Horse Racing 2022

[TheDevilMadeMeDoIt]

I was looking over some comments on yesterday's Lukas Classic, won by Hot Rod Charlie with runner-up Rich Strike. It has become apparent that Sonny Leon, the jockey on Rich Strike, employed some questionable tactics.

1) Although not illegal within the rules, Rich Strike 'leaned in' on horses that he was even with during the stretch drive. It happened twice; once when I mentioned that Happy Saver was blindswitched (boxed in) at the head of the stretch. Additionally, Rich Strike 'leaned in" to Hot Rod Charlie at the end of the race; apparently to prevent HRC from coming back (which he did). It is up to the stewards to decide if any aberration from you course is intentional, illegal, or detrimental to other horses.

2) Part of Sonny Leon's behavior apparently included hitting the other horse (HRC) during the stretch drive. You know that with HISA there is a limit on how many times you hit a horse with the crop/whip. But it doesn't say anything about hitting another horse with the crop/whip; that is warped thinking.

Watch the stretch drive in the entry 2 messages above for the lean ins.
And watch the following to see the incident with the whip:
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576392964284481536
Both horses moved toward each other in this head-on shot.
Jockey Leon said that his saddle slipped, causing the 'lean in', and I haven't heard any direct statement about hitting the other horse.

Larry
DevilHorse

Wow, now I wish I had turned off football for a while and watched horse racing. Do you suspect Tyler would have lodged an objection if Rich Strike had held on to win? Sonny Leon should get a suspension for that ride. Sadly it detracts from what a great race Rich Strike ran. And Hot Rod Charlie did something you don’t see too often, get headed in the stretch and then come back to win. In addition Chuck was close to the pace the whole race and still had something left. I suspect if Tyler had been on Rich Strike he might have won, but most definitely wouldn’t have ridden a dirty race. I know that trainer Reed is loyal to Sonny Leon, but get Rich Strike one of the greats to ride in the Breeders Cup. The horse deserves that.

[DevilHorse]

Wow, now I wish I had turned off football for a while and watched horse racing. Do you suspect Tyler would have lodged an objection if Rich Strike had held on to win? Sonny Leon should get a suspension for that ride. Sadly it detracts from what a great race Rich Strike ran. And Hot Rod Charlie did something you don’t see too often, get headed in the stretch and then come back to win. In addition Chuck was close to the pace the whole race and still had something left. I suspect if Tyler had been on Rich Strike he might have won, but most definitely wouldn’t have ridden a dirty race. I know that trainer Reed is loyal to Sonny Leon, but get Rich Strike one of the greats to ride in the Breeders Cup. The horse deserves that.

Several jockeys/commentators have come out publicly stating their interpretation of what happened and denouncing what Rich Strike's jockey did. Keen observers did not see a saddle slip, or claim that if the saddle did slip it was because of the jockey leaning into the other jockey. Super dangerous. Oddly, many opine that Rich Strike would have won the race if not for his jockey's antics.

I'm not sure if Rich Strike is a horse for the course (CD) or he just needs a bit more seasoning. This was his 11th lifetime start. He was the only 3YO in the race.

Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

In the Ack Ack, Senor Buscador showed he is all the way back:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576333698768699392
Speakers Corner looks like he has issues. Senor Buscador came from way off the pace, which is his MO.

In the Lukas Classic, it was perhaps the race of the day; Hot Rod Charlie was leading, then headed, and came back to beat KYD winner Rich Strike:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576325463567323141
Happy Saver appeared to be blindswitched by Rich Strike, but he was not going to win. Rich Strike, running as a 3YO against older horses, showed that he can be a big time Stakes horse; he is still lightly raced and trying to figure it out.

You're So Sillea won the maiden race that I mentioned:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576371330341277696
Big price for these horses. Out of the AP Indy son Lea.

At Aqueduct in the Woodward, Life Is Good had a bit of challenge in midstretch by Law Professor before putting him away:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576305191569485824
They both finished way ahead of 3rd place Keepmeinmind.

In the Champagne for 2YOs, Blazing Sevens was an upset winner:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576329360977674240
As the video shows, it was muddy yesterday. Perhaps Blazing Seven loved the mud; he does have Gone West in his pedigree.

In the Santa Anita Sprint Championship, Howbeit just lasted over C Z Rocket
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576335450645504001


Today, there are a couple of interesting races today (Sunday):

The 7th at Churchill Downs, for 2YO fillies, has an interesting firster:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, Sunday October 2, 2022; Churchill Downs - Race 7; PPs ]
Flirting Girl is a firster by Gun Runner, who is a half sister to the sire Twirling Candy. The others in the race have at least 1 start of experience, so Flirting Girl is at a slight disadvantage in experience.

The Frizette will be run at Aqueduct:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, Sunday October 2, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 8; PPs ]
Past winners of this race have turned out to be top broodmares and race mares; does anyone remember Personal Ensign?
All of these fillies seem to have a shot with impressive and improving previous races.

Ce Ce, last year's Filly and Mare Sprint Champion, makes an appearance in the Chillingworth at Santa Anita:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...99/summary.htm
If she's her old self, she wins.

Larry
DevilHorse

In the 7th race at CD, .. big balloons!
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
East Shore paid $113 to win; the horse looked terrible on the PPs. Go Figure.
Flirting Girl looked lost.

In the Frizette, Chocolate Gelato swam home to win:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576677229974601728

In the Chillingworth, Ce Ce won easily, although unspectacularly:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1576707069784125443

It is worth noting that in the 2YO Turf race, The Pilgrim, that followed the Frizette was won by Major Dude:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
The pedigree is interesting. A Bolt D'oro, and his 3rd dam is Personal Ensign (a former winner of the Frizette). Personal Ensign was mated to AP Indy to produce the grand dam. Major Dude is 3x3 inbred to AP Indy.

Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

Wow, now I wish I had turned off football for a while and watched horse racing. Do you suspect Tyler would have lodged an objection if Rich Strike had held on to win? Sonny Leon should get a suspension for that ride. Sadly it detracts from what a great race Rich Strike ran. And Hot Rod Charlie did something you don’t see too often, get headed in the stretch and then come back to win. In addition Chuck was close to the pace the whole race and still had something left. I suspect if Tyler had been on Rich Strike he might have won, but most definitely wouldn’t have ridden a dirty race. I know that trainer Reed is loyal to Sonny Leon, but get Rich Strike one of the greats to ride in the Breeders Cup. The horse deserves that.

Sonny Leon received a 15 day suspension, starting on Oct 9.
The stewards said the reason was, "intentionally attempting to interfere with and impede the progress of a rival by repeatedly making physical contact with another rider in the stretch."

Irad Ortiz had gotten a 30 day suspension from either KY or NY about half a year ago. I can't imagine that what he did was much worse than this. Irad went to Puerto Rico to ride for a month.

Larry
DevilHorse

[TheDevilMadeMeDoIt]

Sonny Leon received a 15 day suspension, starting on Oct 9.
The stewards said the reason was, "intentionally attempting to interfere with and impede the progress of a rival by repeatedly making physical contact with another rider in the stretch."

Irad Ortiz had gotten a 30 day suspension from either KY or NY about half a year ago. I can't imagine that what he did was much worse than this. Irad went to Puerto Rico to ride for a month.

Larry
DevilHorse

Some are arguing the saddle really did slip. I’m not buying it. His suspension should run at least through the Breeders Cup.

[DevilHorse]

Some are arguing the saddle really did slip. I’m not buying it. His suspension should run at least through the Breeders Cup.

The Song suspension will be over before the BC.

Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

The Song suspension will be over before the BC.

Larry
DevilHorse

Here is the public report on the Song violation and suspension:

Track: Churchill Downs
Date: 10/02/2022
Licensee: Sonny Leon, jockey
Penalty: 15-day suspension
Violation: Intentional attempt to interfere during racing
Explainer: After being represented at a hearing before the Board
of Stewards, Sonny R Leon, who rode Rich Strike in the tenth
race at Keeneland on Oct. 1, 2022, is hereby suspended 15
racing days, October 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26,
27, 28, and October 29, 2022, for intentionally attempting to
interfere with and impede the progress of a rival by repeatedly
making physical contact with another rider into the stretch.

What surprises me is that the suspension day is not a span, but individually picked dates. No great rhyme or reason to the dates suspended; includes some Saturdays and Sundays which would be maximum earnings days.

Larry
DevilHorse

[TheDevilMadeMeDoIt]

Here is the public report on the Song violation and suspension:

Track: Churchill Downs
Date: 10/02/2022
Licensee: Sonny Leon, jockey
Penalty: 15-day suspension
Violation: Intentional attempt to interfere during racing
Explainer: After being represented at a hearing before the Board
of Stewards, Sonny R Leon, who rode Rich Strike in the tenth
race at Keeneland on Oct. 1, 2022, is hereby suspended 15
racing days, October 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26,
27, 28, and October 29, 2022, for intentionally attempting to
interfere with and impede the progress of a rival by repeatedly
making physical contact with another rider into the stretch.

What surprises me is that the suspension day is not a span, but individually picked dates. No great rhyme or reason to the dates suspended; includes some Saturdays and Sundays which would be maximum earnings days.

Larry
DevilHorse

There actually is a rhyme or reason. They start his suspension on Sunday, 10/09, which is the third day of the Keeneland fall meet and continue it for the remainder of the Keeneland fall meet. Except this weekend when Keeneland runs Friday through Sunday the rest of the remaining meet is Wednesday through Sundays, except the last week beginning 10/26 is only Wednesday through Saturday. So Sonny misses all but the first two days of the Keeneland meet. I have briefly checked the races for tomorrow and didn’t see him listed as a rider.

What I did see at Keeneland is at least tomorrow every top jock east of the Mississippi river is riding, Ortiz brothers, Pratt, Rosario, Johnny V, Saez, all the Ky jocks, plus Paco Lopez. I’m sorry Paco and Leon couldn’t ride a race together and see which one would give the more dangerous ride.

On another side note it will interesting to see how the runners from the Ky Downs meet fare at Keeneland. Last year races at Ky Downs seemed to be the ultimate get into shape races and those runners did quite well later that fall.

[DevilHorse]

There actually is a rhyme or reason. They start his suspension on Sunday, 10/09, which is the third day of the Keeneland fall meet and continue it for the remainder of the Keeneland fall meet. Except this weekend when Keeneland runs Friday through Sunday the rest of the remaining meet is Wednesday through Sundays, except the last week beginning 10/26 is only Wednesday through Saturday. So Sonny misses all but the first two days of the Keeneland meet. I have briefly checked the races for tomorrow and didn’t see him listed as a rider.

What I did see at Keeneland is at least tomorrow every top jock east of the Mississippi river is riding, Ortiz brothers, Pratt, Rosario, Johnny V, Saez, all the Ky jocks, plus Paco Lopez. I’m sorry Paco and Leon couldn’t ride a race together and see which one would give the more dangerous ride.

On another side note it will interesting to see how the runners from the Ky Downs meet fare at Keeneland. Last year races at Ky Downs seemed to be the ultimate get into shape races and those runners did quite well later that fall.

This whole incident reminded me of the 1933 KYD (no I wasn't there). Won by Broker's Tip, the jockeys went at it in the stretch.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sF-q_kKAO_8

The last big races, for BC contenders, is at Keeneland this weekend, so not surprised by the jockey pool.

The Kentucky Downs meet has such high purses, it is no wonder that it would attract some of the better turf runners.

Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

On friday, at Keenland, is the Alcibiades for 2YO fillies:

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[URL above, Friday October 7, 2022; Keeneland - Race 9, PPs ]
Wonder Wheel, Chop Chop, and Fun and Feisty are leading candidates to win.

Larry
DevilHorse

[CameronBlue]

On friday, at Keenland, is the Alcibiades for 2YO fillies:

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[URL above, Friday October 7, 2022; Keeneland - Race 9, PPs ]
Wonder Wheel, Chop Chop, and Fun and Feisty are leading candidates to win.

Larry
DevilHorse

I’ll take GluBoy to Place.

[DevilHorse]

I’ll take GluBoy to Place.

Are you really going to Stick with that pick? I'll probably Tape the race.

Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

This weekend we should see the last of the potential BC horses get their tighteners. There are a lot of turf stakes for old/young horses, and I haven't been following them enough to know which 2YOs are good enough to be entered. But on the pointer pages I provide you can see these races and can pluck the PPs should you desire. It is unlikely that young horses, who are mainly on the turf, will be pointed toward the KYD, which is the main interest in this forum (speak up if I'm mistaken). I'll continue to (try to) concentrate on the dirt races with interesting potential.

On Saturday,

I'll talk about a 2YO turf race (and make my statement above look ridiculous):

At Aqueduct, Race 1, we have a maiden race that includes Ein Gedi (a myracehorse charge of interest):
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 1; PPs ]
Lexi's Spirit is the co-favorite with.. Ein Gedi (no doubt because of trainer Chad Brown, not the mediocre workouts). But not all horses are great at training. I remember one horse we had in the barn, she wouldn't train a lick. But on Saturdays she was a stakes caliber winner!! She just needed the competition. If a horse is 'hot', which means they are not easily 'rated', you don't want to train them with other horses either, so workouts/training will be slow. The competition does not look formidable (for a top track) but some of them do have previous starts (experience).

At Aqueduct, Race 5 is the Vosburgh:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 5; PPs ]
Usually a top sprint race, now (only) a Grade II. None of these horses interest me, but if one of them Pops, we'll follow them.

At Aqueduct, Race 8 is the Joe Hirsch (on the turf) with Gufo a likely favorite:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 5; PPs ]

Keeneland opens today (Friday) and has some interesting races:

In Race 6, our old pal Golden Pal leads the entries in the Woodford:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 6; PPs ]
This is a 7f Turf Sprint.

In Race 9, it is the (Kentucky) Breeder's Futurity:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 9; PPs ]
In recent years, this race was won by the likes of: Essential Quality (2020), Maxfield (2019), and Knicks Go (2018). Rattle N Roll won last year, but hasn't quite measured up to these last 3. In this year's rendition we have some top 2YOC's. Forte won the Hopeful, with Irad up, Loggins who had a great maiden win as did Lost Ark (with Pratt onboard). Few of these horses have been over 7f, so a long shot is a definite possibility; Newgate might surprise at a price. (notice some high priced turf stakes at Keeneland on Saturday and Sunday, on Ward's briswatch page).

In the 10th at Keeneland, the Coolmore Turf Mile:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 10; PPs ]
Classic Causeway tries to show elite turf ability (again); ratcheting back to a shorter distance may help. He may be challenged by Casa Creed, the Francesca horse who is in peek shape. Ivar and Smooth Like Straight should be there at the end.

At Santa Anita:

The 4th race for 2YOF maidens has some nice horses:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...3/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 4; PPs ]
Riley G is an $825k yearling with decent works. California Rocket is a $425k yearling and is also trained by Baffert. Those horses with a race under their belt, don't look quite as good. But as we discussed, experience of even 1 race can cause a big change in performance.

In the 6th race, the Chandeleer for 2YO fillies:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...99/summary.htm
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 6; PPs ]
Home Cooking and Justique both have high marks. We'll see if they can improve off of that. Justique may be the better.

In the 8th, the American Pharoah for 2YOs:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...99/summary.htm
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 8; PPs ]
Cave Rock tries to make it 3 in a row; he has been lights out. Hejazi has been chasing CR to no avail.


Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

This weekend we should see the last of the potential BC horses get their tighteners. There are a lot of turf stakes for old/young horses, and I haven't been following them enough to know which 2YOs are good enough to be entered. But on the pointer pages I provide you can see these races and can pluck the PPs should you desire. It is unlikely that young horses, who are mainly on the turf, will be pointed toward the KYD, which is the main interest in this forum (speak up if I'm mistaken). I'll continue to (try to) concentrate on the dirt races with interesting potential.

On Saturday,

I'll talk about a 2YO turf race (and make my statement above look ridiculous):

At Aqueduct, Race 1, we have a maiden race that includes Ein Gedi (a myracehorse charge of interest):
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 1; PPs ]
Lexi's Spirit is the co-favorite with.. Ein Gedi (no doubt because of trainer Chad Brown, not the mediocre workouts). But not all horses are great at training. I remember one horse we had in the barn, she wouldn't train a lick. But on Saturdays she was a stakes caliber winner!! She just needed the competition. If a horse is 'hot', which means they are not easily 'rated', you don't want to train them with other horses either, so workouts/training will be slow. The competition does not look formidable (for a top track) but some of them do have previous starts (experience).

At Aqueduct, Race 5 is the Vosburgh:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 5; PPs ]
Usually a top sprint race, now (only) a Grade II. None of these horses interest me, but if one of them Pops, we'll follow them.

At Aqueduct, Race 8 is the Joe Hirsch (on the turf) with Gufo a likely favorite:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 5; PPs ]

Keeneland opens today (Friday) and has some interesting races:

In Race 6, our old pal Golden Pal leads the entries in the Woodford:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 6; PPs ]
This is a 7f Turf Sprint.

In Race 9, it is the (Kentucky) Breeder's Futurity:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 9; PPs ]
In recent years, this race was won by the likes of: Essential Quality (2020), Maxfield (2019), and Knicks Go (2018). Rattle N Roll won last year, but hasn't quite measured up to these last 3. In this year's rendition we have some top 2YOC's. Forte won the Hopeful, with Irad up, Loggins who had a great maiden win as did Lost Ark (with Pratt onboard). Few of these horses have been over 7f, so a long shot is a definite possibility; Newgate might surprise at a price. (notice some high priced turf stakes at Keeneland on Saturday and Sunday, on Ward's briswatch page).

In the 10th at Keeneland, the Coolmore Turf Mile:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 10; PPs ]
Classic Causeway tries to show elite turf ability (again); ratcheting back to a shorter distance may help. He may be challenged by Casa Creed, the Francesca horse who is in peek shape. Ivar and Smooth Like Straight should be there at the end.

At Santa Anita:

The 4th race for 2YOF maidens has some nice horses:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...3/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 4; PPs ]
Riley G is an $825k yearling with decent works. California Rocket is a $425k yearling and is also trained by Baffert. Those horses with a race under their belt, don't look quite as good. But as we discussed, experience of even 1 race can cause a big change in performance.

In the 6th race, the Chandeleer for 2YO fillies:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...99/summary.htm
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 6; PPs ]
Home Cooking and Justique both have high marks. We'll see if they can improve off of that. Justique may be the better.

In the 8th, the American Pharoah for 2YOs:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...99/summary.htm
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 8; PPs ]
Cave Rock tries to make it 3 in a row; he has been lights out. Hejazi has been chasing CR to no avail.


Larry
DevilHorse

For those interested in 2YOF (possible candidates for the Kentucky Oaks), I missed a relevant race:

On Saturday, Aqueduct Race 5, is the Matron for 2YOFs:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...1/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 6; PPs]
Danse Macabre is the most experienced.

Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

On friday, at Keenland, is the Alcibiades for 2YO fillies:

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[URL above, Friday October 7, 2022; Keeneland - Race 9, PPs ]
Wonder Wheel, Chop Chop, and Fun and Feisty are leading candidates to win.

Larry
DevilHorse

Wonder Wheel went to the front and held on at the end:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578502610415284225
With 14 horses in the race, having the favorite at 4-1 is quite a value.

and.. Gluboy is a funny name for a filly..

Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

For those interested in 2YOF (possible candidates for the Kentucky Oaks), I missed a relevant race:

On Saturday, Aqueduct Race 5, is the Matron for 2YOFs:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...1/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 6; PPs]
Danse Macabre is the most experienced.

Larry
DevilHorse

American Apple won the Matron, paying $97.00!!!
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578830811759284224
She held on gamely.

Larry
DevilHorse

[DevilHorse]

This weekend we should see the last of the potential BC horses get their tighteners. There are a lot of turf stakes for old/young horses, and I haven't been following them enough to know which 2YOs are good enough to be entered. But on the pointer pages I provide you can see these races and can pluck the PPs should you desire. It is unlikely that young horses, who are mainly on the turf, will be pointed toward the KYD, which is the main interest in this forum (speak up if I'm mistaken). I'll continue to (try to) concentrate on the dirt races with interesting potential.

On Saturday,

I'll talk about a 2YO turf race (and make my statement above look ridiculous):

At Aqueduct, Race 1, we have a maiden race that includes Ein Gedi (a myracehorse charge of interest):
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 1; PPs ]
Lexi's Spirit is the co-favorite with.. Ein Gedi (no doubt because of trainer Chad Brown, not the mediocre workouts). But not all horses are great at training. I remember one horse we had in the barn, she wouldn't train a lick. But on Saturdays she was a stakes caliber winner!! She just needed the competition. If a horse is 'hot', which means they are not easily 'rated', you don't want to train them with other horses either, so workouts/training will be slow. The competition does not look formidable (for a top track) but some of them do have previous starts (experience).

At Aqueduct, Race 5 is the Vosburgh:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 5; PPs ]
Usually a top sprint race, now (only) a Grade II. None of these horses interest me, but if one of them Pops, we'll follow them.

At Aqueduct, Race 8 is the Joe Hirsch (on the turf) with Gufo a likely favorite:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Belmont at Aqueduct - Race 5; PPs ]

Keeneland opens today (Friday) and has some interesting races:

In Race 6, our old pal Golden Pal leads the entries in the Woodford:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 6; PPs ]
This is a 7f Turf Sprint.

In Race 9, it is the (Kentucky) Breeder's Futurity:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 9; PPs ]
In recent years, this race was won by the likes of: Essential Quality (2020), Maxfield (2019), and Knicks Go (2018). Rattle N Roll won last year, but hasn't quite measured up to these last 3. In this year's rendition we have some top 2YOC's. Forte won the Hopeful, with Irad up, Loggins who had a great maiden win as did Lost Ark (with Pratt onboard). Few of these horses have been over 7f, so a long shot is a definite possibility; Newgate might surprise at a price. (notice some high priced turf stakes at Keeneland on Saturday and Sunday, on Ward's briswatch page).

In the 10th at Keeneland, the Coolmore Turf Mile:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...9/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Keeneland - Race 10; PPs ]
Classic Causeway tries to show elite turf ability (again); ratcheting back to a shorter distance may help. He may be challenged by Casa Creed, the Francesca horse who is in peek shape. Ivar and Smooth Like Straight should be there at the end.

At Santa Anita:

The 4th race for 2YOF maidens has some nice horses:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...3/summary.html
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 4; PPs ]
Riley G is an $825k yearling with decent works. California Rocket is a $425k yearling and is also trained by Baffert. Those horses with a race under their belt, don't look quite as good. But as we discussed, experience of even 1 race can cause a big change in performance.

In the 6th race, the Chandeleer for 2YO fillies:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...99/summary.htm
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 6; PPs ]
Home Cooking and Justique both have high marks. We'll see if they can improve off of that. Justique may be the better.

In the 8th, the American Pharoah for 2YOs:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/brisw...99/summary.htm
[ URL above, October 8, 2022; Santa Anita Park - Race 8; PPs ]
Cave Rock tries to make it 3 in a row; he has been lights out. Hejazi has been chasing CR to no avail.


Larry
DevilHorse

Ein Gedi finished 7th in her first start:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/BSWCrow/status/1...197952/video/1
Ein Gedi did fine. It was apparent from her workouts that she was not yet in peak form. This one may need to race her way into shape. Going to the front and hanging in there till the last furlong was a good sign that she wants to race and has some talent. Be encouraged.

In the Vosburgh, Elite Power looks like a very credible sprinter:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578823144965836800
Elite Power was awarded a 96 Beyer

In the Joe Hirsch, the lone filly, War Like Goddess beat the boys and was awarded a whopping 105 Beyer:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578847106265395200
Gufo finished last. But don't fret; this race was slow and paceless, which worked against Gufo. He'll have a much better pace in the Breeder's Cup (BC).

American Apple, who won the Matron, received an 87 Beyer.

Golden Pal won the Woodford at Keeneland, setting a stakes record and was awarded a 106 Beyer:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578835475850108929
This likely extender of the Uncle Mo lineage has few piers in these sprint turf races. They're still trying to figure out how he threw in the klunker in the UK.

In the Futurity for 2YOs, Forte beat out Logic (and the stewards) in an exciting finish:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578861059401621506
This stretch battle is worth watching. Note how Irad Ortiz brought Forte close to Loggins (along the rail). The head on view suggests that Forte might have interfered with Loggins, but the stewards could not find enough fault to take Forte down. Loggins was great in defeat and showed great bravery; horses typically do not come back along the rail when they are in close quarters. Forte was awarded (only) a 92 Beyer.

In the Keeneland Turf Mile, Annapolis took top honors:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578869196037193728
Casa Creed didn't kick in, but he might not have been fully wound up for this race. Annapolis received a 103 Beyer.

In that nice maiden race at Santa Anita, Blessed Touch took top honors (showing Girvin is not a one hit wonder):
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578862946326757376
This filly is going places.

In the Chandeleer, And Tell Me Nolies did a good job winning:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578879808599040001
These fillies did NOT run a fast time, although it appeared to be high quality contenders. Overwhelming favorite Justique did not repeat her eye popping maiden win form.

In the American Pharoah, Cave Rock rocked the competition:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578895337938296832
Baffert had the top 4 finishers (he never had that before according to him). This race was 3 seconds faster than the Chandeleer! Also note that both races were won by progeny of Arrogate. It would be nice to find line extenders for this champion who only produced 3 crops.

Here is on PDF for Sundays big races:
http://www.equibase.com/tdn/pastperf...0-09&rn=5&de=D

This includes:

The Beldame at Aqueduct (Race 3) with the top 3YO filly, Nest:

The Futurity for 2YOs at Aqueduct with Nagirroc.

The Bourbon for 2YOs at Keeneland with Reckoning Force.

The Spinster for the top Fillies and Mares with Malathaat, Letruska, and Army Wife.


Larry
DevilHorse

[TheDevilMadeMeDoIt]

Ein Gedi finished 7th in her first start:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/BSWCrow/status/1...197952/video/1
Ein Gedi did fine. It was apparent from her workouts that she was not yet in peak form. This one may need to race her way into shape. Going to the front and hanging in there till the last furlong was a good sign that she wants to race and has some talent. Be encouraged.

In the Vosburgh, Elite Power looks like a very credible sprinter:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578823144965836800
Elite Power was awarded a 96 Beyer

In the Joe Hirsch, the lone filly, War Like Goddess beat the boys and was awarded a whopping 105 Beyer:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578847106265395200
Gufo finished last. But don't fret; this race was slow and paceless, which worked against Gufo. He'll have a much better pace in the Breeder's Cup (BC).

American Apple, who won the Matron, received an 87 Beyer.

Golden Pal won the Woodford at Keeneland, setting a stakes record and was awarded a 106 Beyer:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578835475850108929
This likely extender of the Uncle Mo lineage has few piers in these sprint turf races. They're still trying to figure out how he threw in the klunker in the UK.

In the Futurity for 2YOs, Forte beat out Logic (and the stewards) in an exciting finish:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578861059401621506
This stretch battle is worth watching. Note how Irad Ortiz brought Forte close to Loggins (along the rail). The head on view suggests that Forte might have interfered with Loggins, but the stewards could not find enough fault to take Forte down. Loggins was great in defeat and showed great bravery; horses typically do not come back along the rail when they are in close quarters. Forte was awarded (only) a 92 Beyer.

In the Keeneland Turf Mile, Annapolis took top honors:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578869196037193728
Casa Creed didn't kick in, but he might not have been fully wound up for this race. Annapolis received a 103 Beyer.

In that nice maiden race at Santa Anita, Blessed Touch took top honors (showing Girvin is not a one hit wonder):
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578862946326757376
This filly is going places.

In the Chandeleer, And Tell Me Nolies did a good job winning:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578879808599040001
These fillies did NOT run a fast time, although it appeared to be high quality contenders. Overwhelming favorite Justique did not repeat her eye popping maiden win form.

In the American Pharoah, Cave Rock rocked the competition:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578895337938296832
Baffert had the top 4 finishers (he never had that before according to him). This race was 3 seconds faster than the Chandeleer! Also note that both races were won by progeny of Arrogate. It would be nice to find line extenders for this champion who only produced 3 crops.

Here is on PDF for Sundays big races:
http://www.equibase.com/tdn/pastperf...0-09&rn=5&de=D

This includes:

The Beldame at Aqueduct (Race 3) with the top 3YO filly, Nest:

The Futurity for 2YOs at Aqueduct with Nagirroc.

The Bourbon for 2YOs at Keeneland with Reckoning Force.

The Spinster for the top Fillies and Mares with Malathaat, Letruska, and Army Wife.


Larry
DevilHorse

After Ein Gedi’s race I told my wife, when two year olds show early foot in their first race and poop out toward the end, I usually bet them to win the next time out. When two year olds run like that in their second race, then I’m not so optimistic. I like that she broke well, although the chart says she hit the horse next door. She raced forwardly which I liked. Particularly in turf races being forwardly placed can prevent a lot of traffic problems. The half mile was run in 47.03 and she was only a head behind. I feel by her like I do our football team, I’m still optimistic.

I was angry with myself for not placing a win bet on Toquether who laid $12.20. I had her in my exactas. I bet Ein to win even though the Myracehorse folks sent her off at ridiculously low odds. Interestingly, I believe Toquether was sold at the same sales as Ein and has some common ownership with Peter Deutsch. We will see who made the better buy.

[DevilHorse]

In the American Pharoah, Cave Rock rocked the competition:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1578895337938296832
Baffert had the top 4 finishers (he never had that before according to him). This race was 3 seconds faster than the Chandeleer! Also note that both races were won by progeny of Arrogate. It would be nice to find line extenders for this champion who only produced 3 crops.

Here is on PDF for Sundays big races:
http://www.equibase.com/tdn/pastperf...0-09&rn=5&de=D

This includes:

The Beldame at Aqueduct (Race 3) with the top 3YO filly, Nest:

The Futurity for 2YOs at Aqueduct with Nagirroc.

The Bourbon for 2YOs at Keeneland with Reckoning Force.

The Spinster for the top Fillies and Mares with Malathaat, Letruska, and Army Wife.


Larry
DevilHorse

In the Beldame, Nest trounced an OK field:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1579173097051410433

In the Futurity, Nagirroc just got up to win:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1579197278023098368
I didn't remember that the Futurity (once won by Seattle Slew) is now a turf race.

In the Bourbon, Andtheansweris won as a $10 favorite:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1579220365511131136

Malathaat continues to assert her late season dominance in the older filly and mare division by winning the Spinster:
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/insta...e=inc&print=on
https://twitter.com/i/status/1579228032828522496

Larry
DevilHorse


BTW, Cave Rock's win on Saturday garnered a 103 Beyer.

[DevilHorse]

I'm BAAaack!

Larry
DevilHorse