The $2 Window

Breeders' Cup Day 2 selections

2008-10-25T09:39:00.004-04:00

I missed day one, but here are my selections for day two. Horse-Races.net has links to free past performances for all Breeders' Cup races except for the Marathon.

I'll bet Zappa in the Marathon. There's very little early speed in this race. Zappa might be able to win it wire to wire, as he won the Cougar II Handicap at Del Mar in July.

I'll bet True to Tradition in the Turf Sprint.

Well Armed looks like a deserving favorite in the Dirt Mile which, despite its name, will actually be run on Pro-Ride.

Goldikova looks formidable in the Mile, but she's never raced on firm turf. I'll bet Daytona, who is 2 for 3 at the distance and is undefeated on the turf at Santa Anita.

I'll bet Square Eddie in the Juvenile. Square Eddie has won around two turns and appears to like syntetic tracks.

The undefeated Bittel Road looks like a deserving favorite in the Juvenile Turf.

I'll bet In Summation in the Sprint.

I'll bet Red Rocks in the Turf. Red Rocks won this race two years ago, and has run well in all of his previous North American starts.

Curlin loks like a deserving favorite in the Classic. the only question is whether he likes the Pro Ride surface.

Races of the Week

2008-10-11T10:17:00.002-04:00

Last week, Doctor Dino finished fifth in the Canadian International. Shakis finished second in the Shadwell Turf Mile, paying $5.20 to place and $3.40 to show. Slides Choice finished second in the John W. Galbreath Stakes, paying $2.10 to place and $2.10 to show. Pforperfectpistol finished fifth in the Best of Ohio Sprint. Raise the Reward finished second in the Best of Ohio Juvenile, paying $3.20 to place and $2.80 to show. Cryptoquip finished second in the Best of Ohio Distaff, paying $4.40 to place and $3.40 to show. Catlaunch won the Best of Ohio Endurance, paying $5.80 to win, $4.40 to place, and $3.60 to show.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup at Keeneland and the Athenia Handicap at Belmont Park.

My selection in the Queen Elizabeth II is Sefroua. Sefroua finished third against older mares in her only start in North America. She gets first-time lasix today. There's not much early speed in today's race and her past performances show a couple of front-running victories. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via Graham Motion.

Criminologist looks like a deserving favorite in the Athenia. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via Graham Motion.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2008-10-04T06:49:00.002-04:00

Last week, Tiago finished second in the Goodwood Stakes, paying $4.40 to place and $3.00 to show. Wanderin Boy finished second in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, paying $4.20 to place and $3.70 to show. The $2 Curlin-Wanderin Boy exacta paid $9.40.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Shadwell Turf Mile (also Equibase's race of the week) at Keeneland and the Canadian International at Woodbine.

My selection in the Shadwell Turf Mile is Shakis. Shakis has been running well lately and should be helped by the inside post, which is 4 for 8 in mile races on the Keeneland turf this year. Equibase provides free past performances. So does Brisnet.com.

Doctor Dino looks like a deserving favorite in the Canadian International. He had a successful trip to North America last year and he's 2 for 4 at a mile and a half on the turf. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via Mark Casse

Today is also Best of Ohio day at Thistledown, featuring five state-bred stakes races. Thistledown's stakes schedule provides links to past performances of all Best of Ohio nominees. Equibase provides entries.

None of the fillies in the John W. Galbreath Stakes has raced around two turns before. I'll go with Slides Choice, who is undefeated in two stakes races and who defeated morning-line favorite Yankee Cruz in their only meeting.

I'll pick Pforperfectpistol in the Best of Ohio Sprint. Pforperfectpistol is 8 for 9 at Thistledown and is coming off of a stakes victory.

My selection in the Best of Ohio Juvenile is Raise the Reward, who has a win around two turns at Thistledown and is coming off of a bullet work.

Cryptoquip looks like the class of the field in the Best of Ohio Distaff. Her past performances show second-place finishes in open stakes races at Laurel and Aqueduct. The 5-month layoff could be a problem, but she's coming off of a bullet work, and she's raced well off of layoffs before.

My selection in the Best of Ohio Endurance is the front-running Catlaunch, who makes his second start off of a layoff.

Races of the Week

2008-09-27T10:42:00.002-04:00

Last week, Macho Again finished second in the Super Derby, paying $2.80 to place and $2.20 to show. I should have stuck with My Pal Charlie, who paid $15.00 to win. Commentator won the Massachusetts Handicap.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park, which is also Equibase's race of the week, and the Goodwood Handicap at Santa Anita.

Curlin is formidable in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, but I think I'll take a chance on the front-running Wanderin Boy, who finished 2 3/4 lengths behind Curlin in the Woodward Stakes. According to Brisnet.com, routes at Belmont are favorable to front runners. I think I'll also back up my bet with a Curlin-Wanderin Boy exacta. Equibase provides free past performances. Past performances are also available from Brisnet.com via Todd Pletcher.

In the Goodwood, I'll go with Tiznow. According to the Brisnet.com track bias stats, Santa Anita is favorable to his late-closing style, and the 8-post should also be helpful. The Form provides free past performances. So does Brisnet.com via Eoin Harty.

Races of the Week

2008-09-20T07:20:00.002-04:00

It's been a while since I've posted any selections. I'll get caught up in figuring my net profit or loss for the year next week. Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Massachusetts Handicap at Suffolk Downs and the Super Derby at Louisiana Downs. The Super Derby is also Equibase's race of the week.

Commentator looks like a prohibitive favorite in the Massachusetts Handicap. The lightly raced 7-year-old is coming off of a win in the Whitney Handicap, in which he posted a Beyer figure of 120. I don't see how anyone else in this field can keep up with him, but he'll probably go off at too short a price to be worth a bet. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via Winstar Farm.

My selection in the Super Derby is Macho Again, who appears to be the class of the field. When I first looked at the Brisnet.com track bias statistics, I was tempted to take a chance on the front-running My Pal Charlie, but then I saw that the track bias stats were based on only one race. Equibase provides free past performances. So does Brisnet.com.

Races of the Week

2008-08-16T08:31:00.002-04:00

I've neglected to post selections for the past couple of weeks. I'll post an update later but for now, here are my selections in the Daily Racing Form's and Equibase's races of the week.

In the Gardenia Handicap, I'll bet Miss Atlantic. Miss Atlantic is a front runner and Ellis Park favors early speed. An inside post position should help her too. Equibase provides free past performances.

Storm Mesa looks like a deserving favorite in the Del Mar Oaks. She's won five in a row, including her last start on the turf at Del Mar. She's never gone a mile and an eight before, but her Tomlinson rating indicates that the added distance shouldn't be a problem for her. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll go with the Godolphin Stable's entry of Music Note and Little Belle in the Alabama Stakes. Music Note is the only filly in the race who has run a triple-digit Beyer figure. In her last start, she showed she could win at a mile and a quarter. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via the Godolphin Stable.

Races of the Week

2008-07-26T08:41:00.002-04:00

Last week, Sailor's Cap finished third in the Virginia Derby, paying $2.20 to show. Lava Man finished sixth in the Eddie Read Handicap. The Godolphin entry of Music Note and Little Belle finished first and second in the Coaching Club American Oaks. J'espere upset Pyrite Marci in the Queen City Oaks. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $14.10 on total wagers of $108.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Whitney Handicap and the Go For Wand Handicap at Saratoga.

In the Whitney, I'll bet AP Arrow. There's a lot of early speed in the Whitney field, and A.P. Arrow can come from off the pace. Equibase provides free past performances.

In the Go For Wand, I don't see how anyone can beat the Stronach Stables entry of Ginger Punch and Spring Waltz, but they'll probably go off at too short a price to be worth a a bet. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part II

2008-07-20T12:02:00.002-04:00

I'll bet Lava Man in the Eddie Read Handicap today at Del Mar. Lava Man is 2 for 4 at a mile and an eighth on the turf. According to the Brisnet.com past performances, the turf at Del Mar has been favorable to front runners.

Races of the Week

2008-07-19T09:06:00.002-04:00

Last week, Red Rocks upset Curlin in the Man O' War Stakes. Miraculous Miss finished second in the Princess Rooney Handicap, paying $4.80 to place and $2.80 to show. Weathered finished fifth in the Delaware Oaks. Catlaunch won the George Lewis Memorial Stakes, paying $5.40 to win, $4.00 to place, and $3.60 to show. Raise the Reward won the Hoover Stakes. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $18.10 on total wagers of $104.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Coaching Club American Oaks today at Belmont Park and the Eddie Read Handicap tomorrow at Del Mar. Equibase's race of the week is the Virginia Derby today at Colonial Downs.

The Godolphin entry of Little Belle and Music Note looks like a prohibitive favorite in the Coaching Club American Oaks. I can't bet against them, but they'll probably go off at too short a price to be worth a bet. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via Darley Stable.

Sailor's Cap looks like a deserving favorite in the Virginia Derby. There's not much early speed in this field, and Sailor's Cap can run close to the pace. Equibase provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via McPeek Racing.

I was unable to find past performances for today's Queen City Oaks at River Downs.

I'll post my selection in the Eddie Read Handicap later today or early tomorrow. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via O'Neill Racing.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2008-07-11T21:36:00.002-04:00

Last week, Raw Silk led most of the way in the American Oaks before fading to finish eighth. Strike a Deal couldn't quite get up to win the United Nations Handicap, finishing second and paying $4.00 to place and $3.00 to show. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $18.70 on total wagers of $98.

Tomorrow, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Man O' War Stakes at Belmont Park and the Princess Rooney Handicap at Calder. Equibase's race of the week is the Delaware Oaks at Delaware Park.

In the Man O' War, I can't bet against Curlin. On the other hand, I can't bet on an odds-on favorite making his first start on turf. Curlin's Tomlinson rating indicates that the turf shouldn't be a problem for him. But on the other hand, you never know. I'll pass this race. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available via H. Graham Motion.

My selection in the Princess Rooney is Miraculous Miss. Last fall, Miraculous Miss finished ahead of Dream Rush, today's morning-line favorite, in the Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint. She's coming off of two bullet works, and her recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available through O'Neill Racing.

I'll bet Weathered in the Delaware Oaks. Weathered has won two in a row. The inside post should help her, and her front-running style is well suited to Delaware Park. Equibase provides free past performances. So does Brisnet.com.

My selection in tomorrow's George Lewis Memorial Handicap at Thistledown is Catlaunch. Catlaunch has won 6 of his last 8 races, and should be able to get an early lead. Thistledown provides free past performances for all Lewis nominees. Equibase provides entries.

I'm still not sure about the Hoover stakes, to be run Sunday at River Downs. Interestingly, two trainers account for 7 of the 9 entrants in the Hoover. I might post an update with my selection later in the weekend. Brisnet.com past performances for the Hoover are available through Darley Stable.

Races of the Week

2008-07-05T10:12:00.002-04:00

Last week, Tiago finished sixth in the Hollywood Gold Cup. Solar Flare finished second in the Suburban Handicap, paying $7.00 to place and$4.30 to show. Pyrite Gem finished thirteenth in the Cleveland Gold Cup. I neglected to post a selection in the Cincinnatian Stakes, as I was unable to find an on-line source for free past performances. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $22.70 on total wagers of $94.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the American Oaks at Hollywood Park and the United Nations Handicap, which is also Equibase's race of the week, at Monmouth Park.

I'll bet Raw Silk in the American Oaks. I think she'll benefit from the lack of early speed in today's race. She's never gone a mile and a quarter before, but her Tomlinson rating indicates that it shouldn't be a problem for her. The Form provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are also available through McPeek Racing.

In the United Nations, I'll bet Strike a Deal. Strike a Deal's recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. His Tomlinson rating indicates that he should like a mile and three eighths. He's never won a graded stakes, but he came close a couple of times last summer at Colonial Downs. Equibase provides free past performances. Brisnet.com past performances are available through H. Graham Motion.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2008-06-27T23:12:00.002-04:00

I had a profitable weekend last week. Sailor's Cap won the Colonial Turf Cup, paying $9.20 to win, $5.20 to place, and $3.80 to show. Mauralanka won the New York Handicap, paying $3.30 to win, $2.20 to place, and $2.10 to show. Pay the Man won the J. William Petro Memorial, paying $3.80 to win, $3.00 to place, and $2.40 to show. Ginger Brew finished second in the Queen's Plate, paying $3.80 to place and $3.00 to show. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $28.70 on total wagers of $88.

Tomorrow, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Hollywood Gold Cup at Hollywood Park and the Suburban Handicap, which is also Equibase's race of the week, at Belmont Park.

My selection in the Hollywood Gold Cup is Tiago, who makes his second start off of a layoff. Tiago can come from off the pace and appears to like Hollywood Park. The Form provides free past performances. So does Brisnet.com.

I'll bet Solar Flare in the Suburban. Solar Flare is taking a big step up in class, but he's won three in a row, and I think he might be able to steal this race on the front end. The Form provides free past performances. So does Equibase.

My selection in the Cleveland Gold Cup tomorrow at Thistledown is Pyrite Gem. Pyrite Gem makes her second start of the year. She finished third against colts last year in the Best of Ohio Juvenile. Darley Stable provides free past performances.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2008-06-21T08:16:00.002-04:00

Last week, Curlin won the Stephen Foster Handicap. Cowgirls Don't Cry finished fourth in the Ogden Phipps Handicap. Seducing Mr. G finished third in the Magic City Classic, paying $2.20 to show. Tom Archdeacon was scratched from the Sydney Gendelamn Memorial Handicap. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $20.40 on total wagers of $80.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Colonial Turf Cup at Colonial Downs and the New York Handicap at Belmont Park. Equibase's race of the week is the Queen's Plate tomorrow at Woodbine.

My selection in the Colonial Turf Cup is Sailor's Cap, who is coming off of a bullet work. There's not much early speed in today's race, and Sailor's Cap can run on the front end when he wants to. The Form provides free past performances. So does McPeek Racing.

Mauralakana looks like a deserving favorite in the New York Handicap. She's 3 for 4 this year. The Form provides free past performances. So does Stronach Stable.

Pay the Man looks like a deserving favorite in the J. William Petro Memorial Handicap today at Thistledown. She has 4 wins from 5 starts at Thistledown, and is coming off of a bullet work. Thistledown provides free past performances for all Petro nominees. Equibase provides entries.

The Queen's Plate is a tough race to handicap, with a field of 15 three-year-olds, none of whom has gone a mile and a quarter before. I'll bet Ginger Brew. She's a filly taking on colts for the first time, but she's coming off of a bullet work, and is undefeated at Woodbine. Equibase provides free past performances. So does Stronach Stable.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2008-06-14T06:18:00.003-04:00

Last week, Out of Control finished second in the Manhattan Handicap, paying $4.20 to place and $3.40 to show. Da'Tara upset Big Brown in the Belmont Stakes. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $24.40 on total wagers of $76.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs and the Ogden Phipps Handicap at Belmont Park. The Form now requires registration for its race of the week content. If you want to avoid registering, you can get free past performances for the Foster from Equibase and for the Phipps from Stronach Stables.

Curlin, who makes his first start in North America this year, looks like a prohibitive favorite. I can't bet against him, but he'll probably go off at too short a price to be worth a bet. The Foster also features a pair of Ohio Derby winners: Delightful Kiss, who won last year's Derby, and 2004 Derby victor Brass Hat. The Form provides free past performances.

Frank Stronach's entry of Spring Waltz and Ginger Punch looks awfully tough in the Phipps, but I'll take a chance on Cowgirls Don't Cry, who is coming off of a win in the Shuvee Handicap and whose front-running style is well suited to Belmont Park. The Form provides free past performances.

Today's card at River Downs features two state-bred stakes races: the Magic City Classic, for Alabama-breds, and the Sydney Gendelman Memorial Handicap for Ohio-breds.

My selection in the Magic City is Seducing Mr. G, who finished second to morning-line favorite Ack Magical back in November. I think Seducing Mr. G will benefit from the inside post this time.

In the Gendelman, I'll go with Tom Archdeacon, who won an open stakes race at Arlington last year, but only if the race stays on the turf.

Races of the Week

2008-06-07T07:26:00.002-04:00

Last week, Smooth Air won the Ohio Derby, paying $5.80 to win, $3.40 to place, and $2.40 to show. Nottawasaga finished seventh in the Nassau Stakes. O'Riain finished fifth in the Green Carpet Stakes. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $26.40 on total wagers of $74.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Belmont Stakes and the Manhattan Handicap, both at Belmont Park.

Big Brown looks like the most likely winner of the Belmont, but he'll probably go off at too short a price to bet. I'll pass the race. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Manhattan, I'll bet Out of Control. Out of Control's recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field, and he can come from just off the pace. He's never gone a mile and a quarter before, but his Tomlinson rating indicates that it shouldn't be a problem for him. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2008-05-31T09:47:00.002-04:00

Last week, I neglected to make any selections. Mauralakana won the Sheepshead Bay Handicap. Looky Yonder won the Vagrancy Stakes. Two weeks ago, Big Brown won the Preakness Stakes. Stay Close finished second in the Dixie Stakes, paying $6.00 to place and $4.60 to show. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $26.60 on total wagers of $68.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Ohio Derby at Thistledown and the Nassau Stakes at Woodbine.

Smooth Air looks like a deserving favorite in the Ohio Derby. We got quite a bit of rain overnight here in Cleveland, and Smooth Air is undefeated on off tracks. He has tactical speed, and the inside post should help him. In Smooth Air's only start at a mile and an eighth, he finished only 5 lengths behind Big Brown. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Nottawasaga in the Nassau. Nottawasaga makes her second start of the year today. She appears to like the distance and the surface, and Eric Coatrieux's horses run well on the turf. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Green Carpet Stakes today at River Downs, I'll bet O'Riain, who has two stakes wins around two turns. He's never raced on the turf, but I wouldn't be surprised if this race is moved to the main track, as spring turf races at River Downs often are. Brisnet.com provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-05-17T11:00:00.003-04:00

Last week, I neglected to make any selections. El Gato Malo won the Lone Star Derby and Casino Drive won the Peter Pan Stakes. Two weeks ago, Pyro finished eighth in the Kentucky Derby. Pforperfectpistol finished fifth in the Babst/Palacios Memorial Stakes. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $28.60 on total wagers of $66.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Preakness Stakes and the Dixie Stakes, both at Pimlico.

Big Brown looks like a prohibitive favorite in the Preakness. He's undefeated, he has tactical spped, and his Beyer figures are by far the most competitive in the field. However, he'll probably go off at too short a price to be worth a bet. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Stay Close to win the Dixie. Stay Close is 2 for 3 on the turf at Pimlico. Last August, he finished 4 1/2 lengths behind Shakis, who is today's morning-line favorite. However, since then, Stay Close has won 3 of his last 4 races. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections Part II

2008-05-03T06:59:00.002-04:00

Last week, Sporting Art won the Calder Derby, paying $5.00 to win, $2.80 to place, and $2.60 to show. Harlem Rocker upset J Be K in the Withers Stakes. Blumin Attitude finished seventh in the Bosselman/Gus Fonner Handicap. Key Low finished sixth in the Howard B. Noonan Stakes.

Yesterday, Proud Spell won the Kentucky Oaks, paying $8.80 to win, $4.80 to place, and $3.20 to show. Jilli's Cape finished third in the Angenora Stakes, paying $4.20 to show. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $32.60 on total wagers of $62.

In the Derby, I'll bet Pyro, who has never finished out of the money on dirt. The Daily Racing Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Pforperfectpistol in the Babst/Palacios Memorial Handicap today at Beulah Park. Pforperfectpistol won this race last year and has never finished out of the money. He's making his first start since last June, but he has shown that he can win off of a layoff. Brisnet.com provides free past performances.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections Part I

2008-05-02T07:59:00.002-04:00

This week the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.

In the Oaks, Proud Spell looks like a deserving favorite. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Jilli's Cape to win the Angenora Stakes today at Thistledown. Thistledown provides free past performances for all Angenora nominees. Equibase provides entries.

I'll post my selection for the Derby tomorrow morning.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2008-04-26T10:02:00.003-04:00

Last week, Salute the Sarge finished seventh in the Lexington Stakes. Forest Melody finished fourth in the Santa Barbara Handicap. Good and Lucky finished fourth in the Bill Hartack Memorial Handicap. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $28.80 on total wagers of $52, but I've had five consecutive selections run out of the money. If that trend continues, I should be back in the red by Belmont day, and all will once again be right with the world.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Calder Derby at Calder Race Course and the Withers Stakes at Aqueduct. Equibase's race of the week is the Bosselman/Gus Fonner Handicap at Fonner Park.

Sporting Art looks like a deserving favorite in the Calder Derby. He's 3 for 5 on the turf and is the only graded stakes winner in this field. The Form provides free past performances.

J Be K looks like a prohibitive favorite in the Withers. He's the only early speed in the field and he's undefeated around one turn. However, he'll probably go off at too short a price to be worth a bet. I think I'll pass this race. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Fonner is Blumin Attitude, who is 5 for 9 at Fonner, and is coming off of a stakes victory. Equibase provides free past performances.

I'll bet Key Low in the Howard B. Noonan Stakes today at Beulah Park. Key Low has early speed, and is 2 for 3 at Beulah. Beulah Park provides free past performances for all Noonan nominees. Equibase provides entries.

The First Saturday in May

2008-04-19T12:11:00.002-04:00

The First Saturday in May, a documentary about six colts and their connections on the Kentucky Derby trail, opened this weekend. I saw it last month at the Cleveland International Film Festival and I highly recommend it. Here is a list of cities where The First Saturday in May is playing.

Races of the Week

2008-04-19T11:53:00.002-04:00

Last week, Liberty Bull finished twelfth in the Arkansas Derby. Cool Coal Man finished ninth in the Blue Grass Stakes. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $34.80 on total wagers of $46.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Lexington Stakes at Keeneland and the Santa Barbara Handicap at Santa Anita. Equibase's race of the week is the Bill Hartack Memorial Handicap at Hawthorne.

My selection in the Lexington is Salute the Sarge. Salute the Sarge is 4 for 6 on artificial tracks. He can come from off the pace and the inside post should help him. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Forest Melody in the Santa Barbara. She's taking a big step up in class, but she's the only early speed in the race and might be able to steal it on the front end. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Good and Lucky in the Hartack. Good and Lucky is taking a big step up in class, but his recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field, and he could get loose on the lead. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-04-12T11:01:00.002-04:00

Last week, Court Vision and Inner Light finished third and ninth, respectively, in the Wood Memorial, paying $2.40 to show. Bob Black Jack finished second in the Santa Anita Derby, paying $7.20 to place and $5.40 to show. Scrappy Roo won the John Connally Turf Handicap, paying $14.80 to win, $7.00 to place, and $3.60 to show. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $38.80 on total wagers of $42.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn and the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland.

My selection in the Arkansas Derby is Liberty Bull. Liberty Bull is coming off of a win at today's distance of a mile and an eighth, and he has a win at Oaklawn. He can come from off the pace, which, according to the Brisnet.com past performances, is an advantage at Oaklawn. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Blue Grass Stakes is Cool Coal Man. Cool Coal Man has won 2 in a row. He has the inside post, which, according to the Brisnet.com past performances, is an advantage at Keeneland. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-04-05T11:19:00.002-04:00

Last week, Shes All Eltish won the Bonnie Miss Stakes, paying $10.80 to win, $5.60 to place, and $3.40 to show. Fierce Wind finished tenth in the Florida Derby. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $30 on total wagers of $36.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Wood Memorial at Aqueduct and the Santa Anita Derby at Santa Anita. Equibase's race of the week is the John Connally Breeders' Cup Turf at Sam Houston.

War Pass looks formidable in the Wood, but I'll take a chance on Bill Mott's entry of Court Vision and Inner Light. Inner light may set a fast pace. Court Vision makes his second start off of a layoff, and has a win at Aqueduct. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Santa Anita Derby, I'll bet the front-running Bob Black Jack, who is 2 for 3 at Santa Anita and is coming off of a bullet work. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Connally is Scrappy Roo. He's taking a big step up in class, but he's won 4 races in a row, all on the turf at Sam Houston, and his recent turf Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-03-29T10:27:00.002-04:00

Last week, Halo Najib finished second in the Lane's End Stakes, paying $5.40 to place and $4.00 to show. On The Acorn was sixth in the San Luis Rey Handicap. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $23.20 on total wagers of $32.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Florida Derby and the Bonnie Miss Stakes, both at Gulfstream Park.

In the Florida Derby, I'll bet Fierce Wind, who has won three in a row and is undefeated around two turns. The inside post should benefit him. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Shes All Eltish in the Bonnie Miss. She's been training sharply and her Tomlinson rating indicates that she should like the distance. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-03-22T11:03:00.002-04:00

Last week, Z Fortune finished fifth in the Rebel Stakes. War Pass Finished seventh in the Tampa Bay Derby. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $27.20 on total wagers of $28.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the ~~Spiral~~ ~~Jim Beam~~ ~~GalleryFurniture.com~~ Lane's End Stakes at Turfway Park and the San Luis Rey Handicap at Santa Anita.

I'll bet Halo Najib in the Lane's End. Both of Halo Najib's wins have come on artificial tracks, and he's coming off of a bullet work at Turfway. The Form provides free past performances.

In the San Luis Rey, I'll bet On The Acorn, who is 2 for 4 at a mile and a half and is making his second start off of a layoff. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-03-15T11:40:00.002-04:00

Last week, I neglected to post any selections. Visionaire won the Gotham Stakes and Pyro won the Louisiana Derby.

Two weeks ago, Monterey Jazz finished twelfth in the Santa Anita Handicap. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $29.20 on total wagers of $26.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park and the Tampa Bay Derby at Tampa Bay Downs.

Z Fortune looks like a deserving favorite in the Rebel Stakes. In his last start, Z Fortune finished second in the Risen Star Stakes. The first and third place finishers in that race, Pyro and Visionaire, both went on to win stakes races last week. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Tampa Bay Derby, I can't bet against the undefeated War Pass, but he'll likely go off at such a short price that I can't bet on him, either. I think I'll pass the race. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-03-01T11:34:00.002-05:00

Last week, Cosmonaut won the Tampa Bay Breeders' Cup Stakes, paying $3.60 to win, $3.00 to place, and $2.40 to show. Cool Coal Man won the Fountain of Youth Stakes, paying $16.60 to win, $8.40 to place, and $6.00 to show. Obrigado was scratched from the San Luis Obispo Stakes, which was won by Spring House. So far this year, a flat $2 win wager on my selections has yielded a net profit of $31.20 on total wagers of $24.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Santa Anita Handicap and the Sham Stakes, both to be run today at Santa Anita.

I'll bet Monterey Jazz in the Santa Anita Handicap. On one hand, he's never gone a mile and a quarter before and he could bounce off of the 107 Beyer he ran in the Strub Stakes. On the other hand, there's no other early speed in this race and he's won 2 in a row. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Sham, I can't bet against El Gato Malo, but he'll likely go off at such a short price that I can't bet on him either. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part I

2008-02-23T10:12:00.002-05:00

Last week, I was out of town and neglected to post any selections. The Form provides charts for last week's races, the Barbara Fritchie Handicap and the Sam F. Davis Stakes. Two weeks ago, Lovely Isle finished second in Las Virgenes Stakes, paying $4.80 to place and $3.40 to show. Check It Twice was scratched from the Risen Star Stakes. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $15 on total wagers of $20.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the San Luis Obispo Handicap today at Santa Anita and the Fountain of Youth Stakes tomorrow at Gulfstream. Equibase's race of the week is the Tampa Bay Breeders' Cup Stakes today at Tampa Bay Downs.

In the San Luis Obispo, I'll bet Obrigado, who is coming off of a bullet work. There's no early speed in this race, and Obrigado might be able to get out to an early lead. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Cool Coal Man in the Fountain of Youth. He's coming off of a bullet work, and the inside post should help him with a short run to the first turn. The Form provides free past performances.

Cosmonaut looks like a deserving favorite in the Tampa Bay Breeders' Cup. There's not much early speed to challenge him, and his Beyer figures are consistently in the triple digits. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-02-09T10:48:00.000-05:00

Last week, A.P. Arrow couldn't quite catch Spring at Last in the Donn Handicap. He fisnised second, paying $4.40 to place and $3.80 to show. Monterey Jazz won the Strub Stakes, paying $13.60 to win, $4.40 to place, and $3.60 to show. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $17.00 on total wagers of $18.00. This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Risen Star Stakes at the Fair Grounds and Las Virgenes Stakes at Santa Anita.

I'll bet Lovely Isle in Las Virgenes. There's not much early speed in this race, and Lovely Isle may be able to get in front early. She's never been a mile before, but her Tomlinson rating indicates that she should like it. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Risen Star, I'll bet Check It Twice, who should benefit from the rail post, appears to like the distance, and is coming off of two bullet works. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-02-02T10:36:00.000-05:00

Last week, I was 1 for 2. Gottcha Gold finished ninth in the Sunshine Millions Classic. Ginger Punch won the Sunshine Millions Distaff, paying $2.60 to win, $2.40 to place, and $2.10 to show. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a net profit of $7.40 on total wagers of $14.00. This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Donn Handicap at Gulfstream Park and the Strub Stakes at Santa Anita.

I'll bet A.P. Arrow in the Donn. Fairbanks and morning-line favorite Daaher will likely set a fast pace. A.P. Arrow can win coming from off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Strub, I'll bet Monterrey Jazz, who is coming off of a bullet work, has won 3 of his last 4, and looks like he could steal this race from the front end.

Races of the Week

2008-01-25T21:45:00.000-05:00

After a strong start to the year, I had three losers last week. Obrigado finished third in the San Marcos Stakes, paying $2.40 to show. Country Diva was seventh in the American Beauty Stakes. Birdgirl ran sixth in the Cincinnati Trophy. I'm still having a profitable year, as far as my race of the week selections are concerned. A flat $2 win bet on my selections this year has yielded a net profit of $8.80 on total wagers of $10.

This week, The Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Sunshine Millions Classic at Santa Anita and the Sunshine Millions Distaff at Gulfstream Park.

In the classic, I'll take a chance on Gotcha Gold. Gotcha Gold hasn't raced in nearly three months, and he's never raced on a synthetic surface. However, his recent Beyer figures are the best in this field, he's 2 for 4 at a mile and an eighth, and, according to the Brisnet past performances, Santa Anita is favorable to his front-running style. The Form provides free past performances.

Ginger Punch looks like a deserving favorite in the Distaff. She's coming off of a three month layoff. However, she's won three of her last four. She's a multiple grade 1 winner dropping into a restricted race, and she has a favorable post position tomorrow. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-01-19T10:15:00.000-05:00

Last week, I had two winners. El Gato Malo paid $6.80 to win, $4.40 to place, and $2.60 to show in the San Rafael Stakes. Z Fortune won the Lecomte Stakes, paying $12.00 to win, $5.60 to place, and $4.00 to show. So far this year, a flat $2 win bet on my selections has yielded a profit of $14.80 on total wagers of $4.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the San Marcos Stakes at Santa Anita and the American Beauty Stakes at Oaklawn. Equibase's race of the week is the Cincinnati Trophy at Turfway Park.

In the San Marcos, I'll bet Obrigado, who finished third in this race last year, and has never run out of the money on the Santa Anita turf. The Form provides free past performances.

Country Diva looks like a deserving favorite in the American Beauty. She's won two in a row, and can get out of the gate quickly. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Cincinnati Trophy is Birdgirl, who is 1 for 2 at Turfway. There's a lot of spped in this race, and Birdgirl can come from off the pace. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2008-01-12T09:21:00.001-05:00

Two weeks ago, Street Sounds finished eighth in the Frances Genter Stakes. Ashley's Kitty finished sixth in La Brea Stakes. I neglected to make any selesctions last week.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the San Rafael Stakes at Santa Anita and the Lecomte Stakes at the Fair Grounds.

In the San Rafael, I'll bet the undefeated El Gato Malo, who is coming off of a stakes win at a mile. The inside post should help, with a short run to the first turn. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Lecomte is Z Fortune, who ships in from New York with an allowance win at a mile and 70 yards. Z Fortune has the speed to get out to an early lead. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-12-29T10:26:00.000-05:00

Last week, Overextended finished ninth in the Cash Call Futurity and Saada finished seventh in the Sugar Bowl Stakes. I'll try to end 2007 on a winning note in today's races of the week, which are the Frances A. Genter Stakes at Calder and La Brea Stakes at Santa Anita.

In the Genter, I'll bet Street Sounds, who is 2 for 2 at today's distance and seems to run well off of a layoff. The Daily Racing Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Ashley's Kitty to win La Brea. Ashley's Kitty is 2 for 3 at Santa Anita and undefeated at today's distance of seven and a half furlongs. Her Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field and she can come from off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-12-22T10:14:00.000-05:00

Last week, Spritely finished last in the Hollywod Starlet Stakes. Dalvina finished third in La Prevoyante Handicap, paying $2.20 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Cash Call Futurity at Hollywood Park and the Sugar Bowl Stakes at the Fair Grounds.

I like Overextended in the Cash Call. Overextended finished second to Colonel John, today's morning-line favorite, in the Real Quiet Stakes last month. Today, Colonel John will start from the 8 post, which could hurt his chances because of the short run to the first turn. I'll bet Overxtended to win and box an Overextended-Colonel John exacta. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Sugar Bowl, I'll bet Saada, who picks up Robby Albarado. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-12-15T09:59:00.000-05:00

Last week, Costa Rising won the Louisiana Champions Day Classic, paying $2.80 to win and $2.10 to place. Hello Sunday ran seventh in the Native Diver Handicap. Carts Italian Rose was fifth in the Pat Whitworth Illinois Debutante Stakes.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Hollywood Starlet Stakes at Hollywood Park and La Prevoyante Handicap at Calder.

My selection in the Starlet is the undefeated Spritely, who should be helped by the inside post. She's never run around two turns before, but her Tomlinson rating indicates that a mile and a sixteenth shouldn't be a problem for her. The Form provides free past performances.

Dalvina, making her second start in North America, looks like a deserving favorite in La Prevoyante. She's coming off of a win in the Long Island Handicap, at today's distance of a mile and a half. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-12-08T10:15:00.000-05:00

Last week, Sugar Shake ran fifth in the Bayakoa Handicap. Bayou's Lassie finished second in the My Charmer Handicap, paying $4.00 to place and $3.60 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Louisiana Champions Day Classic at the Fair Grounds and the Native Diver Handicap at Hollywood Park. Equibase's race of the week is the Pat Whitworth Illinois Debutante Stakes at Hawthorne.

Costa Rising looks like a deserving favorite in the Louisiana Champions Day Classic, having won 6 of his last 8 races. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Native Diver, my selection is Hello Sunday, who makes his second start off of a layoff. The Form provides free past performances.

None of the fillies in the Illinois Debutante has won going around two turns on dirt. I think I'll go with Carts Italian Rose, who upset morning line favorite Carbella in their last start. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-12-01T10:05:00.000-05:00

Last week, Daaher and Midnight Lute finished first and second in the Cigar Mile. The $1 exacta paid $4.65. Talent Search finished second in the DeFrancis Memorial, paying $3.00 to place and $2.10 to show. Wicked Style was scratched from the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Bayakoa Handicap at Hollywood Park and the My Charmer Handicap at Calder, which is also Equibase's race of the week.

In the Bayakoa, my choice is Sugar Shake. The inside post should help her, with such a short run to the first turn. She won't pay much, but she looks like a deserving favorite. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Bayou's Lassie in the My Charmer. Bayou's Lassie looks like the only speed in the race, and is 4 for 5 on the turf at Calder. Equibase provides free past performances.

2007-11-24T00:44:00.000-05:00

Last week, Criminologist won the Cardinal Handicap, paying $5.00 to win, $3.00 to place, and $2.40 to show. Awfully Smart finished fifth in the Stuyvestant Handicap.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Cigar Mile at Aqueduct and the DeFrancis Memorial Dash at Laurel Park. Equibase's race of the week is the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes at Churchill Downs.

Midnight Lute, coming off an impressive win in the Breeders' Cup Sprint, looks like the class of the field in the Cigar, but he'll go off at a very short price, and he's never been a mile before. Daaher has won two in a row, including the Grade 2 Jerome Handicap. I'll box a Midnight Lute-Daaher exacta. The Form provides free past performances.

In the DeFrancis, I'll go with Talent Search, who is 5 for 10 at 6 furlongs, and is coming off of a third place finish in the Breeders' Cup Sprint. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet the front-running Wicked Style in the Kentucky Jockey Club. Wicked Style was undefeated going into the Breeders' Cup Juvenile, in which he ran badly. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-11-17T10:03:00.000-05:00

Last week, Bit of Whimsy won the Mrs. Revere Stakes, paying $5.20 to win, $3.20 to place, and $2.60 to show. Tricky Causeway finished eighth in the Red Smith Handicap. Miracle Moment finished last in the Long Island Handicap.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Cardinal Handicap at Churchill Downs and the Stuyvestant Handicap at Aqueduct.

Criminologist looks like a deserving favorite in the Cardinal. She's won three in a row and four of her last five. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Stuyvestant is Awfully Smart, who appears to be at the top of his game. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-11-10T08:16:00.000-05:00

I returned to my losing form last week after a profitable Breeders' Cup day two weeks ago. Off Duty finished sixth in the Ack Ack Handicap. Sweet Belle finished fifth in Las Palmas Handicap. The Long Island Handicap was canceled due to high winds, and rescheduled for tomorrow.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Mrs. Revere Stakes at Churchill Downs and the Red Smith Handicap at Aqueduct.

Bit of Whimsy, a grade 1 winner on turf, looks like a deserving favorite in the Mrs. Revere. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Red Smith is Tricky Causeway. There's not much other early speed in the race, and, according to the Brisnet.com past performances, front runners have been winning on the turf at Aqueduct. The Form provides free past performances.

Miracle Moment is still entered in the rescheduled Long Island Handicap, and she's still my selection. Free past performances are available from Brisnet.com, via Todd Pletcher.

Races of the Week

2007-11-03T09:01:00.001-04:00

Last week, Breeders' Cup day was good for me. Indian Blessing won the Juvenile Fillies, paying $5.40 to win, $4.80 to place, and $3.20 to show. War Pass won the Juvenile, paying $6.40 to win, $3.80 to place, and $2.80 to show. Honey Ryder finished second in the Filly and Mare Turf, paying $6.60 to place and $4.60 to show. Smokey Stover finished ninth in the Sprint. Kip Deville won the Mile, paying $18.40 to win, $7.20 to place, and $5.20 to show. Indian Vale finished ninth in the Distaff. English Channel won the Turf, paying $8.00 to win, $4.40 to place, and $3.00 to show. Street Sense finished fourth in the Classic.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Ack Ack Handicap at Churchill Downs and the Long Island Handicap at Aqueduct. Equibase's race of the week is Las Palmas handicap tomorrow at Santa Anita.

In the Ack Ack, I'll bet Off Duty, who is 3 for 5 at Churchill and undefeated at a mile. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Long Island is Miracle Moment. Royal Highness looks like the class of the field, but Miracle Moment might be able to get loose on the lead. The Form provides free past performances.

In Las Palmas, I'll go with Sweet Belle, who could steal this race from the front end. Her past performances don't show a win in an open stakes race, but she's 2 for 3 at the distance, 2 for 3 on the turf at Santa Anita, and coming off of a bullet work. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Breeders' Cup Edition

2007-10-27T08:08:00.000-04:00

In the Juvenile Fillies, Indian Blessing looks like a deserving favorite. She's undefeated, and there's not much other early speed in the race. Brisnet.com, via Bob Baffert, provides free past performances.

The undefeated War Pass looks like another deserving favorite in the Juvenile. His front-running style is well suited to Monmouth, and he has five bullet works. Brisnet.com, via Ken McPeek, provides free past performances.

In the Filly and Mare Turf, I'll bet Honey Ryder, who likes 1 3/8 mile on the turf, and races well off a layoff. Brisnet.com, via Stonerside Stable, provides free past performances.

I'll go with Smokey Stover in the Sprint. He's never finished worse than third, and his Beyer figures are competitive. Brisnet.com, via Bob Baffert, provides free past performances.

In the Mile, I'll bet Kip Deville, who likes the distance and whose Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. Brisnet.com, via Graham Motion, provides free past performances.

Indian Vale looks like a deserving favorite in the Distaff. She's 6 for 7 at the distance and, as a front runner, should run well at Monmouth. Brisnet.com, via Stronach Stables, provides free past performances. So does the Daily Racing Form.

I'll bet English Channel in the Turf. Dylan Thomas looks formidable, but English Channel is undefeated on the turf at Monmouth. Brisnet.com, via Todd Pletcher, provides free past performances.

I'll bet Street Sense in the Classic. Street Sense is undefeated at a mile and a quarter. He comes into this race off of a prep on Polytrack, which worked well for him in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile last year and the Kentucky Derby earlier this year. Brisnet.com, via Todd Pletcher, provides free past performances. So does Equibase.

Races of the Week

2007-10-13T10:33:00.000-04:00

Last week, Tend finished fifth in the Breeders' Futurity. The Tin Man finished second in the Clement Hirsch Turf Championship, paying $2.20 to place and $2.10 to show. Sarasponda won the John W. Galbreath Memorial Stakes, paying $12.20 to win, $4.20 to place, and $3.80 to show. Perfectly Played ran ninth in the Best of Ohio Juvenile. Ben's Reflection finished second in the Best of Ohio Sprint, paying $4.80 to place and $3.80 to show. The entry of Bright Pyrite and Pay the Man finished second and third in the Best of Ohio Distaff, paying $2.10 to place and $2.10 to show. Catlaunch finished third in the Best of Ohio Endurance, paying $2.10 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup at Keeneland and the Oak Tree Derby at Santa Anita.

In the Queen Elizabeth II, I'll bet Sharp Susan, who has won multiple graded stakes at a mile and an eight on the turf. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Oak Tree Derby is Ten a Penny. There's not much early speed in today's race, and Ten A penny could benefit from a slow pace. His recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-10-05T22:22:00.000-04:00

Last week, Wait a While finished third in the Flower Bowl Invitational, paying $2.90 to show. Lewis Michael finished fourth in the Goodwood Stakes. Hard Spun won the Kentucky Cup Classic, paying $3.80 to win and $2.10 to place.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Breeders' Futurity at Keeneland and the Clement Hirsch Turf Campionship at Santa Anita.

In the Breeders' Futurity, my selection is Tend, who was impressive in his debut on the Polytrack at Turfway Park. Tend can come from off the pace, and should be helped by the inside post. The Form provides free past performances.

The Tin Man looks like a deserving favorite in the Hirsch. The Tin Man is 4 for 8 at the distance and 9 for 14 on the turf at Santa Anita. The last time he failed to run first or second was in 2004. The Form provides free past performances.

Tomorrow, Beulah Park hosts the Best of Ohio series of five stakes races for Ohio-breds. Beulah Park provides free past performances for all Best of Ohio nominees. Equibase provides entries.

In the John W. Galbreath Memorial, I'll bet the stretch-running Sarasponda, who could benefit from a speed duel between Title Princess and Pyrite Marci.

In the Best of Ohio Juvenile, I'll bet Perfectly Played, who also could benefit from a lot of early speed.

I'll bet Ben's Reflection in the Best of Ohio Sprint. Ben's Reflection won this race in 2005 and has been training sharply.

My selection in the Best of Ohio Distaff, Pay the Man, is coming off of an impressive 11 1/2 length victory over graded stakes winner Cryptoquip in the Rose DeBartolo Memorial Handicap.

In the Best of Ohio Endurance, I'll bet that Pyrite Personal can turn the tables on Catlaunch, who defeated him in last month's Governor's Buckeye Cup.

Races of the Week

2007-09-29T08:52:00.000-04:00

Last week, Forty Acres finished seventh in the Super Derby. Fairbanks ran second in the Massachusetts Handicap.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Flower Bowl Invitational Stakes at Belmont and the Goodwood Handicap at Santa Anita. Equibase's race of the week is the Kentucky Cup Classic at Turfway Park.

My selection in the Flower Bowl is Wait a While, who is undefeated at a mile and a quarter on the turf and can win from the lead or just off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Goodwood, Lava Man appears to be the class of the field, but he didn't appear to like the Polytrack at Del Mar. Today's race will also be run over Polytrack, so I'll try for the upset with Lewis Michael, who has won two in a row on the Polytrack at Arlington, and who races well off of a layoff. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Kentucky Cup is Hard Spun, who won the ~~Spiral~~ ~~Jim Beam~~ ~~GalleryFurniture.com~~ Lane's End Stakes at Turfway this spring. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-09-22T13:05:00.000-04:00

I'm sorry for the late post.

The Massachusetts Handicap features a pair of Ohio Derby winners in Palladio and Brass Hat, I'll go with Fairbanks, who has run triple-digit Beyer figures in each of his last three races and appears to be a deserving favorite. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Super Derby, Grasshopper looks like a prohibitive favorite. I'll box an exacta with Grasshopper and Forty Acres, who is coming off of a stakes victory and might be able to steal this race on the front end. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-09-15T08:33:00.000-04:00

Last week, Marsh Side finished last in the Man O' War Stakes. Rutherienne finished last in the Garden City Stakes. I finally had a winner, though, with Silmaril, who won the Endine Handicap, paying $15.80 to win, $7.20 to place, and $4.80 to show.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Noble Damsel Handicap at Belmont Park and the Presque Isle Downs Masters Stakes. Equibase's race of the week is the Prairie Meadows Derby.

In the Noble Damsel, my selection is Silver Charades, a good turf miler who makes her second start off of a layoff. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Vestrey Lady in the Masters. Vestrey Lady is the only filly in this field who has won on a synthetic surface. She's also coming off of a bullet work. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Prairie Meadows Derby, my selection is Red Hot N Gold, who has two recent bullet works at Prairie Meadows. Equibase provides free past performances.

In the Honey Jay Stakes today at Thistledown, Dooze looks like a deserving favorite. He defeated morning-line second choice Ben's Reflection by 5 lengths in his last start, and the outside post seems to be advantageous in sprints at Thistledown. Thistledown provides free past performances for Honey Jay nominees. Equibase provides entries.

Races of the week

2007-09-08T10:07:00.000-04:00

Last week, I had only one winner from six selections. Lawyer Ron won the Woodward Stakes, paying $3.50 to win, $2.60 to place, and $2.10 to show. Price Tag was scratched from the Palomar Handicap. Hurricane Bernie was fifth in the Bassinet Stakes. Zanjero finished third in the Pennsylvania Derby, paying $2.60 to show. Pyrite Personal was second in the Governor's Buckeye Cup, paying $4.00 to place and $3.00 to show. Tizthemaninthemoon was fifth in the Cradle Stakes. I neglected to make a selection in the Rose DeBartolo Memorial Stakes.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Garden City Stakes and the Man O' War Stakes, both at Belmont Park. Equibase's race of the week is the Endine Handicap at Delaware Park.

My selection in the Garden City is Rutherienne, who is 7 for 8 lifetime, 2 for 2 at today's distance, and 2 for 2 on the turf at Belmont. I'd be surprised if she goes off close to her morning-line odds of 7-2. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Man O' War, I'll go with Marsh Side, who finished ahead of multiple grade 1 winner Jambalaya in the Northern Dancer Breeders' Cup Turf. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Endine is Silmaril. Silmaril can come from off the pace. I think the pace today will set up well for her. She hasn't raced in two months, but she has three recent bullet works, and Christopher Grove's trainees race well off of layoffs. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-09-02T11:57:00.000-04:00

My selection in the Pennsylvania Derby, Equibase's race of the week, is Zanjero. Zanjero seems to like a mile and an eighth, and is coming off of two consecutive triple-digit Beyer figures. Equibase provides free past performances.

In the Cradle Stakes at River Downs, I'll bet Tizthemaninthemoon. Tizthemaninthemoon defeated morning-line favorite Old Man Buck at Ellis Park last month. Brisnet.com provides free past performances, via Ken McPeek.

In the Governor's Buckeye Cup, I'll bet Pyrite Personal. In his last start, Pyrite Personal won the Cleveland Gold Cup, defeating Pay the Man by 5 lengths. Pay the Man was extremely impressive on Saturday in the Rose DeBartolo Memorial Handicap on Saturday, defeating graded stakes winner Cryptoquip by 11 1/2 lengths. Thistledown provides free past performances for all Governor's Buckeye Cup nominees. Equibase provides entries.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-09-01T10:07:00.000-04:00

Last week, King of the Roxy finished seventh in the King's Bishop Stakes. Kettleoneup finished fourth in the Molly Pitcher Breeders' Cup Handicap. Thevicarsdaughter ran eighth in the Miss Ohio Stakes.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Woodward Stakes at Saratoga and the Palomar Handicap at Del Mar.

Lawyer Ron looks like he'll be a deserving favorite in the Woodward. He appears to like the track and the distance, and his recent Beyer figures are by far the best in this field. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Palomar is Price Tag. The pace of today's race looks like it will set up well for her. The Form provides free past performances.

In today's Bassinet Stakes at River Downs, I'll bet Hurricane Bernie, one of two stakes winners in the field. Brisnet.com provides free past performances, via Darley Stables.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-08-25T09:07:00.000-04:00

Last week, Panty Raid finished fifth in the Alabama Stakes. Lava Man was sixth in the Pacific Classic.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the King's Bishop Stakes at Saratoga and the Molly Pitcher Breeders' Cup Handicap at Monmouth. Equibase's race of the week is the Travers Stakes at Saratoga.

My selection in the King's Bishop is King of the Roxy. King of the Roxy seems to like today's distance of 7 furlongs and ran well in his only other start at Saratoga. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Molly Pitcher, I'll go with Kettleoneup. There's an awful lot of early speed in today's race, and Kettleoneup can come from off the pace. She's coming off of a layoff, but her past performances show an 8-lenght win off of a layoff this past winter at Oaklawn. The Form provides free past performances.

Street Sense looks like a prohibitive favorite in the Travers. At such a short price, I can't bet on him, but I can't bet against him either. Equibase provides free past performances.

In the Miss Ohio Stakes today at Thistledown, I'll bet Thevicarsdaughter, who ran a bullet work at River Downs on August 14. Thevicarsdaughter's trainer, Ivan Vazquez, wins 21% of the time with first-time starters. Thistledown provides free past performances for all Miss Ohio nominees. Equibase provides entries.

Races of the Week, Part II

2007-08-19T10:22:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, Panty Raid finished fifth as the favorite in the Alabama Stakes.

In today's Pacific Classic, my selection is Lava Man. Lava Man is 6 for 9 at a mile and a quarter. There doesn't appear to be to much early speed in today's race, so the pace should be favorable for him. He'll probably go off at a short price, but he's the class of this field. The Daily Racing Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part I

2007-08-18T08:47:00.001-04:00

Last week, both of my race of the week selections were scratched. After Market was scratched from the Arlington Million. Better Talk Now was scratched from the Sword Dancer Invitational. In the Vivacious Handicap, Mini Mom finished second, paying $2.20 to place and $2.10 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Alabama Stakes at Saratoga and the Pacific Classic at Del Mar.

In the Alabama, I'll bet Panty Raid, who has won three races in a row and can come from off the pace. Her recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll post my selection for the Pacific Classic tomorrow morning.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-08-11T08:13:00.000-04:00

Last week, Take the Ribbon finished fourth in the John C. Mabee Handicap. Sheets finished fourth in the Test Stakes. Hard Spun finished second in the Haskell Invitational, paying $5.00 to place and $2.10 to show. Play the Hero finished second in the Horizon Stakes, paying $3.40 to place and $2.80 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Arlington Million at Arlington and the Sword Dancer Invitational at Saratoga.

In the Million, I hate to go against The Tin Man, who came through for me in this race last year. However, with Sunriver in the race, The Tin Man probably won't get the slow pace he did last year. I think the pace will be more favorable for the morning-line favorite, After Market, who has won three in a row on the turf in southern California. I'll bet After Market in the Million. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Sword Dancer is Better talk Now. Better Talk Now can come from off the pace. In his last four starts, Better Talk Now has finished ahead of today's morning-line favorite, English Channel, twice. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Vivacious Handicap today at River Downs, I'll bet Mini Mom. Mini Mom comes back after only a week's rest, but she's undefeated against Ohio breds on turf. Mini Mom is part of an entry with Littlebitabling and Magg's Choice.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-08-04T09:18:00.000-04:00

Last week, Brass Hat finished eighth in the Whitney Handicap. Battle Won finished fourth in the Bing Crosby Handicap.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Test Stakes at Saratoga and the John C. Mabee Handicap at Del Mar. Equibase's race of the week is tomorrow's Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park.

In the Test, I'll bet Sheets. Sheets is coming off of a 4 1/2 length win in the Azalea Breeders' Cup Stakes. She has two recent bullet works and can win from the front end or the middle of the pack. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Take the Ribbon in the Mabee. Dancing Edie and Precious Kitten likely will set a fast pace. Take the Ribbon can come from off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Haskell is Hard Spun, whose front-running style is well suited to Monmouth Park. Equibase provides free past performances.

In the Horizon Stakes today at River Downs, Mini Mom takes on colts and geldings for the first time. She won the Tomboy Stakes on the turf at River Downs earlier this year, and looks like a deserving favorite. However, I'll try for the upset with Play the Hero. Play the Hero is 2 for 4 on the turf, and finished second in the Green Carpet Stakes earlier this year.

Northern Dancer Breeders' Cup Turf Pictures

2007-07-29T10:38:00.000-04:00

Last Sunday's card at Woodbine featured the second running of the Northern Dancer Breeders' Cup Turf Stakes, along with three stakes races on the undercard. Here are some pictures.

Ontario Matron Stakes winner She's Indy Money, with rider Garrett Gomez

2006 Canadian Horse of the Year Arravale, shown here with Jose Valdivia, Jr. in the irons, made her first start of 2007 in the Dance Smartly Stakes.

Masseuse, on the inside, holds off May Night and Elle Runway to win the Dance Smartly Stakes.

Masseuse and Edgar Prado after the race

Gangster, on the outside, getting up to win the Bold Venture Stakes

Gangster and Todd Kabel on their way to the winner's circle

The field breaks from the gate in the Northern Dancer Breeders' Cup Turf Stakes

Sky Conqueror, on the outside, winning the Northern Dancer Breeders' Cup Turf

Sky Conqueror and Edgar Prado on their way to the winner's circle

Second place finisher Marsh Side, with Emma Wilson in the irons

Third Place Finisher Jambalaya, ridden by Javier Castellano

Races of the Week, Part II

2007-07-29T10:33:00.000-04:00

My selection in the Bing Crosby Handicap is Battle Won. Battle Won makes his second start off a layoff, has been training sharply, and finished only a head behind morning-line favorite Bordonaro in this race last year. The Daily Racing Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part I

2007-07-28T09:14:00.000-04:00

Last week, Strike a Deal and Summer Doldrums finished second and fourth respectively in the Virginia Derby. Buzzards Bay finished eighth in the San Diego Handicap.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Whitney Handicap today at Saratoga and the Bing Crosby Handicap tomorrow at Del Mar.

In the Whitney, my selection is Brass Hat. Brass Hat makes his second start off a layoff, and has been training sharply. He likes a mile and an eighth. I think he could pull off the upset. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll post my selection for the Bing Crosby Handicap later today or tomorrow morning.

Races of the Week

2007-07-21T11:21:00.000-04:00

Last week, Tiago won the Swaps Stakes, paying $4.00 to win, $2.60 to place, and $2.10 to show. Peak Maria's Way finished fourth in the Delaware Handicap.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Virginia Derby at Colonial Downs and the San Diego Handicap at Del Mar.

In the Virginia Derby, I'll box a Strike a Deal-Summer Doldrums exacta. Strike a Deal and Summer Doldrums both have run well on the turf course at Colonial, and have run 1-2 in their last two starts against each other. The Form provides free past performances.

In the San Diego, I'll go with Buzzards Bay. Buzzards Bay is coming off of two bullet works. He likes a synthetic surface. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part II

2007-07-15T07:50:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, Tiago won the Swaps Stakes, paying $4.00 to win, $2.60 to place, and $2.10 to show.

Today in the Delaware Handicap I'll bet Peak Maria's Way. Peak Maria's Way likes Delaware Park and is coming off of a bullet work. Her front-running style is well suited to this field, which doesn't have much early speed. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-07-14T10:53:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ago, The Tin Man finished second in the American Invitational Handicap, paying $2.60 to place and $2.10 to show. Molengao finished fifth in the Hollywood Gold Cup. I didn't make any selections last week because I was traveling.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Swaps Stakes today at Hollywood Park and the Delaware Handicap tomorrow at Delaware Park.

My selection in the Swaps is Tiago. Tiago won't pay very much, but he appears to be the class of the field. There's a lot of speed in the race, and Tiago likes to come from off the pace. He hasn't raced on a synthetic surface before, but he has trained sharply at Hollywood Park, so he should be able to handle it. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll post my selection for the Delaware Handicap later today or early tomorrow.

Races of the Week

2007-06-30T10:39:00.000-04:00

Last week, Tycoon Doby finished third in the Cinema Breeders' Cup Handicap, paying $2.60 to show. Twilight Meteor finished seventh in the Queen's Plate.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Hollywood Gold Cup and the American Invitational Handicap, both at Hollywood Park.

In the Gold Cup, my selection is Molengao. Molengao likes the synthetic surface at Hollywood, and finished only 3/4 length behind likely favorite Lava Man in the Santa Anita Handicap. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the American Invitational is The Tin Man, who won this race last year, and has won for in a row. The Tin Man is 4 for 6 at 1 1/8 mile on the turf. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part II

2007-06-24T10:18:00.000-04:00

In the Queen's Plate, I'll bet Twilight Meteor. Twilight Meteor is 1 for 2 on Polytrack. He's bred for a mile and a quarter. In his last start, he finished third behind Strike a Deal and Summer Doldrums in the Straight Deal Stakes. Last week, those two finished 1-2 in the Colonial Turf Cup. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part I

2007-06-23T10:43:00.000-04:00

Last week, Summer Doldrums won the Colonial Turf Cup, paying $9.60 to win, $5.60 to place, and $4.40 to show. Flashy Bull won the Stephen Foster Handicap, paying $14.20 to win, $6.80 to place, and $4.40 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Cinema Breeders' Cup today at Hollywood Park and the Queen's Plate tomorrow at Woodbine.

In the Cinema, I'll bet Tycoon Doby. Tycoon Doby is moving up in class, but he's undefeated on the turf. He likes to race near the lead, and there's not much early speed in today's race. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll post my selection for the Queen's Plate later today or early tomorrow.

Races of the Week

2007-06-16T10:36:00.000-04:00

Last week, After Market upset Lava Man in the Charles Whittingham Memorial Handicap, paying $6.20 to win, $3.20 to place, and $2.60 to show. Christmas Kid finished third in the Acorn Stakes, paying $2.60 to show. Hard Spun finished fourth in the Belmont Stakes.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs and the Colonial Turf Cup at Colonial Downs.

In the Foster, I'll bet Flashy Bull. Flashy Bull has won three in a row and his recent Beyer figures are competitive with the likely favorites in this field. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll go with Summer Doldrums in the Turf Cup. Last month at Belmont Park he finished a nose behind morning-line second choice Strike a Deal. That was Summer Doldrums' first start on the turf. His Tomlinson rating indicates that he should like today's distance. The Form provides free past performances.

Ohio Derby Pictures

2007-06-09T10:51:00.000-04:00

Delightful Kiss with a commanding lead just before the wire

Delightful Kiss and rider Jeffrey Sanchez on their way to the winner's circle

Second-place finisher Moyer's Pond

Third-place finisher Reporting for Duty, with Luis Quiñones aboard

3-5 favorite Cowtown Cat, with John Velazquez aboard

Races of the Week

2007-06-09T10:09:00.000-04:00

Last week, Forty Grams (pictured above) finished fifth in the Ohio Derby. A.P. Xcellent finished third in the Californian Stakes, paying $4.60 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Acorn Stakes at Belmont Park and the Charles Whittingham Memorial Handicap at Hollywood Park. The Belmont Stakes is Equibase's race of the week.

In the Acorn, I'll bet Christmas Kid, who is coming off if a Grade 1 win and likes a 1-turn mile. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet After Market in the Whittingham. His Beyer figures are competitive with this field. Lava Man looks like the class of the field, but he's making his first start since a trip to Dubai and could be compromised by a speed duel with Lang Field. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Belmont, I'll bet Hard Spun. I think he could steal this race on the front end. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-06-02T09:47:00.000-04:00

Last week, Always First finished second in the Louisville Handicap, paying $4.60 to place and $3.80 to show. Safari Queen finished second to Honey Ryder in the Sheepshead Bay Handicap, paying $2.40 to place and $2.10 to show. It's good to see that the trip to Dubai didn't take too much out of Honey Ryder.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Ohio Derby, which is also Equibase's race of the week, and the Californian Stakes at Hollywood Park.

In the Ohio Derby, I'll bet Forty Grams. Forty Grams had a troubled trip in the Lone Star Derby, his last start. The inside post has been doing well at Thistledown and should help him. Both of his wins have been on the lead, and Thistledown tends to favor early speed. The Form provides free past performances. Former Plain Dealer turf writer Bob Roberts has coverage of the Derby at the Thistledown website.

In the Californian, I'll bet A.P. Xcellent. A.P. Xcellent is moving up in class, but he's the only early speed in the race, and he's undefeated on the main track at Hollywood. I'll also bet an A.P. Xcellent-Perfect Drift exacta. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-05-26T09:19:00.000-04:00

Last week, I had the Curlin-Street Sense exacta in the Preakness Stakes, which paid $11.60 for a $1 bet. In the Shuvee Handicap, I picked the wrong Allen Jerkens filly. Swap Flipparoo finished last while her stablemate, Teammate, won.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Louisville Handicap at Churchill Downs and the Sheepshead Bay Handicap at Belmont Park.

In the Louisville Handicap, I'll bet Always First, who likes the distance and can come from off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Sheepshead Bay, Honey Ryder looks like the class of the field, but she's coming off of a two month layoff after making the trip to Dubai. I'll try for the upset with Safari Queen, who can get the distance and has won four of her last five starts, all graded stakes. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-05-19T07:35:00.000-04:00

Last week, I finally had a winner. On the Acorn won the Jim Murray Memorial Handicap, paying $7.00 to win, $3.40 to place, and $2.60 to show. My other selection, Reporting for Duty, finished fifth in the Lone Star Derby.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Preakness Stakes, which is also Equibase's race of the week, and the Shuvee Handicap.

In the Preakness, I hate to go against the Ohio-bred King of the Roxy. Street Sense looks like the most likely winner, but will probably be a prohibitive favorite. There's a lot of early speed in this race, and both Street Sense and Curlin can come from off the pace, so I'll box a Street Sense-Curlin exacta. The Form provides free past performances.

Sugar Shake looks like a heavy favorite in the Shuvee, coming off three consecutive wins, but she hasn't raced in three months. I'll try for the upset with Swap Fliparoo. Swap Fliparoo can come from off the pace, usually runs well at Belmont Park, and is trained by Allen Jerkens, who can never be counted out. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-05-12T10:32:00.000-04:00

Last week, Mistical Plan finished fifth in the Kentucky Oaks and Any Given Saturday finished eighth in the Kentucky Derby.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Lone Star Derby, which is also Equibase's race of the week, and the Jim Murray Memorial Handicap at Hollywood Park.

In the Lone Star Derby, I'll bet Reporting for Duty. There's a lot of early speed in today's race, and Reporting for Duty can come from off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Murray, I'll bet On the Acorn, who has won three of his last four starts. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part II

2007-05-04T11:22:00.000-04:00

In tomorrow's Kentucky Derby, I'll bet Any Given Saturday. Back in March, Any Given Saturday finished second in the Tampa Bay Derby, beaten only a nose by morning-line second choice Street Sense. Any Given Saturday has run triple-digit Beyer figures in two of his last four starts, and his Tomlinson rating indicates that he's bred for a mile and a quarter. The Daily Racing Form provides free past performances.

Ohio Stakes Previews

2007-05-03T21:49:00.000-04:00

The Ohio Sires Stakes for 3-year olds begin this weekend at Lebanon Raceway. Friday Night's card features four divisions for three-year-old filly trotters and two divisions for three-year-old filly pacers. The colts and geldings race on Saturday night, with four divisions of trotters and three divisions of pacers. Lebanon Raceway provides entries for Friday and Saturday. The Ohio State Racing Commission provides schedules for all OSS divisions.

Beulah Park has two stakes races scheduled for Saturday. The Babst/Palacios Memorial Stakes features three Ohio-bred champions. Ohio champion handicap horse Cat Singer and champion sprinter Pforperfectpistol are both making their first starts of the year. Ohio accredited male champion Catlaunch is coming off a win last month at River Downs. Also on Saturday's card at Beulah Park is the Alyssa Handicap for fillies and mares who have started at Beulah Park during the current meet. Beulah Park provides free past performances for all nominees to the Babst/Palacios and the Alyssa. Equibase provides entries.

Races of the Week, Part I

2007-05-03T21:25:00.000-04:00

Last week, I was 0 for 3. Bold Start finished third in the Derby Trial, paying $2.80 to show. Stormin Away finished last in the Inglewood Handicap. Yourmoneysnogood finished third in the Bosselman-Gus Fonner Handicap, paying $2.20 to show. However, I saved money, as neither Thistledown nor my account wagering service offer wagering on Fonner Park.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are tomorrow's Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs, and Saturday's Kentucky Derby, which is also Equibase's race of the week.

In the Oaks, I'll bet Mistical Plan, who won two in a row this winter before running badly on the Polytrack at Keeneland. I think she'll improve tomorrow now that she's back on dirt. Mistical Plan's Tomlinson rating indicates that she's bred for the distance. If she gets an early lead, she'll be tough. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll post my selection for the Kentucky Derby tomorrow or early Saturday.

Races of the Week

2007-04-27T21:17:00.000-04:00

Last week, I was 0 for 5. Joe Got Even finished fifth in the Lexington Stakes. Solva ran fifth in the Santa Barbara Handicap. Stone Lakes was seventh in the Angenora Stakes. Load the Dice finished last in the Battle of Lake Erie Pace. Of my five selections last week, only Sweetnorthernsaint was in the money, finishing second in the National Jockey Club Handicap and paying $2.10 to place.

Tomorrow, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Derby Trial at Churchill Downs and the Inglewood Handicap at Hollywood Park. Equibase's race of the week is the Bosselman-Gus Fonner Handicap at Fonner Park.

The Derby Trial is a hard race to handicap in advance because Teuflesberg might be scratched from the Trial in hopes of qualifying for next week's Kentucky Derby. I'll bet the morning-line favorite Bold Start, who appears to be the class of this field. He finished second in the Hutcheson Stakes in his only other start at 7 1/2 furlongs. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Inglewood, I'll bet Stormin Away, who has won two in a row. He likes the distance, and the turf course at Hollywood. Stormin Away's past performances don't show an open stakes win, but his recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Bosselman-Gus Fonner, I'll bet the front-running Yourmoneysnogood, who is coming off a win at Fonner Park. Equibase provides free past performances.

Farewell to a Champion

2007-04-26T20:06:00.000-04:00

Three-time Ohio Sires Stakes Champion Crisp Sahbra, pictured above with Driver David Miller, paced the final race of his career Saturday in the second race at Northfield Park. Crisp Sahbra retired with career earnings of $879,937, making him the fourth leading money-winning Ohio-bred of all time. His track record for an aged pacer at Lebanon Raceway, set in 1998, still stands.

Ohio Stakes Recaps

2007-04-25T19:58:00.000-04:00

Angenora Stakes

Pyrite Stables' Pay The Man, trained by Miguel Feliciano and ridden by Andrew Ramgeet, captured her first stakes victory in Saturday's Angenora Stakes at Thistledown. Magg's Choice, winner of last month's Royal North Stakes, finished second. Just Michel, who won the Angenora in 2005, finished third. Equibase's chart is available free of charge for the next few days. Here are some pictures:

Pay the Man and Magg's Choice battle down the stretch.

Pay the Man, winner of the Angenora Stakes

Three-year-old Magg's Choice was taking on older fillies and mares for the first time, and conceding weight to them.

Battle of Lake Erie Pace

Maltese Artist, driven by Brett Miller, won Saturday's Battle of Lake Erie Pace. Maltese Artist paced a mile in 1:49 4/5, the fastest mile ever on a commercial half-mile track. Unfortunately, my pictures of Maltese Artist came out blurry, but Northfield Park has a good picture here.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-04-20T21:36:00.000-04:00

Last week, Officer Rocket finished seventh in the Arkansas Derby and Head to Toe finished seventh in the Howard B. Noonan Stakes. I had a profitable weekend, however, thanks to Dominican, who won the Blue Grass Stakes, paying $18.00 to win, $5.60 to place, and $3.80 to show.

Tomorrow, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Lexington Stakes at Keeneland and the Santa Barbara Handicap at Santa Anita. Equibase's race of the week is the National Jockey Club Handicap at Hawthorne. I'll also try to pick the winners of two stakes races here in northeast Ohio tomorrow, the Angenora Stakes at Thistledown and the Battle of Lake Erie Pace at Northfield Park.

In the Lexington, I'll bet Joe Got Even. Joe Got Even has run well on the Polytrack at Turfway Park, most recently finishing third to Hard Spun in the Lane's End Stakes. His stretch running style is well suited to Keeneland. The Daily Racing Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Solva in the Santa Barbara. All three of Solva's wins have been at today's distance of a mile and a quarter. She's coming off of a win in La Zanzara Stakes, her first North American start. The Form provides free past performances.

In the National Jockey Club, I'll bet Sweetnorthernsaint. Sweetnorthernsaint is coming off of a front-running win at Laurel. Last year he won the Illinois Derby impressively in his only other start at Hawthorne. Equibase provides free past performances.

In the Angenora, I'll bet Stone Lakes, who is 2 for 3 at Thistledown and 3 for 6 at 6 furlongs. She's coming off of a layoff, but she has two recent bullet works at Turfway, so she should be ready to run. Thistledown provides free past performances for all Angenora nominees. Equibase provides entries.

In the Battle of Lake Erie, I'll bet Load the Dice. Load the Dice has earned over $110,000 in his last five starts. He defeated Maltese Artist at Pompano Park back in February. In his last start, Load the Dice finished within a length of Gold Dust Beach, despite being wide around both turns. Northfield Park provides free past performances.

Ohio Stakes Recap and Previews

2007-04-19T23:16:00.000-04:00

Howard B. Noonan Stakes
Polite Lil Sir, ridden by Christian Pilares, won last Saturday's $50,000 Howard B. Noonan Stakes for Ohio-registered 3-year-olds at Beulah Park. The undefeated Paul Gutheil homebred covered 6 furlongs in 1:10 3/5 over a sloppy track for his first stakes win. Pyrite Personal finished second. Matcher was third. Equibase's chart of the race is available free of charge for the next couple of days.

Angenora Stakes
Thistledown's first stakes race of the year, the $50,000 Angenora Stakes for Ohio-registered fillies and mares, is scheduled for this Saturday. Just Michel, who finished second in this race last year, makes her first start of the year and is coming off of two bullet works at Fairmount Park. The undefeated 3-year old Magg's Choice, winner of last month's Royal North Stakes at Beulah Park, is set to take on older fillies and mares for the first time. Thistledown provides free past performances for all Angenora nominees. Equibase provides entries.

Battle of Lake Erie Pace
The $125,000 Battle of Lake Erie Pace, Northfield Park's premier event for older pacers, is scheduled for Saturday evening. According to Northfield Park's Keith Gisser, the eight-horse field includes three world champions: My Boy David, Maltese Artist, and Gold Dust Beach. Mr. Gisser has more information about the Battle of Lake Erie at Keeping Pace. Northfield Park provides free past performances.

Races of the Week and Ohio Stakes Selections

2007-04-14T07:01:00.000-04:00

Last week, Christmas Kid won the Ashland Stakes, paying $21.00 to win, $5.80 to place, and $4.20 to show. Sam P. finished third in the Santa Anita Derby, paying $3.20 to show. Mending Fences won the John B. Connally Breeders' Cup Turf Handicap, paying $8.20 to win, $5.20 to place, and $7.00 to show.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park and the Bluegrass Stakes at Keeneland, which is also Equibase's race of the week.

In the Arkansas Derby, I'll bet Officer Rocket, who encountered some trouble in his last start in the Rebel Stakes. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Bluegrass Stakes, I'll bet Dominican. Both of Dominican's wins have come on Polytrack. His Beyer figures are a bit below those of Great Hunter and Street Sense, but he might be able to take a step forward today, and if he does, he'll pay a nice price. The Form provides free past performances.

In today's Howard B. Noonan Stakes, a 6-furlong event for Ohio-registered 3-year-olds at Beulah Park, I'll bet Head To Toe. Head To Toe ran badly in the Rushaway Stakes last month, but now is back among Ohio-breds. There is a lot of speed in today's race, and Head To Toe can come from off the pace.Beulah Park provides free past performances for Noonan nominees. Equibase provides entries.

Opening Day

2007-04-12T06:27:00.000-04:00

Thistledown opens for live racing today. The 136-day meet runs through November 26. The first post time is scheduled for 1:05 pm. Equibase provides entries. Bob Roberts' selections are available at the Thistledown Thoroughbred blog.

Races of the Week

2007-04-06T18:45:00.000-04:00

Last week, Jambalaya won the Pan American Handicap, paying $5.40 to win, $3.60 to place, and $2.60 to show. Notional finished second to Scat Daddy in the Florida Derby, paying $4.20 to place and $3.00 to show. The Blazing Meadows farm entry of Magg's Choice and Cruise Liner finished first and second in the Royal North Stakes, paying $4.00 to win, $4.20 to place, and $3.00 to show.

Tomorrow, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Ashland Stakes at Keeneland and the Santa Anita Derby. Equibase's race of the week is the John B. Connally Breeders' Cup Turf Handicap at Sam Houston Race Park.

In the Ashland, I'll bet Christmas Kid. Christmas Kid has won stakes races on both turf and dirt, so the Polytrack shouldn't be a problem for her. She likes to race near the front end, which is helpful because of the short stretch. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Santa Anita Derby is Sam P. Sam P. ran well in his only start at Santa Anita, and can come from off the pace. He's never been a mile and an eighth before, but his Tomlinson rating indicates that he should like it. Sam P. is part of an uncoupled Todd Pletcher entry. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Connally, I think I'll take a flyer on Mending Fences, who might be able to steal this one on the front end. Equibase provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-03-31T09:06:00.000-04:00

Jambalaya tries for two in a row in the Pan American Handicap

Surprisingly, both of my selections last week went off as post-time favorites, but both finished out of the money. Victorina finished fourth as the 8-5 favorite in the Distaff Breeders' Cup Handicap. Twilight Meteor finished sixth as the 5-2 favorite in the Lane's End Stakes.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Florida Derby and the Pan American Handicap, both scheduled for today at Gulfstream Park. The Florida Derby is also Equibase's race of the week.

In the Florida Derby, I'll bet Notional. Notional can come from off the pace, and draws the inside post today. He's also undefeated on dirt. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll bet Jambalaya in the Pan American. Jambalaya is coming off of a grade 1 win, and likes the turf course at Gulfstream. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Royal North Stakes today at Beulah Park is the entry of Magg's Choice and Cruise Liner. Magg's choice has been impressive in her two starts. If you look closely at the past performances, you'll see that Cruise Liner and morning-line favorite Laird's Prize both won 5 1/2-furlong races at Beulah Park in 1:05 3/5 on March 16. Brisnet.com provides free past performances.

The Royal North Stakes

2007-03-30T21:15:00.000-04:00

Three undefeated fillies are set to face off tomorrow at Beulah Park in the Royal North Stakes, the first stakes race of the year for Ohio-breds. Morning-line favorite Laird's Prize has two wins from two starts , both at Beulah Park. The other undefeated fillies are the Blazing Meadows Farm entry of Cruise Liner and Magg's Choice.

The only stakes winner in the field is Mini Mom, who won the John W. Galbreath Stakes and the Glacial Princess Stakes last year. Mini Mom finished second to Laird's Prize in a state-bred allowance race two weeks ago.

Brisnet.com provides free past performances for the Royal North.

Races of the Week

2007-03-24T09:36:00.000-04:00

Last week, Officer Rocket finished second in the Rebel Stakes, paying $3.80 to place and $3.20 to show. Grapelli finished last in the San Felipe Stakes.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the ~~Spiral~~ ~~Jim Beam~~ ~~GalleryFurniture.com~~ Lane's End Stakes at Turfway Park and the Distaff Handicap at Aqueduct.

In the Lane's End, I'll bet Twilight Meteor. Twilight Meteor won the Bourbon Stakes on polytrack at Keeneland last year and is coming off of a bullet work at Palm Meadows. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Distaff, I'll bet Victorina. There's a lot of speed in this race, and Victorina can come from off the pace. She's never finished out of the money and her recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-03-17T08:22:00.000-04:00

Last week, Cowtown Cat won the Gotham Stakes, paying $6.70 to win, $4.90 to place, and $3.40 to show. Kethcikan finished second in the Louisiana Derby under a controversial ride by Larry Melancon, paying $4.20 to place and $3.60 to show.

Today, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park, which is also Equibase's race of the week, and the San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita.

In the Rebel, I'll bet Officer Rocket, who finished second in his last start in the Southwest Stakes. There looks to be a lot of early speed in today's race, and Officer Rocket can come from off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

In the San Felipe, I'll bet Grapelli. Grapelli is the only colt in this filed who has placed in a graded stakes race, finishing four lengths behind Notional in the San Rafael Stakes. Grapelli will race with blinkers for the first time today. The Form provides free past performances.

Free Past Performances

2007-03-11T21:44:00.000-04:00

I remember a time when the only way to get free past performances was to get to the track late in the day and fish a Daily Racing Form or a program out of the trash (come on, you know you've done it), but now the web offers a wealth of resources to horseplayers like me who are too cheap to spring for a Form.

I've updated the free past performance links at the top of the left sidebar. They're arranged into categories. Horse-Races.net probably has a few that I missed.

Races of the Week

2007-03-10T08:45:00.000-05:00

Last week, Adore the Gold, my selection in the Fountain of Youth Stakes, finished fourth. Lava Man was impressive in winning the Santa Anita Handicap, but I didn't bet him at 3 to 5.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Louisiana Derby, which is also Equibase's race of the week, at the Fair Grounds, and the Gotham Stakes at Aqueduct.

In the Louisiana Derby, I hate to go against Birdbirdistheword, but I think Ketchikan looks like the best bet. Ketchikan is coming off a win around two turns at the Fair Grounds. I think the pace will set up well for his stalking style, with Liquidity and Soaring By dueling for the early lead. The DRF provides free past performances.

In the Gotham, I'll bet Cowtown Cat. Cowtown Cat has never been around two turns before, but his Tomlinson rating indicates that he should like the distance. He's coming off of a bullet work, the inside post should help him, and he can come from a little bit off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-03-03T09:56:00.000-05:00

I was disappointed last week when Cherokee Prince faded in the stretch to finish sixth in the Tampa Bay Breeders' Cup, breaking my 4-race in-the-money streak. That disappointment was short lived, however. Half an hour later, Jambalaya came from off the pace to win the Gulfstream Park Breeders' Cup Turf, and Honey Ryder finished second. Jambalaya paid $16.20 to win, $7.40 to place, and $5.20 to show. The Jambalaya-Honey Ryder exacta paid $25.30. Secret Scheme, my selection in Las Flores Handicap, finished eighth.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Fountain of Youth Stakes, which is also Equibase's race of the week, and the Santa Anita Handicap.

In the Fountain of Youth, Nobiz Like Showbiz looks like a heavy favorite, but I'll look for a colt who can pull off the upset. Adore the Gold might be that colt. He ran a triple-digit Beyer figure last month in the Swale Stakes. He won his only start around two turns in the Dover Stakes last October. The Form provides free past performances.

Lava Man looks like a prohibitive favorite in the Santa Anita Handicap. I can't bet against him, but he'll likely go off at too short a price to be worth a bet.The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week

2007-02-24T09:22:00.000-05:00

After a slow start in 2007, I've had four consecutive in-the-money finishes. Any Given Saturday won the Sam F. Davis Stakes, paying $2.40 to win, $2.20 to place, and $2.10 to show. Silmaril finished second in the Barbara Fritchie Breeders Cup Handicap, paying $3.80 to place and $2.60 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Gulfstream Park Breeders Cup Handicap and Las Flores Handicap at Santa Anita. Equibase's race of the week is the Tampa Bay Breeders Cup Stakes.

In the Gulfstream Park Breeders Cup Turf, I'll bet Jambalaya, who makes his second start off of a layoff. Jambalaya's Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of this field. He likes a mile and three eighths. He drew the three post, which won't hurt with a short run to the first turn. Honey Ryder, a mare taking on males for the first time, could also be tough. Maybe I'll bet an exacta. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in Las Flores is Secret Scheme, who is undefeated at six furlongs and comes off of a third-place finish in the Santa Monica Handicap. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Tampa Bay Breeders Cup, I'll bet Cherokee Prince. I think he could steal this race on the front end. Equibase provides free past performances.

2007-02-16T06:34:00.000-05:00

Last week, Notional won the Risen Star Stakes, paying $7.80 to win, $4.80 to place, and $4.00 to show. Law Breaker finished second in the San Vicente Stakes, paying $2.60 to place and $2.20 to show.

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Sam F. Davis Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs and the Barbara Fritchie Breeders Cup Handicap at Laurel Park.

My selection in the Davis is Any Given Saturday, who makes his first start of the year. Any Given Saturday is the only colt in this field who has placed in a graded stakes race, finishing second in the Kentucky Jockey Club stakes last year. John Velazquez comes in to ride him. The Form provides free past performances.

In the Fritichie, I'll pick Silmaril, who likes Laurel, likes the 7 furlong distance, and can come from off the pace. The Form provides free past performances.

Local Stakes Schedules

2007-02-13T20:05:00.000-05:00

Thistledown and Northfield Park have both released their stakes schedules for 2007, and two marquee events will appear earlier in the year.

The Grade II Ohio Derby will be run on Saturday, June 2. According to Thistledown Racing Secretary William Couch, "On the recommendation of the American Graded Stakes Committee, we have moved the date for the Ohio Derby. We hope to be an alternative to the Belmont Stakes for colts who are on the Triple Crown trail." Mr. Couch further stated "We will be the only graded stakes race on the weekend of June 2nd for three-year-olds. There really is nothing else that weekend."

The $125,000 Battle of Lake Erie Pace, Northfield's premier event for older male pacers, will be held on Saturday, April 21.

Races of the Week, Part II

2007-02-11T09:42:00.000-05:00

Law Breaker is my selection in the San Vicente Stakes. Law Breaker is the only colt in this field who has beaten winners. He's never run at this distance before, but his Tomlinson rating indicates that he should like it. The Daily Racing Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part I

2007-02-10T08:46:00.000-05:00

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Risen Star Stakes at the Fair Grounds and the San Vicente Stakes at Santa Anita.

In the Risen Star, Circular Quay looks like a heavy favorite, but I'll try to beat him with Notional. Circular Quay is making his first start since November, and has never won around two turns. Notional is undefeated on a natural dirt surface, and his most recent Beyer figure is competitive with the rest of this field. I'm not thrilled about the outside post at a mile and a sixteenth, but I still think Notional will be worth a bet. The Form provides free past performances.

I'll post my selection for the San Vicente later today or tomorrow morning. In the mean time, you can check out the free past performances, courtesy of the DRF.

Barbaro, 2003-2007

2007-02-10T07:40:00.000-05:00

I've been late to comment on the death of Barbaro last week because I couldn't think of anything original to say. I'm sure I'm not the first to say that Barbaro's owners, Roy and Gretchen Jackson, are to be commended, not only for sparing no expense to save him, but also for making the decision to spare Barbaro the pain that would have resulted from further attempts to save him. My condolences to Barbaro's connections.

The NTRA has established a Barbaro Memorial Fund, the proceeds of which will go to laminitis research.

The Daily Racing Form has links to videos of Barbaro's races.

Races of the Week

2007-02-03T10:53:00.000-05:00

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Donn Handicap at Gulfstream Park and the Thunder Road Handicap at Santa Anita.

In the Donn, I'll pick Invasor. Invasor, now a champion on two continents, won't pay much, but he's clearly the class of the field. The Form provides free past performances.

My selection in the Thunder Road is Cervelo. Cervelo has won two in a row on the turf in southern California. He looks like the only early speed in this field, so the pace should set up well for him. The Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part II

2007-01-28T12:35:00.000-05:00

My selection in today's Santa Monica Handicap is Pussycat Doll. The long layoff is cause for concern, but she won the Torry Pines stakes off of a long layoff back in 2005, and she has a couple of bullet works at Santa Anita earlier this month. Bob Baffert should have her ready to go. The Daily Racing Form provides free past performances.

Races of the Week, Part I

2007-01-27T11:11:00.000-05:00

This week, the Daily Racing Form's races of the week are the Sunshine Millions Classic today at Gulfstream and the Santa Monica Stakes at Santa Anita.

In the Sunshine Millions. I'll go with Dry Martini. The inside post should help him, with a short run to the first turn, and his recent Beyer figures are competitive with the rest of the field. The Form provides free past performances.