in the Grade II Hernandez. Before then he was second in the BC Turf Sprint, losing by a neck. In other words, if he is ready to run, this is likely his race to lose.

Goliad (Richard Mandella, Mike Smith, 7/2) has not run well in his last two starts – both Grade I races. Always the first out and one who sets the early pace, he had a big 2024 with four wins in seven starts. Then it ended with the BC Mile where he led for the first half before falling back to ninth, beaten six lengths. After sixth months off, he came back May 26 in the Shoemaker Mile at Santa Anita. Once again, he led through the first half, then faded once again and was eighth, beaten five lengths.

The next couple of horses give me some confusion.

Bran (John Sadler, Umberto Rispoli, 9/2) came off a long break to run second in the $98,000 Siren Lure as the favorite. In 2024, he had one start, and he won a $100,000 optional claimer but went to the shelf. In the Lure he led then got caught late to fall by a half-length. The last work was a strong one for this.

The problem I have is you are getting 9/2 on him, while Lovesick Blues (Librado Barocio, Giovanni Franco, 10/1) gets you twice the value and was the horse that won the Siren Lure, as the

second favorite. He has three starts this year and hit the board three times. On the Santa Anita turf he hit the board 10-of-14 starts over the SA turf. This is a much better value play.

Stay Hot (Peter Eurton, Juan Hernandez, 6/1) is making his debut this year after a six-month break and if he is ready, it could be worth a look. Last year he was first or second in eight races. He has also won three of six career starts on the grass at SA.

June 5

When the Belmont Stakes rolls around each year there are usually two reactions. 

One – there is the chance for a Triple Crown winner and the level of excitement is off the charts to see if the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner can take all three of the Triple Crown races. 

Or two, there is no chance for a Triple Crown, meaning the Derby winner did not win the Preakness, leaving the horse racing world a bit subdued when the race goes off. 

This year we have a third option. 

The Derby was a sensational race with Sovereignty holding off the charging Journalism for the win. As exciting as the race was, the enthusiasm waned when the Sovereignty connections decided not to run in the Preakness, thus ending any chance at a Triple Crown before the race was even run. 

Then a funny thing happened. 

The Preakness was run, and it turned out to be one the most exciting Triple Crown races when Journalism turned in one of the most intense stretch runs, going from a seemingly blocked out run, to getting through a non-existent hole by sheer will to win the race. 

It wowed not just the horse racing world, but the entire sporting world. 

Now three weeks later, we’ve got Derby winning Sovereignty running, taking on Preakness winning Journalism, and throwing in the rest of the field, we have the recipe for one heck of a classic finale. 

Rodriguez, who scratched late for the Derby, Baeza – the third horse from the Derby, and Crudo – an emerging superstar – all are signed up for the Belmont. 

Overall, there are eight graded stake races on Saturday. And as we have for the Derby and the Preakness, we will have a Belmont Day free handicapping contest at the Pleasanton OTB. 

The contest is simple – and once again FREE – you just a winner in each stake race, with the winners getting cash vouchers! 

The contest starts with the running of a stake – the 6^th race, the Wonder Again – at 10:55 a.m. 

Here are the eight graded races on Belmont day. 

Grade II The Wonder Again 

(6^th race, 1-1/16-miles, turf, 10:55 a.m. PDT) 

This one is for 3-year-old fillies on the inner turf course. 

Nitrogen (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 1/1) is sitting on four straight wins, with three of them coming in graded races. The last came on the Kentucky Oaks undercard in the Grade II Edgewood where she stalked the pace, took the lead at the top of the lane, then pulled away in the lane, winning by over three lengths. Has had two good works since then and is well deserving of the even-money status. 

May Day Ready (Joseph Lee, Frankie Dettori, 9/2) had four great starts in the United States last year with three wins and a place before shipping to Japan. Once there, in a Grade I last December, she was 13^th, losing by over eight lengths. She has had a series of consistent works for the return but we will to see if she can return to form. At her best she is right there but that needs to be seen before I can commit. 

Laurelin (Graham Motion, Kendrick Carmouche, 5/1) has known nothing but winning as she has run three times and won each start. Certainly, the toughest race she has seen but when all you do is win, you deserve a look. 

Grade III The True North 

(7^th race, 6.5 furlongs, 11:37 a.m.) 

A shootout on the main track for 4-year-olds and up, with nine going to post. 

Mullikin (Rodolphe Brisset, Flavien Prat, 2/1) is the morning line favorite in a wide-open race.  Has only start this year after winning four of six last year. He was fifth in the slop after taking the lead at the top of the lane. That was the Grade I Churchill Downs on the Derby undercard. The works for this have been decent for this one. Expect him to be on or near the lead. 

Book’em Danno (Derek Ryan, Paco Lopez, 5/2) is a closer that should get a strong pace to run at. He has won seven of his 12 starts at the distance. He won the Woody Stephens last year over the track and then was third over the track in the Jerkins last August. 

Nakatoni (Wesley Ward, Irad Ortiz, 4/1) when last seen was in the UAE, running second by a neck in the Golden Shaheen. That is the only start this year. Has been back in plenty of time to get rest from the trip. He has had two blowout works to prep for here. He can run up front and from off the pace and will take what is given to him. 

Concrete Glory (Saffie Joseph, Luis Saez, 8/1) is a speed burner breaking from the rail so he will go when the gate opens. Largely an runner in optional claimers, he has won 15 times in 36 career starts. In the last one he got decently bet but didn’t get out of the gate in the Maryland Sprint. He’s come back with two big works and could be the value play in this race. 

Grade I The Metropolitan Handicap 

(8^th race, One-mile, main track, 12:17 p.m.) 

The Met Mile only draws a field of five as the inside two horses are loaded and come with no value, and justifiably as well. Two of the biggest names in racing – Fierceness and White Abarrio have never faced off until this race. 

Fierceness (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 1/1) has three wins and a second since the disappointing Kentucky Derby run in 2024. He won the Jim Dandy and the Travers last year, then got run down later by Sierra Leone in the Breeders’ Cup Classic in November. After six months on the shelf, he came back in the Grade II Alysheba the day before the Derby and was more than a length clear for the win, wrapping up a 107 Beyer. Three drills over the track have all been decent. He sits near the pace then starts to move halfway through the race. 

White Abarrio (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 9/5) has taken two in a row and both were comfortable. He took the Pegasus World Cup Invitational by over six lengths in January at Gulfstream. He then won the Grade III Ghostzapper on March 29, also at Gulfstream, by over five lengths. He has the same running style as Fierceness, and it would be no surprise to see the two inside horses running together through the race until they sort it out in the lane. 

Raging Torrent (Doug O’Neill, Frankie Dettori, 5/1) is the runner I would probably play if I thought I could beat the top two. The west coast runner has won four of his last five starts, with the lone blemish being a seventh in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint back in November. He has run and won twice since then, taking the Grade I Malibu and the Grade II Godolphin in UAE in April. Also has the same running style as the top two. 

Grade I The Jaipur 

(9^th race, 5.5 furlongs, turf, 1:08 p.m.) 

Think Big (Michael Stidham, Ben Curtis, 6/5) is the heavy favorite and has won four of his last five starts, including three consecutive. Three back it was an $50,000 optional claimer claimer at the Fair Grounds, followed by the Grade II Sharktown at Keeneland, then the Grade II Turf Sprint on the Derby undercard at Churchill Downs. The last two were closes from mid-pack, with the others being a deeper close. There at least four speedsters signed up here for him to chase. 

Ag Bullet (Richard Baltas, Flavien Prat, 7/2) is the second choice and is one of the front runners that will try to run and hide. The mare came off a five month break and laid an egg, finishing seventh in the Grade III Unbridled Sydney S. on Kentucky Oaks day. Obviously in this case he needed a start and I expect the speed to hold here. 

Our Shot (John Terranova, Luis Saez, 8/1) was fourth behind Think Big in the Sharktown, his last start. Has two starts this year and has been out of the money in both. 

Arzak (Michael Trombetta, Irad Ortiz, 8/1) is the final single-digit morning line entry. He was seventh in the Sharktown, his lone start of the year. He won one out of seven starts last year. 

Grade III The Pennine Ridge 

(10^th race, 1-1/16-mile, turf, 1:47 p.m.) 

There are 10 horses set here in the turf race for 3-year-olds. 

Zulu Kingdom (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 6/5) is the heavy favorite and he won 5-of-6 races in his career, including both starts this year. The last start was the Grade I American Turf on the day of the Derby, using his preferred style of sitting not far off the pace, then pouncing down the lane.  

Flying Mohawk (Whitworth Beckman, Frankie Dettori, 9/2) is the second choice and was last seen on the main track at Churchill Downs when he was 18^th of 19 starters in the Kentucky Derby, He snuck into the Derby with a third-place finish in the Jeff Ruby Steak. 

States’ Rights (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz, 6/1) will be running in his first stake race and has just one win in six career starts. Has two starts this year and has run second twice. One of the races, he was second to Flying Mohawk in a $100,000 optional claimer. 

If you are looking for a value play, try A.P. Kid (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 10/1) started Feb. 15 in a straight maiden race on the dirt and finished sixth, beaten 30 lengths. He came back five weeks later, switched to turf and won as the favorite. A big step up here but given the connections and the big works for this race sure look good. 

Grade I The Woody Stephens 

(11^th race, 7 furlongs, main track, 2:28 p.m.) 

This sprint is for 3-year-olds, many of which were in the Kentucky Derby trail, or actually ran in the Derby. 

Chancer McPatrick (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 4/1) runs at 7 furlongs for the second time and that was in the Grade I Hopeful at Saratoga in September of 2024. He was second in the Tampa Bay Derby and sixth in the Bluegrass, keeping him out of the Derby. It looks like he is more comfortable in a sprint. 

Citizen Bull (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith, 5/1) ran in the Derby, breaking out quickly then moving steadily backwards the rest of the race, finishing 15^th, 33 lengths off the winner. Has run at the distance last September and was third. Has put in some strong mornings for this spot. He was the top 2-year-old last year after winning the BC Juvenile. 

Patch Adams (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 5/1) was a favorite of mine heading into the Derby preps but a fourth Southwest and a fourth in the Tampa Bay Derby put an end to any Derby thoughts. He’s had more success in the sprints and this is the distance he’s going to make a living at. On Derby day he won a $125,000 optional claimer on the undercard by over two lengths. 

Colloquial (George Weaver, Manny Franco, 6/1) scratched out Thursday morning. 

Neoequos (Saffie Joseph, Jose Ortiz, 8/1) got into the Derby by running third in the Fountain of Youth and the Florida. In the Derby he had a lot of problems and was 13^th, beaten by 27 lengths. His first five starts were sprints, and he had two wins and two seconds. This guy will fight for the lead. 

Macho Music (Rohan Crichton, Javier Castellano, 8/1) pulled off the shocker on Derby Day, taking the Pat Day Mile at 14/1, beating some entered here. A speed-favoring runner, he had juice left at the end of the last one and should be a contender here. 

Grade I The Manhattan 

(12^th race, 1-3/16-miles, turf, 3:09 p.m.) 

This one goes nearly 1.5 miles on the turf for a purse of $1 million, with nine runners entering. 

Spirit of St. Louis (Chad Brown, Manny Franco, 5/2) has won two Grade 1 races this year, taking the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational, then Turf Classic at Churchill Downs on the day of the Kentucky Derby. He has a win and two seconds over the turf at Saratoga. He has 11 wins in 16 career starts. 

Far Bridge (Miguel Clement, Joel Rosario, 3/1) has won four of his last five starts, all graded races. The one disappointment was a ninth in the BC Turf where had problems throughout. The other four were wins in the Sword Dancer at Saratoga, the Turf Classic at Aqueduct, the Grade II I Pan American, and a win in the Grade II Man O’War at Aqueduct on May 10. He can sit close, or he can close from the parking lot.  

Integration (Claude McGaughey, Flavien Prat, 9/2) was seventh in the Turf Classic at Churchill on Derby, running into traffic, blanket finish. He had two seconds and a win in the three races before the most recent. There a few of the runners back for here from the Turf Classic and with a chance of another congested finish I expect him to move sooner. 

Deterministic (Miguel Clement, Kendrick Carmouche, 9/2) is the stablemate of Far Bridge but can stand on his own has he has been no worse than second in his last five races. A tougher field for sure but he will be out quick and try to hold off the closers. 

Grade I The Belmont Stakes 

(13^th race, 1-1/4-miles, main track, 4:04 p.m.) 

It is easy to get caught up in Sovereignty vs. Journalism race and it could very easily be those two at the end but I think there are good choices to look for value. 

Let’s go through the field in post-position order. 

1. Hill Road (Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz, 10/1) was third in the BC Juvenile last year, third in Tampa Bay Derby, then was the winner of the Peter Pan May 10 at Aqueduct, even with a stumble at the start.  A closer who will have some pace to run at, I think it’s too much to outkick the top two, as well as Baeza, 

2. Sovereignty (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 2/1) the connections decided to skip the Preakness following the Derby win so there should be no question as to his fitness. He has won two of three losses this year, with the defeat coming in the Florida Derby where he was second to Tappan Street. Will be sitting in striking distance when they enter the final turn. 

3. Rodriguez (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith, 6/1) is one of the speed horses and will look for a repeat of the Wood Memorial where he broke first and never looked back, winning the race and earning him a spot in the Derby. Was a late scratch in Kentucky and now the connections look to validate him being considered one of the top 3-year-olds. 

4. Uncaged (Todd Pletcher, Luis Saez, 30/1) was a badly beaten sixth in the Peter Pan and doesn’t figure to be factor here. 

5. Crudo (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 15/1) will likely get a few of my win dollars, as well as a spot on my ticket. Stumbled in his debut and was fourth on February 8. He came back and broke by over seven lengths on April 8 at Keeneland. Jumped to stake company on Preakness Day in the Sir Barton and wired the field for another seven-length win. A huge jump up the competition level but the connections would not him there unless they planned on him being ready. 

6. Baeza (John Shirreffs, Flavien Prat, 4/1) is going to get a lot of play following the big close in the Derby to run third. He was closing ground on Journalism in the final strides. He seems to be improving with every start and has only been off the board in his debut. 

7) Journalism (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli, 8/5) is actually the morning line favorite even though he lost to Sovereignty when they last met. The stretch run to win the Preakness was one of the most exciting I have seen in 50-plus years of racing. My question/concern is a big one. The Derby and the Preakness were two of the most physically draining races I’ve seen and now we expect him to come back here for the longest of the three classics. By all accounts he came out of the Preakness in good condition and has looked great in the mornings, I just think it’s too much to ask If he does get it done here, he will be a super horse. 

 
8) Heart of Honor (Jamie Osborne, Saffie Osborne, 30/1) ran better than I thought he would in the Preakness, coming over from the UAE.  Showed some guts to rally late in the Preakness following a slow start. If he’s going to close here, he will have to be better than some of the best in the sport. 

May 29

Churchill Downs jumps back into the spotlight this weekend with five graded stake races, including the Grade III Blame, featuring 2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystic Dan.

The graded races at Churchill Downs in order.

Grade III Aristides

(6th race, 12:18 p.m. PDT)

It’s a 6-furlong sprint featuring a heavy but potentially beatable favorite.

Skelly (Steve Asmussen, Ricardo Santana, 7/5) has run twice this year and has won both starts – easily. In a $62,500 optional claimer at Oaklawn he won by over five lengths and got a 107 Beyer.

On May 2 he came back at Oaklawn in the $200,000 Lake Hamilton and won by over 10 lengths, this time getting a 110 Beyer. Looks pretty open a shut, doesn’t it?

Signs for hope – he is 1-for-4 over the Churchill main track. There is little doubt where he will be when the gates open – off and in the lead.

There is plenty of speed signed on for this race so finding the closer may be the key to picking your winner.

Happy Is a Choice (John Ortiz, Reylu Gutierrez, 6/1) looks to be the best closer. He has come from off the pace is most of his races and this certainly figures to be a quick race. The concerns

are that he is 0-for-3 this year with a second and a third as he hasn’t been able to catch the leaders.

World Record (Rodolphe Brisset, Flavien Prat, 3/1) looks to be biggest rivalry to Skelly and is coming off a $100,000 optional claimer where he toyed with the field I his first start in almost five months. The race came May 1 over the Churchill main track, earning a 100 Beyer.

If it’s a dry, fast track, take a long look at Giant Mischief (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz, 4/1). Last time out he was in the Grade I Churchill Downs on the Derby undercard and after starting well, went backwards, finishing ninth. The track was sloppy that day and he is 0-for-2 on wet tracks. If it is fast, and on the dirt, we have a game as he has won five of nine starts on a fast track. He has a lot of speed and has also shown he can chase the leaders as well.

Grade III Shawnee

(8th race, 1:23 p.m.)

This is a 1-1/16-mile test on the main track for fillies and mares 4-year-olds and up.

Where’s My Ring (Peter Miller, Luis Saez, 5/2) is the morning-line favorite. Two back on March 15 at Oaklawn he took a $35,000 optional claimer by over 12 lengths, getting a 101 Beyer in the process. A month later she came back in the Grade I Apple Blossom at Oaklawn and was a solid third to Thorpedo

Anna. Can set the pace or come from off so not as concerned about the rail draw as I could be.

Gin Gin (Brendan Walsh, Jose Ortiz, 7/2) is coming off a front running effort at Keeneland in a Grade III race where he was 38/1. Before that he has not won a race since Jan. 13 of 2024. Was on the Kentucky Oaks trail last year but was 12th by 38 lengths in the Oaks. Might be getting too much credit for the last win.

Free Like a Girl (Chasey Pomier, Julien Leparoux, 4/1) had a bit of trouble last out, finishing fifth in the La Trione on the Oaks undercard. Before then she has three second-place finishes in a row. Included were seconds in the Apple Blossom and Azeri to Thorpedo Anna.

Grade III Arlington

(9th race, 1:55 p.m.)

The horses to beat in this 1-1/16-mile event for 4-year-olds and up are the two outside horses in this nine-horse field.

Mercante (Brian Knippenberg, Joseph Ramos, 3/1) is the favorite and comes off a pair 101 Beyers, the only such horse to have achieved that in the field.

Two back was the Kentucky Club Classic where he won by a length on the synthetic surface at Kentucky Downs. Then, on the Derby undercard he was second in the Grade I Turf Classic,

taking the lead at the top of the lane only to finish by less than a length.

Brilliant Berti (Cherie DeVaux, Brian Hernandez, 7/2) is coming off an opening day stake win at Churchill as the favorite. Overall, he has won all four of his races on the turf at Churchill. He has also won nine-of-six overall on the turf. He comes from well back and there should be enough speed here to give him some pace to run at.

Grade III Blame

(10th race, 2:27 p.m.) This 1-1/16-mile event for 4-year-olds and up highlights the return of Mystik Dan to the scene of his biggest moment when he won the 2024 Kentucky Derby at almost 19/1.

Mystik Dan (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez, 4/1) has two starts this year. He was ninth, beaten over 20-lengths in the Pegasus World Cup in late January and he promptly went to the bench. He came back on May 3 at Oaklawn Park – his home track – and was second in a $200,000 stake, earning a 101 Beyer. He has had two nice works since then and comes back to Churchill, a track he has won two of three.

Post Time (Brittany Russell, Sheldon Russell, 3/1) is a horse that always runs in the money. He has run 16 career races and never finished worse than third. A big closer, he has earned four, 100-plus Beyer marks. He has one start this year, coming

off a five month break to win a $55,000 and came from well back at the start to winning by over 13 lengths. He will get the pace up front to set up his close.

Most Wanted (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 7/2) has run four straight graded races, winning once and running second the other three times. The two starts this year have been the Alysheba and the New Orleans Classic, running second in both, earning a 102, then a 105 Beyer. Wants the lead or to be right there. Will be an important part of the pace structure.

Banishing (David Jacobson, Flavien Prat, 9/2) might be the best value play of the top four. Usually up near the lead, he had a horrible start in the Grade I Churchill Downs on the Derby undercard, he found himself 11th and 10th at the first two calls. Came on big as the race went on and he dead heated for second, just a neck back.

Katonah (Doug O’Neill, Gerardo Corrales, 20/1) is listed here as he was the winner of the Pleasanton Mile in July of 2023, nothing else.

Grade III Regret

(11th race, 2:58 p.m.

We ended the graded stakes run with 1-1/8-mile run on the turf for 3-year-old fillies.

Classic Q (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 5/2) is your morning line favorite. She has two wins in four starts this year, including his last start, a mile allowance race over the Churchill turf. She

came from mid-pack that day, after a pair of races where she never fired. I think she is a very beatable favorite.

Lush Lips (Brendan Walsh, Flavien Prat, 3/1) has been a demon the last four starts with a pair of wins followed by a pair of second place finishes. Two back she was second in the Grade II Florida Oaks, then in the Edgewood on the undercard of the Kentucky Oaks she was second again, three lengths back. She has shown the ability to be on the pace, or to close.

Fionn (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 4/1) has been on the board five career starts, including the three starts this year. In the last start she was third in the Grade II Appalachian at Keeneland in early April. Before then she ran off three wins.

May 22

It’s Memorial Day weekend, meaning most of the big tracks will be running, and in most cases, will feature pretty good cards.

Santa Anita features three graded races on its Monday holiday card. Let’s get to racing.

The three races are the Grade I Gamely, Grade II Hollywood Gold Cup and Grade I Shoemaker.

Let’s take a look at the three Monday races.

The Gamely (Grade I)

(Santa Anita, 7th race, 4 p.m.)

There are some interesting runners in this 1-1/8-mile test on the turf for fillies and mares.

Lady Claypoole (Richard Baltas, TJ Pereira) had been making her living in optional claimers on the Southern California circuit and doing quite well. Made the jump to stake company in the last start and came through with a win in the Grade III Santa Ana on March 15 at 11/1. She took some time off after that and had a number of nice works for this spot. Another jump? Sure, but there’s a lot to like here at what could be good value.

Alpha Bella (John Sadler, Juan Hernandez) has three graded stakes to her resume this year, with a pair of second place finishes to her credit. Her last race, the Grade III Wilshire on March 29, was her best effort. She stalked the pace and ended

closing within a length to finish second, her fourth runner-up in the last five starts – all graded races.

No Show Sammy Jo (Graham Motion, Flavien Prat) came back after being on the shelf for over five months into a Grade I – the Jenny Willey. She was seventh that day and never got going. A closer, she charged to three wins and a second last year. She still earned a 93 Beyer and she obviously needed a start. Might be a good play if you can get some value.

Liguria (Umberto Rispoli, Michael McCarthy) are the winning Preakness connections and had a 94 Beyer in last start when she won the Grade II Buena Vista March 1 at Santa Anita. She prefers to run at the back or close to it, then make the charge late. There is not much speed here so, it will be interesting to see the splits. If she gets a quick race, it will play to her strength.

Be Your Best (Saffie Joseph, Irad Otriz) could be the lone speed so could get an easy lead, run away, and hide from the field. In her last race – the Willey – she was pushing the pace before fading late. In was the first start in four months so should be better here.

The Hollywood Gold Cup (Grade II)

(Santa Anita, 8th race, 4:30 p.m.)

The 1-1/4-mile race has long been a major race that came to fruition in the Hollywood Park days.

Extensive (Flavien Prat, Michael McCarthy) is taking a huge step up in class but is coming off a pair of big-time performances. Two back she broke maiden by over three lengths turning a tight one in the lane into a blowout. Next up was a $50,000 optional claimer and he blew doors again, also winning by over three lengths and earning a 99 Beyer in the process.

Skippylongstocking (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz) has three Beyer marks of 100 or more while the rest of the field combines for zero. Also has $3.5 million in career earnings while no other horse in the field has $1 million. The 6-year-old is still full of gas in the three starts this year have produced a win and two thirds. The last start was third in the Grade II Oaklawn Handicap where he was third after setting the pace for the first half of the race. Has had a brief freshening and a consistent work tab for this race. Will have company on the front end.

Il Bellator (Jose Bautista, Giovanni Franco) gets mentioned by virtue of running fifth in the Pleasanton Mile last July at the Alameda County Fair. Other than that, the horse is over-matched in this spot.

The Shoemaker Mile (Grade I)

(Santa Anita, 9th race, 5 p.m.)

One mile, on the turf, named after the legend. It’s an interesting race as there are some horses coming off long-layoffs against those that have started recently.

Seal Team (Richard Mandella, Juan Hernandez) has been off since February 1, ending with a three-race stretch where he earned 98-99-98 Beyer marks. The last start was the Grade III Thunder Road where he was second by three lengths. He could be a threat as he should see the pace he would need from the front runners.

One of the early speed horses nshould be his stablemate Goliad (Mandella, Mike Smith) who has been off since Nov. 2 and the Breeders’ Cup Mile. That day he set the pace as normal but fell apart, going from the lead midrace to finishing ninth. At his best he will be the one to catch and at his worst, we will still guarantee a fast pace.

Cabo Spirit (George Papaprodromou, Frankie Dettori) is another speed merchant that was last seen wiring the field April 20 in the Grade III American. He only has one win in three starts this year but count on him to be out fast.

Atitlan (John Shirreffs, Antonio Fresu) has won two consecutive stake races in the Whittingham and the San Luis Rey but with a different pilot. I don’t think it’s drop-off as he does have 97 and 94 Beyers in his resume. Doesn’t want the lead but wants to be close.

Seminole Chief (Jack Sisterson, Irad Ortiz) ships out from Florida where he won his last two starts. The last came March 29 where he won the $250,000 Appleton with a gallant run down the lane. He has shown the ability to take what he is given, setting the pace or coming from behind.

King of Gosford (Phil D’Amato, Flavien Prat) has been either first or second the last four starts, running second in his most recent effort – the Grade III American. Versatile as two back he wired the field, then two before that he came from off the pace. He was the beaten favorite in the last start.

Formidable Man (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli) is coming off arguably the most impressive last race where he closed with a flourish, taking the Grade I Kilroe on March 1. He’s got a smart work tab heading into the race and should be a player.

May 16 (Be Sure to Read May 15 Too!)

It’s not often the Kentucky Derby winner does not run in the Preakness Stakes, thus eliminating any chance of a Triple Crown occurring, but that’s the scenario we face this year.

Sovereignty, who outkicked Journalism to the wire to win the Derby, is by passing the Preakness because of “long-term interests” of the horse.

Journalism (2nd), Sandman (7th), and American Promise (16th) ran in the Derby and are scheduled to compete Saturday in the Preakness. The race is the 13th on the Pimlico card, is set for a 4:01 p.m. PDT post.

While history shows that the Derby winner rarely has skipped the Preakness, recently there was a three-year stretch where the Preakness was run without the Derby winner.

Rich Strike, the 2022 winner, was held out of the race. In 2021 Medina Spirit did not run and was eventually DQ’d from the Derby. In 2020, neither Country House who was put up for the win when Maximum Security was taken down by the stewards for a foul, ran in the Preakness.

Before then, there was a pair of winners in the 1980’s that skipped the Preakness.

Here is the field in post-position order.

1. Goal Oriented (Bob Baffert, Flavien Prat, 6/1) might turn out to be the wise guy horse as he comes out of Baffert’s barn and has won his first two. The debut came in straight maiden company on April 6 at Santa Anita, with the second coming on the Derby undercard, scoring a win in the mud in a $125,000 optional claimer. In the first he came off the pace and in the second, he wired the field. Nice work since winning.

2. Journalism (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli, 8/5) everything that could get in the way in the Derby did and he still ran second. Was a little surprised to see him wheel back but if the connections are confident, then so am I. Was my choice in the Derby and will be again here as he should get back to his winning ways. Great post and a smaller field add up to a win!

3. American Promise (D Wayne Lukas, Nik Juarez, 15/1) has a grand total of two wins in 10 starts in his career and is coming off a 16th place finish in the Derby. He was 38 lengths back what turned out to be glorified jog. He likes to get out and run so it could be a big part of the pace factor.

4. Heart of Honor (Jamie Osborne, Saffie Osborne, 12/1) was the second-place finisher in the UAE Derby and now ships for his first start in America. He has never been worse than second in all six starts but not a lot is known about this runner.

5. Pay Billy (Michael Gorham, Raul Mena, 20/1) one of two horses saddled with a 20/1 morning line. He has been on a roll

at Laurel this year, winning four back, and then running second in the next three starts. Obviously, this is the biggest race he has seen but likes to get out early and expect him to be on or near the pace.

6. River Thames (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 9/2) lost by a nose to Sovereignty in the Fountain of Youth back in early March and then was third in the Arkansas Derby. Scratched out of the Kentucky Derby and figures to be one of the major contenders here. Has never been worse than third at any point of call in all four of his races. Loves to sit close throughout and move when they hit the stretch.

7. Sandman (Mark Casse, John Velazquez, 4/1) was a big disappointment in Kentucky as he finished seventh, 12 lengths back. Made it to Kentucky via the Arkansas prep races. He was second in the Southwest, third in the Rebel, then won the Arkansas Derby with a strong close. He suffered a bumping incident in Kentucky and should get a better trip here. He should find enough speed here to set up his deep close.

8. Clever Again (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz, 5/1) had his debut in April of 2024 then went to the bench for almost a year. Came back in mid-February with a win in a straight maiden race, then followed in March with a four-length win in the Hot Springs at Oaklawn, earning a 101 Beyer. Could be a real good one and certainly bears watching the tote.

9. Gosger (Brendan Walsh, Luis Saez, 20/1) has won two consecutive races but is not getting much love here. Blasted down the lane to win the Lexington, but that wasn’t enough points to get him close to the Derby. Lightly raced with only three starts so, we will find out a lot about the horse here. Nice work for this one. My guess is we will hear more about this one later this year.

Who wins?

I apologize for giving you the chalk, but this has to be Journalism’s race to lose. Like I said above he had a ton of trouble in the Derby and still ran second. This time there are only nine horses in the race so way less chance for trouble. There is rain in the forecast for Saturday at this point, but he showed the slop was not a problem.

I see Journalism getting the perfect trip and with no Sovereignty to worry about in the lane, he will win the race.

Exotics wise, I am considering using him over a few horses Goal Oriented, River Thames, Sandman, and Clever Again, but the payoffs will be low enough as with only nine horses you can out Journalism over the field.

I may play some win wagers on some of the higher priced runners within the last couple minutes before the race based on their odds.

May 15

The Black-Eyed Susan, the big filly stake for 3-year-olds on the day before the Preakness Stakes is set to go Friday at Pimlico in Baltimore.

The race is the 13th on the Pimlico card and is set to go with nine horses in a 2:44 p.m. PDT post.

The big difference between the three filly races that accompany the Triple Crown races is rarely do horses make the effort to run in all three of the races.

In fact, none of the nine starters here ran in the Kentucky Oaks. There is one horse – Princess Aliyah – that started on Oaks’ day in the Eight Belles.

Here are the nine horses in post-position order.

1. Liam in the Dust (Rodolphe Brisset, John Velazquez, 6/1) is not bringing a big resume into this one with one win in seven career starts. She has run twice this year, finishing second once. After a three-month break, she came back for the Busher at Aqueduct in March and was eighth and last, beaten 23-lengths. A month later she came back in a $125,000 optional claimer at Keeneland, and she was second after chasing the pace around the track. Certainly not the toughest field, but I think a notch below the rest.

2. Princess Aliyah (D Wayne Lukas, Nik Juarez, 15/1) did run on Oaks’ day and was 10th, beating one horse in the Eight Belles, never really running a lick that day. Has hit the board four times in eight career starts, with two wins and two thirds.

3. Margie’s Intention (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 3/1) has run all five career starts at the Fair Grounds. Has run well in a pair of Louisiana-bred $100,000 stakes, running second both times Those two followed two straight wins – a maiden and an allowance. Doesn’t need the lead but does like to be near it. 4. Runnin N Gunnin (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz, 5/2) was third in the Grade II Fantasy at Oaklawn after a horrible break. She did come back but could never get close to the top two, finishing over nine lengths off the pace. Does prefer to come from off the pace and she has won three of seven starts.

5. Kinzie Queen (Greg Compton, Junior Alvarado, 10/1) was fifth in the Fantasy but came back with a win in a conditional $200,000 optional claimer. I am very concerned about the two wins in 11 careers starts and will look elsewhere.

6. Paris Lilly (Brendan Walsh, Joel Rosario, 8/1) has a win and a place in two starts this year but they have been a notch or two below what she will see here. The two starts this year have been in $100,000 optional claimers, the first at the Fair Grounds, then at Keeneland. Could be good here but we will have to see.

7. Reply (Brittany Russell, Irad Ortiz, 8/1) is lightly raced with only two starts, the last of which was a second in the $150,000 Weber City Miss S Black at Laurel. That came April 19, so she should be ready here with a pair of good works. Brittany Russell was only the fourth female trainer to win the most races in a year in Maryland. Reply bumped early in the last start and rallied like a champion coming up just short. Stepping up but might be ready to score at a nine price.

8. Amarth (Eddie Kenneally, Luis Saez, 4/1) last start was the Grade I Ashland where she was a non-threatening fifth. Two back, she was second, getting caught late in the Busher, where she easily beat the inside horse. Appears to like the stalking trip and in the field of nine, she will be comfortable.

9. Moon Cache (Michael Gorham, Raul Mena) was third in the Weber City, a race where she suffered a bobble and a bump. I think she’s comparable to Reply but is getting a lot less respect. Could be a thought as part of your ticket.

Stay tuned for more updates.

May 8

Before we get into this week’s highlighted races, let’s take a look back at Kentucky Derby weekend.

It was an exciting race, with Sovereignty getting the win over Journalism.

It is a bummer that Sovereignty is skipping the Preakness, but you must trust the connections to do what is best for the horse.

Every person involved in horse racing at all levels wants nothing more than to win a Triple Crown so if a horse is not running, it’s for good reason.

It also raises the annual question – is it time to increase the time between the Triple Crown races. I think the timing that would make the most sense is the Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May, the Preakness on the first Saturday in June, and the Belmont the first Saturday in July.

I opposed this move for years but the way horses are running less now, it seems the only solution to get bigger fields that may more horses run in all three races.

The one thing we would lose is all the historical perspective on past Triple Crowns. Instead of three races in five weeks, we would be looking at three races over two months, with a month between each race.

The perfect situation – no – but we might be able avoid the disappointment of no possible Triple Crown within a couple days of the Derby.

Locally it was awesome to see the Pleasanton OTB crowded with a great vibe again. By 9 a.m. most of the seats in the main room were taken.

Not what it used to be like when if you weren’t in the building by 9 a.m., you were not getting a seat, but it was a far cry from where it has been recently, hardly an exciting day.

Our free handicapping contest was also a success, growing from 19 last year to 32 this year. Two people tied for first place, and it went to the fifth tiebreaker before we could declare a winner.

The gap week between the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness is usually a bit lite on the national stakes scene but there is a good day of racing at the Belmont at Big A on Saturday.

It’s another racing day at Aqueduct as the track continues to cover for Belmont as the track is still facing ongoing renovations.

There are four graded stakes races on the day with a pair of grade two races and two grade three events.

This week we look at the two Grade II races – the Man O’War and the Ruffian.

Man O’War

(2nd race, 10:47 a.m. PDT, 1-3/8 miles on turf)

Only five horses are going to post in this marathon on the grass at Belmont.

There is a heavy favorite in this one in Far Bridge (Christophe Clement, Joel Rosario, 3/5). He has won three of his last four, and 7-of-15 career starts on the lawn.

The last start – his first of the year and coming off an almost five-month break – was a win in the Grade III Pan America at Gulfstream on March 29.

The horse loves to sit off the pace and start to move as they get to the last turn.

Ruffian

(10th race. 3:16 p.m., One mile on main track)

There are 11 set to go to post here in what is shaping up as a wide-open race.

The morning line favorite is My Mane Squeeze (Michael Maker, Manny Franco, 7/2) is coming off a third in the Madison at Keeneland on April 8, her first start since Oct. 19. She ran even but in the middle of the pack, never able to gain much ground. Now in the second start off the break she should be in better race shape.

Sterling Silver (Bill Mott, Javier Castellano, 9/2) is coming off a $112k stake win on April 6 over the track in muddy conditions. A bit of a step up here but after the last effort, it should be a

smooth transition. If it’s a wet track, take a long look as she has won three-of-seven starts on an off-track.

Jody’s Pride (Jorge Abreu, Joel Rosario, 5/1) is the third choice and coming off a disappointing fifth in the Grade II Azeri at Oaklawn Park on March 8. Has not won a race in over a year now and has only hit the board once in her last three races.

Finding a value play here may be the best option. Take a look at Catherine Wheel (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 8/1) looks like a tasty option. The horse is stepping up but has been in the money in all of seven starts.

May 2

Expect anything Saturday in the 151^st running of the Kentucky Derby.

This could be the deepest field I have seen in the Derby in some time. I usually start from the bottom and eliminate 4-6 horses I feel have no chance to win the race.

This year as I started through that, it was hard for me to just throw the horse out. I found that while a lot of the runners would need everything to go right to have a shot at winning, I could put together a scenario where that happens.

Even with some of the longshot horses, I am seeing myself creating scenarios they could be the next Mind That Bird or Rich Strike.

The toughest part of handicapping the Derby each year is factoring in the variables in the Derby that these horses have not seen and may not see again or are just Derby specific.

*It is a 20-horse field (19 as of Friday late morning) which no one has seen before nor will anyone see again. The horses that affects the most are the deep closers. It is one thing to go last to first in a 10-horse field, but 20 is an entirely different situation. If you need to pass 17 horses in the final quarter mile, that is a huge ask.

It takes a run like Rich Strike showed in winning the 2022 Derby at 80/1, weaving in and out, changing lanes and avoiding fading horses. It was hard to believe, even after watching it multiple times.

*With 20 horses, the race could be over for some within the first 50 yards. Think of the start as NASCAR at Talladega. If a horse comes out of the gate and takes a right or a left, the domino effect will take a bunch of horses out of their rhythm and realistically out of the race.

*Weather: As of Thursday, there was a 95 percent chance of thunderstorms, meaning we could very easily be looking at an off-track. Most horses do not like dirt in the face, and when it turns to mud, it’s even worse. And once again, having a 20-horse field means there are many more horses to throwing mud and dirt. There are also horses that run better when the track is muddy.

*Be set to accept the best horse in the race might not win, with that honor going to the horse that has the best racing luck.

At the end of the day, the Kentucky Derby is the best betting race as you get higher odds on these horses than you will get the rest of their careers.

Being that this year I can’t automatically toss any horses, I am changing my rating system for this race. I am going with a grading system where there are three groups – A, B, and C.

The post-position, which always is a factor with 20 horses entered, is listed before the name of the horse.

A (The elite runners)

No. 8 Journalism (Michael McCarthy trainer, Umberto Rispoli, 3/1) is the morning line favorite and deservedly so. He has won four of his last starts, running third in his debut, then winning four in a row. He has been starting towards the back of the field but those have been five-horse fields, not 20-horse mass races. He gradually picks off the horses he starts behind, then gets down and dirty in the lane. Look in depth at his last two starts where he won both the San Felipe and Santa Anita Derby. Both were five-horse fields where he was able to maneuver to the outside easily and get the win. If he sits 10-12 deep, he is going to have to go wider than usual to get by those in front of him. Not impossible but a lot more difficult than what he has seen so far. Still the favorite but there are variables here like the fact he has been on nothing but fast tracks so far, never once running on an off-track. Great draw for the horse.

No. 18 Sovereignty (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 5/1) has run twice this year, winning the Fountain of Youth, furiously closing to win by a neck. In his last start was second in the Florida Derby over a length behind Tappan Street, who scratched out of the Derby earlier this week. Can be a deep closer so, the No. 18 post doesn’t concern me too much as he can tuck in behind the mass of horses. What does concern me is only two wins in five starts, with only one being a convincing one. I think he runs in the top 3-5 so having him on your ticket would be a smart move. I am just not over the top on the win angle.

No. 17 Sandman (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 6/1) has run three times this year, all three coming on the Oaklawn Park prep races. He was second in the Southwest, third in the Rebel, and then was the winner of the Arkansas Derby, his most recent start on March 29. He is another deep closer, so the problem of passing 15-17 horses as opposed to 5-6 is something to think about. I loved the run in the stretch in the Arkansas Derby as it was a convincing run in that he took the lead at the top of the lane and then added distance between him and the rest of the field by the time he crossed the line. Has not been on an off-track in a race so there is concern how he will take to the track if it rains Saturday.

No. 9 Burnham Square (Ian Wilkes, Brian Hernandez, 12/1) drew a fair amount of love after his win in the Holy Bull back in February, but a fourth in the Fountain of Youth as the favorite caused some concern, finishing behind Sovereignty and Neoequos who are entered here. He did redeem himself somewhat when he went to Kentucky and won the Blue Grass at Keeneland on April 8. That day he bumped hard and rallied, getting up in the final strides to win by a nose. Yet another closer and to his advantage he will sit closer to the pace of the deep closers and may get first run on the pace setters.

B (Not far behind the A runners)

No. 1 Citizen Bull (Bob Baffert, Martin Garcia, 20/1) is a perfect case where this horse may never come close to starting at 20/1 again is career.  The 2-year-old champ after winning the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile last year. He started this year off on Feb. 1 when he won the Robert B. Lewis at Santa Anita coming off a three-month break.  He was then off for two months and set the pace throughout the race before getting overwhelmed in the lane in the Santa Anita Derby, finishing fourth, beaten nine lengths. Now he’s back a month later and has put together a series of good works. It’s obvious Baffert brings his horses ready to run in the Derby. Not happy with the rail draw but Garcia has been up on the horse for the last four starts and will keep the horse in a good spot. I would be thrilled to get 20/1 but I think he will move towards 10/1. On my ticket for sure.

No. 2 Neoequos (Saffie Joseph, Flavien Prat, 30/1) should be getting more respect than he has gotten. The Florida preps were down some this year, but he was only beaten by Sovereignty, River Thames, and Tappan Street in the Fountain of Youth and Florida Derby. Tappan Street and River Thames were both in the Derby field but scratched out. He is another speedster and breaks right next to one who likes to run as well. The entire key for this horse and the one next to him on the inside may turn out to be the first quarter of the race.

No. 7 Luxor Café (Noriyuki Hori, Joao Moreira, 15/1) is the highest regarded entrant of the Japanese contingent. He has won his last four races, two of which were by over five lengths. Of yeah, did I mention the sire is American Pharoah. He looks to be one that comes from off the pace.

No. 16 Coal Battle (Lonnie Briley, Juan Vargas, 30/1) was the Flavor of the Month in January and February at Oaklawn Park as he won the Smarty Jones and the Rebel preps. Those two gave him four straight wins. Expectations tempered a bit when he was third, beaten seven lengths in the Arkansas Derby where he ran even throughout. He did beat Sandman in the Rebel, so the talent level is there. He has gone to lead early and come from off the pace, so it seems he takes what is given to him. His has been solid in the mornings and a big run wouldn’t surprise me.

21. Baeza (John Shireffs, Flavien Prat, 12-1) is going to be the wise guy horse, as there were people bemoaning that he wasn’t in the field. But with the late defection of Rodriguez, Baeza finds himself in the Kentucky Derby. Lightly raced as he broke maiden in his third start – he was second to Rodriguez in his second start – his blowout performance in the Santa Anita Derby stamped him as legit. In only his fourth start and first time against winners, he finds himself leading in the lane going head-to-head with the Kentucky Derby favorite. He got caught at the end, losing by less than a length and earning a Beyer of 101, he certainly belongs in the conversation.

C (Can win but needs a lot to go right)

No. 3 Final Gambit (Brad Cox, Luan Machado, 30/1) came out of nowhere to win the JR Steaks prep at 15/1. It was his first start against winners as it took him three starts to break. His deep closing style can work here provided he can get a clean run as he passes what figures to be 18-19 horses. A reach? Sure, but we have seen this before.

No. 5 American Promise (D Wayne Lukas, Nik Juarez, 30/1) blew doors on the field at the Virginia Derby, winning by over seven lengths at 7-1. That race did come after poor efforts in the Southwest at Oaklawn and the Risen Star at the Fair Grounds. Was it a case of facing a weaker field or the light finally going off? It would be a great story to win for Lukas and I know a few people that are putting their money here. Personally, I am looking elsewhere.

No. 6 Admire Daytona (Yukihiro Kato, Christophe Lemaire, 30/1) would be the biggest reach to me and he did get beat by Luxor Café twice in the last four starts. The horse packed up, left Japan and made the trip to UAE, winning the UAE Derby to get his spot. If he handles the travel recently, he could give us a great run.

No. 11 Flying Mohawk (Whitworth Beckman, Joseph Ramos, 20/1) had a nice three-race run from last year to the first two starts this year. In the span, he broke maiden, then won a $100,000 optional claimer, followed by a second in the Jeff Ruby Stakes to get his spot here. He comes from off the pace, a style I have always liked for the Derby. He will be surrounded by a lot of talented closers.

No. 12 East Avenue (Brendan Walsh, Manny Franco, 20/1) is one where I am not a big fan. He was ninth in the BC Juvenile last year, then came out and was 10^th in the Risen Star.  Came out in the Risen Star back on April 8 at only 5-1 so there was some steam on the horse. If you throw those two poor efforts away, he has been strong the other three races. Seriously watch the tote board here. He opens at 20/1 and starts getting bet, take some time to think here.

No. 13 Publisher (Steve Asmussen, Irad Ortiz, 30/1) makes it almost impossible not to give the horse a shot because of the connections. In his favor is his closing style and that he had a talented pilot. The downside – he’s still a maiden as he didn’t win in four maiden starts before jumping in to graded races. A seventh in the Southwest, followed by a fourth in the Rebel led to his best race, a second to Sandman in the Arkansas Derby. Except for the Southwest, he has drawn some attention at the betting window. Another one to watch the tote.

No. 14 Tiztastic (Steve Asmussen, Joel Rosario, 20/1) snuck up on the racing world by winning the Louisiana Derby at almost 8/1. The win came following a third in the Southwest and a fifth in the Rebel. Likes to come from off the pace but does sit closer than most later runners which could give him one of the first shots at the leaders.

No. 15 Render Judgement (Kenny McPeak, Julien Leparoux, 30/1) is one of the best stories of the Derby as Toby Keith was one of the owners before he passed away. He was second in the Virginia Derby, then fifth in the Blue Grass but has only one win – a maiden score back in October. If somehow wins, it would be an emotional winners’ circle.

No. 19 Chunk of Gold (Ethan West, Jareth Loveberry, 30/1) found his way here by running second in both the Risen Star, then the Louisiana Derby. He was 43/1 in the Risen Star and 10/1 in the Louisiana Derby. Those were two pretty strong races so he probably deserves a little more respect than he’s getting. Will look to sit mid-pack then make a late run.

No. 20 Owen Almighty (Brian Lynch, Javier Castellano, 30-1) was running well at Tampa Bay Downs, running second in the Sam F. Davis, then winning the Tampa Bay Derby. He took a shot at the Grade I Blue Grass and for three-quarters he was just off the pace before falling apart in the lane and finishing sixth. I think he is better than 30/1 and with a solid rider, he could get a spot in the top five.

Who wins?

I want to try and beat the favorite, using various levels of forecasting – too many horses, the weather, having too many horses in in the lane – all valid points. But the horse has always looked so confident. With Rodriguez scratched, that takes out one big contender.

I am banking – literally – that Journalism shows the class and poise he has been running with throughout his young career. He is in a great post to break out and sit around 10^th as he cruises around the track, then turns on the jets in the lane and gets it done to win the Derby for trainer Michael McCarthy.

What are the other plays?
I see Sandman taking the same general route as Journalism and those two will be the ones flying later trying to catch the speedsters with staying power.

I like Citizen Bull to get out as he is starting on the rail, so track position will be key. My hope is he gets out, then relaxes on the front end or just off the pace. Neoquos, the horse right next to him also loves speed so perhaps he can tuck in right behind him. Count on East Avenue being in the mix on the pace side of the race.

I think Luxor Café has to figure in the race. The Japanese horses are getting better all the time and it’s a case of when, not if they win a Derby.

Sovereignty will have a say in the outcome as well with his stalking style and it’s very realistic he gets first run as he may be sitting closer than Journalism and Sandman.

I will also work into my ticket will be Final Gambit. Lightly raced but he closes with a vengeance, reminding me some of Sierra Leone last year.

Baeza – who slid in at the last minute – dueled with Journalism in the Santa Anita Derby before losing less than a length and earned a 101 Beyer.

I think of the early pace, only Citizen Bull will be contention in the final strides.

All that said, here are some plays:

Exacta: 8/1, 3, 7, 17, 18, 21. On a $1 exacta that ticket will only cost you $6. If you want to fudge a bit, say 8,17/1, 3, 7, 8, 17, 18, 21 you are still looking at only $12.

Trifecta: Obviously with more combinations, the wagers jump a bit. The same tickets you are looking at $30 for the first ticket, and $60 for the second ticket.

As for a win bet, the philosophy I have used is whatever I bet to win, I double it on a place bet on the same horse. For instance, a $25 win bet on Journalism also comes with a $50 place bet.

It’s a system I have used for years, and it has saved me numerous times.

Have an amazing Derby Day!!

May 1

While I think the Kentucky Derby is a wide-open race this year, as far as Friday’s Kentucky Oaks is concerned, it’s all about one horse with everyone else fighting for second.

The unbeaten Good Cheer, the overwhelming morning-line favorite, should be able to get the job done against her 13 rivals is the race that is the 11th on the Churchill card and is set for a 2:51 p.m. PDT post.

The field in post-position order.

1. Early On (Saffie Joseph trainer, Edgar Zayas, 30/1) could be one to push the pace as she did in the Gazelle at Aqueduct on April 5. That day she ran second, just missing the win by a nose. Has only one win in six career starts and that came three back in a straight maiden start at Gulfstream on February 5. That day she ran away with the race, winning by over five lengths. After that she was second in the Virginia Oaks, falling by a half-length.

2. Simply Joking (Whitworth Beckman, Florent Geroux, 10/1) is hard to not like somewhat. Has three starts, with two wins and a second, with all three races being a stake. He broke back in December in a stake at the Fair Grounds, then came back in January with a win in the Silverbulletday, in the slop at the Fair Grounds. She went to Oaklawn on March 28 and was second in the Fantasy to Quietside. In the second and third start she was

on or near the lead and turned in a big move in the morning on April 19 over the Churchill surface.

3. Fondly (Graham Motion, Irad Ortiz, 20/1) has two starts and won both, including the Virginia Oaks at Colonel Downs on March 15. Not getting perhaps as much love as deserved because that is not considered a top-tier prep yet. Close in both wins so far, not sitting far off the pace in either. Works have been mediocre, but she does pick up one of the top pilots in the business. Could be a nice value play to add to your ticket.

4. Drexel Hill (Whitworth Beckman, Ben Curtis, 30/1) has picked up a straight maiden, and a nice, hard-closing win in a $200,000 stake win at Aqueduct on March 1, for her two wins in seven starts. Has had some nice races but this group is just too much.

5. Quickick (Thomas Amoss, Umberto Rispoli, 30/1) has struggled in some of the prep races and will face a lot tougher here. Fourth in the Fair Ground Oaks and fifth in the Honeybee are not good runs to prep for this one.

6. Ballerina d’Oro (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 10/1) may be a good value play for your ticket as she has run in four straight graded stake races and has been in the money in the last three. Her last start was a win in the Grade III Gazelle at Aqueduct on April 5. She will come from off the pace and usually opts to sit near the back of field depending on the field size. Will be

interesting to see that strategy here, as sitting 12-14 leaves a lot of horses to go by late.

7. La Cara (George Weaver, Manny Franco, 6/1) is a contender here with two wins in three starts this year. Won the Suncoast at Tampa Bay, then was second in the Davona Dale, and in the most recent start was the winner of the Grade I Ashland at 9/1. The last three have seen her get out strong and fight for the lead – expect the same here. The concern is that there is other speed, and she could get caught in a duel.

8. Five G (George Weaver, Manny Franco, 12/1) has won twice this year and ran second the other start. In her last start she wired the field as the favorite in the Gulfstream Park Oaks, winning by over two lengths. Before that she made the trip to Oaklawn for the Honeybee, finishing second by a length after setting the pace in the early going. And, in her first start of the year, she won by nine lengths in the Cash Run on Jan. 1 at Gulfstream. She will be part of what is shaping up as fast pace out front.

9. Tenma (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 12-1) has been toying with the West Coast, winning both starts this year, and winning them easily. In the Las Virgenes she took the lead at the midway point and drew off to win by over six. After some time off, she came back in the Santa Anita Oaks, she took the lead midway again and this time won by almost three lengths. Could get the

perfect pace to chase here as they should be flying early. Take a long look here, especially as part of your vertical plays.

10. Take Charge Milady (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr., 12-1) had a disastrous race two back in the Honeybee where she found trouble throughout and finished 10th, beaten 32 lengths. Came back, threw a bullet-work on the board, and was second in the Ashland on April 7 at Keeneland. Now has thrown another bullet work in for this one. She likes to come from off the pace and with the front-end speed entered here, might be another to look at for a price.

11. Good Cheer (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 6/5) is the morning-line favorite and deservedly so, coming into the Oaks with a 6-fo-6 career record. And, she has been the heavy favorite in all six races. In her starts this year, I have become a huge fan. In the Rachel Alexander she won by over six-lengths and was effortless in doing so. In the Fair Ground Oaks she won by three-plus lengths and once again, it looked like she was running easily. Need more endorsement? Okay – she comes from off the pace and it sure looks she will get exactly the ideal trip. This is the one that will be flying down the lane at the end.

12. Anna’s Promise (Carlos David, Junior Alvarado, 30/1) has a great record this year, winning twice and running second one time. Then again, the wins came against lesser fields, with both coming in optional claimers. Three back she took a $50,000

maiden optional claimer and was claimed. The new connections jumped her to a $70,000 optional and she won again. At that point, they went for the Grade II Gulfstream Oaks, and she finished second, back two lengths. Will be yet another pushing the pace.

13. Bless the Broken (William Walden, John Velazquez, 30/1) was second in the Silverbulletday, beaten by Simply Joking, then third in the Rachel Alexander, seven lengths back of Good Cheer. Dropped down to the $280,000 Bourbonette Oaks at Turfway Park on March 22 and scored a 2-plus length win. Likes to come from off the pace and just seems a notch below the good runners here.

14. Quietside (John Ortiz, Jose Ortiz, 8/1) took both the Oaklawn preps – the Honeybee and the Fantasy – both by sitting right off the pace and then pouncing in the lane. Seven career starts and she has never been off the board, with all those Grade I and Grade II races. Sneaky good runner here and one that may get first call at getting the speed horses.

Who wins?

I have been a huge fan of Good Cheer and that is not going to change now.

Looking at how the race will play out seems to fit perfectly for what she wants. There is one concern and it’s a legit one at that. She has never been a field bigger than eight and she does

have the tendency to break towards the back part of the field. Breaking fifth in a field of seven, or fourth in a field of six is a lot different than 12th in a field of 14. That is many more horses to pass as you go around the track and there is no doubt that some will get in her way. I am counting on Brad Cox and Louis Saez adjusting with the increase in field size and getting her out a little quicker, then settling into her race.

There could be as many as five horses vying for the lead, which also means at least three of them slowing late, dropping back dangerously in the field.

I think Simply Joking, La Cara, Five G, and Quietside have the best tools to sustain a solid pace out front. I like the speed of La Cara, Five G, and Quietside to keep them in contention until the lane, where Good Cheer will be right with Tenma and right in front of Take Charge Milady.

In the end, Good Cheer gets the win, with a flurry of horses – some charging and some fading – will be fighting to get into the payoffs.

My wagers: Good Cheer over La Cara, Five G, Tenma, Take Charge Milady, and Quietside (11/7-8-9-10-14) in both the exacta and trifecta. As a frame of reference, the $1 exacta would be $5, and the $1 trifecta would be $20. In addition, place a win bet – the amount that is still comfortable for you.

April 24 

One week out from the Kentucky Derby means the national scene is a bit empty in big races.

Outside of the Breeders’ Cup weekend, the Kentucky Derby Day card is one of the best you will see throughout the year. And with that in mind, we will be running our FREE Kentucky Derby Day handicapping contest on Saturday, May 3.

Once again, the contest is free to enter with the chance to win cash vouchers!

It’s a simple contest where we ask you to pick the winner for each stake race at Churchill Downs on May 3. Using a 5-3-1 scoring system, the winner will be the one who accumulates the most points.

There are tiebreakers in place to determine the winner! Entry forms will be available starting Thursday afternoon May 1 at the Pleasanton OTB. I will also post an entry form on this site in case you won’t be down until Saturday.

Full rules will be available with the entry forms. Entries must be turned in by post time of the first stake race at Churchill Downs on May 3.

Contestants must be present to win.

As mentioned above, with a loaded Derby Day card, this weekend is a little light with only one graded race on Saturday.

The would be the Grade III Royal Heroine at Santa Anita.

The race is the 7th on the Santa Anita card and is set for 4:08 p.m. post-time. The one-mile turf race is for Filles and Mares, 4-year-olds and up.

The following are some of the top runners for the race.

Tirupati (Jonathan Thomas, Umberto Rispoli, 2/1) is your morning line favorite and based on her four races this year, she is very deserving. Her last start on March 29 was a win in the Grade III Wilshire as the even money favorite. Before that it was a second in the Grade II Buena Vista, also at Santa Anita. She earned 94 and 93 Beyer marks for the efforts. Appears to be on the lead or just off it.

Uncorked (Phil D’Amato, Mike Smith, 7/2) was fifth in the Wilshire and fourth in the Buena Vista, both coming on a stalking-style trip. Not sure why there would be any reasons to think it would be different here.

Raw Ability (John Sadler, Hector Isaac Berrios, 9/2) is lightly raced with only three starts but she has won all three starts. She started in Ireland last summer and won at first asking, shipping to the United States after the win. Here she has gone out in two $80,000 optional claimers and won both. The first time was at Del Mar in September of last year and saw her close from the parking lot for the win. Then after a five-month break, came back at Santa Anita with a front-running score on March 17. A big step up for sure, but when all she does is win, you must do your diligence.

Public Assembly (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 5/1) is coming off a win in an $50,000 optional claimer at Santa Anita, Now she makes her stake debut and has a bullet drill to prepare for the race. She prefers to sit off the pace and charge late.

April 17

With a little two weeks until the Kentucky Derby runs, we can take a look at the graded races across the United States this weekend while we have no prep races left for the Derby. 

Looking ahead, you can expect an in-depth Kentucky Oaks preview to run in this space on May 2, followed by arguably one of the most extensive Kentucky Derby previews you will be able to find. 

I will also give you a preview of all the stakes races from Churchill Downs on Derby Day! 

But for now, let’s look at the graded races for this weekend. 

Grade II Elkhorn 

(Keeneland, 9^th race. 2:16 p.m. PDT) 

This is a marathon 1.5 miles on the turf with a full field of 12 ready to go. I think there is a beatable favorite and this is a race that requires watching the tote board. 

The morning-line favorite is Limited Liability (Claude McGaughey trainer, Frankie Dettori jockey, 8/5) who is a pretty heavy favorite that has won once in his last 11 starts. 

That came September 11 of last year when he took the Nashville Gold Cup by over eight lengths at Kentucky Downs. Since then, there’s been two starts, the last which came January 25 at Gulfstream. He tired late and finished third after pressing the pace, then taking the lead at the top of the lane. The works have been above average for a barn that hits at 13 percent coming off this lone of break. He is 2-for-3 over the Keeneland turf and has hit the board in all four of his starts at the distance, although that does not include a win. 

Missed the Cut (Cherie DeVaux, John Velazquez, 6/1) was sixth in a Grade II at Gulfstream in his last start which was March 1. He was second in this race last year at 4/1 and it concluded a four-race run of second, first, first, and second – all in graded stakes races. Has put together some nice moves in the morning for this one. Does not want the lead but likes to be in fourth or fifth, perfect for this race. 

Balnikhov (Philip D’Amato, Florent Geroux, 8/1) seems to run a good one every other race so after running 10^th in his last start in the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational, he should drop nicely into a good spot here. Two back he was second in the Hollywood Turf Cup at Del Mar he was second. Before that he was 10^th in the John Henry in September of last year, and before that it was a third in the Del Mar Handicap. If the cycle continues this one, is a player. 

Grand Sonata (Todd Pletcher, Junior Alvarado, 4/1) can be a legit threat with this group and is coming off a solid second in a Grade II at Gulfstream at 3/1. He will stalk the pace and be right there when they turn for home. 

If you are looking for a longshot, take a long look at Idratherbeblessed (Chris Hartman, Ben Curtis, 20/1). He has turned in two straight big performances at the Fair Grounds with big odds. In the Grade III Fair Grounds, he was a solid fourth at 28/1. Then a month later he came back in the Muniz Memorial Classic and pulled the shocker at 86/1 wiring the field, holding on to win by a neck. Will be shooting out for the lead. 

Grade III Ben Ali 

(Keeneland, 10^th race, 2:48 p.m.) 

This one is on the main track at 1-3/16-miles looks every bit the part of a contentious event for the field of seven, 4-year-olds and up. 

The honor of being the morning line favorite falls to Duke of Love (Jessie Carroll, John Velazquez, 5/2). He made his first start September of 2023 on March 1 at Gulfstream in a $62,500 optional claimer where he ran fifth. It’s an interesting favorite as a horse that has run once in two years and has all of four wins in 14 career starts. He has every right to be better here than the comeback, but I have to see it before I am a believer. Owned by the My Racehorse group so he may get played down to those odds. Has embraced the pace in the past but did not in the first start back. 

Uno Mas Bourbon (Ian Wilkes, Brian Hernandez Jr., 7/2) had his first start of 2025 on February 15 at Gulfstream, running third in a $62,000 optional claimer. Hit the board in six of seven starts last year, winning two races. A closer so he will need pace to run at here which might be tough as there appears to be only one speed merchant. 

San Siro (Brendan Walsh, Edgar Morales, 9/2) I think could be a threat. Two back he crossed the line first in a $50,000 optional claimer at the Fair Grounds on February 1. He then came back in the Grade II New Orleans Classic on March 22 and tired, finishing fourth, 13 lengths off the pace. Now off almost a month it will be interesting to see how his second half of the race plays out. Slightly easier spot for the horse and he comes in with 97 and a 90 Beyer marks. 

Grade II Santa Maria 

(Santa Anita, 7^th race, 4 p.m.) 

This is a 1-1/16-mile filly and mare race on the main track and should be a battle between the two Bob Baffert horses and the two could be well clear of the field. 

Richi (Bob Baffert, Antonio Fresu, 2/1) is coming off a second March 8 in the Grade I Beholder. Before that, on February 1, she was third in Grade II Santa Monica, beating her stablemate in the process and earning a 99 Beyer.  She will sit close to the leaders and be in a good position to pounce when they turn for home. 

Splendora (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 3/2) is the other Baffert runner and as mentioned above, he was beaten by her stablemate in the Santa Monica. Before that she ran a huge second in the Grade I La Brea back in December. She’s been off since Feb. 1 but the barn hits at an amazing 28 percent off that length break. Last two Beyer marks were 96 and 92. Another who has been stalking the pace. 

Ultimate Authority (Tim Yakteen, Kazushi Kimura, 6/1) is the horse could take down one of the two Baffert runners and how fitting with Yakteen formerly working for Baffert. It’s a reach for sure, but he did run in the Beholder but was sixth and last in the race. Could try to go to the lead and play hide and seek with the rest of the field. 

Oaklawn Handicap 

(Oaklawn Park, 4:10 p.m.) 

This is a great race every year and I love the field this year as well. It’s a 1-1/8-mile event on the main track and brings a talented lot of eight horses to the Grade II event with a purse of $1.25 million. 

First Mission (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 2/1) is your morning line favorite, but there are plenty right behind him. He made his first start since August 3 in the Razorback Handicap on February 23 and ran third, earning a 102 Beyer. Last year he won 2-of-5, all graded stakes races. He should be more fit here and his pushing the pace style will guarantee it is an honest race. 

Skippylongstocking (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 5/2) was third in the Pegasus World Cup Invitational, nearly finishing second to White Abbario. He then came back and won the Grade III Challenger at Tampa Bay Downs, earning a 104 Beyer in the process. He has shown the ability to sit back and make a late run or go out and set the pace. My guess is if he breaks clean, he’s going to go. He is also the defending champ in this race, earning a 107 Beyer, winning by 2-lengths as the betting favorite. 

Banishing (David Jacobson, Ricardo Santana, 7/2) was second in the Razorback Handicap this year and has been over 100 Beyer in the last four starts. His other two starts this year were both wins as he took Oaklawn Mile in the last start. He will be out front or pushing the pace. 

The final horse I feel has a shot at the win is Alexander Helios (Saffie Joseph, Luis Saez, 4-1). The surprise winner of the Razorback at 8/1 and is every bit as fast as Banishing looks. 

He is another that could very easily set this up for the closers. If we see 3-4 get hooked up out front, take a look at the two Steve Asmussen horses – Disarm or Red Route One – to come flying late. Both have shown they can get the pace setters late if the front-end company goes out too fast. 

April 10

Then there was one.

We are down to the last Kentucky Derby prep race – the Lexington at Keeneland on Saturday.

The difference here – none of these runners can make the Derby, even if they get the 20 points that goes to the winner.

We still run the race, and it now turns into a good indicator for the connections that perhaps the Preakness is a viable option for their runner.

As for the Derby, now the fun begins as some horses will scratch, giving others a chance.

We know who the top five points finishers are in Burnham Square (130), Sandman (129), Journalism (122.5), Rodriguez (121.25), and Tiztastic (119).

So here is your Lexington field in post-position order.

1. Hard as Life (Michelle Nihel trainer, Sophie Davis jockey, 30/1) is one where I would say is 30/1 for a reason. He has one win in six starts and that came against straight maidens at Churchill back in November.

2. Bracket Buster (Victoria Oliver, Manny Franco, 20/1) could very well bust your ticket if you play this runner. He has been off since Oct. 27 of last year. The barn has not had a winner in 47 starts coming off a break of this length.

3. Bullard (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli, 9/2) is the third choice but seems the one to beat here. Lightly raced with only three starts, he was winner of the Grade III Bob Hope at Del Mar in November, then came back to run third in the Grade II San Vincente in early January at Santa Anita. Been off since then for the trainer of Journalism, who brought the horse along for this venture with his Derby favorite. Barn is decent off this break length. Should stalk the speed here.

4. Rolando (Fausto Gutirrez, John Velazquez, 6/1) has won two straight – the first a $75,000 optional claimer, and the second $102,000 Hutcheson at Gulfstream. Loves to run and will be on the lead or pushing it.

5. Native Runner (Kenny McPeak, Jose Ortiz, 15/1) has won the last two starts but they have both been optional claimers, both at the Fair Grounds. Solid connections put in the mix.

6. Gosger (Brendan Walsh, Irad Ortiz, 7/2) only two starts – a second, then a win, both in straight maiden company. Been off since mid-February and has modest works for the return. Could be ready for first time vs. winners.

7. Praetor (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 2/1) came off a five-month break to score a convincing win in a $75,000 optional claimer at Gulfstream. Likes to show speed and a barn is very good with second off a break. Had a bullet work for this spot.

8. Hypnus (Kenny McPeak, Luis Saez, 6/1) gave two preps a try – the Rebel and the Louisiana Derby – and ran poorly in each,

finishing seventh both times. Still, this will be a much easier spot than those.

9. Touchy (Wesley Ward, Joel Rosario, 8/1) has had five starts at four different tracks. He has not been bad, hitting the board in four of the five starts, including running third in the Sunland Derby. Could be a good fit here.

April 7

Last Saturday the Blue Grass stakes was set to share the day with three other Kentucky Derby preps.

But with a huge storm hitting the Lexington area, the race was postponed and now the eyes of the horse racing world will be focused on the Keeneland race track Tuesday.

The Blue Grass is the 10th race on the Keeneland card and will go to post at 2:52 p.m. PDT. At stake is the last 100-50-25-15-10-point Derby prep, which will almost solidify the 2025 Kentucky Derby field.

All that is left is the Lexington, a 20-10-6-4-2-point race this Saturday back at Keeneland.

Right now, the 20th-place horse in the Derby prep points is Baeza with 35.5 points. With all seven in the Blue Grass entered knowing a first or second would secure a spot at Churchill.

Here is the seven-horse field for the Blue Grass in post-position order.

1. River Thames (Todd Pletcher trainer, Irad Ortiz jockey, 5/2) got into the Derby conversation when he was second in the Fountain of Youth at Gulfstream on March 1. That was worth 25 points so he could get a spot with a first, second, or even a third. He had the lead as they turned for home in the FOY but was caught by Sovereignty. Loves to be on or near the lead.

2. Render Judgement (Kenny McPeak, Sheldon Russell, 20/1) had a second place in the Virginia Derby at 19/1 which got him up to 29 points, within striking distance of a Derby spot with a big run here. Then again, there was a reason he was 21/1 in Virginia against a weaker field than he will see here. Doesn’t normally like to be up near the lead early and with three likely pace setters, will be sure he sits back here as well.

3. Burnham Square (Ian Wilkes, Brian Hernandez, 9/2) got people excited when he won the Holy Bull but then came back in the Fountain of Youth as the favorite and ran fourth. That brings him here needing points to get in the Derby as he is at 30 points. He will not be on the lead or pushing the pace, preferring to make a late run.

4. Owen Almighty (Brian Lynch, Jose Ortiz, 3/1) is solidly in the Derby field as he sits 11th right now with 65 points. In large part that is thanks to the win in the Tampa Derby. He’s never crossed the line worse than second in his six starts but did get one DQ that moved him from first to fifth. He stole the Tampa Derby getting out early, then drew off in the lane to win by almost four. He will go in this spot.

5. East Avenue (Brendan Walsh, Luan Machado, 3/1) is surprising to me that he is 3/1. His last start was the Risen Star on Feb. 15 where he faded and was 10th, beaten 23 lengths. That came off a break where he was 9th in the Breeders’ Cup

Juvenile. I could be wrong, but I don’t see him getting it done today.

6. Chancer McPatrick (Chad Brown, Flavian Prat, 7/2) has been on my list since the beginning but we have only seen one race this year – a second in the Tampa Derby in early March. Now with 35 points – he could probably get into the Derby on someone scratching above him. A finish in the top three could make things academic. The barn is very strong at coming off a break and he has been running well in the mornings. He is a deep closer which is not for the faint of heart.

7. Admiral Dennis (Brad Box, Luis Saez, 20/1) got out of the gate slow in his last start, the Rebel, then was forced wide and finished sixth. If he gets out clean, he could be a factor here as most of his other races indicate. With two points right now, he is down at the bottom of the standings. A win here would get him in.

April 3

By Dennis Miller

Just when I was ready to use the following as a lead for this column, things happened on Wednesday that changed things.

My original lead: Saturday is the biggest day of the Kentucky Derby prep season as there is 800 points available between four races – The Wood Memorial, Blue Grass Stakes, Santa Anita Derby, and the UAE Derby.

And now, the appropriate lead: What was scheduled to be the biggest weekend of preps with four, 100-points to the winner taces, had its format altered Wednesday by a pair of events.

Due to an impending massive storm in Kentucky this weekend, Keeneland has moved its Friday-Saturday cards to Monday and Tuesday, meaning the Blue Grass Stakes will now run Tuesday.

In addition, thanks to the Santa Anita Derby drawing just five entries, the points have been reduced to 75-37.5-18.75 and drastically could alter some horse’s chances to make it to Kentucky.

The UAE Derby will run early Saturday morning across the world and the Wood Memorial is still set for Saturday at Aqueduct.

Here are the previews for the Saturday races being run in the United States.

Check back in this spot Tuesday morning preview for the Blue Grass Stakes.

Wood Memorial

(Aqueduct, 12th race, 3:10 p.m.)

1. Rodriguez (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith) in four starts has a third, two places, and one win. He was third in the San Felipe at Santa Anita, pressing the pace, then weakening late. Now he ships across the country looking for a softer spot. All indications say the horse will setting/pushing the pace – the key will be if he can relax here.

2. Captain Cook (Richard Dutrow, Manny Franco) has won two straight at Aqueduct, including the latest start – the Withers back on February 1. That day he sat right off the pace, took the lead at the top of the lane and rolled home with the win by over two-lengths. He’s been off since then for a barn that wins at 12 percent coming off that length break. There has been one good work and three average ones for the return.

3. Tiger Twenty Four (William Mott, Javier Castellano) finally broke maiden in his third and last start, drawing off to win by five lengths on March 19. There has been a bullet work for the return. This is a big step up.

4. My Mitole (Carlos Martin, Luis Rivera) was fourth in the Gotham on March 1. Only two of the top four return for this one. The are not a lot of strong feelings here.

5. Sand Devil (Linda Rice, Jose Lezcano) opened with three consecutive wins, then was second in the Gotham. With Gotham winner heading across the world to race in the UAE Derby, Sand Devil could be the de facto favorite here – a

position he was in for the Gotham. This guy will be on the lead and pushing it.

6. Hill Road (Chad Brown, Joel Rosario) was a disappointing third in the Tampa Bay Derby, his first start in over four months. It was also his first start for the barn of Chad Brown, so there is more to expect here. Likes to come from way back and he will get a pace to run it.

7. Grande (Todd Pletcher, Dylan Davis) is lightly raced with only two starts. While he short on experience, he does have two wins in the two starts – a straight maiden win, followed by an optional claimer. He’s been off since February 27, but the speedster gets props for the savvy barn.

8. Passion Rules (Brad Cox, Kendrick Carmouche) has three starts and three wins, but this will be the first start against stakes company. The last two wins have come with strong closes and as mentioned above there is every reason to expect a strong pace. Will be flying late.

9. Bear Claw Necklace (Saffie Joseph, Romero Maragh) has run well in his three starts, but this is a whole new level. He will be driving the pace, keeping it a set up for closers

10. McAfee (Richard Dutrow, Eric Cancel) was fifth, beaten by nine lengths in the Gotham. Not a lot more to say.

11. Statesman (Claude McGaughey, Samuel Marin) has won his last two starts, but those were a straight maiden and a $75,000 optional claimer. He has two wins in five career starts and in all

five he ran in the middle of the pack. It’s been either feast or famine on the close.

12. Omaha Omaha (Michael Gorham, Raul Mena) was second in the Jerome and third in the Withers – both preps for this. Another closer that will have a solid pace to run at here.

Santa Anita Derby

(Santa Anita, 10th race, 4:30 p.m.)

Although it is a terrible disappointment that only five are entered in what I used to think was the signature of all the Kentucky Derby prep races, three of the five have legitimate shots at winning on May 3.

Here is the field in post-position order.

1. Journalism (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli) is one of the big-dogs in here. Is coming off a late closing win in the San Felipe where he got a 108 Beyer mark. It was his first start since mid-December so there’s every reason to expect more here. Loves to sit mid-pack and make the late run. Shooting for his fourth straight win.

2. Citizen Bull (Bob Baffert, Martin Garcia) is the other big runner in the field and is also sitting on three wins in a row. Last raced in the Robert Lewis back on February 1. There is no secret here – the gate opens, and the horse will go. The two-year-old champ as he won the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at 16/1. This could be one hell of a stretch run.

3. Westwood (John Shirreffs, T.J. Pereira) is still a maiden after three starts, running second in his last start. Normally I would wonder why the horse was entered but with only a five-horse field, I am thankful he did to keep us from having a four-horse, Grade I race.

4. Barnes (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) is a horse I have liked from the get-go, but he has only three starts. All were great efforts including the win in the San Vicente and a second to Journalism in the San Felipe, getting caught late but still carding a 105 Beyer. Also, a speed horse, it will be interesting to see the strategy for the two Baffert horses. My guess is Citizen Bull goes, and Barnes will rate.

5. Baeza (John Shirreffs, Hector Berrios) broke maiden last time out – his third start – in impressive fashion, winning by over four lengths and getting a 93 Beyer. Will be pushing the pace and looking for first run.

Derby Day Handicapping Contest!

A reminder about the details for the Kentucky Derby Handicapping contest that will take place Saturday, May 3 at the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting facility.

The format is simple and is open to anybody that will be at the OTB throughout the day of the Kentucky Derby. All you must do is select a winner for each stakes race at Churchill Downs on the Day of the Derby.

Using a 5-3-1-point system for finishing first, second, and third, the person with the most points following the Kentucky Derby wins!

The prize breakdown is: First, $150 voucher; Second: $100 voucher; Third, $50 voucher; Fourth, $25 voucher.

There will also be drawings throughout the day for free Alameda County Fair tickets. We also have contests planned for Preakness Day and Belmont Day!

March 26

More starting spots in the Kentucky Derby will be secured Saturday with the running of two more substantial prep races.

The Florida Derby is being run at Gulfstream, with the Arkansas Derby taking place at Oaklawn Park.

Here are looks at both races with the horses in post-position order.

Florida Derby

(Gulfstream Park, 14th race, 3:42 p.m. PDT)

1. Neoquos (Saffie Joseph trainer, Edgar Zayas jockey, 10/1) set the pace through the first half of the Fountain of Youth, then was passed at the top of the lane and ended up third at 15/1. Had a bullet work for this one and given that he has been on or right off the pace, would expect him to be a pace factor here.

2. Cool Intentions (Jorde Delgado, Javier Castellano, 20/1) has been off since January 4 when he was fifth in the Mucho Macho Man at Gulfstream. He never fired that day, now comes back from a break that saw some impressive works. Will look to stalk the pace.

3. Smoken Boy (Cheryl Winebaugh, Edgar Perez, 30/1) is an interesting one in that he comes into the race off a claim for $75,000. Two starts back he was eighth in the Sam Davis, beaten 13 lengths.

4. Disruptor (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 4/1) has two starts to his name, with the last being a nine-length win where he drew off from the field. Given the connections this one must be given consideration but at this point he must finish in the top two to make the Derby field. Will have speed.

5. Indecisiveness (Ruben Sierra, Jorge Ruiz, 30/1) has nothing in his last two races, both against optional claiming company at 94/1 and 53/1. Can’t be quite sure when they entered here.

6. Jimmy’s Dailys (Brian Lynch, Joel Rosario, 12/1) is coming off a second in a $75,000 optional claimer where he finished a length up on Indecisiveness. Another head scratcher to me.

7. Enterdadragon (Jose D’Angelo, Dylan Davis, 30/1) has the most starts with nine, but only has a pair of wins. He has plenty of stakes experience but the two wins have come in a straight maiden and an optional claimer. Another mediocre starter here.

8. Madaket Road (Bob Baffert, Tyler Gaffalione, 7/2) is one of the serious contenders and he will be running his third straight start at a different track. In fact, he’s scanned the country as two back he was at Santa Anita where he was third in the Lewis. Next up was a second in the Rebel in Arkansas, and now makes the trip to Florida. He will look to be right off the lead or perhaps set the pace like he did in the Rebel where he led for the first half before getting passed.

9. Tappan Street (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 5/1) is lightly raced but in his two starts he’s shown talent. He debuted by beating a

straight maiden field in the end of December, then came back February 1 by running second in the Holy Bull as the favorite. Came from off the pace in both races.

10. Sovereignty (William Mott, Junior Alvarado, 8/5) has given all the signs that he is the one to beat here. He came from a lengthy break to win the Fountain of Youth with a big close to get up and win by a head. Now in the second start off the break he should be stronger. He has the best last race Beyer.

Arkansas Derby

(13th race, Oaklawn Park, 4:48 p.m.)

1. Brereton’s Baytown (Paul McEntee, Marshall Mendez, 30/1) was eighth, beaten 11 lengths in the Rebel at 188/1 and don’t see hope for much improvement here.

2. First Division (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez Jr., 20/1) makes his first stakes start but is coming off an impressive $200,000 optional claimer over the track on March 2. Expect him to sit off the pace and make a late run.

3. Publisher (Steve Asmussen, Flavian Prat, 6/1) was fourth in the Rebel and before that was seventh in the Southwest, two preps for this one. Had a strong close in the last one and if he gets going earlier here, he could have a shot.

4. Bestfriend Rocket (D Wayne Lukas, Nic Juarez, 20/1) beat First Division in that optional claimer just getting up to win by a head. Has speed and is easy to see pushing the early pace. This is the first stakes race.

5. Speed King (Ron Moquett, Rafael Bejarano, 15/1) wired the field in the Southwest, then came out and laid an egg in the Rebel, finishing 10th, beaten 15 lengths. Has thrown to bullet works on the board to show what appears to be much better fitness here.

6. Sandman (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 3/1) was second in the Southwest and third in the Rebel, beaten by two other horses entered here. The closer has every right to be in contention as he should get the speed needed for him to have shot.

7. Monet’s Magic (Ben Colebrook, Luan Machado, 20/1) broke on his fifth start, then came back to win an optional claimer. Made the jump up to the Southwest and finished fifth. Got valuable experience that day and now will likely look to come from off the pace. Watch the tote.

8. Coal Battle (Lonnie Briley, Juan Vargas, 7/2) won the Rebel at almost 12/1, giving the connections their fourth straight stakes win. Still the connections don’t get the love their recent form should deserve. Has won four straight stakes, beaten four other horses entered here and still is not the morning line favorite.

9. Cornucopian (Bob Baffert, John Velazquez, 7/5) is your favorite based on one race – a very impressive straight maiden win where he won by five and earned a 101 Beyer. Oh, and the fact the horse has a $1.1 million price tag.

Derby Day Handicapping Contest!

A reminder about the details for the Kentucky Derby Handicapping contest that will take place Saturday, May 3 at the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting facility.

The format is simple and is open to anybody that will be at the OTB throughout the day of the Kentucky Derby. All you must do is select a winner for each stakes race at Churchill Downs on the Day of the Derby.

Using a 5-3-1-point system for finishing first, second, and third, the person with the most points following the Kentucky Derby wins!

The prize breakdown is: First, $150 voucher; Second: $100 voucher; Third, $50 voucher; Fourth, $25 voucher.

There will also be drawings throughout the day for free Alameda County Fair tickets. We also have contests planned for Preakness Day and Belmont Day!

March 20

It gets real this weekend as the biggest Kentucky Derby prep races start their three-week run leading up to the First Saturday in May.

This week it’s the Louisiana Derby and the Jeff Ruby Steaks, races that carry the 100-50-25-15-10-point structure.

Here is a look at the two races.

The Jeff Ruby Steaks

(Turfway Park, 12th race, 3:25 p.m. PDT)

This would be the lesser of the two Kentucky Derby Prep races Saturday in terms of talent but the qualifying points are equal, all but guaranteeing the winner a starting spot at Churchill.

1. Calling Card (Michael Maker trainer, Adam Beschizza jockey, 20/1) has flamed out in a pair of Derby preps, running eighth in the Lecomte in January at the Fair Grounds, then seventh beat 13 lengths in the Gotham in early March at Aqueduct. Unless something totally unexpected takes place, this one is not a Derby runner.

2. Charlie’s to Blame (Peter Eurton, Juan Hernandez, 12/1) ran three maiden races in Southern California, breaking in December at Del Mar. Shipped back east to Gulfstream and wired the field in a $100,000 stake on February 1. Comes back in this spot and has yet to be nominated for the Triple Crown

series. Has won his two starts on turf courses and now comes to an artificial surface. I am going to say take a long look at the tote as this spot doesn’t make a ton of sense or than to take shot at the Derby.

3. California Burrito (Thomas Drury, Irving Moncada, 7/2) pulled off what I considered a moderate upset when the connections took the Battaglia right here on Feb. 22. Now fires back here sitting on a two-race winning streak over the track. If he hits the top two here, he should finds himself at Churchill on the first Saturday in May. He has wired the field in the last two.

4. Final Gambit (Brad Cox, Luan Machado, 6/1) broke maiden over the track on Feb. 15. Now fires back here for the first start against winners. Gutsy moves for a big barn to take a shot here but he is a deep closer and should get some pace to run at.

5. Flying Mohawk (Whitworth Beckman, Joseph Ramos, 15/1) came off a three-month break to win a $100, 000 optional claimer on Jan. 30 at the Fair Grounds on the turf. He has been off since then and will make his comeback with the first start not on the turf. I’m not sure why here other than to take a flyer.

6. Baby Max (Kelsey Danner, Abel Cedillo, 5/1) was the beaten favorite in the Battaglia but did finish second after a solid effort throughout. Seems to be at his best when he stalks the pace before moving in the lane. He puts the blinkers on here.

7. Giocoso (Keith Desormeaux, Jaime Torres, 30/1) started okay in the Risen Star back in mid-February but then proceeded

to go backwards and finished 12th and last in the race. That was the first start since early Noivember and obviously needed one. He wasn’t a bad horse last year and every reason to expect improvement. The Risen Star was probably tougher than this spot so a better finish could be in the offering.

8. Innovator (D Wayne Lukas, Nik Juarez, 15/1) went out early in the Rebel then went nowhere positive, finishing 12th beaten over 20 lengths back on Feb. 23. Was third in the Lecomte in early January, at 16/1. Only one win in nine starts but has run second four times.

9. Poster (Eoin Harty, John Velazquez, 2/1) is a serious one to watch. He was third in the Sam Davis, following a win in the Remsen. He has three wins in four career starts and was second in the other. Connections are very legit and will likely be the betting favorite. Major player.

10. Maximum Promise (Kenny McPeak, Frankie Dettori, 5/1) was third in the Battaglia finishing behind two other horses entered here. Deep closer could find this pace to his liking but he is not the only late runner here.

11. Curvino (Peter Miller, Gerado Corrales, 20/1) took until his seventh starts to break and that came after he was moved from straight maiden to open maiden. Yet to see a graded race and haven’t seen the winner’s circle other than the maiden win.

12. He’s Not Joking (Josie Carroll, Rafeal Hernandez, 15/1) was fifth in the Holy Bull at Gulfstream and will find this a softer

spot. His best races have been when he has stalked the pace so he could be key here in keeping the pace honest. Could be the friend of the deep closers.

Louisiana Derby

(Fair Grounds, 12th race, 3:42 p.m.)

This is the best field yet in a prep race and a race where I can at least a pair of runners from here winning the Kentucky Derby.

1. John Hancock (Brad Cox, Flavian Prat, 7/2) can’t do much more than he has so far as he’s run twice and won twice including the Sam Davis prep at Tampa Bay Downs. A big step up here but it does seem like the sky might be the limit here. A win here and he has to be considered among the favorites for the Kentucky Derby.

2. Chunk of Gold (Ethan West, Jareth Loveberry, 8/1) won his debut and followed with a couple of seconds. In the last he was second in the Risen Star at 43/1. Which is an accurate description of the horse? A longshot that shocked with a big run in a prep and will revert back – or one that snuck under the radar in the last race and should have been much better bet? He will choose a stalking style here.

3. Tiztastic (Steve Asmussen, Joel Rosario, 8/1) disappointed in the Risen Star never showing much while running and finishing fifth. Before then he had been hitting the board in some good

races. It would not surprise me if the horse were in the thick of things in the lane.

4. Yinzer (Steve Asmussen, Ben Curtis/ 12/1) finally broke maiden in his fourth start, all against straight maiden company. The last three starts gave been at the Fair Grounds for the $1 million horse. Does have early speed but until the last start the staying power was missing. At the last start he turned in his best start and got the win by two lengths at 11/1. This will be the biggest start to date as the corrections are going to watch this with a keen eye in regard to their ROI.

5. Caldera (D Wayne Lukas, Tyler Gaffalione, 5/1) came within a head of winning the Sunland Derby on Feb. 16. Getaway Car – the winner – came back and was fourth in the Virginia Derby last weekend, a much softer spot than this one. Caldera tracked the winner throughout the race and took the lead in the lane but got caught in the final strides. A pair of big works for this spot and will be well bet but there are a lot of red flags for me.

6. Built (Wayne Catalano, Jose Ortiz, 4/1) ran in the Gun Runner, Lecomte, and Risen Star, the three preps for this race, and was first, second, and third. There is every reason to expect this guy to be in the hunt when they turn for him.

7. Vassimo (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 12/1) was fourth in the Risen Star with different type of trip. He started well, fell back off the pace, then rallied late but was passing tiring horses as he was still beaten 12 lengths. Not sure what to expect but these connections should be better bet than the morning line

indicates. Watch the tote for clues and betting late may be the smart call here.

8. Furio (Joe Sharp, Luis Saez, 12/1) three starts have produced a third, a win, and second. The last of which was a $100,000 optional claimer at the Fair Grounds on Feb. 17. That start was the first time around two turns and it was a promising effort for a runner that likes to be on or near the lead.

9. Instant Replay (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 6/1) was okay but not great through his first four starts and went to the shelf for two months following a fourth in a $125,000 optional claimer on Dec. 13. Came back after two months off and looked like a new horse, crushing an optional claiming field by five on Feb. 17 over the Fair Grounds track as the betting favorite. Comes out here in his first stake effort for a well-respected trio of connections. An interesting horse.

10. Hypnus (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez, 10/1) won at first asking, looking strong in the process over this track at 16/1. Shipped to Oaklawn for the Rebel and had a horrible trip to finish seventh in the race at 16/1. Now he comes back home to try to right the ship and make a run at the Kentucky Derby.

Derby Day Handicapping Contest!

A reminder about the details for the Kentucky Derby Handicapping contest that will take place Saturday, May 3 at the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting facility.

The format is simple and is open to anybody that will be at the OTB throughout the day of the Kentucky Derby. All you must do is select a winner for each stakes race at Churchill Downs on the Day of the Derby.

Using a 5-3-1-point system for finishing first, second, and third, the person with the most points following the Kentucky Derby wins!

The prize breakdown is: First, $150 voucher; Second: $100 voucher; Third, $50 voucher; Fourth, $25 voucher.

There will also be drawings throughout the day for free Alameda County Fair tickets. We also have contests planned for Preakness Day and Belmont Day!

If you have any questions, shoot me an email I will be happy to

March 12

By Dennis Miller

We have one Kentucky Derby prep race today and while it is not the toughest field, remember – the tickets still cash the same!

Let’s get right to the Saturday prep race.

Virginia Derby

(Colonial Downs, 9th race, 2:20 p.m.)

This is an interesting race as for the most part it is full of horses that have run in prep races this year and failed, leaving this spot as the last chance to steal some Derby qualifying points and try to get in the back door.

It is worth 50-25-15-10-5 on the point structure and appears to have three horses with legit chances.

Here is the field in post-position order.

1. Calling Card (Michael Maker trainer, Luan Machado, 15/1) is in his third prep race and there is nowhere to go but up. He was eighth in the Lecomte at the Fair Grounds in January, then was seventh, beat 13 lengths in the Gotham at Aqueduct in March. This is the easiest prep he’s faced overall but I don’t see anything different happening here.

2. John Hancock (Brad Cox, Mike Smith, 3/1) is one of the favorites and should be. Has run twice only, both at Tampa Bay Downs and won both. He opened taking a straight maiden, then came at took the Sam Davis on February 8. Skipped the Tampa Bay Derby last week and moved on to here. Two starts and he

has never been worse than first at any point of call. He has had strong efforts in the morning for this return.

3. American Promise (D Wayne Lukas, Nik Juarez, 12/1) was sixth in the Southwest, then fifth, beaten 13 in the Risen Star. One win in eight career starts and is really searching for a spot where he fits. I don’t think this is it.

4. Omaha Omaha (Michael Gorham, Reul Mena, 10/1) ran well in a pair of New York preps at Aqueduct, finishing second in the Jerome in early January, then third in the Withers in early February. Most of the works have been average and I’m not looking for this to be part of my ticket.

5. Studlydoright (John Rabb, Xavier Perez, 15/1) has run three preps and has been fourth twice and fifth in the other. Those were minor points awards, and he needs a big finish here to have a shot at qualifying for the Derby. His works have been good, and he’s been on a nice break after a busy stretch, but I think this will be a big ask to make an impact.

6. Getaway Car (Bob Baffert, Irad Ortiz, 9/5) shipped from Southern Cal to Sunland for the Sunland Derby in February. He did the job, winning by a head. Now Baffert sends him here and if he pulls off the win – or maybe runs second – he will have a spot in the Derby. It is interesting that he takes Juan Hernandez, who has ridden all seven races off and replaces him with Irad Ortiz. Should be a major player off his stalking style.

7. Rapture (Brad Cox, Flavian Prat, 5/1) is lightly raced with only two starts but has a second, followed by a win in pair of straight maiden races at Gulfstream. Given the connections he should be in the mix, but I have more of a feeling that Cox is trying to steal one here.

8. Authentic Gallop (Thomas Amoss, Javier Castellano, 10/1) makes me at least take notice with the addition of Castellanos but the past performances give me cause for pause. Seven starts have seen five straight maiden races with one win, followed by two optional allowance races – the last a win at Oaklawn – make me wonder about the step up.

9. Render Judgement (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr., 12/1) was third in the Gun Runner, then eighth in the Risen Star, both at the Fair Grounds. Nothing jumps out here and everything will need to go right and then still need some help to make some noise here.

10. Georgia Magic (Raymond Handal, Sheldon Russell, 30-1) makes little sense in this spot. Ran in the Jerome at Aqueduct in January, an early prep, and was sixth, beaten 26 lengths. That wasn’t the strongest prep, and he whiffed.

Derby Dan Handicapping Contest!

A reminder about the details for the Kentucky Derby Handicapping contest that will take place Saturday, May 3 at the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting facility.

The format is simple and is open to anybody that will be at the OTB throughout the day of the Kentucky Derby. All you must do is select a winner for each stakes race at Churchill Downs on the Day of the Derby.

Using a 5-3-1-point system for finishing first, second, and third, the person with the most points following the Kentucky Derby wins!

The prize breakdown is: First, $150 voucher; Second: $100 voucher; Third, $50 voucher; Fourth, $25 voucher.

There will also be drawings throughout the day for free Alameda County Fair tickets. We also have contests planned for Preakness Day and Belmont Day!

March 6

By Dennis Miller

Before we get to this week’s races, we can now announce the details for this year’s Kentucky Derby Handicapping contest that will take place Saturday, May 3 at the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting facility.

The format is simple and is open to anybody that will be at the OTB throughout the day of the Kentucky Derby. All you must do is select a winner for each stakes race at Churchill Downs on the Day of the Derby.

Using a 5-3-1-point system for finishing first, second, and third, the person with the most points following the Kentucky Derby wins!

The prize breakdown is: First, $150 voucher; Second: $100 voucher; Third, $50 voucher; Fourth, $25 voucher.

There will also be drawings throughout the day for free Alameda County Fair tickets.

If you have any questions, shoot me an email I will be happy to help.

Kentucky Derby prep

There is only one race today and in a lot of years it is not thought of as one of the big Kentucky Derby preps, but this year the Tampa Bay Derby seems to be race that will draw the interest of many.

In large part it is the entry of Chancer McPatrick. The horse is on the short list of Derby contenders for many people. After winning his first three starts last year, he finished sixth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile.

He’s been off since early November and many – me included – have been waiting for the return.

Here is the field in post position order.

1. Owen Almighty (Brian Lynch, Irad Ortiz) has run twice this year, both in stakes in Tampa. He was first in January in the Pasco but was disqualified and placed fifth. He then came back with a second in the Sam Davis, the prep for this race, at 5-2. Overall, he has two wins and two seconds in five starts – the lone time off the board was the DQ. He has never been worse than third in all five starts.

2. Chancer McPatrick (Chad Brown, Flavian Prat) is one that will close from the parking lot, a style that fits well in the Derby, but you have to get there first. He should get the pace he needed to set up a deep close. If he runs a big one, he will be mentioned a legit Derby threat. Also has had some strong mornings.

3. Hill Road (Chad Brown, Tyler Gaffalione) was third in the Juvenile after shipping over from Europe last year. Been off since then like the horse to his inside. He is with Chad Brown for the first time and is a big time closer just as his stablemate is.

4. Brodeur (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz) came back after six weeks off and won an optional claimer at Oaklawn on Jan. 26. It was his second win in a row, both came with him taking the field wire-to-wire.

5. Filoso (Chad Summers, Dylan Davis) is another runner that is making a return after a lengthy break. His last start Nov. 30 at Churchill Downs where he was sixth in the Kentucky Jockey Club. Save for his maiden score, he does not have a win. Appears to be another close.

6. Naughty Rascal (Gerald Bennett, Sammy Camacho) has won four of seven career starts but is coming off a sixth, beaten 13 lengths in the Sam F. Davis. He likes to sit close to the pace and make a move late.

7. Patch Adams (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux) was one I had in my stable until the fourth in the Southwest at Oaklawn. It was a very pedestrian effort but the connections scream that this horse is worth a good look. He might be but I will have to see it before I give him another look.

Derby Standings

Here are the top 20 (the size of the Derby field) right now. There are plenty of points left over the next two months. I put them into four groups.

Coal Battle (70), Citizen Bull (60), Sovereignty (60), Flood Zone (50), Journalism (47.5).

Getaway Car (36), Built (35), Madaket Road (31), Burnham Square (30), Sandman (29).

Speed King (29), Chunk of Road (25), River Thames (25), Sand Devil (25), Rodriguez (21.25).

Disco Time (20), Captain Cook (20), John Hancock (20), California Burrito (20), Tiztastic (19).

February 27

The biggest day of Kentucky Derby prep races so far this year there are two bigger days ahead takes place Saturday as there are three races set that will alter the current standings.

The Gotham (Aqueduct), Fountain of Youth (Gulfstream), and San Felipe (Santa Anita) will offer a combined 315 points with each featuring the 50-25-15-10-5 points system.

Following is my breakdown of each of the three races.

Gotham (Aqueduct)

(8^th race, 1:18 p.m. PDT)

1. Scorching (John Charalambous trainer, Eric Cancel jockey, 10/1) has run three races, all at Woodbine, getting one win and two seconds. The last start came over the turf where he was moved to first via DQ from in a $125K stake back on October 6. Back on August 25 he won a 6-furlong stake by five lengths. He’s had a couple of nice moves in the morning.

2. Normandy Coast (Eddie Kenneally, Ben Curtis, 15/1) has three races on three different tracks, with this keeping the streak alive by running on a fourth different track. The last start was a win in a $100,000 optional claimer at Fair Grounds on Jan. 11. This will be the first start going two turns.

3. Calling Card (Michael Maker, Kendrick Carmouche, 6/1) ran in the Lecomte on January 18 at the Fair Grounds and was eighth, beaten five lengths. He never got going that day, breaking eighth as well. Opted to skip the Risen Star last week. Looks like he prefers to run from off the pace.

4. Sacrosanct (Brad Cox, Manny Franco, 3/1) has four starts and four wins. Has won three straight New York-state bred races so this will be a tougher field. He has been off since December 14 but has some great works to get ready for this spot. Either wants the lead or be right off, never being worse than second at any call in any of the four races.

5. Sand Devil (Linda Rice, Jose Lezcano, 9/5) has won all three starts, also in state-bred company in New York. He is also a speedster, never being worse than third at any call in all three starts. Has stepped up in each start.

6. Pagode (Paulo Lobo, Luan Machado, 30/1) won his debut on Jan. 25 at Turfway Park with a late close. Now jumps into the fire against much better.

7. Flood Zone (Brad Cox, Reylu Gutierrez, 12/1) was second in his debut, then won at second asking against straight maiden at Gulfstream. Closed from the back of the field in his debut, then stuck closer to the lead in the win. He has not been around two starts.

8. McAfee (Richard Dutrow, Lane Luzzi, 10/1) won his debut against straight maidens at Churchill on Nov. 1. Came back three weeks later, tried a mile against allowance company and just missed. May be a bit of an ask here.

9. Garamond (Chad Brown, Javier Castellano, 8/1) won at first asking, Jan. 25 at Tampa Bay Downs. Has a series of big works in the morning for this start for serious connections. Watch the board as this might be a big value play.

10. My Mitole (Carlos Martin, Luis Rivera, 15/1) has won two straight but neither was mind blowing and both came at Aqueduct. A big reach here.

Fountain of Youth (Gulfstream)

(13^th race, 2:42 p.m.)

1. Gate to Wire (Todd Pletcher, Dylan Davis, 6/1) is coming off a win in the $155,000 Swale at Gulfstream on Feb. 1. That came in the second race off a break but this is a big step up. Pletcher does keep his A team in Florida.

2. Sovereignty (William Mott, Junior Alvarado, 3/1) broke maiden in the Grade III Street Sense at Churchill in his last start Oct. 27. Works have been strong for the return, but the barn is just average coming off that length of break.

3. Burnham Square (Ian Wilkes, Edgar Zayas, 5/2) stepped up big time and won the Holy Bull – the prep for this – in his first time against winners. Had the perfect stalking trip and was confidently ridden in the lane.

4. McKellen (John D’Angelo, Tyler Gaffalione, 30/1) stepped up in class in his last start, the Mucho Macho Man at Gulfstream and sixth beaten 14 lengths. This could be the end of his Derby trail.

5. Solid Left (Brian Lynch, Luis Saez, 20/1) had a horrible debut, finishing eighth, beaten eight lengths. Came back in his second start and drew clear in the lane to win. Connections are back for this one and he could be part of your ticket.

6. River Thames (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 2/1) has run twice and won twice, both times in convincing fashion, crossing the line up five lengths, then by over six. Given the connections, this one deserves a big look.

7. Neoequos (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 10/1) lost his rider in his debut but since then, he has not been worse than second in the last four starts. He is coming off an allowance race in the slop in the last start so check the weather. If not on the lead he will be pushing the pace.

8. Keep It Easy (Dale Romans, 8/1) has seen quite a difference he his last two starts. Two back on August 10 in the Saratoga Special he stumbled badly at the start and was dead last, beaten 23 lengths. Came back on Nov. 30 at took the Eddie Brown at Churchill. The works have been okay for the return, but the barn struggles with this length break.

San Felipe (Santa Anita)

(8^th race, 3:30 p.m.)

1. Mellencamp (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith, 6/1) in one of three Baffert runners here. This one has four starts and has hit the board twice. After running fifth in the Los Alamitos Futurity, beaten 16 lengths, dropped back to the straight maiden world on February 14 and was second, beaten four lengths.

2. Journalism (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli, 7/2) was the winner of the Los Al Futurity, drawing off to win by three lengths. But that was Dec. 14, and the barn is okay at that length of break. The morning works have been very pedestrian for the return.

3. Barnes (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 1/1) the favorite right now to win the Derby in the latest futures pool. Broke at first asking on Nov. 7, then came back to win the San Vicente on Jan. 4 over the track, drawing off to effortlessly win over by five lengths.

4. Rodriguez (Bob Baffert, Flavian Prat, 9/5) pretty much chased the winner around the track in the Lewis, finishing second, beaten three-plus lengths. A very solid runner that is a notch below his stablemate.

5. Smooth Cruisein (Karen Headley, Ricardo Gonzalez, 30/1) broke in the debut then came back to run fourth in a field of five in the San Vicente. He did not break well in the San Vicente but not sure he will get the pace he needs here for a close.

6. Berlin Wall (Steve Knapp, TJ Pereira, 30/1) is one of two maidens entered here, joining the rail horse. Well as least a maiden in terms of crossing the line first as after running second on Feb. 1, he was moved to the winner by virtue of a DQ. Not liking the chances here.

Febuary 20

One big Kentucky Derby prep race and one not so big one dot the Derby prep Saturday for the second weekend in a row. 

Last week it was the Risen Star at the Fair Grounds drawing the big runners, with the Sunland Derby wrapping up the weekend on Sunday. 

This time both races are on Saturday, with the Rebel at Oaklawn Park drawing most of the interest by virtue of the 50-25-15-10-5 point system for the race. 

In the evening, the John Battaglia Memorial takes place at Turfway Park. The available points are 20-10-6-4-2 for the field. 

Oaklawn Park 

Rebel (11^th race, 1-1/16-miles, 3:23 p.m.) 

1. Coal Battle (Lonnie Briley trainer, Juan Vargas jockey, 10/1) was horribly inconsistent through his first three starts, then something clicked as he has run off three wins. And, the three wins, have all shown different forms. The first saw a mid-pack rally, the second from well off the pace, and in the third, he wired the field. Won his only start over the track. 

2. Admiral Dennis (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 12/1) won his lone start this year, coming off a month break. He sat close and pounced in a $100,000 optional claimer as the heavy favorite. In fact, has been the favorite in all four career starts but has only produced two wins. The connections make you notice. 

3. Sandman (Mark Casse, Cristian Torres, 4/1) is a $1.2 million purchase that has produced two wins from six career starts. Did run well here in the Southwest at the end of January. He had some trouble at the start but rallied and finished second. I think the horse on the inside is the better value play at this point. 

4. Hypnus (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez, 10/1) won his debut on Jan. 18 at the Fair Grounds, featuring a big close at 16/1. He has had a pair of above average works since the race and given the connections this one will be worth watching and following the tote board. 

5. Madaket Road (Bob Baffert, Irad Ortiz, 9/2) was third in the Lewis in his last start and now ships to Arkansas from Santa Anita, a normal move for a Baffert runner. My concern from watching the Lewis was it was a dull effort throughout. He broke fourth in the five-horse field and finished a well-beaten third. This one is going to take some action and there will be no value. 

6. Publisher (Steve Asmussen, Flavien Prat, 20/1) has yet to pick up a win in five career starts and has run third three times in the five starts. He was seventh after a bobble at the start of the Southwest, getting beaten by many in here. Always seems to prefer to run from off the pace so it will be interesting to see interesting to see how the race develops if he gets a clean break. 

7. Dreaminblue (Randy Morse, Francisco Arrieta, 15/1) finally broke in his fourth start and looks to have improved with each of his four starts. Will get a good idea here to see if he is a viable Arkansas Derby. 

8. Innovator (D Wayne Lukas, Tyler Bacon, 15/1) has one win in eight career starts so might be a reach here. He was third in the Lecomte at the Fair Grounds at 16/1, setting the pace for the first three-quarters of the race before getting caught late. 

9. Smoken Wicked (Dallas Stewart, Tyler Gaffalione, 8/1) ended 2024 with three wins is a row, taking the Louisiana Juvenile and the Louisiana Futurity, both at the Fair Grounds. Now after a brief break, ships here to Arkansas. Through all eight races, he has shown the desire to be close to the lead. Can’t rule out here at what could be a good price. 

10. Bullard (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli, 5/1) has run all three starts in California, finishing first in the Bob Hope, then third in the San Vincente. Comes out here to avoid Barnes but there are several to worry about in this spot. He will sit off the lead and pick his spot to make the late move. 

11. Speed King (Ron Moquett, Rafael Bejarano, 6/1) shocked everyone to win the Southwest at almost 15/1. He has done nothing wrong thus far, leading at every point of call in all three of his races, except for his second start where he finished second by a half-length. This should be the favorite I think and is likely the horse to beat. Even his works for this spot have been very good. Major player. 

13. Tiztastic (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz, 8/1) his last win came in September at Kentucky Downs, but he has been solid in three successive stake races, finishing third in the Southwest here. That day he had a troubled trip and still fought to make a late run to get up for the third-place finish. A must on your tickets and could be right there at the end. 

14. Hot Gunner (Scott Young, Harry Hernandez, 50/1) is just not of the same ilk as these runners. He was last beaten 12 lengths here in the Smarty Jones. He went down to Houston from there to run in an allowance race and now is back. Not a lot of positives I can add here. 

 
Turfway Park 

Battaglia Memorial (7^th race, 1-1/16-miles, 5:55 p.m.) 

1. Spirit Rags (Marcelino Sales, Santo Sanjur, 20/1) comes in with a whopping 11 starts and has one win to show for all those starts, and that just came in his last start. 

2. Shan (Ed Moger, Albin Jimenez, 30/1) has a trainer with deep Northern California ties and was a regular on the NorCal Fair Circuit. His most recent start was in a $125,000 race over the track and was third after setting the pace most of the race. 

3. Studlydoright (John Robb, Xavier Perez, 8/1) took a shot in a couple of preps in New York and ran fourth in both the Remsen, then the Jerome. There’s no doubt this will be a softer spot, and we will see early if he is running closer to the pace. 

4. Calling Card (Michael Maker, Gerardo Corrales, 10/1) was a badly beaten eighth in the Lecomte at the Fair Grounds, and like the horse to the inside, seeks a softer spot here in hopes of grabbing some easier qualifying points. He has had some strong works in the morning for this race. 

5. California Burrito (Thomas Drury, Irving Moncada, 8/1) is coming off the best performance of his young career, rolling to a seven-length win in a $62,500 optional claimer over the track. This is a step up but not as big as you might think. 

6. Banks (Joe Sharp, Adam Beschizza, 15/1) had been solid early with a second, followed by a pair of wins. Then he stepped into a $125,000 stake over the track and was a badly beaten seventh. Probably not a good spot. 

7. Baby Max (Kelsey Danner, Abel Cedillo, 6/1) was the winner of the Leonatus – that $125K stake over the track on January 18. He was almost 6/1 that day but put together a nice stalking trip and closed strong for the win. Has to have a shot in here with how he’s shown on the track the last two. 

8. King of Ashes (Brendan Walsh, Declan Cannon, 15/1) broke in his most recent effort, his third start overall. The win came at Gulfstream and followed a second-place effort, also at the Florida track. The deep closer should get a good pace to run at. 

9. First Resort (Eoin Harty, Luis Saez, 2/1) has seen the best races by a mile. He is coming off a win in the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club in the end of November at Churchill Downs. Was fourth in the Grade I Summer at Woodbine in September and before that was second in the Saratoga Special in August. Been off a while but a good work tab shows he appears fit. If he’s ready, he wins. 

10. Coming in Hot (John Ennis, Edgar Morales, 5/1) scored in the Turfway Preview, a $124,000 race on Jan. 4. That was his third win in seven starts this year. He was 4/1 in the race after coming off a series of races where he was double digits on the tote. 

11. Brereton’s Baytown (Paul McEntee, Joseph Bealmear, 50/1) is one where there is not a lot to say. Nine starts – two wins, with his biggest race recently being a $28,000 allowance race. He is 50/1 for a reason. 

12. Maximum Promise (Kenny McPeek, Evin Roman, 8/1) was fifth in the Lecomte at the Fair Grounds and now is searching for an easier spot. He will find it easier here and with the connections, it is possible. 

February 13

We move to the next level of Kentucky Derby prep races this weekend, as the available points take a big jump and a win at this point almost guarantees a horse in the starting gate the first Saturday in May!

There are still some lower-level races left – there’s on Sunday of this week – but the Risen Star from the Fair Grounds gets us going!

Sunday will showcase the Sunland Derby from Sunland, New Mexico! This is the route Minte That Bird took to the Derby when he stunned the horse racing world and won the Kentucky Derby at 50-1.

Here are the two Derby preps this weekend.

Fair Grounds

Risen Star (14^th race, 4:30 p.m., 1-1/8-miles)

This is the first of the (50-25-15-10-5) point races, therefore some big movement in the standings can be expected.

1. American Promise (D Wayne Lukas, Keith Asmussen) is coming off a disappointing Southwest finish January 25 at Oaklawn, forcing the horse to wheel back right here. He got off slow in the Southwest, then rallied to get back in contention then faded, finishing sixth before being disqualified and placed seventh.

2. Jonathan’s Way (Philip Bauer, Jose Ortiz) was seventh in the BC Juvenile, then came right back at the end of that month to run second as the favorite in the Kentucky Jockey Club on Nov. 30 at Churchill. Been off since then but the barn hits at 33 percent on that move. The morning show was impressive as well. Given the horse has one bad race in four starts, I think he’s a runner here.

3. Vassimo (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz) has two starts and two wins. Started with a straight maiden score on Dec. 14, then came back with an optional claimer on Jan. 17 at Tampa. Either on the lead or right there, this one will be a big part of the pace. Yes, a step up but he looks good.

4. East Avenue (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione) started with two wire-to-wire wins but was stopped abruptly when he stumbled at the start of the BC Juvenile before finishing ninth by 13 lengths. A long break to come off but the works for the return have been good and the connections will have this one ready to run.

5. Chunk of Gold (Ethan West, Abel Cedillo) has a win and a second in two starts but at much lower levels than this group. He comes from off the pace and it does appear to be plenty of early speed. If he gets first run might be fun to watch.

6. Seattle Road (Thomas Amoss, Martin Pedroza) was seventh in the Lecomte in a race where he never got going. Will get another chance here but at 1-for-5 his Derby trail hopes may be hanging here.

7. Septarian (Chad Brown, Flavian Prat) has won two of three and is one I think can be dangerous in this spot. Opened in a straight maiden score, followed by a win in an optional claimer. The third start came in the Mucho Macho Man. That came off a two-month break, leaving this in the enviable spot of second off a break. The works have been strong, and I think all signs are go.

8. Giocoso (Keith Desormeaux, Jaime Torres) has two wins in six starts this year and this spot may be too big. He will come from off the pace, but it may be too big a hole to overcome.

9. Built (Wayne Catalano, Luis Saez) has run in the first two of the Fair Grounds prep races, winning the Gun Runner, then coming back and finishing second in the Lecomte, finishing just a neck back of winner Disco Time.

 10. Render Judgement (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez) was third in the Gun Runner back on Dec. 21 heading to the bench following the race. Some decent works have been run to come back and run here. Another that will prefer to come from off the pace and hope to chase down the early leaders.

11. Jolly Samurai (Danny Pish, Rene Diaz) was ninth, beaten seven lengths after bumping and stopping early in his last. Looking for a positive, he did find some run late to pick up four lengths. It was the second race in a row he was well back. Before the last two, he did close like a champ, winning three smaller stakes races.

12. Vamos Carlitos (Gregory Foley, Florent Geroux) sees the connections settle for an interesting spot as he has run in straight maiden company, allowance runners, opening claiming, and then an optional claimer. Seems like a major jump in class but the jockey does warrant respect.

13. Magnitude (Steve Asmussen, Ben Curtis) was second in the Gun Runner then sixth in the Lecomte, so this does seem like natural progression. Not sure how much longer he will be on the Derby trail – pretty much depends on the result here. He prefers to be close to the lead but in the last, brushed early and never got going. We will give a pass there but must see a lot more today.

Sunday

Sunland Park

Sunland Derby (9^th race, 3:17 p.m., 1-1/16-miles)

This is always an interesting ones to watch as we get some regional horses for Sunland mixing in with this take a jaunt over from Southern California to steal 20 Derby points.

1. Itsmaybirthday (Robertino Diodore, Harry Hernandez, 20/1) ships over from Turf Paradise with a perfect two wins in two starts. The level of competition is not the greatest, but we will see if he goes from the rail and tries to hold on to get home.

2. Remember Big Jim (Dick Cappellucci, Elvin Gonalez, 12/1) another local horse, he was second in a $100,000 stake over the track on Jan. 17.

3. Smash It (Todd Fincher, Florent Geroux, 12/1) came to the region from the Southern California area two back. Has taken advantage of the scene change with a first and a third here in the two starts since arriving. The problem? He’s got some better SoCal horses coming here to run.

4. Getaway Car (Bab Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 9/5) is where the race will be decided. Last out was second in the Los Alamitos Futurity on Dec. 14. There’s not a lot of secrets here – the Baffert runner will go when the gate opens and will try to hold off the rest of the field. He has run in some big races against some real good horses, but he has had a problem holding the early lead, winning only twice in six starts. The way I see it – the rest of the field is not strong enough to catch him. Come and catch me if you can.

5. Spenard (Tena Bidwell, Luis Valenzuela, 20/1) is one for three at Turf Paradise, the last two against $30,000 optional claimers. Enough said.

6. Take Charge Tom (Robertino Diodora, Orlando Mojica, 8/1) has won a pair at Turf Paradise, then one here in the $100,000 Riley Allison Derby. It is the best of the local runners and figures to sit close to Getaway Car.

7. McKinzie Street (Justin Evans, Ramon Vazquez, 4/1) has taken on the top Southern California runners, and did run decently despite not being able to get a win. Has the potential to be in the mix at the end, hoping to get first run on the early speed.

8. Touchy (Wesley Ward, Joel Rosario, 7/2) ventures down from the middle of the country, having run at Saratoga, Keeneland, and Turfway Park. He did break maiden two back at Keeneland. The second choice.

9. Caldera (D. Wayne Kukas, Rafael Bejarano, 5/1) broke in his third start at Oaklawn, beating straight maiden runners on Jan. 17. It was an impressive score, getting out quick, then drawing off the win the race. Now he faces winners for the first time for the iconic barn.

February 6

Before we get into this Saturday’s big races across the United States, there was some interesting news from the Los Angeles Times earlier this week.

It was reported that two anonymous sources told Times writers that Keith Brackpool, a former high-ranking official with The Stronach Group (TSG), has been hired by the company again, this time to explore selling the TSG tracks, including Santa Anita and Gulfstream Park.

To me, the most important thing to remember is that it was anonymous sources, and at this point, TSG is denying the tracks are for sale.

Another thing is that throughout the years, TSG has used threatening to sell has been an important part of negotiations for TSG.

My thoughts: I do not think, at least for the next few years, TSG is interested in selling those tracks. But times have changed, and people are getting tired of the “give me my way or I will take my ball and go home.” That and the fact that both Santa Anita and Gulfstream sit on some very attractive real estate.

What’s the point I am trying to make? When it comes to horse racing, don’t believe everything you read, especially when it comes to breaking news.

This Saturday’s racing

Okay, where is our money going this weekend?

We have two grade stakes races – the Bayakoa at Oaklawn and the San Marcos at Santa Anita. There is also a Kentucky Derby prep with the Sam F. Davis at Tampa Bay Downs.

Grade III Bayakoa (Oaklawn Park, 9^th race. 2:25 p.m.)

This race for fillies and mares will go 1-1/16-miles with six ladies set to go to post.

Your morning line favorite is Loved (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione, 9/5). She had two wins in five starts last year and was off-the-board in the other three starts. Today she makes her 2025 debut.

When she was last seen she was winning the Grade III Fall City Stakes at Churchill Downs. She stalked the early pace, took a 3-length-lead at the top of the lane and then added some distance in the mud that day. Shows a very consistent and solid work tab for the return.

Corningstone (Kenny McPeak, Ramon Vasquez, 2/1) is the second choice and drew the rail – on the other side of the starting gate from the favorite. She has started twice recently at Oaklawn and won both. The last came January 19 in the $150,000 Pippin Stakes. There was no messing around that day as she shot out, took the lead and wired the field.

Free Like a Girl (Chasey Deville Portier, Ricardo Santana Jr., 3/1) is a war horse that has won 21-of-47 career starts and $2 million in purse money. She ended last year winning 3-of-4 starts, all as the prohibitive favorite. Came back Jan. 25 at Sam Houston in Grade III Sam Houston Ladies Classic and was fourth. Now with this the second start off the break, she could be real good.

Grade III San Marcos (Santa Anita, 7^th race, 3:30 p.m.)

We’ve got a long one here as they will go 1-1/4 of a mile down the hill on the grass, with eight going to post.

Truly Quality (Jonathan Thomas, Victor Cheminaud, 8/5) is going to be one tough horse to beat here. He ended the year with four-wins in five-starts, wrapping up with a win on Nov. 29 in Hollywood Turf Cup at Del Mar, capping off another come from behind win. At that point he went to the bench and now comes back here. He comes in with some pretty average works, and a barn that is okay off this long a break. He could be one race away or could be just that much better than everyone else here.

Divin Propos (Phil D’Amato, Umberto Rispoli, 3/1) is also coming out of that last race of True Quality. He was fifth that day and went to the bench as well. The works for the return have been pedestrian and the barn is not strong firing back and this length of time off. Did win two $80,000 optional claimers last year.

Easter (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 5/1) hit the board once in six starts last year while running in a full slate of tough races. The more in depth I get in this race, the more it seems like a one-horse event.

I will give you a long shot here to look at. Atitlan (John Shirreffs, Hector Berrios, 10/1) is a horse with a jockey that can bring in the long shots – I have seen it times before at Santa Anita or Del Mar. He’s run in four straight graded stakes, totaling one win, a pair thirds, and a seventh. Hitting the board five of seven times in his career. It’s to take a lot to beat the favorite, so you might as well have some fun trying to do so!

Kentucky Derby prep

There is only one this weekend and for that we venture to Florida and Tampa Bay Downs for the Sam F. Davis. The race is 1-1/16-miles, the 11^th on the card, and set for a 2:14 p.m. post.

This is the next to last 20-10-6-4-2 qualifying point structure for the Prep races.

Here is the field in post-position order.

1. Camp Hale (Ian Wilkes, Brian Hernandez, Jr., 20/1) has three starts and has run second three times. Enters here as a maiden but those three seconds came against strong fields so why not take a shot. He does want to be on the front end.

2. Treaty of Rome (Chad Brown, Dylan Davis, 6/1) had a third in his debut, then beat a straight maiden field to get into the winning side. First start against winners came in the $150,000 in the Mucho Macho Man on January 4 at Gulfstream. Comes into this with a good series of works and will be one to watch.

3. John Hancock (Brad Cox, Flavian Prat, 3/1) made his debut Jan. 9 at Tampa Bay and cruised to a 9-length win. Not a lot of past performances to look at but given the connections and the powerful debut, one has to think he’s a major player.

4. Dr Ruben M (Doug O’Neill, Junior Alvarado, 12/1) took for starts to finally break maiden which gives me cause for pause. The first time against winners in the Remington Springboard Mile, he pressed the pace early, then slowly backed up, finishing fourth. I think I have to pass here.

5. Gateskeeper (Jade Cunningham, David Cohen, 30/1) is another that will be running here as a maiden. He ran second in a debut against straight maidens, then was third in an optional claimer. Needs a monster step forward to be worthy of notice.

6. Owen Almighty (Brian Lynch, Irad Ortiz, 2/1) has won two of four starts is his career. He actually crossed the line first at the last start but was disqualified and placed fifth. That race was the first since September, so it was an impressive return, and with some big works for this spot, I think is worthy of the favorites role. What makes this race special is that while this one is the worthy favorite, I don’t think he’s a lock by any imagination.

7. Poster (Eoin Harty, Antonio Gallardo, 4/1) when last seen was winning the Remsen on Dec. 7 in New York, an early prep race. Now ship downs to Florida – a positive move – for a strong barn. Has won all three starts, all at different tracks so he ships well. He had a statement work over the track for this. Big concern would be the length of the time off, but the barn has been good with this time off.

8. Naughty Rascal (Gerald Bennett, Edwin Gonzalez, 6/1) lost by a length to Owen Almighty is his last start, validating the openness of this race. He looks to be near the front in all starts. Always a fighter, this one has hit the board in all six starts, with four wins, one second, and one third. Major player.

9. Smoken Boy (Jose Francisco D’Angelo, Paco Lopez, 20/1) comes north from Canovanas, Puerto Rico and Camarero Racetrack. He has won two in a row, both easily, but certainly the depth of competition would be called into question. Very much looking forward to seeing this one.10. Very Bold (Eoin Harty, JL Castanon, 20/1) I think is a step behind this group but looks to be talented enough to pull a huge stunner if things go right. Was third behind two other runners in his last start. The problem appears to be losing ground and not being able to engage when they turn for home.

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January 30

By now I am pretty sure anyone that is reading this column has already heard that the California Authority Racing Fairs (CARF) has announced there is no plan for California Fair Racing in 2025.

Currently the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa was not a member of CARF and thus could have racing in August during its fair.

It is not known at this time if that will happen. There is also a chance that the Humboldt County Fair may go with a meet this year, but that is also not known for sure at this time.

It is unclear what the future may hold for horse racing in Northern California, but in the immediate future it appears there is no plan for racing again in this half of the state.

More to come in this space in the following weeks. The off-track betting (OTB) facility at the Alameda County Fairgrounds will stay open and this column will be your space each week to find out about future promotions or contests!

Kentucky Derby prep races on Saturday!

The first big weekend of the Kentucky Derby trail is Saturday as there are three prep races taking center stage.

The three horse races, with each in order of post-position for the day are as follows.

Withers (7^th race, Aqueduct, 1-1/8 miles, 12:46 p.m.)

1. Global Steve (Robert Reid trainer, Mychel Sanchez jockey, 6/1) has done all that’s been asked in his two starts. First out he broke by six lengths in a straight maiden at Parx On November 24. Five weeks later he won again in a $75,000 stakes, also at Parx. Both starts came at 7-furlongs so this will be the first around two turns. In both starts he also started slowly, then had the lead when they turned home.

2. Surfside Moon (James Lawrence, Sahin Civaci, 15/1) has one win in five starts with three of the starts coming at Delaware Downs. The win came on the third start against straight maiden company. Since then, he was fifth in the Laurel Futurity at the end of September, then was sixth in another $150,000 stake at Aqueduct in mid-October. Been on the shelf since then with an average series of works. Has shown no speed.

3. Corvus (Jose Jimenez, Romero Maragh, 12/1) is another that is still searching. He has one win in seven starts, that coming three back in his fourth start. He beat a field of straight maidens on October 18^th at Aqueduct. Since then, he has run in a pair of $80,000 optional claimers, also at Aqueduct. Most recent start on Jan. 2 where he was second but was beaten 12-lengths. Little to no speed here as well.

4. Uncle Jim (Brad Cox, Jose Lezcano, 3/1) won at first asking at Keeneland on Oct. 17. Came back on Dec. 6 in an $80,000 optional claimer where he was third, beaten 3.5 lengths. Connections add credibility.

5. Mo Quality (Christopher Davis, Kendrick Carmouche, 3/1) has three starts and has been in the exacta in all three. Broke in his second start Oct. 17 at Churchill, then came back to run second in the Smarty Jones at Oaklawn, pushing the pace throughout. The last two starts have seen him on or near the lead so every reason to expect him to be a pace factor in this.

6. Captain Cook (Richard Dutrow, Manny Franco, 5/2) had a mild debut, running sixth, switched barns, and got win on Dec. 28 at Aqueduct. Back here again for this and should be a pace factor as he faces winners for the first time. Two different running styles in the two races and would expect to be a send horse here.

7. Omaha Omaha (Michael Gorham, Raul Mena, 4/1) has run five races and has finished in the top four in all of them. In fact, he has at least one of each place – two firsts, a second, third, and fourth. Even though it wasn’t a win, I think his last effort was his best. On January 4 in the Jerome – the prep race for this one – he was down 10 at the midway point and rallied to finish second, three lengths back. Comes back with bullet work and looks ready for a big effort.

Robert B. Lewis (4^th race, Santa Anita, one mile, 1:30 p.m.

Such is the state of racing in California right now. It used to be when it came to the Kentucky Derby prep races, California was the place to be.

Now, with Bob Baffert back in the Kentucky Derby picture, the drew a field of five for a Derby prep, three which belong to Baffert.

Pretty weak.

Here is your field, post-position order.

1. Madaket Road (Bob Baffert, Franki Dettori, 5/2) debuted in the Grade III Bob Hope and was second. Stepped back into straight maiden company and came on late to get the win on Dec. 26 Now, a series of good works for this one sure makes him look a major threat.

2. Citizen Bull (Bob Baffert, Martin Garcia, 6/5) has four starts with three wins and a third, but he has been off for a while. He has won two straight, taking the American Pharoah, followed by the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile on November 1. He has been off since then but has been burning up the track in the mornings. Has to be ready and this one should be the one to beat.

3. Rodriguez (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 7/5) broke maiden Jan. 4 at Santa Anita and did so blowing doors on the field from the start, winning by seven lengths and getting a 101 Beyer mark.

4. Clock Tower (Wesley Ward, Gerardo Corrales, 10/1) has had the lead in all five starts at the third call of the race. He held on and won two of those, ran second in another, and third twice. Obviously, no secrets here – see starting gate open, run very fast, take lead. Will that work here.

5. Valentines Candy (Jesus Mendoza, Welfin Orantes) is 30/1 for a reason – he has nine starts and one win, winning an $50,000 open claimer. The last start was in the King Glorius where he was eighth, beating one horse.

Holy Bull (11^th, Gulfstream, 1-1/16 mile, 2:13 p.m.)

1. Kinetic Control (Dale Romans, Junior Alvarado, 15/1) finally broke in his fourth start on November 27 at Churchill. It was the first time the horse was sent, running from off the pace in the first three. It paid off as he wired the field. The last three starts all came at the distance, so that’s not a problem. Obviously, a step up but with a good work coming in, along with the connections he deserves a look.

2. Ferocious (Gustavo Delgado, Javier Castellano, 9/5) has been off since November 1 when he ran 5^th in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. He had a win and two seconds leading into the Breeders’ Cup. He comes back with a decent work tab and puts the blinkers on. He appears to like to sit in the middle and make a late run. Obviously a major threat.

3. Tappan Street (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 3/1) is the only runner here with just one start. The was a win on Dec. 8 at Gulfstream. Now he jumps into the deep end of the pool with a good series of works for a top barn. Something tells me to take a good look.

4. Guns Loaded (Jose Francisco D’Angelo, Irad Ortiz, 5/2) was second in his debut, won his second start, then came back and won the Mucho Macho Man on Jan. 4, wiring the field, then holding on to win by a neck. No doubt he’s going to the front and if he doesn’t get the lead, he will be pushing the leader.

5. He’s Not Joking (Josie Carroll, John Velazquez, 15/1) had a great run the first four starts with two wins, a second and a third. Then came a start in the Kentucky Jockey Club where he finished eighth and was beaten 10 lengths on November 30. He needed a break and got it going to the bench after that race. The barn has not been great bringing them back from that length of a break. Has a steady work tab for the return and if he is in the same form as before the Jockey Club, he could be a threat.

6. Burning Glory (Bill Mott, Tyler Gaffalione, 8/1) is coming off breaking in his third start on Dec. 1. His first start was a fifth, followed by a vastly improved second, with his races coming at Churchill Downs. Will sit off the pace and make a late run.

7. Burnham Square (Ian Wilkes, Edgar Zayas, 5/1) is coming off an impressive straight maiden score, winning by nine-lengths at Gulfstream on Dec. 28. Coming back here after a short break for a barn that is not spectacular with this length of break. I believe he will look to sit the middle to back then make a run when they turn for home.

January 22

There’s a big day of racing coming Saturday with the Pegasus World Cup day at Gulfstream Park.

In all, there are seven graded races at Gulfstream, starting in the 7^th race and ending with the 13^th race – the $3 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational.

Post time for the first race of the day for Gulfstream is 8 a.m., with the final race – the WC Invitational – going off at 2:40 p.m.

Saturday also brings the running of another Kentucky Derby prep race in the $1 million Southwest at Oaklawn Park. The race is on the 10^th race on the Oaklawn card and is set for 2:10 p.m. post.

Let’s look at the big race at Gulfstream, followed at an inside look at the Kentucky Derby prep race.

(Grade I, Pegasus World Cup Invitational, 13^th race, 1-1/8-miles, 2:40 p.m.)

In post-position order.

1. Mixto (Doug O’Neill trainer, Franki Dettori, jockey) is running in one of the biggest races in the world, four races back, he was second in the Pleasanton Mile at the Alameda County Fair. Since then, he won the Pacific Classic at Del Mar and was 11^th in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. The key here is the start -: If he gets out in the top two spots, he seems to be in contention – if not, he goes backwards.

2. Saudi Crown (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux) has won some big races over the last two years but has also come up empty. The last four races have been feast or famine as there has been two wins and two races with double digit finishes. The last race was a win in a $90K stake at the Fair Grounds but before then was 13th, beaten by over 50 lengths in the Breeders Cup Dirt Mile. In 2023 he was the winner of the Pennsylvania Derby and was second in the Jim Dandy and the Dwyer.

3. Newgrange (Jose D’Angelo, Emisael Jaramillo) was in both the Bob Baffert and Phil D’Amato barns at points in his career and has won over $1 million in purse money. This is the first start for this barn. He does usually prefer to be on or near the lead.

4. White Abarrio (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, Jr.) the winner of the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Classic went from that race to the Saudi Cup just a couple of months later. He was strong for the first half of the race but flattened out and was 10^th, beaten by 15 lengths. Went to the shelf for a few months, coming back in June 2024 only to run a poor fifth (10 lengths back) in the Metropolitan at Saratoga. Went to the shelf again, coming back to win a $62,500 optional claimer at Gulfstream. The most recent start was the Grade III Mt. Prospector at Gulfstream where he was second as the favorite. Been ripping it up in the morning and if ready for this, will be a force.

5. Crupi (Todd Pletcher, Luis Saez) has run in seven graded stakes races in a row, and for the most part run well. The last was the Grade II Clark, where he was fifth. Before that it was Grade II Woodward (third), Grade I Whitney (second), Grade II Brooklyn (second), and Grade II Suburban (first). Now he has been on the shelf for a couple months and comes back here looking rested and ready. Has the ability to press the pace or to come from the back. He should be a player here.

6. Stronghold (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu) has run second in three graded races – the Malibu, Pennsylvania Derby, and the Indiana Derby. He won the Sunland Derby and Santa Anita Derby last year before running seventh in the Kentucky Derby. He will be in the middle and make his move when they are turning for home. He was one of my favorites on the Derby Trail last year.

7. Steal Sunshine (Bobby Dibona, Dylan Davis) only won two last year out of seven starts. I think he stacks up somewhere in the middle of the pack. He likes to come from off the pace, but I think there is too much here for him to have a chance.

8. Vitality (Harold Ladouceur, Rajiv Maragh) is one that has bitten off way too much here. Running sixth against a much weaker field in the Harlan’s Holiday at Gulfstream does not bode well for this spot.

9. Mystic Dan (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez) was last year’s Kentucky Derby winner at 19/1, holding off the fast-closing Sierra Leone. Was then second in the Preakness and came back for third leg but he was tired and finished eighth, beaten by 15 lengths in the Belmont. Went to the barn for six months and was sixth in the Malibu, his tune up race. He has been firing off bullets in the morning for this

10. Skippylongstocking (Saffie Joseph, Tyler Gaffalione) has picked a tough spot for a comeback race. Has been off since early November when he was sixth in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. He did win three starts last year, all three of which were graded races. If he’s ready, he will battle for the lead out of the gate and will be a pace factor throughout the race.

11. Locked (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez) won both starts this year, including the Grade II Cigar Mile Handicap December 7 at Aqueduct. Lightly raced compared to others here, he is going to be one to watch here.

12. Power Squeeze (Jorge Delgado, Javier Castellano) is a filly taking on the boys and won five of eight starts last year with wins in the Grade 1 Gulfstream Parks Oaks and the $100,000 Sun Coast at Tampa Bay Downs. She was sixth in the Kentucky Oaks.  A tall order for the filly, but she will be digging and fighting.        

The other graded races at Gulfstream on Saturday are:  7^th race – Grade III La Prevoyante Stakes – 11:04 a.m.; 8^th race – The Grade III Fred Hooper Stakes – 11:41 a.m.; 9^th race – The Grade III William L. McKnight Stakes – 12:13 p.m.; 10^th race – The TAA Pegasus World Cup Grade II Filly and Mare Turf – 12:45 p.m.; 11^th race – The Grade II Inside Information Stakes – 1:20 p.m.; 12^th race – The Grade I Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational – 1:55 p.m.

Oaklawn Kentucky Derby preps

Oaklawn Park has become one of my favorite tracks to watch the Kentucky Derby prep races with the first of the big three starting Saturday with the Southwest.

It will be followed by the Rebel (February 22) and the Arkansas Derby (March 29).

Ten are set to go to post in the Southwest which is the 10^th race on the Oaklawn card on Saturday, scheduled to go to post at 2:10 p.m. PDT.

The following is the Southwest field in post-position order:

1. Gaming (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 2/1) has four starts resulting in two wins, a second, and a third. The last start was a bit of a disappointment as he was third in a five-horse field in the Los Alamitos Futurity. He was second in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile before that. Won his first start, then won the Del Mar Futurity. Needs to get back to his winning ways today.

2. Publisher (Steve Asmussen, Erik Asmussen, 12/1) ran third his first three starts, then stepped up a spot to run second – all four in straight maiden races. You get 12/1 here as he still is a maiden through four starts. Obviously, a capable barn.

3. Monet’s Magic (Ben Coolbrook, Francisco Arrieta, 15/1) has won two races in a row but that was a maiden race, followed by a $125,000 optional claimer. Likes to come from off the pace so if there is a fast pace, may be worth a look.

4. Tiztastic (Steve Asmussen, Keith Asmussen, 15/1) in the last start ran third in the Kentucky Jockey Club at the end of November at Churchill. The two wins came back in August and September.

5. Render Judgement (Kenny McPeak, Emmanuel Esquivel, 15/1) ran third in the Gun Runner at the Fair Grounds back in late December, in what I felt was a solid early prep race. The lone win was a straight maiden race back in late October at Churchill.

6. Sandman (Mark Casse, Christian Torres, 5/1) was in kind of in a slump after breaking in a straight maiden race in August, running fifth and third in stakes races. Back to a $125,000 optional claimer over the Oaklawn track he got it done. Did it fix what was wrong? Guess we will see right here.

7. Patch Adams (Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 6/1) was third in the debut, then came back and crushed a straight maiden group by 10 lengths at Churchill. Toughest he’s seen yet – sure, but he just fired four bullets in the morning to show he’s ready for this shot.

8. American Promise (D Wayne Lukas, Tyler Bacon, 6/1) already has six starts and it took until that sixth start to cross the line first, with all races the straight maiden variety. Did win in the mud, so check the weather report for Saturday.

9. Bon Temps (D Wayne Lukas, Nik Juarez, 30/1) another Lukas runner but this one is 0-for-3, all against straight maidens with no wins. Certainly, deserves the 30/1 odds. He was fourth in the Smarty Jones, the prep for this race.

10. Speed King (Ron Moquett, Rafael Bejarano, 15/1) won at first asking at Churchill Downs, then came back and was second in the Springboard Mile at Remington Park. Has a big bullet move for this race so it appears to be ready. If Bejarano can turn the clock back here, it could be tasty as a value play.

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January 15

We are close to hitting the big time with the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks prep races as we move through January.

This Saturday is when I think we start for real with the running of the Lecomte in the Derby preps and the Silverbulletday for the Oaks preps.

Both races take place at the Fair Grounds in Louisiana and have the 20-10-6-4-2 qualifying point structure. This always seems to be the time of year when horses start to separate themselves as legit Kentucky Derby runners from the vast field of hopefuls.

Let’s look at the second of the two stakes on the Fair Grounds card, but certainly the most impactful of the two.

Lecomte (Grade III, 12^th race, 3:30 p.m.)

In order of post in the 1-1/16-mile Kentucky Derby prep.

1. Innovator (D Wayne Lukas trainer, Jaime Torres jockey) comes into the race with one win in seven starts. The win actually came in the last start, a straight maiden win at Oaklawn Park on Dec. 29. He did try a pair of stakes races while still a maiden, finishing fifth, beaten 12 lengths in the Grade I Hopeful at Saratoga in September, then was second in a $150,000 stake at Oaklawn on Dec. 6. Does prefer to be on or near the lead.

2. Maximum Promise (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr.) has two starts, both at Ellis Park. The first on July 7 and he ran fifth, then almost a month later where he came back and won by 14 lengths in a straight maiden race. He wired the field as the favorite and will be part of the pace factor here.

3. Admiral Dennis (Brad Cox, Joel Rosario) has a first, third, and fourth in his three starts. He was third in the debut, then came through with a win in a $119,000 straight maiden. In his first start against winners, he was fourth, beaten 16 in the Gun Runner at the Fair Grounds in late December. As much as I would love to endorse this horse, on his name alone, I can tell you one thing, this will be the first time he will not be the favorite.

4. Magnitude (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz) chased the speed all around the track before finishing second in the Gun Runner. Loves to be on or near the lead throughout the race. Has two wins in and one second in five starts. Not the overly impressive runner you would expect for Derby contender but does look better than a bunch of others.

5. Optical (Keith Desormeaux, James Graham) ended last year with a third, then a win in $50,000 allowance races at Churchill Downs. He has had some big works for this return over the Fair Grounds track. Seems to like to sit 3-4 deep and begin to move about three-quarters through the race. He has two career wins and a third in seven starts.

6. Golden Afternoon (Nicholas Vaccarezza, Axel Concepcion) has two wins and a second in three starts but all have come on the turf. Won at first asking September 8 at Kentucky Downs, then came back to run second in the Bourbon at Keeneland a month later. In the last start in late November, he brought home the win in a $100,000 optional claimer at the Fair Grounds. Never been worse than third at any call in all three races. The big question – how he will take to the dirt.

7. Calling Card (Michael Maker, Frankie Dettori) took three starts before he got a win against straight maiden company on Nov. 17 at Aqueduct. In his first time back out against winners on Dec. 13 at Oaklawn in an optional claimer was third by seven lengths. He prefers to sit back and make a late run. There is speed here, so…

8. Tough Catch (Dallas Stewart, Luis Saez) has two wins and two seconds in five starts. The last start was a win on Dec. 21 in the Sugar Bowl at the Fair Grounds. Has not been around two turns yet so there is always that question. He can sit back or stick close to the pace. He looks to be the one with the best past class.

9. Dapper Moon (Dallas Stewart, Edgar Morales) two wins in six career starts and is coming off an allowance at the Fair Grounds. Before then he was fourth in the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club on Nov. 30 at Churchill. Will look to sit just off the pace.

10. Mobetterthangood (Kenny McPeak, Colby Hernandez) has one start, that coming on Sept. 25 at Saratoga. In that seven furlong debut he came from well back to get the win. He’s a had a solid work tab for the return for a barn that hits at 19 percent coming off this length of a break. First look – this one is not ready for this step up.

11. Disco Time (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux) has two wins in two starts and given the connections, there is every reason to think this one is a contender. In the maiden score at Churchill on Nov. 1 he sat close to the speed and drew off for the win. He came back on Nov. 30 in a $100,000 optional claimer, also at Churchill, he led throughout, then drew off to win by over three.

12. Jolly Samurai (Danny Pish, Rene Diaz) has three wins in four starts. All four races have been at Remington Park, including his last, the $300,000 Springboard Mile where he was fifth, beaten 7-lengths.

13. Built (Wayne Catalano, Jareth Loveberry) was the winner of the Gun Runner at 7/2, wiring the field and drawing off to win by six. He was fourth in his debut at Ellis Park on August 20, then came back and won at Keeneland in a $100,000 straight maiden race.

Silverbulletday (9^th race, 2 p.m. PDT, fillies, 1-mile-70-yards)

This is the prep race for the Kentucky Oaks as eight horses will go to post. The field in post-position order.

1. Chasten (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux) had her lone start on Nov. 30 at Churchill where she came from off-the-pace to get the win. This will be the first time around two turns.

2. Golden Gamble (Kenny McPeak, Brian Hernandez Jr.)

Has a first, second, and third in her three starts. In her second start she picked up her first win, taking a straight maiden race at Churchill by nine-lengths. On December 21. She was second in the Untappable at the Fair Grounds. She appears to have a late running style.

3. Simply Joking (Whitman Beckman, Jaime Torres) kicked off with her debut Dec. 21 at the Fair Grounds, winning the $100,000 Letellier by a neck after a late run. Now, steps into a Oaks prep and looks like she fits.

4. Drexel (Whitworth Beckman, Ben Curtis) was fifth in the Untappable and looks to biting off too much here. One win in five starts. Will try blinkers today.

5. California Sunset (Brad Cox, Joel Rosario) was third in the Untappable and if you like Golden Gamble, then you need to take a long look here. She broke at second asking, taking a straight maiden race at Churchill.

6. Gowells Delight (Kenny McPeak, Colby Hernandez) had a spectacular debut, taking a 5-plus length win in a straight maiden race at the Fair Grounds on December 26. The barn is one of the best so a legit runner here.

7. She’s a Swede (Kenny McPeek, Luis Saez) took her third start to break, scoring Dec. 29 over the Fair Grounds track, wiring the field in the process.

8. Bless the Broken (William Walden, Axel Concepcion) broke by 10-lengths in July but has gone a little backwards from there, finishing eighth by 25 lengths in her second start. She was second in a $100,000 optional claimer at Church but then was seventh, beaten 12 lengths in the Grade II Demoiselle at Aqueduct. Does have a bullet work over the track for this spot.

Kentucky Derby Future Wager Pool III Opens!

This is from our friends at Churchill Downs!

Undefeated 3-year-old colt Barnes has been tabbed as the 10-1 individual betting favorite in Pool 3 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager as it begins a three-day run on Friday and offers fans another chance to bet on the $5 million Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve (Grade I) ahead of the first Saturday in May.

Owned by Zedan Racing and trained by Bob Baffert, Barnes leads the 39 individual betting interests in Pool 3, with the pari-mutuel field of “All Other 3-Year-Olds” tabbed as the 5-2 overall favorite.

Pool 3 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager opens Friday at noon (all times Eastern) and closes Sunday at 6 p.m. The pool, which features $2 Win and Exacta wagering, is available at racetracks and simulcast outlets nationwide, including TwinSpires.com, the official wagering provider of Churchill Downs Incorporated and the Kentucky Derby.

Barnes has emerged as one of the early favorites on the Road to the Kentucky Derby after his maiden special weight victory at Churchill Downs in November and recent win in the San Vicente (GII) at Santa Anita. The $3.2 million purchase is one of nine horses in Pool 3 trained by Baffert.

The others are Citizen Bull, Gaming, Getaway Car, Madaket Road, Rodriguez, Romanesque, San Saba, and Varney.

The complete field for Pool 3 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager with (trainer, sire and morning line odds):

#1 American Promise (Wayne Lukas, Justify, 50-1)
#2 Barnes (Bob Baffert, Into Mischief, 10-1)
#3 Built (Wayne Catalano, Hard Spun, 30-1)
#4 Bullard (Michael McCarthy, Gun Runner, 20-1)
#5 Chancer McPatrick (Chad Brown, McKinzie, 20-1)
#6 Citizen Bull (Bob Baffert, Into Mischief, 20-1)
#7 Coal Battle (Lonnie Briley, Coal Front, 50-1)
#8 Colloquial (George Weaver, Vekoma, 50-1)
#9 Cyclone State (Chad Summers, McKinzie, 40-1)
#10 Disco Time (Brad Cox, Not This Time, 50-1)
#11 Donut God (Brian Lynch, Into Mischief, 40-1)
#12 East Avenue (Brendan Walsh, Medaglia d’Oro, 15-1)
#13 Ferocious (Gustavo Delgado, Flatter, 30-1)
#14 First Resort (Eoin Harty, Uncle Mo, 30-1)
#15 Gaming (Bob Baffert, Game Winner, 30-1)
#16 Getaway Car (Bob Baffert, Curlin, 50-1)
#17 Grande (Todd Pletcher, Curlin, 50-1)
#18 Grayscale (Saffie Joseph Jr., Frosted, 99-1)
#19 Gunmetal (Brad Cox, Gun Runner, 30-1)
#20 Guns Loaded (Jose D’Angelo, Gun Runner, 50-1)
#21 Hill Road (Jorge Delgado, Quality Road, 50-1)
#22 Innovator (Wayne Lukas, Authentic, 50-1)
#23 Jonathan’s Way (Phil Bauer, Vekoma, 40-1)
#24 Journalism (Michael McCarthy, Curlin, 20-1)
#25 Keep It Easy (Dale Romans, Hard Spun, 40-1)
#26 Madaket Road (Bob Baffert, Quality Road, 50-1)
#27 Magnitude (Steve Asmussen, Not This Time, 80-1)
#28 Owen Almighty (Brian Lynch, Speightstown, 50-1)
#29 Patch Adams (Brad Cox, Into Mischief, 20-1)
#30 Poster (Eoin Harty, Into Mischief, 40-1)

#31 Rated by Merit (Bo Yates, Battalion Runner, 50-1)
#32 Rodriguez (Bob Baffert, Authentic, 20-1)
#33 Romanesque (Bob Baffert, Practical Joke, 50-1)
#34 San Saba (Bob Baffert, Justify, 50-1)
#35 Sandman (Mark Casse, Tapit, 80-1)
#36 Sovereignty (Bill Mott, Into Mischief, 25-1)
#37 Tappan Street (Brad Cox, Into Mischief, 50-1)
#38 Tiztastic (Steve Asmussen, Tiz the Law, 99-1)
#39 Varney (Bob Baffert, Vekoma, 40-1)
#40 “All Other 3-Year-Olds” (5-2)

All told, there will be six Future Wager pools for Kentucky Derby 151. Future Wager Pool 4 is set for Feb. 14-16, Pool 5 is scheduled for March 14-16 and Pool 6 will take place April 3-5. Pool 5 will also include the Longines Kentucky Oaks Future Wager.

There are no refunds in the Kentucky Derby Future Wager. If Churchill Downs officials determine during the duration of this week’s pool that one of the wagering interests experiences an injury, illness or other circumstance that would prevent the horse from participating in the Kentucky Derby, betting on the individual horse will be suspended immediately.

More information, Brisnet.com past performances and real-time odds on the Kentucky Derby Future Wager will be available before the pool opens Friday at KentuckyDerby.com.

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January 9

The horrific fires that hit Southern California on January 7 have directly affected Santa Anita and its horse population.

The Eaton fire, that started in Altadena, moved in the direction of Santa Anita, getting to the point where voluntary evacuation was started by Santa Anita.

The track helped make sure that local horseman had the ability to relocate their horses to another stabling facility if they chose so.

Thursday afternoon the track canceled the Friday card at Santa Anita, postponing it until Thursday, January 16. Also canceled simulcast operations for Thursday of this week as well.

The cancelations come because of the projection of air quality in the San Gabrial Valley. Because of how quality can change over the course of one day, a decision has not been made yet for Saturday.

Saturday’s card features a series of California Cup stakes races. The latest information from the track is available at “X” on the Santa Anita site.

In Pleasanton, the OTB will be open for business as usual as there are a number of race tracks across the United States open for business.

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January 1

Happy New Year everyone! 

January 1 is always a big day in the horse racing industry as all the horses, regardless of their actual birth date, turn a year older. 

That means all the babies – the 2-year-olds – are now three and their official path to try and qualify for the Kentucky Derby begins in earnest. 

There were Derby Prep qualifiers in 2024 but now it gets serious as the point totals for the preps rise and continue to get bigger as we get closer to the Kentucky Derby! 

As far as the Derby goes, I have my annual “Race to the Derby” – it’s in the 16^th year now – starting January 18 and running through the Derby. 

Basically, you draft a 10-horse field, with add/drops being allowed over the course of the prep races from Jan. 18 on. It’s a great way to track all the prep races and when the Derby rolls around, you know all the horses entered! 

Shoot me an e-mail to acesmag@aol.com if have questions or want an official invite! 

This Saturday features a bar of decent prep races with the Jerome at Aqueduct and the Smarty Jones at Oaklawn Park. 

There is a third race Saturday, that while not an official prep race, it is worthy of mentioning and that’s the San Vicente at Santa Anita. 

Here is a look at all three races. 

San Vincente (7 furlongs, 5^th race, 1:30 p.m.) 

The set up race for the Robert B. Lewis prep will have at least two serious contenders for the Kentucky Derby come from this race. 

In post-position order. 

1. McKinzie Street (Tim Yakteen trainer, Antonio Fresu jockey) has not come out of the gate as strong as his sire, but he has run well, hitting the board in three straight graded races. He was second in the Grade I Del Mar Futurity, third in the Grade I American Pharoah, and third in the Grade III Bob Hope. Will not be far off the pace. 

2. Barnes (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez) won his debut in a straight maiden Nov. 27 at Churchill. Works have been awesome getting ready for this one. 

3. Romanesque (Bob Baffert, Mike Smith) is another Baffert runner and is another that comes in here winning its lone start.  He got his win Nov. 23 at Del Mar, taking control in the lane to win by over two lengths. I am sure there is talent here. 

4. Smooth Cruisein (Karen Headly, Ricardo Gonzalez) won his debut on Oct. 27 against straight maidens at Santa Anita at 22/1. Been on the shelf since then for a barn that has never won coming off this length break. Also, the works have been pretty average for the return. 

5. Bullard (Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli) is the one to beat, I think. He won his debut on September 1 at Del Mar, then came back as the favorite in the Grade III Bob Hope, taking that one by over four lengths. Will come from the back with the late run. 

The Jerome (One mile, 8^th race, 12:39 p.m.) 

Here is the field in post-position order for the horses at Aqueduct. 

1. Enduring Spirit (Jose Jimenez trainer, Sofia Vives jockey) has one win in five starts, that was a score in a straight maiden in his second start. Since then he has done nothing, with a fourth in an allowance start his best effort. 

2. Mansetti (Kevin Attard, Sahin Civaci) comes in with two wins in three starts, all at Woodbine. Has early speed and in two of the three starts it held.  In the other he led in the last turn but went backwards from there, finishing last in a field of six. 

3. Ican (Richard Dutrow, Manny Franco) had a horrible debut back on Sept. 12 when a troubled trip led to a ninth-place finish. Came back a month later and broke against straight maidens. Then came back December 6 in an optional claimer at Aqueduct, stumbled at the start but fought back to run second. Good work for this and the barn is solid second off a break. Big concern is not stumbling out of the gate. 

4. Omaha, Omaha (Michael Gorham, Raul Mena) took three starts to break but when he did with a late charge to win by three lengths. Then came back at the end of November and took an optional claimer by seven lengths at Laurel. The horse looks very comfortable coming from off the pace. 

5. Georgia Magic (Raymond Handal, Romero Maragh) has one start and won it, taking a straight maiden race Nov. 29 at Aqueduct. Went wire to wire that day and seemed to duel the entire race. There is a lot to learn in this one. 

6. Cyclone State (Chad Summers, Luis Rivera) got off slowly in his young career and it took five starts before he got a win. In the fourth start he led throughout, then was caught late, finishing second. Came right back, wired the field and won by over two lengths to break Nov. 3 at Aqueduct. Came back Dec. 6 in an $80,000 optional claimer to wire the field again and win over two-lengths again. Something has clicked the last three starts. 

7. Studlydoright (John Robb, Xavier Perez) is the field leader with three wins and easily has the best resume. Broke last May at Laurel, then came a month later in a $100,000 stake at Saratoga and won again. Next up was the Grade III Sanford at Saratoga and he was second by a length. A seventh followed by a second brought him back to Aqueduct on Nov. 2 when he won the Nashua will a gutsy close. Finally, on December 7 was fourth in the Remsen, a Derby prep race at Aqueduct. He did have a late bump, followed by weakening. A clean trip here puts him into contention. 

8. McAfee (Richard Dutrow, Jose Gomez) is the second horse out of the Dutrow barn, has two solid starts at Churchill. He broke at first asking on Nov. 1, then came back on Nov. 24 in an allowance, finishing second by a head. 

Smarty Jones (1-1/16-mile, 9^th race, 2:22 p.m. 

Oaklawn is always a solid place to search for a Derby horse, picking up some West Coast and some East Coast runners, along horses from the middle of the country. 

1. Kale’s Angel (Peter Miller, Ramon Vazquez, 2/1) has one strong run in five starts, yet that 5-length score in $150,000 stake at Oaklawn at 5.5. furlongs on December 6, was enough to be the second favorite on the morning line. His runs at Del Mar and Santa Anita were fairly pedestrian. Maybe there is some steam coming out of the barns. 

2. Hot Gunner (Scott Young, Harry Hernandez, 20/1) has only his maiden score in July as his lone win. Since then, he has been no better than third (twice), along with a couple fourths, and one fifth. Big ask here. 

3. Optical (Keith Desormeaux, Axel Concepcion, 12/1) is coming in off a win in an allowance at Churchill Downs on Nov. 24. He did take until his fourth start to break, doing so Sept. 18, also at Churchill. Will plan on being forwardly placed in this and might have first call on the early speed. 

4. Bon Temps (D Wayne Lukas, Martin Garcia, 30/1) has not done a thing in two starts, one at Churchill and once here at Oaklawn. There was some improvement going from 10^th in the debut to fourth in his second start, but the bar was pretty low from that debut. 

5. Mo Quality (Christopher Davis, Junior Alvarado, 5/1) debuted Oct. 23 at Keeneland and ran second. He came back one month later and won on Nov. 24 at Keeneland. Broke slowly in the debut, then was forwardly placed in the win. There is a lot to learn here. 

6. Hot Property (Brad Cox, Flavian Prat, 8/5) is no surprise that he is favored as the connections scream look at me. Throw in the convincing debut win Nov. 24 at the Fair Grounds where wired the field, drawing off to win by over three. He showed a lot in the debut but it was the lone start so it will be interesting to see what we have. A convincing win here and he will take a jump up the early Derby favorites list. 

7. Curvino (Peter Miller, Francisco Arrieta, 12/1) took until his seventh start to get a win but it did come over this track on December 15. Not enough so far to endorse but I will be watching. 

8. Coal Battle (Lonnie Briley, Juan Vargas, 9/2) has won two starts in a row but they came at Delta Downs and Remington Park, so he steps up a bit here. They were $100,000 and $300,000 stake races, so he has earned the right to make a run here. Interested to see how he does with his come from off the pace style. 

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December 24, 2024

Most of the big races this week are being run on December 26 and will be run before this column is sent out. By the time you get ready this, I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

That leaves with a pair of stakes Saturday at Santa Anita to highlight Saturday’s action.

Grade II Joe Hernandez (6^th race, 2 p.m.)

The race is about 6.5 furlongs down the turf course. Nine horses set to go and there is an obvious favorite.

Motorius (Philip D’Amato, Antoniu Fresu, 5/2) was last seen running second in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint at 12-1. It was the highest odds the horse and ever been bet and he responded by falling a neck short in the field. Will close from the parking lot so will need a brawl for the lead out front.

Central Dispatch (John Sadler, Flavian Prat, 4/1) has won two consecutive, a $58,000 allowance on the grass at Santa Anita, followed by a $100,000 optional claimer on turf at Del Mar. He is the opposite of the favorite as he will gun to the front and say, “come catch me.”

Air Force Red (Leonard Powell, Juan Hernandez, 9/2) also seems to want to be fighting for the lead early. Been off since September 28 following a second in the Grade II Eddie D at Santa Anita. Was second in this race back in December of 2022. Works for the return are solid and it appears to be all signs are go.

Unconquerable Keen (Philip D’Amato, Umberto Rispoli, 5/1) is another runner of the D’Amato barn and another that will make some noise here. Stormed home from the middle of the pack to get the win in the

The $100,000 Blue North (8^th race, 3 p.m.)

This one-mile event on the turf is scheduled to have nine runners go to post.

Here figures to be the some of the contenders. Seven runners that took part in the Grade III Jimmy Durante at Del Mar on Nov. 30.

Will Then (Jonathon Thomas, Vincent Cheminaud, 5-2) was the winner of the Jimmy Durante and won it going away at 11-1.

He got the perfect closing trip that day and we’ll have to see if he can bring that effort again.

Supa Speed (John Sadler, Flavian Prat, 3/1) is your second choice but is coming off a brutal trip in the $204,000 Thoroughbred Aftercare on Nov. 1. It seemed like he had trouble from the time the gates opened up until he crossed 12^th in the race. His first two starts were strong, but this will be the third different jockey in four starts.

Casalu (Bob Baffert, Kazushi Kimura, 6/1) was second in the Durante, taking the lead at the top of the lane, then getting caught late. Has won two of three turf starts, and I think this is one to watch.

Don’t Tell Tammo (Paul Aguirre, Tiago Pereira, 20/1) is a longshot it might be fun to throw on your ticket. First time in a route and first time in a stake. But she has won twice in three starts, with the other run a third. She has early speed and could be a factor at a tasty price.

For more information on the Pleasanton OTB, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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December 19

As the weather is getting colder by the day, there’s no better spot than the Pleasanton OTB to watch and wager. There’s good food and drink and a lively crowd each day.

This Saturday we have three graded stakes races from Gulfstream Park highlighting the national race scene.

Let’s take a lot at all three of the races from the Sunshine state!

Grade III Harlan’s Holiday

This 1-1/16-mile test on the main track is for 3-year-olds and up and is the 9th race on the Gulfstream card, set for a 1:24 p.m. PDT start.

The favorite is Tumbarumba (Brian Lynch trainer, Tyler Gaffalione, 8/5) and he was last seen running 4th in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile at 33/1. He has plenty of graded stakes experience and has run well, boasting four second place runs this year, all over 90 Beyer marks. Prefers to push or stalk the pace, making a run when they turn for home.

Tuscan Sky (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 5/2) is the second choice and appears to be good form heading into this one. He went to the shelf after finishing well back in the Grade I Haskell this summer. In the return – the $150,000 Discovery at Monmouth on Nov. 3 at Aqueduct he finished second after being on the lead and just off. Can be the one to go from the rail, forcing the field to catch him.

Steal Sunshine (Bobby DiBona, Leonal Reyes, 4/1) is an interesting one, as between December of 2023 and June of this summer, he ran in six grade races, winning once but always competing. His last stakes start was the Grade I Stephen Foster at Churchill Downs where he was fourth. From there he went to bench, coming back at Gulfstream Nov. 22 in a $62,500 optional claimer, winning by three lengths.

Grade II Ft. Lauderdale

This 1-1/8-mile monster on the turf is for 3-years-old and up and the race is the 10th on the card and has a 1:54 p.m. post.

Win for the Money (Mark Casse, Dylan Davis, 5/2) is the morning line favorite and last ran Nov. 2 in the Breeders’ Cup Mile where he was a badly beaten 10th at 97/1. He was coming off a win in the Woodbine Mile but just could not going in the Breeders’ Cup. The Woodbine win was enough to get the favorite tag, but I think I might be looking elsewhere in this spot. Certainly, I could be wrong, but I love to take stands against the favorites.

Grand Sonata (Todd Pletcher, Tyler Gaffalione, 3/1) may go off as your favorite. He was 11th in the Breeders Cup Turf, getting caught in traffic in the lane. He had a brief break since then but has come back with some good works for one of the top barns and will be ready here. Won’t let the front-end speed get away from him and should be ready to pounce in the lane.

Lorenz (Saffie Joseph, Drayden Van Dyke, 30/1) is one I may include on my ticket. Sure, it’s a flyer of a pick and he has not seen this level, but has a win, two seconds, and a third in five starts on the turf at Gulfstream. He has hit the board in all seven starts this year. He doesn’t need to win to help my ticket – just to get in there and shake it up.

Grade III The Suwannee River

The is a race for fillies and mares, 3-years-old and up on the turf course.

The one-mile race is the 11th on the card at 2:24 p.m. Big fields mean more wide-open races, and better odds to wager.

Ocean Club (Jack Sisterson, Edwin Gozalez, 4/1) is your favorite and is coming off a wire-to-wire score in the Grade Nobel Damsel at Aqueduct. She has been off since Sept. 21 but does have some good works for the return and the barn is solid off that length of a break. No doubt that she likes to be on or near the lead so expect a send.

Bless My Stars (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 9/2) goes all the way outside to the No. 12 post, with Ocean Club breaking from the rail. Shipped in from South Africa into the Pletcher barn around February and has not raced since coming to the United States. She has had some good works, and the connections have to make the horse a threat. I am guessing the lack of familiarity with the horse is the reason for the higher odds. Watch the tote here.

Breath Away (Christophe Clement, Dylan Davis, 5/1) is from a barn I like, and recent form speaks well with no worse than third in the last four starts. Two back was the third to Ocean Club in the Nobel Damsel. Since then, she came back to run second in a $125,000 stake at Aqueduct. If this one is in the top four when they hit the lane, look out!

Saffron Moon (Chad Brown, Tyler Gaffalione, 6/1) has to be solid, as any time Chad Brown shows up for a graded turf race, there is a shot. She came back after almost a year off to run second in an allowance race. The work tab has been good, and the barn has been solid off short layoffs. She will have my attention.

For more information on the Pleasanton OTB, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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December 12

Before I get into the big Kentucky Derby prep race this weekend, I wanted to emphasize that this is the last weekend of the Golden State Racing Fall meet at the Alameda County Fairgrounds.

This weekend the Saturday meet has been postponed due to the weather forecast, and the Sunday card has already been released, allowing me to give you a preview of the Bay Meadows Juvenile Stake.

To make up for Saturday’s races being called off, there will be racing Wednesday, December 18.

So, let’s jump into the final stake race from the 2024 Golden State Racing Fall meet.

The $75,000 Bay Meadows Juvenile will be contested at 1-1/16-miles and will be the 8^th race on the Sunday Pleasanton card and is scheduled for a 3:45 p.m. post.

Take note of the No. 7 horse and who is the trainer. As of Thursday morning, the trainer – contacted through common friends – thought it was “probably” the first time he had run a horse in Pleasanton.

The following are the horses in post-position order.

1. Accidental Genius (Edward Freeman, Luis Manuel Jiminez Aburto) has won two in a row, including his last start, which came over the Pleasanton track on November 17 when he took a $50,000 optional claimer. He stalked the pace and was four back when they turned for home when he turned on the jets to get up and win by a ½-length.

2. Drop Um (Felix Rodan, Santos Rivera) has two starts, and two wins. The last of which was the Everett Nevin, one of the top races at the Alameda County Fair. The lone drawback? That race came July 7, and he has been off since then. He has put together some nice works for the return but the barn is 0-for-19 coming off that length of break. That win was every bit as big as Sunday’s would be, but the break is a concern.

3. Mala (Steve Sherman, William Antongeorgi III) has run twice this meet, both in $50,000 optional claimers. The first time he was third, and the last on Nov. 17 he was second by a half-length to Accidental Genius, the rail horse. He likes to sit off the pace and make a challenge in the lane.

4. Maximus (Cesar DeAlba, Diego Herrera) ships up from Del Mar after running fourth out of five horses in the Grade 3 Bob Hope, beaten 16 lengths. In his debut in late October in a $62,500 optional claimer, he punished the field, drawing off to win by over nine lengths. He will be on or pushing the pace and looks to be a major player.

5. Thirsty Vision (Jesus Ramos, Adrian Castellanos) ran this summer on the Fair circuit, then snuck up to Emerald Downs for start before coming back here for a third in an optional claimer. Has three thirds in three starts over the track and may in a bit over his head here.

6. Nijinsky Halo (Wendell McDaniel, Manuel Americano) won here on November 23 in an optional claimer, beating Thirsty Vision is the process. Broke maiden in his fourth start, this one in Sacramento in July. Went to Emerald Downs for a stake but was pummeled, running 10^th, beaten 34 lengths. Went to Del Mar and was 10^th again before coming back to Pleasanton for the optional claiming score. Another I would pass on.

7. Kalea Bay (Bob Baffert, Assael Espinoza) is interesting as a Bob Baffert-trained horse who makes an appearance in Pleasanton. The $700,000 horse was dead-last in the Grade III Bob Hope at Del Mar on November 17. He was running a strong one before being eased in the lane. There are two good works to prepare for the comeback. Before the Hope, he had three starts and recorded a win, a second, and a third.

Derby Prep

Saturday will bring us another Kentucky Derby prep race with the running of the Louisiana Championship Day Juvenile.

The race is the 6^th on the Fair Grounds card and is set for a 1:15 p.m. PDT post.

Here are the favorites:

*Smoken Wicked (Dallas Stewart, Colby Hernandez, 8/5) has two wins in six career starts, including his start – a $100,000 optional claimer at Churchill. He led all the way, pulling away to win by eight lengths. Before that he was fourth in the Grade I Champagne. A big run here and he could be listed as one of the early favorites on a highly regarded Derby prep track.

*Hey Jude (Thomas Amoss, Jareth Loveberry) has two starts and two wins, the last came in a $100,000 stake at the Fair Grounds. Has gone wire to wire and come from off the pace. The sample size is small but through two races, he appears to have two different styles – a nice luxury.

*Volla Magic (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz, 3/1) was second to Jay Jude is that Fair Grounds stake, finishing less than length back as the heavy favorite. Had some trouble early, then settled and came flying. A cleaner trip drops him right into the mix,

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

Getting too cold or rainy for you, remember the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open. It is open throughout the Golden State Racing meet, where you can watch and wager on races from around the country every Friday-Sunday.

Enjoy a climate-controlled environment with great good and a chance to watch all the races in the country!

December 5

As we turn into December the intensity of the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks begins to grow. By the time we hit January 1 – when the 2-year-olds officially turn three – the hype gets close to hitting full stride.

The current top three horses in the Derby Prep standings are Citizen Bull (40 points), Gaming (15), Jonathan’s Way (15).

I have had tremendous success over the last 40 years wagering on the Kentucky Derby, as well as the Kentucky Oaks.

By success I mean four and five figure pay outs on the single race, with the highest topping out over $12,000 on one Oaks.

In the Derby my best single horse hit was when Thunder Gulch in 1995. He was a horse that won the Remsen that year and every year, that always brought back the memories of having a 25-1 to winner in the biggest race of the year.

For me, the key is not waiting to start taking in the prep races. I will watch every Derby and Oaks from December on, if not live then on replay and will watch them multiple times.

I have a notebook that breaks down the race, making notes for the respective trips, as well as what to look for in their next start.

A very important note is to see how the jockey handles the horse as on Derby day, you need the two working together to have a chance to win.

Over the years I have had others follow my system. One of the best parts of the system is that when Derby week rolls around, you know every horse in the field.

I have discussions with friends that use my system, and we bounce notes off each other.

Of course, there is no full proof system to pick the Derby winner, but I will say, you will make an informed pick. Even if your horse doesn’t win, you will be able to understand why the horse won and look back, why yours didn’t.

This weekend, the Derby attraction will focus on Aqueduct with the running of the Grade II Remsen for the boys and the Grade II Demoiselle for the ladies.

Following those two at Aqueduct is the running of the Cigar Mile Handicap.

Let’s go through the races in postposition order:

Remsen (1-1/8-mile, 7^th race, 11:36 a.m.)

1. Tux (William Mott, Junior Alvarado) has one start and made it a good one, drawing off in the lane to win by over three at Aqueduct on Nov. 9. He has a good work since, and based on his one start, should be forwardly placed.

2. Aviator Gui (Chad Brown, Manny Franco) has three starts, scoring his first win in his second start. The third start was a fourth in the $150,000 Awad Stakes at Aqueduct where he bumped at the start and never got into the flow, nothing surprising for a young horse.

3. Poster (Eoin Harty, Flavian Prat) has had two starts with two wins, but both have come on the turf. Handled the mile with no problem, looking like he had gas in the tank at the end. This is a test to see if he can handle the main track and viable Derby candidate.

4. Studlydoright (John Rob, Xavier Perez) is a very experienced horse for this point in his career, having already run in five stakes, two of which were graded. The last start was a closing win in the $145,000 Nashua Stakes at Aqueduct on Nov. 2. He was second in the Grade III Sanford, then seventh in the Grade I Hopeful after hitting the gate at the start.

5. Keewaydin (Chad Brown, Dylan Davis) was third in his debut then came back and won his second start against straight maidens. Now faces winners for the first time after that sharp win. Has shown in both starts he is going to be on or near the lead early.

6. Surfside Moon (James Lawrence, Kendrick Karmouche) was sixth in the aforementioned Awad and that followed a fifth a stake at Laurel. This spot might be little too much but has been strong in the mornings.

7. Gun Trader (Uriah St. Lewis, Francisco Martinez) is a notch or three below these. The horse finally broke maiden in his sixth start, and has only hit the board in three of the six starts, mostly at PARX. Going to have to see more against a much stronger field than he’s been racing. This is a chance.

The Demoiselle Stakes

1. Muhimma (Brad Cow, Florent Geroux) is two for two and it has been a seamless transition from debut to a $100,000 optional claimer. The first was a seven-length win, followed by a win by over five lengths. The work for this one was sharp – all signs say go.

2. Liam in the Dust (Rodolphe Brisset, Flavian Prat) started four times with three of them strong. In the other she found all kinds of problems in the Grade I Alcibiades at Keeneland after bumping, she was eased. Toss that race and she has every right to be in contention here.

3. Fortuna Mia (Linda Rice, Eric Cancel) won at first asking then has done little in the next three starts. In the last start she was fourth, beaten 7-lengths in the $150,000 Tempted at Aqueduct on Nov. 2.

4. Carmen’s Candy Jar (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz Jr.) the connections make a favorite. Has only one win in five starts but has been solid in some pretty solid fields. Needs to step up here but certainly seems to have the talent.

5. Michelle (Brittany Russell, Kate Davis) started October 24 at Laurel against straight maiden company and got a fourth-length win. Obviously, this is a tougher spot, but sure looks like there in a load of potential.

6. Bless the Broken (William Walden, Ramon Vazquez) is an interesting one. She broke at first asking in July, then two months later she was eighth, beaten 25-lengths at Keeneland. Finally, in mid-November she was second in another optional claimer at Churchill at 18/1. It will be interesting to see where she goes in step three.

7. Five a Side (John Servis, Joel Rosario) had two seconds, and a win then was fifth in the Tempted, never getting going at any part of the race.

8. Beauty Reigns (William Mott, Junior Alvarado) is a runner out of the Bill Mott barn and won her debut in early November with a solid, front running style. Has good works for the return here.

9. Tip Line (Uriah St. Lewis, Francisco Martinez) is another than won at first asking then went out and was poor in the Tempted, finishing 7^th, beaten 15 lengths back.

10. Ballerina d’Oro (Chad Brown, Dylan Davis) almost impossible to tell what you have here. She was sixth in her debut, then won in her second start against straight maidens, before running 8^th in the Jessamine on October 4 at Keeneland.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

Getting too cold or rainy for you, remember the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open. It is open throughout the Golden State Racing meet, where you can watch and wager on races from around the country every Friday-Sunday.

Enjoy a climate controlled environment with great good and a chance to watch all the races in the country!

For more information, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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November 27

A Kentucky Derby prep and a Kentucky Oaks prep will highlight the stakes action this Saturday, with the local action headlined by the inaugural Livermore Valley at the Golden State Racing in Pleasanton race meet.

Finally, the biggest race in the country is the Grade I Hollywood Derby at Del Mar.

Here is a look at the Derby and Oaks prep races from Churchill Downs. By the deadline for this week’s column, the GSR and Del Mar past performances and entries were not available.

The Golden Rod

This 1-and 1/16-mile test for fillies is set for the 9^th race on the Churchill Saturday card and is set for 1:48 p.m.

This is an official Kentucky Oaks prep race with points of 10-5-3-2-1 being offered.

Here is the field in post-position order.

1. Eclatant (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 5/2) is your second choice and is two-for-two, winning a straight maiden at Churchill in her debut and a $100,000 optional claimer at Keeneland in her second start. Second choice because she has not been as convincing as the favorite. She likes to be on or near the pace.

2. Fixin to Bee (George Arnold, John Velazquez, 15/1) took her third straight maiden race before getting a win and that came on the turf at Keeneland. In fact, this is the first start over the main track.

3. Good Cheer (Brad Cox, Luis Saez, 4/5) has three starts and three convincing wins. The straight maiden score in August at Indiana Dows was by eight lengths, followed by an allowance win at Churchill by 17 lengths in late September. Finally in a $100,000 stake at Churchill on October 27, she cleared the field late to win by over four.

4. Quietside (John Ortiz, Tyler Gaffalione, 3/1) has seen the biggest races compared to the rest of the field. She won a straight maiden at Saratoga by six, then jumped into the Grade I Spinaway, also at Saratoga, where this time was second, beaten a length. Her last start was the Grade I Alcibiades at Keeneland on October 4, running third by a length.

5. Sturgeon Moon (Paulo Lobo, Evin Roman, 20/1) has two wins and a second in her three starts. The wins were a straight maiden and a $100,000 optional claimer October 18 at Keeneland. Looks to be getting better every start.

6. My Lil Punky (John Ennis, Edgar Morales, 30/1) has not run poorly but did need three starts before getting her first win. The winning race was a straight maiden on October 12 at Keeneland. She has improved each start and seems to like to be near the pace.

7. Flash Wear (Thomas Vance, Christian Torres, 20/1) is another that took to their third start to get a win. She started in an opening claiming but when she ran a solid third, the connections elected to protect the horse. A straight maiden second place was next, followed by the win October 27 at Churchill. She likes to sit in the middle before making the late run.

Kentucky Jockey Club

This is a prep for the Kentucky Derby and is run at 1-1/16-mile, and is the 11^th race on the Churchill card, set for a 2:48 p.m. post. Point totals are 10-5-3-2-1.

The 10-horse field in post-position order.

1. He’s Not Joking (Josie Carroll, Florent Geroux, 8/1) has won twice in four starts this with the last coming in the Grade III Grey at Woodbine on November 3. There he came from the furthest back he has been a race to get the win. In the previous three starts he preferred to sit not far off.

2. Jonathan’s Way (Philip Bauer, Joel Rosario, 5/2) is the morning line favorite that is coming off a poor performance in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, where he finished seventh after never firing in the race. Before then he had won both starts, including the Grade III Iroquois at Churchill on September 14. Has successfully came from of the pace in one win and by pushing the pace in the other.

3. Tiztastic (Steve Asmussen, Christian Torres, 5/1) has two wins in four starts, with the latest race being a second-place effort in the Grade III Street Sense at Churchill on October 27.

4. Dapper Moon (Dallas Stewart, Ricardo Santana, 8/1) was fourth in the Street Sense, about a half-length behind Tiztastic. Seems to have the same chance as the horse he ran behind in his last start.

5. Filoso (Chad Summers, John Velazquez, 8/1) broke in his second start and now seems to have improved in his last start. There, he was third, beaten nine lengths, passing some tiring horses late in the Grade I Breeders’ Futurity on October 5 at Keeneland.

6. Clock Tower (Wesley Ward, Gerarado Corrales, 10-1) set the pace for most of the race in the Grade II Bourbon before finishing third in his last start. Has been in the lead at the second call in all four starts.

7. Sonic Skidaddle (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione, 6/1) has two straight maiden starts, both at Churchill. After seventh in the debut on Sept. 19, he then came back Nov. 1 and flew home after early trouble, going by four horses in the lane to win by over four lengths.

8. First Resort (Eoin Harty, Luis Saez, 9/2) was fourth in the Grade I Summer on the turf on September 14 at Woodbine and went to the shelf after that. Has had some good works since then and will look to return to the form he showed August 10 at Saratoga where he was second in the Saratoga Special. Has run better when he leads early.

9. Render Judgement (Kenneth McPeek, Brian Hernandez, 12/1) broke in straight maiden company October 12 at Churchill. It was a gutsy win and might be a good value play here. Will be flying late so don’t panic if he is off the pace early.

10. Redacted (Dallas Stewart, Edgar Morales, 30/1) has had one start, that coming November 14 against straight maidens at Churchill. He ran second that day, getting passed in the lane but the connections thought enough of the performance to enter here.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

Getting too cold or rainy for you, remember the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open. It is open throughout the Golden State Racing meet, where you can watch and wager on races from around the country every Friday-Sunday/.

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November 21, 2024

Before we get into some of the big races coming Saturday, just wanted to let you know that the live racing for the Golden State Racing meet on Friday has been canceled due to the impending storm expected Friday.

Live racing returns Saturday at 12:45 p.m. post time.

Back to Saturday where Churchill Downs comes back into vogue with a pair of Grade III races.

The Chilukki is a one-mile race for 3-year-olds and up for fillies and mares. It is set for the 8^th race on the Churchill card and a 1:25 p.m. post.

There will be eight horses going to post with Two Sharp (Philip Bauer, Junior Alvarado, 2/1) is your favorite. The horse has run four times, with two wins and two seconds. Two back she was second in the Grade III Prioress Stakes by just a neck.

Then, on October 12, she won a $110,000 allowance race, finishing over six lengths ahead. Those two races, along with a series of strong works over the Churchill track makes her look tough here.

Taxed (Randy Morse, Brian Hernandez Jr., 4/1) is the second choice and the 4-year-old has much graded stakes experience. She has eight graded stake starts and was on the Kentucky Oaks prep series last year. 

Her last start was the Grade II Locust Grove Stake at Churchill where she finished fifth, six lengths off the pace. Not sure of her form right now and she may be getting lower odds than she deserves because of her stake race experience.

Pigalle (Luan Machado, Brian Hernandez, 9/2) was fourth in the Locust Grove, her first graded stake at 13/1. There she pushed the pace then faded late. She’s also been off since then but has had some huge works over the track prepping for this.

Two races later, the Commonwealth Turf takes place. Run at 1-1/16 miles for 3-year-olds, the race is 10^th on the Churchill card and is set for a 2:25 p.m. post.

The morning line favorite is Dashman (Brian Lynch, Luis Saez, 5/2). The horse started the year winning a straight maiden race, then followed with another win in an allowance race. His third start came in a Grade III race at Aqueduct where he was fourth in a field of six.

Evade (Michael Maker, Tyler Gaffalione, 7/2) has run twice in the United States since coming over from Europe earlier this year. He has one win in five starts this year and that came back in early May in Great Britan. His first start in the United States was on September 7 in the Grade I Franklin-Simpson stake where he was fourth. Five weeks later he was fourth in the Grade III Bryan Station at Keeneland.

Herchee (Helen Pitts, Edgar Morales, 4/1) has four starts this year and has climbed the class ladder in each start. He broke at first asking at Churchill, then came back to take an allowance at Ellis Park.

Next came a second in a $100,000 stake at Kentucky Downs before running third in a Grade III at Keeneland. The works have been okay in the morning. Might have a shot here.

Lagynos (Steve Asmussen, Flavian Prat, 4/1) has hit the board 4-of-9 times this year and he has been mostly running in graded races. He was fifth in the Bryan Station, finishing behind two others entered here.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

Getting too cold or rainy, remember the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open. Even with live racing canceled Friday, the OTB will be open for wagerinb on around the country. It is open throughout the Golden State Racing meet, where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

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November 14

By Dennis Miller

The highlights this Saturday centers on the third stake race for the Golden State Racing at Pleasanton fall race meeting, and a big two-year-old filly race at Del Mar, featuring four Bob Baffert starters out of the five entered.

The Mt. Diablo goes to post this Saturday in Pleasanton. The 1-1-1/16-mile race for 3-year-olds and up that is set for the seventh race on the GSR card and a 3:45 p.m. post.

Let’s look at the field of five for the Mt. Diablo, in post-position order.

1) Lammas (Manuel Badilla, Assael Espinoza) was last seen on the Pleasanton track winning the Pleasanton Mile, the signature race of the Alameda County Fair. That win came in July and what followed was a trip to Del Mar where he ran in the Grade II Del Mar Mile. A big step up but he beat half the field, finishing fifth. Then came the Bulldog, the signature event for the Big Fresno Fair. He stalked the pace, then charged home for the win as the betting favorite. Now he returns to Pleasanton and has put together a nice series of works for the race.

2) De’Medici (Michael McCarthy, Santos Rivera) is coming off a well-beaten seventh in the $120,000 Shared Belief at Del Mar in mid-September. He has seven starts this year, all at either Santa Anita or Del Mar, getting two wins, two places, and a show. He usually likes to be on or near the pace. Does not have a recorded work over the track.

3) American Admiral (Tim Yakteen, Alexander Chavez) is another shipper from Southern California. Has all of one start this year in coming off a 2023 when he hit the board four times in seven starts, two of which were graded stake races. The one start this year, was an even sixth place in an $80,000 optional claimer. Has ever reason to move forward at the second start of the year, and the barn is making the effort to send the horse north.

4) Melanie’s Tiger (Manuel Badilla, Alejandro Gomez) ran third in the Harris Farms at the Big Fresno Fair. From there he came to Pleasanton and was fifth in a 6-furlong allowance race on opening day. Now he faces two turns for the first time in 13 career starts. He does usually seem to have gas in the tank in the lane so, maybe he will love the distance. Some good works over the track.

5) Druidic (D Wayne Baker, Epifanio Garcia) was shooting for immortality two back but came up just short with a second-place finish in the Humboldt Half-Marathon in Ferndale. Went to Del Mar after that and was fourth in a $20,000 optional claimer. Has hit the board in five of 13 starts this year.

Del Mar

The $100,000 Desi Arnaz at Del Mar this Saturday is not an official Kentucky Oaks prep race, and there are no Oaks qualifying points available, but the 7-furlong sprint with a field of five, features four Bob Baffert runners.

It will give us a preview of some of Baffert’s army of 2-year-olds ahead of the 2025 Oaks prep races. The fifth horse is trained by Tim Yakteen, who spent years working for Baffert and Charlie Whittingham.

Here are your five runners in post-position order.

1) Tenma (Baffert, Hector Barrios) has started three races, winning her first two before running third in the Grade II Oak Leaf at Santa Anita the first week of October. She figures to be a major player.

2) Practical Dream (Tim Yakteen, Antonio Fresu) was second in her most recent start, the Anoakia on Oct. 25 at Santa Anita. In that start he chased the speed around the track, running second at every point of call. Had a nice work over the track after the last race.

3) Two Bar (Baffert, TJ Pereira) struggled in a pair of straight maiden races, then came back in her third start and broke in a maiden optional claimer. Appears to be a bit behind the others but did break by seven lengths.

4) Silent Law (Baffert, Juan Hernandez) was your winner of the  Anoakia taking the field wire to wire, and that was coming off a straight maiden score of 10 lengths in her debut. That alone makes this horse the one to beat in my opinion. She has been the overwhelming favorite in both starts.

5) Mawu (Baffert, Kazushi Kimura) has one start, and it was a great one in a straight maiden effort at Santa Anita back on Oct. 6 at Santa Anita.

She took the field wire to wire, drawing off to win by three lengths. She came back with a couple of big moves in the morning and could be muscled up here.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

Getting too cold for you, as always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open throughout the Golden State Racing meet, where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

November 7

Obviously, a week after the Breeders’ Cup is not going to find the nation full of graded races – in fact the only three graded races on Saturday are taking place in Canada.

Locally, we got a stake with the running of the $75,000 Oakland stakes to be run Saturday at the Golden State Racing at Pleasanton meet.

The 6-furlong sprint for 3-year-olds and up is the seventh race on the Pleasanton card and is set for a 3:45 p.m. post.

Here is the field for the Oakland, in post-position order.

1) Zeus’ War (Tim McCanna, Luis Miguel Jimenez Aburto) is coming off third-place finish in a $40,000 optional claimer on Nov. 1 at Del Mar. That was the first off, a break from when he was eighth in the Pleasanton Mile on July 7. He has been good at the distance, with a win and a pair of places in four starts. Has a pair of big works over the track.

2) Regal Patriot (Arnold Torres, Frank Alvarado) started here opening day in an allowance race and got the win, drawing off in the lane. That was the second consecutive win as he did the same in Fresno, winning easily. Alvarado was in the saddle for both wins. Likes to sit just off the lead and pounce when they turn for home.

3) Bob’s Blue Moon (Steve Sherman, Assael Espinoza) ran here and won in June in an allowance race, then went to Del Mar. He won his first start down there, then came back with a horrible trip where he broke badly then proceeded backwards through the rest of the race. That was in early September, and he went to the shelf since then. The barn is solid, bringing a horse back off a break. He has also had an excellent series of works over the track.

4) Lmlooknformischief (Faith Taylor, Kent Orozco) was third in the Oak Tree Sprint here over the summer. Headed to Del Mar where he was fourth in a $20,000 optional claimer. His recent start was fifth and last in the Harris Farm at Fresno. The horse has been third in both starts over this track. He has an excellent series of works over the track for this race.

5) Clovisconnection (Blaine Wright, William Antongeorgi III) has won three of his last four, including the Oak Tree Sprint here at the end of June. Went north and was second in the Longacres Mile, then went to Fresno where he crushed the field in the Harris Farm’s, winning the race by six lengths. Lone time out of the money was April 27 where he was 11^th in the Grade III San Francisco Mile on the turf at Golden Gate Fields. Easily has the best speed figures in the field and is the one to beat.

6) Established (Samuel Calvario, Santos Rivera) takes a substantially big jump up here as he goes from the claiming ranks into a stake. The last start was here November 1 where he was third in a $16,000 claimer that was a rout race. Now cuts back the distance to a sprint, which the last time he did that, how won. This field will be much tougher than a $16,000 claiming race at Fresno.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open throughout the Golden State Racing meet, where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

All the races will be available to wager on down at the OTB at the Alameda County Fairgrounds!

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October 31

The full attention of not just horse racing but the sporting world will be on the San Diego area and the Del Mar Race Track this Friday and Saturday with the running of the 2024 Breeders’ Cup.

There will be 14 races to determine world champions in the sport of thoroughbred horse racing. Friday is referred to as “Future Stars” day, as the five BC races on Friday all are for 2-year-olds.

The first BC race on Friday is the 6^th on the Del Mar card when the Juvenile Turf Sprint goes to post at 2:45 p.m. There are five BC races on Friday.

On Saturday, the BC action starts with the 4^th on the Del Mar Card when the Filly and Mare Sprint goes to post at 12 noon. Saturday features nine BC races.

In terms of local interest, the 14 races features a pair of horses that have run at the Alameda County Fair in the last two years! Read on to find what horses and when they ran!

Here is a look at the 14 BC races!

Friday

Juvenile Turf Sprint (5 furlongs, turf, 2:45 p.m.)

This gets us going with a bang as only going 5 furlongs is a flat-out brawl to the 2024 Breeders’ Cup underway!

When it comes to the BC, any turf race features a European flavor and that is no different here as seven of the 12 runners have shipped from Europe, with another coming from Japan.

Ecoro Sieg (Hideyuki Mori trainer, Christophe Lemaire, 7/2) is the morning line favorite in a talented group. Shipping over from Japan, the horse is 2-for-2 in his career.

Aesterius (Archie Watson, James Doyle, 9/2) has run in both Great Britian and France this year and has won four of six starts, including the Flying Childers in his last start, beating two others entered here.

Big Mojo (Michael Appleby, Tom Marquand, 4/1) was second in the Childers, and has a win and two places in four starts this year. Magnum Force (Ger Lyons, Colin Keane, 15/1) was the beaten favorite, finishing third in the Childers. If he was thought to be the favorite in that last race, dismissing him at 15/1 here might make him a good value play.

Whistlejacket (Adian O’Brien, Ryan Moore, 5/1) has to be strong runner if no other reason than the connections. He has seven starts this year and has won three and run second in three others.

As far as an American horse Governor Sam (George Weaver, Paco Lopez, 12/1) has won four races in a row but this by far the toughest field he has seen, and it would be a huge step forward to make an impact.

Juvenile Fillies (1-1/16 miles, main track, 3:25 p.m.)

Out of this race will come to early Kentucky Oaks favorite. The second choice on the morning line is Immersive (Brad Cox, Manny Franco, 3/1).

She is a perfect 3-for-3 with the last two being wins in Grade I races at Keeneland and Saratoga. In the three starts her style has been consistent – stalk the pace then close when they get to the top of the lane. The connections have been together for all three races.

If it’s a 2-year-old race, then you must figure Bob Baffert will have a solid runner. In this spot it’s Non Compliant (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 9/2). She has run twice and won twice, the last coming in the Grade II Oak Leaf at Santa Anita where she edged away to win by over two lengths.

Baffert will also saddle Nooni (Baffert, Flavien Prat, 15/1), a horse that has two wins in four starts. The last start was also in the Oak Leaf where she ran second.

Scottish Lassie (Jorge Abreu, Jose Lezcano, 5/2) is the morning line favorite based off one win. After running third in her debut effort, she ran in the Grade I Frizette and after bumping at the break, came back and blew doors, winning by nine lengths. She may be the real deal, but I need more than what I have seen to take the low price.

One final horse to look at is American Bikini (Takashi Saito, Ryan Moore, 5/1). She ships in from Japan to make her fourth start. After running second in her debut, she followed with a pair of wins. I expect her to be a factor in the lane.

Juvenile Fillies Turf (One mile, turf, 4:05 p.m.)

As mentioned before, you say turf races and you think of European horses. In this spot, a horse like Lake Victoria (Adian O’Brien, Ryan Moore, 8-5) certainly fits the bill.

Four starts, four wins, with three of them coming in graded stakes races.

But this time, you have an American horse that might just be the one to beat.

Thought Process (Hector Berrios, Phil D’Amato, 5-2) has three wins in four starts and is coming off a win in the Grade III Surfer Girl at Santa Anita.

The kicker for me is she has won both starts over the Del Mar Turf course. Turf courses vary from track to track and if a runner is comfortable on a course, there is an edge.

Heaven’s Gate (Aidan O’Brien, Wayne Lordan, 12/1) is another runner shipping in from Europe and while not as impressive on paper – three wins in seven starts – that she comes out of O’Brien’s barn makes her worth a look.

Finally, in a bit of irony, May Day Ready (Joseph Lee, Frankie Dettorri, 20-1) is being ridden by one of Europe’s all-time best riders and goes with an American horse here. He just got up in the Grade II Jessamine at Keeneland.

Juvenile (1-1/16 miles, main track, 4:45 p.m.)

Traditionally, this one sets the early favorite for the Kentucky Derby next year.

East Avenue (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione, 5/2) breaks from the rail and is your morning line favorite. Broke at Ellis Park in his debut, then came back to win the Breeders Futurity at Keeneland. Has led at every call of both races.

Chancer McPatrick (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 3-1) has won all three starts, and I have watched the last two – Grade I wins in the Hopeful at Saratoga, and the Champagne at Aqueduct. I loved the effort in Champagne when he started poorly, quickly re-engaged, then went five-wide as they headed for home and drew off to win by over two lengths.

Jonathan’s Way (Joel Rosario, Philip Bauer, 9/2) has won both starts, the last of which was the Grade III Iroquois at Churchill Downs. In his two races he has shown drastically different styles, coming from the back and circling the field, then wiring the field in the Iroquois.

Citizen Bull (Bob Baffert, Martin Garcia, 10/1) warrants respect based on the barn. His better 3-year-olds seem to surface in the months immediately before the Derby but this one and his stablemates have shots here. He was third in the Del Mar Futurity, but then came back to win the American Pharoah at Santa Anita.

Gaming (Bob Baffert, Irad Ortiz, 8-1) has been off since winning the Del Mar Futurity in early September. In his debut he wired the field and won by over five lengths. Will have his third different jockey in as many races.

Juvenile Turf (One mile, turf, 5:25 p.m.)

The last of the BC races for Friday has a field of 14 set to go to post.

I have four horses to watch here, three that are shipping over from Europe.

Al Qudra (Charles Appleby, James Doyle, 4-1) has won two of six career starts. He did have one start in North America, running second in a Grade I at Woodbine.

Zulu Kingdom (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 8/1) if there is an American trainer to take on the Euros, it’s Brown. The horse made his debut in France before shipping to the United States. Since being here, he has won a pair of graded races, with the last being the Grade II Pilgrim at Aqueduct. Will stalk the pace and move late.

New Century (Andrew Balding, Oisin Murphy, 5/2) has won two straight, including shipping over and winning the Grade I Summer at Woodbine. Appears to live running off the pace.

Henri Matisse (Aiden O’Brien, Ryan Moore, 6/1) had nothing left in the tank at his most recent start, a Grade I in France. Before that he was on point with three wins and a second in his four first four starts. He will come from off the pace.

Saturday

Filly and Mare Sprint (7 furlongs, main track, 12 p.m.)

The first of the BC races for Saturday will be a contest to see who the fastest Filly or Mare will be.

Ways and Means (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 5/2) is the morning line favorite and has won 3-of-5 starts this year. She has won three consecutive graded stakes, and she was fourth in the Kentucky Oaks this year. Since scaling back in distance she has won on a fast track, under sloppy conditions, and once in the mud. She sits really close to the lead and closes strongly.

Society (Steve Asmussen, Tyler Gaffalione, 3-1) is 3/1 in large part because of her big win in the Grade 1 Ballerina on August 24 at Saratoga, beating two others entered here. She’s only run twice this year, running third in her other start. She was fourth in this race last year and is a very beatable favorite.

Vahva (Cherie DeVaux, Irad Ortiz, 4-1) was third in the Ballerina as the heavy favorite. Before then she took a pair of graded stake races at Churchill. She has two wins, a second, and a third in four starts this year.

Zeitlos (Steve Asmussen, Jose Ortiz, 6/1) has been a machine this year, winning six of eight starts, but this is the first time she’s been in a Grade I. This will be the toughest she has faced but she’s a closer and if there is a pace meltdown, you might see her picking them off.

There might be some value here with Pleasant (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 12-1). The horse has won three of four in her career. It’s a huge step up as it’s her first stake – she has only run straight maiden and optional claimers – but the speed is there, and she has won over the track.

The final horse I’ll mention and is another value play in One Magic Philly (Philip D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 10/1). She has won three consecutive races and is getting faster each time she runs. She is also perfect over the track, winning both her starts. The last win came on October 5 when she won the Grade 3 Chillingworth at Santa Anita. This is a step up here but I love the two wins over the track.

Turf Sprint (5 furlongs, turf, 12:41 p.m.)

This is the lone turf race of the BC where the American horses usually have the upper hand. As of Thursday, 12 horses are set to go to post.

Cogburn (Steve Asmussen, Irad Ortiz, 7/5) is the morning-line favorite and has won three races in a row, keeping him perfect for the year. And he’s been dominant with Beyer marks of 107, 114, and 107.

The last two starts, there has been no secret – he goes from the time the gate opens and does not give up the lead until the race is over. Three back he broke a touch slowly but had the lead by the second call and never looked back.

Bradsell (Archie Walton, Hollie Doyle, 7/2) ships over from Europe where he was running in France, Ireland, and Great Britian. Has won 3-of-4 this year and ran second in the other. He doesn’t need the lead but will take it if it is there.

Motorious (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 8/1) is from Great Britian but runs in the United States. Was fifth in this race last year and since then was seventh off the layoff, then was fourth, and in his last start he took the Grade III Green Flash over the turf at Del Mar. He’s won all three of his starts at Del Mar.

Ag Bullet (Richard Baltas, Umberto Rispoli, 10/1) was fourth in his most recent start in the Grade I First Lady at Keeneland Oct. 5. Before that he won the Grade II Lady Turf Sprint at Kentucky Downs by five, and the Osunitas at Del Mar by over three lengths.

Star of Mystery (Charles Appleby, William Buick, 10/1) shipped to the United States in May and has run three races in the U.S., two at Saratoga and one at Keeneland.  He was third in the Grade I Jaipur at Saratoga, then won the Grade III Quik Call also at Saratoga, and was second in the Grade II Franklin at Keeneland in mid-October.

Distaff (1-1/8 miles, main track, 1:21 p.m.)

Might be the most well bet favorite in either day, and she could be the closest to a sure thing.

Thorpedo Anna (Kenneth McPeek, Brian Hernandez, 4/5) has won five of her last six starts, with the only loss being a second in the Grade I Travers where she took on the boys in the summer classic at Saratoga. She will sit no further back than third and then blow by the field in the lane. Shen has nine career starts with seven wins and two seconds.

Raging Sea (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 7/2) has won four of five races this year, including the last three. Will come from further back than Thorpedo Anna which will be problematic, given the power Anna unleashes with her kick.

Awesome Result (Yasutoshi Ikee, Yutaka Take, 4/1) comes in from Japan for the race and has won all seven of career starts. This year she is 3-for-3, winning her last start by 5-lengths over the second-place horse and 15 lengths clear of the third-place runner.

Turf (1-1/2 miles, turf, 2:01 p.m.)

The second richest race of the day will have 13 going to post and figures to be a contentious day.

Rebel’s Romance (Charles Appleby, William Buick, 5/2) has four of five starts this year, with the lone loss coming two back at Royal Ascot. He then came back in a Grade I in German and won by a neck.

Jayarebe (Brian Meehan, Sean Levey, 4-1) has run in France the last two starts, running second in the Grade II Prix Guillaume d’Ornano, then winning by a head in the Grade II Prix Dollar.

Emily Upjohn (John Gosdon, Frankie Dettori, 5-1) has not won in six starts in a row. In fact, his last win was June of 2023. But they have all been Grade I races in France, Ireland, and Great Britian and he has run well.

Far Bridge (Christophe Clement, Joel Rosario, 6-1) has won his last two races, taking the Grade I Sword Dancer at Saratoga, then the Grade 1 Turf Classic at Aqueduct on Sept. 28, earning a 101 Beyer in the process.

Classic (1-1/4 miles, main track, 2:41 p.m.)

The big daddy of the day has a $7 million purse awaiting the 14 horses going to post.

City of Troy (Aidan O’Brien, Ryan Murphy, 5-2) is the morning line favorite, which rarely do we get a European horse as the Classic morning line favorite. He has won three races in a row, all three times as the favorite. It seems like he likes to be on or near the lead.

Fierceness (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 3/1) last year’s Juvenile champ when to the bench after that 15^th place finish as the favorite in the Kentucky Derby. Since he’s been back, it’s been all good as he won the Grade II Jim Dandy at Saratoga, then followed up winning the Grade I Travers in a thrilling stretch run with Thorpedo Anna. He will be around the lead throughout the race.

Forever Young (Yoshito Yahagi, Ryusei Sakai, 6/1) is a Japanese runner that has run all over the world including a third in Kentucky Derby and a win in the UAE Derby. Will close from the parking lot.

Next (William Cowans, Luan Machado, 8/1) is flying under the radar but he has quietly gone about a great season with Beyer figures 100-plus in his last seven races. He is 4-for-4 this year and deserves a good look here as part of any ticket. He will be on or right off the lead.

Sierra Leone (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 12/1) has been a disappointment on the win end since winning the Blue Grass back in early April. As the president of his fan club let me say that while he may not win the race, to leave him off your ticket is a huge mistake. The monster closer has been second or third in four straight and his third in the Travers was a huge run as he finished only behind Fierceness and Thorpedo Anna. Finally, there is a lot of speed here ensuring a fast pace to run at late.

Mixto (Doug O’Neill, Kyle Frey, 30-1) is a horse I need to mention as he ran second as the favorite in the Pleasanton Mile in July this summer. He came out of that race and won the Grade I Pacific Classic at Del Mar. A big reach? Absolutely, but how cool it is to have a horse running in the Classic that ran in the Alameda County Fair.

Filly and Mare Turf (1-3/8 miles, turf, 3:25 p.m.)

War Like Goddess (Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 5-2) is an American runner that is the morning line favorite. Last year she ran in the Turf and was seventh, taking on the boys. Now she is in with the ladies and seems poised for a big one. The distance won’t be an issue as she has tired it seven times and has hit the board all seven, with four wins.

Cinderella’s Dream (Charles Appleby, William Buick, 4/1) is one where I love what the European connections have done, bringing the horse over early and letting her get in a couple races here. And she won both taking a Grade I at Aqueduct and a Grade II at Saratoga. Moves like that are what wins these races. She has won 6-of-7 turf starts.

Content (Aidan O’Brien, Frankie Dettori, 6/1) has one win in seven starts this year and was beaten by 16 lengths in her last start. Interesting she is thought of so highly here, but the connections are world class.

Hang the Moon (Phil D’Amato, Kazushi Kimara, 10/1) is trained by one of the top turf trainers in the United States. The horse has won three of four this year, including two Grade II races in a row. She won the John C Mabee at Del Mar and the Rodeo Drive at Santa Anita. She likes to sit back and make a late run.

Moira (Kevin Attard, Flavien Prat, 8/1) is kind of a sleeper here with a win and two seconds this year. Likes to stalk the pace and get first run in the lane.

Sprint (6 furlongs, main track, 4:05 p.m.)

One of my favorite races every year, the Sprint is like the 100-meter dash finals in the Olympics.

Federal Judge (Brad Cox, Irad Ortiz, 3/1) has won two in a row, earning Beyer marks 100 and then 106 in the Grade II Phoenix at Keeneland. He has not trailed at any call in both races so there’s not any mystery here. The gate opens and he goes fast.

Mullikin (Rodolphe Brisset, Flavien Prat, 7/2) started with an allowance race in late April where he won, to three races later running and winning the Grade I Forego at Saratoga in late August.

The win at Saratoga made it four in a row and he appears to be getting better each start, earning a 106 Beyer in the Forego.

Straight No Chaser (Dan Blacker, John Velazquez, 5-1) took the Santa Anita Sprint in late September, only his second start of the year. Ran away and hide in that race, winning by over 6-lengths. Got a 104 Beyer and anything close to that here gives him a shot.

Nakatomi (Wesley Ward, Tyler Gaffalione, 6/1) has run four races on four different tracks this year. The last start he was second, beaten five lengths by Federal Judge in the Phoenix. He is a closer and has gotten some respect in the morning line, but I am not sure he warrants it.

Remake (Koichi Shintani, Yuga Kawada, 8/1) has raced in five different countries, winning two of three this year. His last start was a two-length win in the Korea Sprint where he defended his 2023 win.

Skelly (Steve Asmussen, Ricardo Santana, 8/1) is a hard knocker, finishing in the exacta in six of seven starts this year. He is working on three second place finishes this year. Two back he was second to Nakatomi in the Grade I Vanderbilt at Saratoga.

Mile (One-mile, turf, 4:45 p.m.)

Arguably the biggest turf race of the weekend has 12 horses set to go to post.

Notable Speech (Charles Appleby, William Buick, 7/2) is the morning line favorite in what appears to be a wide-open race. He has won five of seven starts this year, but his last start was a 5-plus length loss.

Porta Fortuna (Donnacha O’Brien, Tom Marquand, 4/1) has won three Grade I races in Europe coming into this one. He likes the lead but does not need it to win this one as he can sit right off and make the move late.

Johannes (Tim Yakteen, Umberto Rispoli, 9/2) has won four races in a row and, two back came over the turf at Del Mar in the Grade II Eddie Read. The last start was in the Grade II City of Hope at Santa Anita in late September. More of a stalker than a push the pace kind of runner, look for this one late.

Ramatuelle (Christopher Head, Aurelien Lemaitre, 5/1) has won once in four races this year but that came in the last race, winning a Grade I in France.

Carl Spackler (Chad Brown, Tyler Gaffalione, 6/1) has won two Grade I races in a row with the last coming in the Turf Mile at Keeneland on October 5. A very popular horse with the Caddyshack crowd, he is right there with the leaders the entire race. Will be a part of my ticket.

Dirt Mile (One-mile, main track, 5:25 p.m.

Due to the desire to have the Classic in a better viewing time for the East Coast, the Dirt Mile is the final BC race of the weekend. It is always my favorite race each year.

Domestic Product (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 7-2) is the favorite and the price shows you how wide open this race.

In six starts this year, he has three firsts and a pair of seconds.  It is the last two starts that has pushed him into the favorites role. He won the Grade III Dwyer at Aqueduct in early July by over seven lengths, then came back in late August to just get up and win the Jerkins at Saratoga by a neck. Another runner this weekend that had a tough go of it at the Kentucky Derby this year, took some time off, and has run well since coming back.

Skippylongstocking (Saffie Joseph, Irad Ortiz, 4-1) has three wins in seven starts this year but the last four have been all over the place. In his last start – the Grade II Woodward at Aqueduct – he chased the pace, took the lead as headed for home, then got caught late and finished second.

Muth (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 9/2) could not run in the Derby this year as he was one in Baffert’s barn while the trainer’s suspension was still in place.

He would have earned himself a spot with wins in the San Vincente at Santa Anita, then the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn. He then took the Shared Belief at Del Mar before wrapping up his prep work with a sixth, beaten 15 lengths, in the California Crown. Now he rolls back to a mile race and should be live here.

Saudi Crown (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 5-1) is a speed burner that spent some time in the Middle East back in February and March. After some time off to recover from the trip he came back an won a stake at Ellis Park in early August. Now after another break he’s ready to roll.

Full Serrano (John Sadler, Joel Rosario, 15-1) is one that could be a nice value play. Since shipping up from Argentina in the spring, he has a win in an optional claimer, followed by second in the Grade I Pacific Classic in late August. In seven starts at the distance, he has won four and ran second in the other three. Has had some big works since his last race and is certainly worth a long look to get a spot on your ticket.

Katonah (Doug O’Neill, Franki Dettori, 30-1) had to mentioned for being the winner of the inaugural Pleasanton Mile in July of 2023.

After the win he went to the shelf for over a year, then came back and was second in the Grade II San Diego Handicap at Del Mar. His next run came in the Grade I Pacific Classic, finishing seventh. Recently he was fourth in the California Crown. Comes from off the pace.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open throughout the Golden State Racing meet, where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

If you want to watch and wager on the Breeders’ Cup races inside, Pleasanton OTB is the place to be!

All the races will be available to wager on down at the OTB at the Alameda County Fair!

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October 24

It was a beautiful weekend as the Golden State Racing meet kicked off October 19 in Pleasanton.

Opening day at the track was as good as I had hoped for, combining excellent weather, a good crowd, mixed in with nine races and good-sized fields.

There were some things that were different than what the races are like when they run concurrently with the Alameda County Fair. Having been involved in the team during the Fair for so long, I was asked questions by people throughout the day, and even some the next day.

Most were just operational questions and others were my thoughts of the potential. A handful of questions – around 20 people asking me while walking around the crowd – where my picks are posted.

During the Fair, they run on the Fair web site, as well as some other places. I know there are groups of people that print out my picks each day and bring them to the track.

And Saturday they would have done well as I had six outright winners in the nine races!

As for being at the track on Saturday, the biggest difference of the day was how much more chill it was as opposed to when the Fair is around.

When the Fair is running, you have so many more peripherals going on – rides, vendors, music, food trucks everywhere, exhibits and performances.

There are activities going on, as well, a lot of noise.

When it’s just the races, it is very low key. We had over 1,000 people at the races on opening day, but because there was no Fair crowd surrounding the track area, it seemed like way less.

It’s not bad either way, it’s just different. People will adjust and I think embrace the low-key vibe you get.

The lone disappointment of the opening weekend was the handle, and the major effect has nothing to do with the Golden State Racing team.

In getting the racing dates away from The Stronach Group, the people in the north were given the chance to save racing in the region.

I offer my picks for Friday’s card this week at GSR! I hope to see you all down at the races this weekend! As usual, post time is 12:30 p.m.

Golden State Racing Picks

Friday, October 25

1. Irish Prancer…Connections win 25 percent of the time

    Leedsthesky…Barn solid off the claim

    Cee’s the Image…Loves the late run

2. Big Spin…Popular claimer won over the track in June

    It’s Thievery…Perfect 2-for-2 over the track

    Kitten’s Kid…Speedsters wired field here in July

3. Queen Molotov…Was second in speed dual here vs. better

    Broadway Tiger…Does love to hit the board

    Tamantari…Is lightly raced this year

4. Carson Jen…Set pace, finished third here during Fair

    One Summer Day…Well, look who is back in town

    Signora Vittoria…Being running well as a maiden in stakes

5. Nephele…Continues class drop, has been hitting board

    Hoping She Will…Barn solid on debut runs

    She’s My Flame…Ships up from SoCal and drops

6. Lions Lair…Won here at this level during Fair

    Supersonic Flyer…Hit board 7-of-10 this year

    Bourbon Glare…Third here this summer vs. similar

7. Ace Ace Baby…Barn opts to protect in this spot

    Icy Mischief…Popular claimer rolled here but was DQ’d

    Velocious…Been drilling well over surface

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open throughout the Golden State Racing meet, where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

All the races will be available to wager on down at the OTB at the Alameda County Fair!

For more information, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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October 10

It’s a little down this weekend for big, graded stake races but we are gearing up for a big event.

We are a little over a week away from the opening day for the Golden State Racing meet in Pleasanton.

The meeting will run every Friday-Sunday to December 15, with the post time set for 12:45 p.m. each day of racing (except November 1 and 2, post time is 12:30pm).

Opening day will feature an Octoberfest party, featuring five pours and a take-home glass beer-stein. There will also be German themed food available for purchase. Tickets are available for $50 per person.

The $75,000 Bart Heller Stakes will also take place on the first day of racing.

There are a multitude of exciting things happening with the race meet. Admission to the Stella Artois Grandstand will be free every day with parking costing $15.

The popular Fan Cave, used during past Fall racing meets in Pleasanton, will return with multiple televisions, allowing for horse racing fans to catch college football on Saturday, and NFL games on Sunday!

On Sunday’s there will also be $5 beer specials for regular pours of any beer on tap, as well as $5 hot dogs.

Besides the opening day Octoberfest, the Breeders Cup Saturday on November 2 will have an option for a Brunch in the Sky Lounge, as well as a Wine Fest in the grandstand.

The Wine Fest will run from 1-4 p.m. with unlimited pours, as well as a take-home glass. Tickets are $40, but if purchased online, they are available for 10 percent off.

Save an additional 10% on Oktoberfest and Wine Fest tickets with a promo code, visit alameda.saffire.com/p/golden-state-racing.

There are four other stake races set for the Fall meet. The Oakland Stakes (6 furlongs, Nov. 9), the Mount Diablo Stakes (1-1/16-mile, Nov. 16), the Golden Gate Debutante (1-1/16-mile, December 7), and the Bay Meadows Juvenile (1-1/16-mile, December 14).

Group sales for the Sky Lounge or the Trackside Terrace are being booked with more information available by contacting adaly@alamedacountyfair.com.

The Pleasanton Golf Center, which includes the 9-hole course/driving range will remain open but will have reduced hours of operation.

When the Golden State Racing meet begins, the course will be closed Friday-Sunday. The hours for the course will be, Monday dawn-dusk; Tuesday-Thursday 10:30-dusk.

The last day for golf before the meeting is Friday, October 18 when there is no schedule racing.

For more information relating to golf, go to www.pleasantongolfcenter.com.

For all things horse racing, visit www.goldenstateracing.com

Santa Anita

There is a stake race on Saturday of interest, as the running of the California Distaff Handicap will take place on the turf at Santa Anita.

The race is for fillies and mares 3-year-old and up and is for Golden State Series Eligible California-bred of California sired horses.

The purse is $100,000 and is the 9^th race, set for 5 p.m. post time.

There were a few horses that intrigued me for my first time through the past performances.

Stay and Scam (Doug O’Neill, Umberto Rispoli) is an obvious contender as the horse has three wins in eight starts this year. She also has a second and three thirds this year.

The betting favorite in six of her last seven starts, and she also had hit the board in a pair of graded stakes efforts. She was second in the Grade III Wilshire and third in the Grade III Royal Heroine – both over the turf at Santa Anita.

Chismosa (Rafael DeLeon, Tiago Pereira) is another with an impressive resume. The lone concern I have here is the horse does not appear to be a turf specialist, but rather a good horse that takes a shot on the grass occasionally. Six career turf starts and have produced three thirds.

Grand Slam Smile (Steve Specht, Frank Alvarado) sees Northern California connections back for another stake in the south. Not much turf experience – one career start on the grass – but it was a win at Santa Antia. That race was back in January in the Cal Cup Oaks.

Most recently the two were third in the Grade III Torrey Pines on the main track at Del Mar. Keep a good eye on the tote board with this one.

If you are looking for a price play, either as a stand-alone bet or as part of your ticket, watch the action on Diamond Bar Gal (Brian Koriner, Armando Ayuso).

Lightly raced with four starts – two in 2023 and two in 2024 – the horse has grabbed a pair of starts. Has yet to see a field anywhere near this one, the horse has good tactical speed for a savvy barn. If there is some action here, you might want to get on board.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

All the races will be available to wager on down at the OTB at the Alameda County Fair!

For more information, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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October 3

It’s like an early Christmas for horse racing fans as six, Grade I races highlight a fantastic day of horse racing across the country.

Keeneland highlights the day with three Grade I events, while the Belmont at the Big A has two, and Santa Anita will close out the day with a Grade I of its own.

Following is the six Grade I races with a quick look at my intriguing horses.

Belmont at the Big A

Frizette (One mile, 2-year-old fillies, 12:17 p.m.)

This is an early race where you see some of the runners for the Kentucky Oaks.

Senza Parole (Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz, 3/5) has run once and made the most of it, willing her debut by over seven lengths, basically going wire to wire. The last work was a big one, turning the second-best time out of 140 that worked four furlongs that day at Saratoga.

Social Fortress (Jamie Ness, Jaime Rodriguez, 12/1) won her debut at Delaware by 11 lengths, then came back in the Sorority at Monmouth in late August and won by seven lengths. Since then, has throw four bullets on the board in the mornings. Will be a step up here, but you have to be intrigued by this runner as she has never been pushed.

Another Cleeshay (Gary Contessa, Junior Alvarado, 20/1) has one start and it was an impressive one, winning be over nine lengths in an $80,000 straight maiden race at Saratoga.

The Champagne (One mile, 2-year-olds, 12:49 p.m.)

Here’s a race with 2-year-olds getting an early start on a potential berth in the Kentucky Derby.

Chancer McPatrick (Chad Brown, Flavien Prat, 6/5) has two starts and two wins, the last of which was the Grade I Hopeful at Saratoga. Has come from off the pace in the two races, both times closing with a flourish. Now gets two turns and will be a load in the lane.

Tip Top Thomas (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz, 7/2) has the second best Beyer figure coming into the race, earning an 85 in his lone start, winning a straight maiden race at Saratoga in late August. That day he sat right off the pace and battled in the lane to win by a head.

Uncaged (Todd Pletcher, Joel Rosario,  9/2) is another Pletcher runner that won at his only asking, coming from off the pace to win by a length. That race was in the mud, showing he can handle the off-track. Irad Ortiz rode of the Pletcher horses but goes elsewhere here. This was a $700,000 perchase.

Mo Plex (Jeremiah Englehart, Manny Franco, 12/1) has won all three starts, including the Grade III Sanford two back. Had Ortiz in the irons all three races but he chooses Tip Top Thomas here.

Keeneland

First Lady (One mile turf, fillies/mares 3-year-old-up, 1:14 p.m.)

This one-mile test is the first of three Grade I races at Keeneland.

Gina Romantica (Chad Brown, Jose Ortiz, 3/1) is your morning-line favorite but has not tasted the winners circle since taking this race last year. The starts since have not been horrible and the horse does appear to be on an upswing, finishing third in the Grade I Diana and the Grade II Spa, both at Saratoga. Is 2-for-3 over the Keeneland turf.

Whitebeam (Chad Brown, Florent Geroux, 7/2) won the Diana, beating stablemate Gina Romantica. That race was July 13, and we haven’t seen her run in a race since then. The barn does connect at 22 percent off that long of a break. Will be on or near the lead.

Tarawa (Dermot Weld, Christopher Hayes, 9/2) ships in from Ireland for the race. Has won twice, finished second once, and third once this season. Figures to be coming off the pace here.

Ag Bullet (Richard Baltas, Umberto Rispoli, 6/1) is coming off a five-length win in the Grade II Lady’ Turf Sprint at Kentucky Downs August 31. She earned a blazing 106 Beyer that day, leading the field every step of the way, drawing off in the lane.

Walkathon (Ian Wilkes, Brian Hernandez, Jr., 10/1) is your value play here as the horse has won three straight races, including the Grade III Lady’s Turf at Kentucky Downs. Returns at a comfortable distance and has won over the track.

The Breeders’ Futurity (1-1/16-miles, 2-year-olds, 2:16 p.m.)

Another potential Kentucky Derby steppingstone has 11 going to post.

Ferocious (Gustavo Delgado, Luis Saez, 8/5) is a $1.3 million purchase who won his debut by seven lengths, then ran second in the Hopeful as the heavy favorite. Has stalked the pace in both starts and got to work when they turned for home. The extra distance should only help the horse.

East Avenue (Brendan Walsh, Tyler Gaffalione, 3/1) is the second choice and is coming off a debut where he cruised to an eight-length win at Ellis Park. Broke quickly and never looked back so expect to see him to go to the lead here.

Dapper Moon (Dallas Stewart, Ricardo Santana, 9/2) broke at second asking, crushing the field by five-lengths and earning a 87 Beyer at Saratoga. In his debut he got off slow and finished second. In the win, he broke closer to the lead and got the job done in the lane. Would expect to see him push the pace here.

Tenacious Leader (Todd Pletcher, Florent Geourx, 8/1) is the last of the four horses that are single digit on the morning line. Won at second asking by four lengths, then came back to win a stake a Saratoga. In the last two has preferred to sit just off the lead.

Turf Mile (One mile, 3-years-old-up, 2:48 p.m.)

There will be nine going to post in this last Grade I at Keeneland on Saturday.

Carl Spackler (Chad Brown, Tyler Gaffalione, 2/1) is the favorite in a race that looks wide-open underneath. He won both races at Saratoga this summer, taking the Grade III Kelso, then followed with a win in the Grade I Fanduel Fourstardave, earning a 105 Beyer. Pushes the pace, then goes to work in the lane. If he’s close when they turn for home – look out.

More Than Looks (Cherie DeVaux, Jose Ortiz, 3/1) was second in the Fourstardave last time out, finishing three lengths back of Carl Spackler. Prefers to come from well back.

Kikkuli (Harry Charlton, Frankie Dettori, 4/1) ships across the pond and has burned cash in the last starts, finishing sixth and fourth as the favorite. Still any European shippers for a Grade I turf warrant respect.

Talk of the Nation (Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 8/1) has not won in five starts this year, but has hit the board four times so is a good option on the back end of the ticket.

Mountain Bear (Aiden O’Brien, Christopher Hayes, 6/1) is another shipper from Europe which means he has a shot. Only hit the board twice in five starts and has not been well bet.

Santa Anita

The American Pharoah (1-1/16-miles, 2-year-olds, 5 p.m.)

A chance to see some of the top 2-year-olds on the West Coast as they launch their Kentucky Derby bids. On paper it looks like a three-horse race – the second, third, and fourth place finishers from the Del Mar Futurity.

McKinzie Street (Tim Yakteen, Kazushi Kimura, 9/5) was second at Del Mar, finishing a length behind Gaming. Through two races desires to be near the pace.

Getaway Car (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 2/1) was the fourth-place finisher in the Futurity but is the second favorite here. Set the pace at Del Mar before weakening. Before that he went wire-to-wire in the Grade III Best Pal. Had a blowout for Sept. 28 at Santa Anita.

Citizen Bull (Bob Baffert, Martin Garcia, 5/2) was the favorite for the Futurity before just getting out run throughout the race and finishing third. Has a strong series of works for this race.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

All the graded stakes races will be available to wager on down at the OTB at the Alameda County Fair!

For more information, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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September 26

It will be some big-time racing in Southern California on Saturday with the inaugural running of the Grade I California Crown Stakes at Santa Anita.

The $1 million race will be joined by three other graded stakes at Santa Anita and is a Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In,” race for the Breeders’ Cup Classic.

The other graded races on Saturday is the Grade II California Crown John Henry Turf Classic, the Grade II California Crown Eddie D Stakes, and the Grade II City of Hope Mile.

Following is a quick look at three of the races, and an in-depth look at the California Crown. The Crown will be presented in post-position order.

California Crown (1-1/8-miles, 3-year-old and up, 4:30 p.m.)

1) Newgate (Bob Baffert, John Velazquez, 9/1) was last seen in late March when he was ninth, beaten 16 lengths in the Dubai World Cup in the UAE. Before that he was the winner of the Santa Anita Handicap. Has had plenty of time off to get right.

2) Subsanador (Richard Mandella, Mike Smith, 5/1) has been a solid but not spectacular stakes runner since coming up from Argentina in July of last year. The last start was a nice win in a Grade III at Monmouth Park on August 17. Has had five weeks to recover and ship back to the West Coast.

3) National Treasure (Bob Baffert, Flavian Prat, 8/5) had a high-low trip to Saratoga this summer, winning the Grade I Metropolitan Handicap in June, then finishing a badly beaten sixth in the Grade I Whitney. Has not one win over the Santa Anita track, finish second twice and third one in five career starts.

4) Katonah (Doug O’Neill, TJ Pereira, 15/1) was the winner of the inaugural Pleasanton Mile in July of 2023. He’s run twice this year, finishing a strong second in the San Diego Handicap at 20/1 in late July, then finishing seventh in the Grade I Pacific Classic. Looks like too big a spot here.

5) Muth (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 2/1) has three in a row and comes into the race one of two, 3-year-olds. Was big in the spring winning the San Vincente at Santa Anita and the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn. Went to the shelf and missed the Kentucky Derby, taking it off until September 1. He came back to win the $125,000 Shared Belief at Del Mar in his return.

6) Senor Buscador (Todd Pletcher, Joe Talamo, 6/1) was over in the Middle East earlier this year, winning the Saudi Cup, then running third in the Dubai World Cup in late May. Was off after that until running fourth in the 7-furlong Pat O’Brien in late August at Del Mar.  The tune up race was followed by a strong series of works at Del Mar, then Santa Anita. Should be muscled up for this.

7) Indispensable (John Sadler, Hector Berrios, 20/1) may be too big a spot for this runner that has a straight maiden win in his seven starts. Was second behind Muth if the Shared Belief. Has hit the board in six of seven starts this year.

Grade II John Henry Turf Classic (1-1/4-miles, 3-year-old-up, 3:30 p.m.)

The marathon on the turf has 11 scheduled to go to post.

There looks like a pair of runners that are the ones to beat. Gold Phoenix (Phil D’Amato, Kyle Frey, 7/2) has won two of the last three starts, sandwiching a seventh in the Eddie Read with wins in the Charlie Whittingham at Santa Anita and the Del Mar Handicap. Does prefer to sit fairly close to the pace, then pounce in the lane.

Balnikhov (Phil D’Amato, Flavian Prat, 5/1) was third in both the Eddie Read and the Del Mar Handicap, coming from the middle of the pack, turning in a solid closing kick.

Dicey Mo Chara (Leonard Powell, Hector Berrios, 4/1) was second in both the Del Mar Handicap and the Eddie Read. Will be a pace factor here.

Masterpiece (Richard Dutrow, Juan Hernandez, 9/2) finished behind Dicey Mo Chara in both the Del Mar Handicap and the Eddie Read. Was also behind Gold Phoenix and Balnikhov.

Grade II Eddie D (6.5 furlongs, 3-year-olds-up, 4 p.m.)

Here is a sprint on the downhill turf course with 11 ready to battle.

Big Invasion (Christophe Clement, Flavian Prat, 3/1) is your morning line favorite as he ships across the country after spending the summer back east. His last start was September 2 at Saratoga where he won a $150,000 stake. He was badly beaten in a pair of graded stakes in May and June.

Johnny Podres (Librado Barocio, Umberto Rispoli, 7/2) is the second choice but I think looks better than the favorite. He is coming off a second in the Grade III Green Flash at Del Mar.

First Peace (Mark Glatt, Mike Smith, 4/1) was badly beaten in the Del Mar Mile, finishing sixth. Has run well on the turf at Santa Anita with three wins, five seconds, and a third in 10 career starts.

Boss Sully (Brian Koriner, Armando Ayuso, 20/1) is an interesting possible value play in his second start off a break. Came back August 17 after a 10-month break and won an optional claimer. A reach? Absolutely but the price will be very nice.

Grade II City of Hope Mile (I-mile, 3-year-olds-up, 5 p.m.)

Another turf race, this one with nine runners set.

Johannes (Tim Yakteen, Umberto Rispoli, 4/5) is the overwhelming favorite and rightfully so. Has won three graded stakes in a row, taking the Grade III American, Grade I Shoemaker Mile, and the Grade II Eddie Read. Does want the lead but he will be close before taking over in the lane.

De Jour (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 5/1) is the second choice and it does appear everyone else is running for second. He was third in the Shoemaker and sixth in the Eddie Read.

Trikari (Graham Motion, John Velazquez, 8/1) certainly has an impressive resume but ships cross-country. Took the Grade I Belmont Derby and Grade II Secretariat. First start on the West Coast.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

The Santa Anita card will be available to wager on!

For more information, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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September 19

It’s time for Pennsylvania to step into the horse racing spotlight this weekend as a pair of 3-year-old, Grade I races taking center stage at PARX.

Formerly known as Philadelphi Park, the track steps into the limelight this time every year. The Cotillon features a field of some of the top 3-year-old fillies, with the Pennsylvania Derby a Grade I for the 3-year-old boys.

Here is the break down for each race. The horses are listed in post-position order.

The Cotillion (1-1/16-miles, 12th race, 3:20 p.m.)

1) Power Squeeze (Jorge Delgado, Irad Ortiz Jr., 4/1) has won two straight races, taking the Grade III Del Mar Oaks, then the Grade I Alabama at Saratoga. Was third and 16th in her two starts against Thorpedo Anna, the favorite here.

2) Scalable (Todd Pletcher, Paco Lopez, 10/1) has seen some trouble in graded races but is coming off a win in the Grade III Monmouth Oaks with a strong closing kick so maybe the light went off.

3) Tarifa (Brad Cox, Flavian Prat, 5/1) was ninth in the Kentucky Oaks, then went to the shelf until August 11 when she ran on second on the Audubon Oaks at Ellis Park. Had won three in a row until the Oaks where she was 5/1 where her tank was empty. A runner earlier this year, let’s see what she’s got here.

4) Everland (Eric Foster, Luan Machado, 20/1) ran fifth in the Kentucky Oaks at 42/1 but has only hit the board once since then running third in an optional claimer at Ellis Park in late August.

5) Sidamara (Bill Mott, Jose Ortiz, 6/1) has two wins and two seconds in four career starts. The best run was a second in the Del Mar Oaks, finishing behind the rail horse.

6) Thorpedo Anna (Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr., 4/5) has generous morning line odds and I think we will see 1/5 when the race goes off. She took time off from beating the girls to take on the boys in the Travers and turned in a big one, running second. Now back with the girls and everyone else will be running for second.

7) Gun Song (Mark Hennig, John Velazquez, 10-1) was second to Scalable in the Monmouth Oaks and was the winner of the Black-Eyed Susan at Pimlico on Preakness weekend. Did wire the field over the PARX track on August 24 in a $200,000 stake.

8) Mystic Lake (Saffie Joseph, Mike Smith, 12-1) has won two of the last three with all three graded stakes. Last start was the Charles Town Oaks where she scored a front running win in the Grade II event on August 23.

Pennsylvania Derby (1-1/8-miles, 13th race, 3:10 p.m.)

1) Doc Sullivan (Michael Miceli, Jose Ortiz, 6/1) has three wins and four seconds in seven starts this year. Hasn’t seen a graded race this year so it is a step up. Will look to stalk the early pace.

2) Seize the Grey (D Wayne Lukas, Jaime Torres, 5/1) was the popular winner of the Preakness, but was seventh in the Belmont, then fourth in the Jim Dandy, both at Saratoga. Maybe wakes up here.

3) Lonesome Boy (Hugo Padilla, Adam Bowman, 20/1) has a career highlight of running fourth in the Wood Memorial. Not an impressive resume and will realistically be 40/1 at the post.

4) Timeout (Bill Mott, Joel Rosario, 8/1) has all of one stake race in the resume of five career starts. Has hit the board in all five starts this year but this a big step up in class.

5) Protective (Todd Pletcher, Irad Ortiz Jr., 8/1) ran in the Wood Memorial and the Belmont as a maiden and ran third and sixth respectfully. Finally got a win in a straight maiden ran race at Saratoga on August 21. Respect for the connections have the line lower than it would be for another barn.

6) Just Step On It (Louis Linder, Jose Lezcano, 15/1) has shown early speed but the best effort was a fourth in the Haskell where he was quick early but then faded to fourth.

7) Dragoon Guard (Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 9/5) is the heavy favorite but is one that I think is beatable. Has won four races in a row, but they were a straight maiden, an optional claimer, the

Grade III Indiana Derby, and the Grade III West Virginia Derby. I would search for a better value play.

8) Unmatched Wisdom (Chad Brown, Flavian Prat, 8/1) had a troubled trip in the Travers and finished seventh beaten 15 lengths. He bumped at the start and ran the race with a loose wrap. I am tossing the last race and giving him a shot here.

9) Who’s the King (Saffie Joseph, Mike Smith, 20/1) has Big Money Mike in the irons but there is not much to endorse here. Is 1-for-10 career and this will be the first stake race.

10) Uncle Heavy (Robert Reid, Mychel Sanchez, 12/1) is a horse I liked coming into the Preakness, but he ran sixth, beaten 13 lengths. Didn’t run well the next two starts either. Got to be a toss.

11) Stronghold (Phil D’Amato, Antoino Fresu, 5/2) got my attention with the Santa Anita Derby win and was part of my Kentucky Derby ticket but he was seventh beaten 12 lengths. Came back and was second in the Indiana Derby in returning after two months on the shelf. Might be a reach but has seen better races than most here.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

The PARX card will be available to wager on!

For more information, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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September 12

It may be mid-September but this Saturday the Road to the Kentucky Derby starts with the running of the Iroquois takes place at Churchill Downs.

This is the first prep race for the 2025 Kentucky Derby that will be run May 3 at Churchill Downs. Saturday at Churchill also features the first Kentucky Oaks prep – the Pocahontas – of the 2025 Oaks trail. The Oaks will be run May 2, also at Churchill Downs.

The Pocahontas is the 8th race on the Churchill card and is set for a 1:25 p.m. PDT post. The Iroquois is the 10th race and will go off at 2:39 p.m.

These races often get overlooked as the horses that run here seldom have an influence on the Derby or the Oaks. The scoring for the races is 10-5-3-2-1 as the horses compete for points in hopes of qualifying for the Derby or Oaks.

Here are the fields in post-position order:

Pocahontas (One mile, 2-year-old fillies, 1:25 p.m.)

1) Chattanooga Crew (Kenneth McPeak trainer, Brian Hernandez Jr., 20/1): ran fifth in her debut, then came back to win in her second start, a $50,000 maiden optional claimer. In the win she went wire to wire, winning by over four lengths as she was ridden out over seven furlongs.

2) Icona Mama (Flint Stites, Florent Geroux, 15/1) won at first asking, then came back and was second in a stake at Saratoga, finishing behind another runner entered here. The first start was a front running score, with the second being more of a stalking trip.

3) La Cara (Mark Casse, Ricardo Santana, 5/1) took until the fourth start before getting her maiden win. That was August 11 in a straight maiden contest at Saratoga where she absolutely crushed the field winning by eight. Has been beaten by another runner here.

4) Empirical Mischief (John Ennis, Edgar Morales, 20/1) was fourth in her debut, then came back in start No. 2 with a win. It was a front running score at Ellis Park on August 3.

5) Hearts United (Kenneth McPeak, Julien Leparoux, 30/1) started on the turf and was last in a field of 11, beaten nine lengths. Came back on the main track at Ellis Park and closed to win by a head August 12.

6) Pretty Sure (Brendan Walsh, Joel Rosario, 12/1) scored a win in her debut, rallying from a poor start to take command and win by over four at Ellis Park on August 25.

7) Quinn’s Promise (10/1, Dale Romans, 10/1) was third in the debut, then came back to score by a neck in a straight maiden July 29 at Ellis Park.

8) Atomic City (Eddie Kenneally, Luan Machado, 15/1) won at first asking in a maiden over the Churchill track. Came back and

was third in the Grade III Adirondack, beaten 12 lengths, never really getting going.

9) Strong State (Albert Stall, Irad Ortiz, 5/1) was second in the debut, then won in a battle where she was never more than head in front. In the Grade I Spinaway at Saratoga she was fourth, beaten nine lengths, never really getting going. That was August 31 and now wheels back here.

10) Lady Kathryn (Riley Mott, Christian Torres, 10/1) has gotten better every start, running third, second, then getting a win, wiring the field to win by over two lengths.

11) West Memorial (George Weaver, Reylu Gutierrez, 15/1) has been running since April and is now with his third barn. She’s been all over the place, as she was second, then first. The last two have been bad as she was fifth in the Astoria at Saratoga in June, then ninth beaten 20 lengths in another stake.

12) Stilettos (Bret Calhoun, Jose Ortiz, 4/1) has two starts and two wins. Won a straight maiden race, then came back to win the Debutante at Ellis Park on August 11. In both races she has been on or near the lead throughout.

13) Kimchi Cat (Thomas Amoss, Tyler Gaffalione, 9/2) will be strong here, having beaten others in the field while winning two of three starts. Was second in her debut, then has come back to win two straight, including a $150,000 stake at Saratoga on August 18.

14) Liam in the Dust (Rodolphe Brisset, Luis Saez, 15/1) won her debut on August 11 at Ellis Park with a front-end win, showing strength at the end when she was ridden out. Now takes on winners for the first time.

The Iroquois (One mile, 2-year-olds, 2:29 p.m.)

1) First Resort (Eion Harty, Rafael Bejarano, 12/1) won his debut at Ellis Park, then came back and was second in the Saratoga Special on August 10. Has speed and wants the lead – got caught late in the last.

2) Giocoso (Keith Desormeaux, James Graham, 10/1) has improved each race. Started with a fifth in the debut, followed by a win in the second start, and finally a win against straight maidens in early August at Ellis Park.

3) Jack’s Time (Kelly Von Hemel, Brian Hernandez Jr., 20/1) just destroyed the field in his debut winning by over 10 lengths against straight maidens at Prairie Meadows on August 10. Obviously a tougher test here.

4) Authentic Strike (Rodolphe Brisset, Luis Saez, 12/1) is another that was successful in his debut, winning by a neck at Ellis Park on August 12. Now in start two gets a big jump in class.

5) Own Almighty (Brian Lynch, Irad Ortiz, 5/2) is your morning line favorite and at this time, justifiably so. Two starts, two wins

with the last coming in the Juvenile at Ellis Park in August when he used a big kick to pull off by four lengths.

6) Strummin (John Hancock, Christian Torres, 12/1) took until the sixth start to get a win but had been close, running second three times and third once. Better than his record but I can’t sign on here.

7) Sandman (Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 6/1) had a bad debut when he was fifth, beaten 11 lengths, but then came back with a win in his second start, stalking the pace and closing strong to win on August 10 at Saratoga.

8) Magnitude (Steve Asmussen, Tyler Gaffalione, 8/1) was fourth in his debut but then came back and won by five lengths at Ellis Park in late July. Powerhouse duo looms here.

9) Firmus (Wayne Catalano, Ricardo Santana, 20/1) did win his debut at Ellis Park but this is a big step up for this one. Would have liked to see another race before this spot.

10) Jonathan’s Way (Phillip Bauer, Joel Rosario, 9/2) won by four lengths in a tough straight maiden race at Saratoga in August. Now is here and could be full of run for the stretch.

11) Mesero (Dale Romans, Corey Lanerie, 15/1) came from well back for the straight maiden score at Ellis Park on July 29. Will need to be better early here to compete.

12) Politically Correct (Christopher Davis, Florent Geroux, 6/1) won his first two starts then was second in the Juvenile at Ellis Park, the race where Own Almighty got the win.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

The Churchill card will be available to wager on!

For more information, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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September 6

There are a couple of big stakes races at Del Mar on Saturday, highlighted by the Grade I Del Mar Debutante, a 7-fulong sprint for 2-year-old fillies.

Later, on the Del Mar card, the Grade II John C. Mabee will be run at 1-1/8-miles on the turf for fillies and mares 3-years-old and up.

Time to run through both races, in post-position order.

Del Mar Debutante (2-year-old fillies, main track, 4^th race, 3 p.m.)

1) Proud Starlet (Tim Yakteen, Umberto Rispoli, 15/1) has one career start and it was a win in late July at Del Mar in straight maiden company. She trailed at first call, but then took the lead and drew off, winning by 4-plus lengths. That was at 5.5-furlongs and now gets seven furlongs here, something she may like. Could be a value-play.

2) Nooni (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 4/5) has two starts and two convincing wins. The last was in the Grade III Sorrento when she scored as the 1-2 favorite. Likes to get out from the gate and take the lead. She has not trailed at any point of call in her two starts. A very deserving favorite.

3) So There She Was (Doug O’Neill, Antonio Fresu, 15/1) has one win and two seconds in three starts. Was second in a stake at Churchill in her second start, then came to break maiden in straight maiden company in her third start is early August at Del Mar. Prefers to stalk and take a shot in the lane.

4) Vodka With a Twist (Phil D’Amato, Mike Smith, 5/2) finished over a length back of Nooni in the Sorrento. Has won two of four starts, breaking three back in straight maiden, then winning the Churchill stake race where So There She Was second. Chased Nooni all the way around the track in the Sorrento.

Night Beacon (Ryan Hanson, Kyle Frey, 20/1) broke in straight maiden company, then came back and was fourth, beaten 10 lengths in the Sorrento.

Tenma (Bob Baffert, Kazushi Kimura, 4/1) is another Baffert runner, with this one winning her only start, by a neck in late August. She came from well back in the debut but will see much tougher here.

Jack’s Magic Girl (O J Jauregui, Hector Barrios, 8/1) broke slowly in debut but rallied to win by over three lengths. Trained by one of NorCal’s best barns, she debuted at Del Mar.

Grade II John C. Mabee (3-year-old fillies, turf, 1-1/8-miles, 9^th race, 5:30 p.m.)

1) Anisette (Leonard Powell, Umberto Rispoli, 7/5) is the second choice on the morning line and comes in as a legitimate threat. She has won six of eight career starts on the turf, and perhaps more importantly, she has won all three starts on the Del Mar turf. Will settle in the middle of the pack until they turn for home.

2) Hang the Moon (Phil D’Amato, Kazushi Kimura, 20/1) has won two of seven turf starts, with the last start coming on the Del Mar grass in the Osunitas where she ran second.

3) Lucky Girl (Phil D’Amato, Mike Smith, 15/1) has yet to hit the board in four starts this year, all on the turf. The last time she finished in the top three was a win in the Swingtime at Santa Anita, almost a year ago.

4) Uncorked (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 10/1) finished second in her first start since May, she was second in the Yellow Ribbon in early August, getting caught late by Anisette. Prefers a closing style.

5) Royal Charter (Leonard Powell, Diego Herrera, 20/1) was running in stake races in Europe before coming across the pond and running in a pair of optional claimers, first at Santa Anita, then at Del Mar. She won at Santa Anita in a $50,000 race, then was second for $100,000 at Del Mar.

6) Didia (Ignacio Correas, Hector Berrios, 4/5) is your morning line favorite and is coming off eight straight Grade I or Grade II races. Two back it was the Grade I New York at Saratoga where she crossed the line first. In her last start, the Grade I Diana, also at Saratoga, she was a beaten favorite, finishing fourth.

7) Fuente Ovejuna (Brendan Walsh, Juan Hernandez, 20/1) is coming off a dead heat for second with Uncorked in the Yellow Ribbon, with both getting caught by Anisette. That was at 19-1 and all the connections return here.

Mixto a big winner

Mixto made the trip from Southern California to the Alameda County Fair to run in the Pleasanton Mile on the final weekend of the meet.

There was plenty to like about the horse and the betting public responded, sending him out as the favorite in the signature race for the Fair.

The race didn’t go as planned as he ran second that day.

Fast forward to this past Saturday in the Pacific Classic at Del Mar, Mixto left the gate at 22-1 but under a masterful ride from Kyle Frey, sat right off the pace through most of the race, took the lead in mid-stretch, then held on for the win to pay $46.40.

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB!

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.

For more information, please visit www.pleasantonotb.com.

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August 31

Last week it was the East Coast and Saratoga with a load of graded stakes races. 

This week the focus shifts to Southern California and Del Mar as it is Pacific Classic day, which brings us five graded stakes races, headlined of course, by the Pacific Classic, which will go to post at 6:13 p.m. 

Here are the five races with a quick rundown of the favorites and possible value plays for each. 

(Grade III Torrey Pines, one mile, 4th race, 3 p.m.) 

This one-mile test on the main track is for 3-year-old fillies and features a heavy favorite. 

Hope Road (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 4/5) ended last year finishing 11th, beaten 21 lengths in the Del Mar Debutante in September. A long break and a new barn have resulted in two wins in two starts this year by a combined 11 lengths. Granted, the two wins came in a straight maiden and an optional claimer, but she sure looks special. 

Desert Rhapsody (Doug O’Neill, Antonio Fresu, 4/1) has won her last two starts as well with the wins also coming in a straight maiden and an optional claimer, and while the favorite did it by a combined 11 lengths, this one pulled it off by over 12 combined lengths.  

Nothing Like You (Bob Baffert, Kazushi Kimura, 9/2) has seen much tougher races, including four straight graded races. Last out on June 8 she was a badly beaten second, finishing nine lengths back in the Grade II Summer Oaks at Santa Anita. But back in April she was the winner of the Grade II Santa Anita Oaks, crossing the line over seven lengths ahead of the second-place horse.  

(Grade II Del Mar Handicap, 1-3/8-miles, 5th race, 3:30 p.m.) 

This turf route race sees a field of seven going to post for a purse of $300,000. 

Dicey Mo Chara (Leonard Powell, Hector Berrios, 2/1) was second with a closing charge in the Eddie Read back on July 28 over the Del Mar turf course. Is the favorite here but has not crossed the line first since December of 2022 when he won the Grade II San Gabriel at Santa Anita. 

Gold Phoenix (Phil D’Amato, Kyle Frey, 5/2) was seventh in the Eddie Read, never getting untracked in the race. Back in May he won the Charlie Whittingham by a head, in a race where the favorite here was seventh. Favors a closing style and my question here is will he get enough of a pace to run at. 

Balnikhov (Phil D’Amato, Kazushi Kimura, 3/1) was the third-place finisher in the Eddie Read, closing strong but finishing three lengths back of the winner. Two races back he was a winner on the Preakness undercard at Pimlico in the Grade III Dinner Party. 

Master Piece (Richard Dutrow, Juan Hernandez, 3/1) the fourth-place finisher from the Eddie Read as he broke sixth and never really got going. He was a winner two back when he brought home the win in the Grade II Fort Marcy Handicap at Aqueduct. 

(Grade III Green Flash, 5 furlongs, 9th race, 5:30 p.m.) 

A flat-out sprint on the turf, with 12 horses set to battle in what figures to be to see who gets to the one turn first. It appears to be a wide-open race. 

Motorious (Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 7/2) is the lukewarm favorite and is the defending champion of this race, coming from fourth at the top of the lane and pulling away to win by almost two lengths. After finishing last year with three wins and two seconds in six starts, the form this year has not been good as he ran seventh in the Grade II Turf Sprint at Churchill in the Derby undercard, then was fourth in an allowance event at Santa Anita in June. 

Connie Swingle (Phil D’Amato, Kyle Frey, 9/2) is the modest second choice. It’s a mare taking on the boys here and she is coming off a win in the Daiseycutter at Del Mar in late July. She has won 7-of-11 career starts, running second three times and finishing third in the other race. Got to be one to watch here, even taking on the boys. 

Turn on the Jets (Phil D’Amato, Kazushi Kimura, 5/1) completes the trifecta for D’Amato as he saddles the top three favorites. This one has four wins in 15 career starts and has not crossed the line first since doing so a year ago in an optional claimer. Has won three of his five starts over the Del Mar turf course. 

If you are searching for some value, look at Unconquerable Keen (Phil D’Amato, Hector Berrios, 8/1). Of course, yet another runner from the D’Amato barn, this guy has not seen the strength of races the favorites have but he has hit the board in all five turf starts at Del Mar, including a pair of wins. Did beat Turn on the Jets two times last year. 

(Grade I Pacific Classic, 1-1/4-miles, 10th race, 6 p.m.) 

This used to be one of the top stakes’ races of the year outside of the Breeders Cup and Triple Crown races. There is no doubt the race has some of its luster as has most in California, but it still packs some punch. This year we have a mare taking on the boys! 

Adare Manor (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 9/5) is your favorite as she jumps into battle with eight boys. She has won three straight and is coming off an almost three-length win in the Grade I Clement L. Hirsch on August 3 at Del Mar. Will be on the lead or pushing the pace. Has won 10-of-18 career starts and run second five times. 

Dr. Venkman (Mark Glatt, Antonio Fresu, 5/2) we talked about last month in the preview for the San Diego Handicap, a race he won on July 27. Named after the Bill Murray character from Ghostbusters he led the San Diego for most of the race, holding on to win by a length in his first effort around two turns. He ran second in his other start this year, the Grade II Triple Bend, a sprint at Santa Anita in early June. 

Il Miracolo (Antonio Sano, Mike Smith, 5/1) has hit the board four times in five starts this year and is coming off a second in the Grade III Philip H. Iselin Stakes, August 17 at Monmouth Park. 

There are a couple of runners here with a connection to Pleasanton. Katonah (Doug O’Neill, Tiago Pereira, 8/1) was the winner of the first Pleasanton Mile on July 9, 2023. The horse went to the shelf for year and then came back to run second in the San Diego Handicap. 

Mixto (Doug O’Neill, Kyle Frey, 20/1) was second in this year’s version of the Pleasanton Mile. He was the favorite in the July 7 race, falling two lengths back of the winner. 

(Grade II Del Mar Mile, one mile, 11th race, 6:30 p.m.) 

The turf race ends the awesome Del Mar card with 10 horses schedule to go to post. 

Du Jour (Bob Baffert, Juan Hernandez, 8/5) stretched out for the Eddie Read and faded late to finish sixth. Now back to the mile distance where he has won five of 12 starts. Was 10th in the Breeders Cup Mile last year. His last mile race was the Grade I Shoemaker Mile at Santa Anita in late May and he was third there. 

First Peace (Mark Glatt, Mike Smith, 3/1) has hit the board in 5-of-6 starts this year and is coming off a win in the $103,000 Wickerr Stakes at Del Mar on July 21. 

Of local interest is Lammas (Manny Badillo, Abel Cedillo, 12-1) who was the winner of the Pleasanton Mile this year in one of only three dirt starts in his career. He is on a four-race winning streak, notching a win in the Grade III San Francisco Mile back in April at Golden Gate Fields. 

Come wager at the Pleasanton OTB! 

As always, the Pleasanton Off-Track Betting center will be open where you can watch and wager on races from around the country.