Breeders’ Cup Spotlight Shines on Two Females
By GREG MELIKOV
It’s no longer a male’s world in the Breeders’ Cup as two of the most important races at Churchill Downs puts the spotlight on mares aiming to stage repeat performances.
There have been only eight repeat winners in the same BC race during the past 26 world championships. Five came in the 21st Century: Tiznow, ’00-01 Classic; High Chaparral, ’02-03 Turf; Midnight Lute, ’07-08 Sprint; Conduit, ’08-09 Turf; and Goldikova, ’08-09 Mile.
With her Oct. 2 victory in the Lady’s Secret Stakes, Zenyatta tied the modern North American thoroughbred streak of Peppers Pride, unbeaten in 19 consecutive contests, all in New Mexico.
Zenyatta will be gunning for No. 20 in a racing career that started on debut on Nov. 22, 2007. Her string of victories includes 11 Grade 1s, including the ’08 BC Ladies Classic and last year’s BC Classic.
The daughter of Street Cry has scored at five tracks this year, mostly on synthetic surfaces in California. The exception is two wins in the Apple Blossom on the dirt of Oaklawn Park.
Zenyatta heads one of the strongest fields in Classic history rich in experience on dirt, including Blame, the leading handicapping male, and Lookin at Lucky, the top 3-year-old.
Before being upset in Belmont Park’s Jockey Gold Cup by Haynesfield, Blame posted three Grade 1 triumphs at three different tracks, including the Stephen Foster at Churchill Downs.
Haynesfield led all the way in the Gold Cup, also defeating third-place finisher Fly Down, Belmont and Travers runner-up among the Classic contenders. The previous Grade 1 Whitney saw the son of Speightstown finish fourth behind Blame and two others heading to the Classic, Quality Road and Musket Man.
Lucky at Lucky, equally successful on synthetic and dirt surfaces, has won his last three graded stakes since a very his troubled trip in the Kentucky Derby. The victories include the Preakness at Pimlico and Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park.
Ironically, the strongest Classic field gathered at Churchill Downs in ’98. The 10 horses included:
Coronado’s Quest, winner of Wood Memorial, Travers and Haskell, sprinted to the lead from the break, but never was ahead by more than a length for the first mile.
Pressing the pace in second for six furlongs was ’97 Classic champ Skip Away before fading to sixth. Silver Charm, ’98 Dubai World Cup winner that captured the previous year’s Preakness and Belmont, advanced to second with a quarter-mile to go.
And down the stretch they came. Traveling fastest of all was Awesome Again, victorious in the ’98 Stephen Foster and Whitney. The son of Deputy Minister split horses nearing the wire and prevailed by a length.
Silver Charm, who had gained a narrow lead entering the stretch, drifted wide, but held on for second by a neck over English champ Swain. A nose back in fourth was Victory Gallop, who captured the ’98 Belmont, while Coronado’s Quest faded to fifth.
Awesome Again completed his unbeaten 4-year-old season going 6 for 6. If Zenyatta takes this year’s Classic assured of a full 14-horse field on Nov. 6 after pre-entries were announced Wednesday, she’ll end up 6 for 6 as a 6-year-old and nail down Horse of the Year honors.
Meanwhile, Goldikova is going where no horse has gone before in BC history. The 5-year-old is gunning for her third straight victory in the Mile.
She won in ’08 by 1 ¼ lengths and repeated last year by a half-length, both times defeating 10 challengers on a firm Santa Anita Park grass course. Her record this year across the Atlantic is four wins and a second in five outings. The field for the third consecutive year is 11 if there are no withdrawals from the pre-entries.
BC Preview: How Surfaces at Churchill Downs Play
By GREG MELIKOV
The main track at Churchill Downs, which hosts a record seventh Breeders’ Cup Nov. 5-6, is much different than any other dirt surface in the United States.
Most tracks are comprised of limestone with dirt on top. The Louisville venue has no such base while the track is mixed with a deep layer of soil, clay and organic materials several feet underneath the surface.
However, even the compositions of dirt surfaces vary. Calder Race Course’s main track is a 12-inch base of sand and clay with a 4 ½-inch cushion comprised of sand and clay. The surface becomes a bit cuppy while drying out from rain.
At Monmouth Park, where the 24th Breeders’ Cup was staged, a good rain results in a dead rail for a day or so.
Churchill Downs is way different up to 24 hours following a rainstorm. It just might become the best strip in racing, one expert says, because the main track turns faster compared to its dry, unusually deep surface that many horses don’t like.
Annual rainfall in Louisville is evenly distributed throughout the year. The wettest month is May when the Kentucky Derby is staged – 4.49 inches. November averages 3.62 inches.
You might remember that the winner of the 136th Kentucky Derby wasn’t that far back on May 1 when the track came up sloppy and was sealed. Super Saver was fourth within easy striking distance of pacesetter Conveyance after six furlongs of the 1 ¼ miles, fourth saving ground on the inside.
The son of Maria’s Mon advanced to second with a quarter-mile left, took command in the stretch and drew away to triumph by 2 ½ lengths. Ice Box rocked from 11th to beat out Paddy O’Prado for second by a neck.
Closers didn’t have many good afternoons during the entire spring-summer meeting at Churchill Downs while speed did well in sprints and routes.
In 92 races at six furlongs on the main track from April 24 through July 4, according to Bristnet.com, 30 percent of winners went wire to wire.
In 56 contests at 1 1/16 miles, 25 percent of winners led at every call. In fact, early speed and stalking was the best running style on dirt as well as grass. In 25 turf sprints, there were an amazing 44 percent wire jobs.
Going back to ’06 BC Day on Nov. 4, four of the five winners in races on the fast main track had the lead by the stretch. Only Invasor in the Classic was second a half-length behind Bernardini, but prevailed by a length at the end of the 1 ¼ miles.
In the BC Juvenile at 1 1/16 miles, Street Sense was more than six lengths behind after six furlongs and was checked attempting to rally on the turn, but rocketed in the stretch to gain a four-length lead and won by 10 lengths.
Only Dreaming of Anna led every step of the 1 1/16 miles in the Juvenile Fillies, winning by 1 ½ lengths. Thor’s Echo gained the lead by a head at the quarter pole in the six-furlong Sprint and scored by four lengths.
In the three turf routes, one winner was in front by the stretch while the other two victorious runners were third. Ouija Board increased her 1 ½-length margin heading to the wire and triumphed by 2 ¼ lengths in the 1 3/8-mile Filly and Mare Turf.
Greg Melikov’s Horses to Watch
Horses worth watching, a list of runners compiled by handicapper/turf writer Greg Melikov, should do well next time out. These thoroughbreds won five times, ran second six times and finished third once since Sept. 18. They’re worth considering when developing your wagering strategy for online betting or at your favorite track.
BELMONT PARK
Pretty Cozzy: Bumped several times with rival shortly after break during troublesome trip, forced way off rail coming to half-mile pole 6 ½ lengths behind in seventh, steadied in traffic near three-sixteenths pole, closed gamely late from fifth to make up two lengths and gained second by a nose at seven furlongs on the turf Oct. 8.
I Dreamt I Was: Broke 11th and last, raced 10th more than 13 lengths behind after a half-mile, fanned five wide into stretch, closed fast from sixth to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths at a mile on the turf Sept. 22; ran final half in 46 4/5.
Who’s the Cowboy: Raced five lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, angled outward near the five-sixteenths pole, rallied down the middle in stretch, made up nearly four lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a neck at six furlongs on a good surface Sept. 17; ran final quarter in 23 2/5.
Strikealinethruit: Raced ninth early, dropped to 10th more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground along the rail 13 lengths back after six furlongs, angled three wide to eighth entering stretch, rallied with a late kick to make up 5 ½ lengths and finished fourth beaten a neck and a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Sept. 12; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 29 1/5.
CALDER
Mini Mom: Checked early, raced four lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, lost ground advancing into stretch, rallied from fourth to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at a mile on the turf Oct. 7.
Cove Star: Raced five lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, eased out for drive, bumped with third-place finisher inside eighth pole and ran second beaten three-quarters of a length at a mile and 70 yards on a sealed good surface Sept. 24.
Fusafast: Raced five lengths behind in second after a half-mile, dropped to fourth after six furlongs, rallied in stretch to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 20.
DELAWARE PARK
Aphrodite Storm: Broke alertly to set pace, led by two lengths after a half-mile, increased margin to seven lengths in stretch and drew off to win by 12 ¼ lengths ridden out at a mile on Oct. 6.
Aquitaine: Raced 7 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, took up in traffic on second turn, lost a couple lengths angling outside for stretch run, rallied from fourth to make up 6 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Sept. 11; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 29 1/5.
Music Is My Life: Raced 10 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied outside in stretch to make up 5 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on Aug. 14.
Cray Cray: Pressed pace two heads behind in third after a half-mile, circled rivals to take lead by a half-length in stretch and won going away by 4 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surfaces on Sept. 27. (Pressed pace a half-length behind in second after three-eighths of a mile, loomed boldly a head back in stretch and finished second by 2 ¼ lengths at five furlongs Oct. 9.)
HAWTHORNE
Littlebrownroad: Raced more than 8 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, gathered momentum leaving turn, angled five wide in stretch, rallied to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Oct. 7; ran final quarter in 24 seconds.
Cool Clue: Pressed pace a head behind in second after a half-mile, carried out wide in upper stretch, shook loose from drifting rival, put head in front briefly and finished second beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 2.
Mr. Alanzo: Bumped at break, raced seventh more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to fourth in stretch, changed course twice and finished second by 1 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on Oct. 1. (Raced five lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, gathered momentum shift out four wide in upper stretch, rallied from fourth to gain second by a head at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 15.)
KEENELAND
Stormy Ocean: Raced 11th and last early, advanced to eighth more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out in upper stretch, made up nearly four lengths and finished third beaten a head and a nose at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 13.
I’m Not Afraid: Raced six lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, shifted out for drive, split horses in stretch, rallied to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on the turf Aug. 26 at Arlington Park. (Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied in stretch to make up nearly three lengths and finished third beaten a head and a nose at six furlongs on Oct. 10.
LAUREL PARK
Rocking Valay: Raced seventh early, advanced to fourth 5 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, circled five wide into stretch, closed willingly to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Oct. 6.
Daveron: Raced seven lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, dropped to seventh losing ground after six furlongs, advanced very wide turning for home, rallied from fourth to make up 2 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Sept. 24; ran final 1 ½ furlongs in 28 seconds.
Albright: Rushed up to front early, led by a length after three-eighths of a mile, increased margin to seven lengths in stretch and won by 13 lengths ridden out at 5 ½ furlongs at Suffolk Downs on Aug. 21; ran final 1 ½ furlongs in 18 3/5. (Set pressured pace to lead by a head after a half-mile, dueled to upper stretch, gave way grudgingly and held second by three-quarters of a length at 5 ½ furlongs on Sept. 29.)
MONMOUTH PARK
Isittruemossy: Bumped at break, raced eighth early, dropped to ninth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, bumped between rivals turning for home and rallied to gain third by a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 10.
Curlinello: Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth within a length and three heads behind leader after a half-mile, lost ground after six furlongs, rallied between rivals in stretch to make up 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at a mile on Sept. 25.
Waltzing With Blue: Broke outward, bumped, raced eighth more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, came four wide into the lane and rallied to finish second beaten a nose at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 27.
OAK TREE
It’s Not Unusual: Raced more than 6 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, swung wide into stretch, angled inward midway, came out again to make up five lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 8.
Pink Diamond: Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide into stretch, made up more than 2 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at five furlongs on the turf Sept. 2 at Del Mar. (Raced four lengths behind in second after a half-mile, came out four wide into stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on the turf Oct. 9.)
PHILADELPHIA PARK
Candide: Raced more than eight lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, lacked room in deep stretch, steadied, made up more than 2 ¾ lengths and gained second by a half-length at six furlongs on Oct. 12.
Rathor: Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, challenged leader in stretch a half-length behind and won by a half-length at a mile and 70 yards on a sealed muddy surface Oct. 4. (Raced two lengths behind in third after a half-mile, lacked strong rally, but finished second by three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Oct. 18.)
Dobra: Broke on top from the ninth post, led by a half-length after a half-mile, increased margin to 3 ½ lengths in stretch and cruised to a 4 ½-length victory in 1:11 4/5 ridden out at six furlongs on Sept. 12 at Monmouth Park. (Tracked pace a length and a head behind in third after a half-mile, moved to rail for the drive, led by a head in mid-stretch and won going away by 2 ¾ lengths on a good surface at six furlongs on Oct. 12; returned $17.60 on the front end.
RETAMA PARK
Tappyhour: Raced 13 lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, made a middle move three wide into stretch gaining 5 ½ lengths on leader, rallied from fourth to make up 4 ½ lengths and gained second by 1 ½ lengths at a mile on Oct. 8.
Sweetsforthesweet: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth five lengths behind after a half-mile, swung out five wide after losing position to seventh in stretch, closed willingly to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a head at 7 ½ furlongs on the turf Oct. 1.
Set Expectations: Broke 12th from the rail, dropped to 14th and last more than 11 lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced on turn, swung out nine wide in upper stretch, closed fast to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface Sept. 17; ran final quarter in 24 seconds. (Raced two lengths behind in third after a half-mile, rallied four wide in stretch and finished second by 3 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Oct. 9.)
SUFFOLK DOWNS
Lion Heart Victory: Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in third after three-eighths of a mile, lost ground going outside rivals into stretch, rallied to make up nearly four lengths and finished second beaten a head at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 9.
TURF PARADISE
Ilikechocolatemilk: Broke ninth and last, raced seventh more than 10 lengths behind after a half-mile, made a big middle move gaining more than 6 ½ lengths five wide into stretch, made up more than 2 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten two noses at about a mile on the turf Oct. 10.
Tuxedo Affair: Broke 10th from the outside 12th post, raced more than seven lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, advanced seven wide into turn, rallied from sixth in stretch to make up more than 5 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at six furlongs on Sept. 23.
Suave Charmer: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, lost ground in stretch, rallied to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a length and a nose at 5 ½ furlongs on Sept. 11. (Hustled to front, led by 3 ½ lengths after a half-mile and won by 1 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Sept. 29.)
Eroberer: Raced four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, rallied from fifth in stretch to make up 2 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths and a neck at six furlongs on Sept. 11; ran final quarter in 24 4/5. (Sped clear to set the pace, led by 2 ½ lengths after a half-mile, increased margin to eight lengths in stretch and cruised to the wire to win by 11 ¾ lengths at a mile on Oct. 1.)
WOODBINE
Zippy Lady: Broke outward, raced 11 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, roused on turn, rallied five wide from sixth to make up more than 3 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at 1 1/8 miles on Oct. 8.
Killdares Prospect: Raced more than nine lengths behind in 10th after a half-mile, hustled to six wide on far turn, rallied in stretch to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths and a head at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 12.
Moral: Broke eighth and last, trailed by more than 9 ½ lengths after a half-mile, rallied willingly from sixth in stretch to make up three lengths and finished third beaten a neck for second at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 19 at Fort Erie. (Raced eighth and last more than 19 lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied five-wide into stretch and finished third by a nose at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 2.)
Howwondofulitis: Raced more than 1 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, lost ground angling out in upper stretch, rallied to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at seven furlongs on Sept. 3. (Stalked pace a half-length behind in second after a half-mile, dueled with winner into stretch and edged away to win by 1 ½ lengths at a mile and 70 yards on Sept. 18.)
Sugar Bay: Raced eighth and last early, advanced to fifth 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile and rallied rallied in stretch to finish third by three-quarters of a length at seven furlongs on the turf Sept. 5. (Pressed (Pressed pace a half-length behind in second after a half-mile, rallied to take lead in stretch by a half-lllengt length and drew off to win by 2 ¼ lengths at seven furlongs on the turf Oct. 2.)
Greg Melikov’s Horses to Watch
Horses worth watching, a list of runners compiled by handicapper/turf writer Greg Melikov, should do well next time out. These thoroughbreds won nine times, ran second three times and finished third three times since Aug. 12. They’re worth considering when developing your wagering strategy for online betting or at your favorite track.
ARLINGTON PARK
I’m Not Afraid: Raced six lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, shifted out for drive, split horses in stretch, rallied to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on the turf Aug. 26.
Jingle Jangle: Raced 12 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, circled four wide into contention through far turn, rallied in stretch to make up more than two lengths and finished second beaten a nose at 1 1/16 miles on Aug. 20.
Golden Teardrop: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than nine lengths behind after a half-mile, shifted out falling to seventh on far turn, rallied in upper stretch from fifth to make up more than four lengths and finished second beaten a length at 1 1/16 miles on Aug. 15. (Raced 7 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, angled out four wide entering stretch, rallied to make up more than five lengths and drew off to win by 2 ½ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 17; returned $20.40 on the front end.)
Cornwhiskey: Raced three lengths behind in third after a half-mile, advanced leaving far turn, took lead in stretch by a head and won by a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 13 at Ellis Park. (Dueled for lead a head behind in second after a half-mile, put a head in front down the lane, increased margin to 1 ½ lengths in stretch and won by a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf on Sept. 4 at Ellis Park.)
BELMONT PARK
Who’s the Cowboy: Raced five lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, angled outward near the five-sixteenths pole, rallied down the middle in stretch, made up nearly four lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a neck at six furlongs on a good surface Sept. 17; ran final quarter in 23 2/5.
Strikealinethruit: Raced ninth early, dropped to 10th more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground along the rail 13 lengths back after six furlongs, angled three wide to eighth entering stretch, rallied with a late kick to make up 5 ½ lengths and finished fourth beaten a neck and a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Sept. 12; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 29 1/5.
CALDER
Storm Slew: Raced more than three lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, lacked room behind rival in stretch, bumped with winner at eighth pole, recovered, closed fast to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten two necks at six furlongs on Sept. 11.
Baystreet Bully: Raced more than 9 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, angled out for room in stretch, rallied to make up more than 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on Sept. 3. (Set the pace right away inside, led by a half-length after a half-mile, repulsed bid from runner-up in stretch and won 1 ¼ lengths at a mile and 70 yards on Sept. 17.)
Fusafast: Raced five lengths behind in second after a half-mile, dropped to fourth after six furlongs, rallied in stretch to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 20, ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 30 1/5.
Kiernan’s Legacy: Tracked pace a length behind in third after a half-mile, gained lead by a head leaving the turn, weakened and finished second beaten a neck ay 6 ½ furlongs on Sept. 2. (Chased pace more than three lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, launched bid entering stretch, bumped at eighth pole, recovered and made up more than two lengths and won by a neck at six furlongs on Sept. 11.)
DELAWARE PARK
Aquitaine: Raced 7 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, took up in traffic on second turn, lost a couple lengths angling outside for stretch run, rallied from fourth to make up 6 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Sept. 11; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 29 1/5.
Music Is My Life: Raced 10 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied outside in stretch to make up 5 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on Aug. 14.
Safety Valve: Chased pace 2 ½ lengths behind in second after a half-mile, kept to the task and finished in that position beaten 2 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 6 at Colonial Downs. (Raced third early, dropped to fifth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, ran down leader in stretch and won by a half-length at a mile and 70 yards on the turf Aug. 31; returned $13.40 on front end.)
Cray Cray: Raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, advanced wide to third in stretch and ran down leader to win by 1 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on Aug. 16. (Tracked pace more than 3 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied outside into stretch and drew clear to win by 2 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Sept. 8.)
Andwhatelse: Raced more than seven lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, made a big middle move after five furlongs from sixth to second in stretch and drew off to win by three lengths at 1 1/16 miles on a sealed sloppy surface July 13. (Raced more than 12 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, made a middle move to mid-stretch, failed to sustain bid from fourth and finished third by three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Aug. 12.)
FINGER LAKES
Security Guard: Broke seventh and last, raced sixth more than 11 lengths behind after a half-mile, closed gap into stretch, came flying late to make up more than 6 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a half-length at six furlongs on July 14 at Suffolk Downs. (Raced seven lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, angled out three wide off far turn and rallied to gain second by a nose at a mile and 70 yards on Aug. 11 at Suffolk Downs.)
FORT ERIE
Moral: Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, rallied smartly between rivals in stretch from fifth to make up six lengths and finished second beaten a head at 1 1/16 miles on July 28 at Woodbine. (Broke eighth and last, trailed by more than 9 ½ lengths after a half-mile, rallied willingly from sixth in stretch to make up three lengths and finished third beaten a neck for second at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 19.)
LAUREL PARK
Jake Rattle N Roll: Raced 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, rallied between rivals around turn, made up more than 3 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a length at 5 ½ furlongs on the turf Sept. 16.
LOUISIANA DOWNS
Truly Judy: Broke outward, bobbled, raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, came five wide out of the turn, rallied to make up more than 3 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Aug. 20.
Native Holly: Broke on top, set easy pace under restraint, led by 10 lengths and won by 11 ¼ lengths ridden out at 1:37 3/5 for about a mile on the turf Aug. 12; cruised final quarter in 22 3/5. (Led early, forced pace in second a head behind after a half-mile, took led at three-sixteenths pole, weakened and finished second by 2 ½ lengths at 7 ½ furlongs on the turf Sept. 3.)
Lori’s Dream: Dueled for lead between rivals a head back in second at a half-mile, got a half-length in front in stretch, weakened and finished third beaten a half-length and a head at six furlongs on July 31. (Pressed pace two heads behind in third after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide on turn, led by three lengths in stretch and drew off to win by 5 ¾ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Sept. 3; returned $11.40 on front end.)
MONMOUTH PARK
On Time Somewhere: Raced more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out in upper stretch from fourth, rallied to make up nearly two lengths and dead-heated for second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Sept. 18; ran final quarter in 24 1/5.
Dobra: Broke on top from the ninth post, led by a half-length after a half-mile, increased margin to 3 ½ lengths in stretch and cruised to a 4 ½-length victory in 1 11 4/5 ridden out at six furlongs on Sept. 12.
Waltzing With Blue: Broke outward, bumped, raced eighth more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, came four wide into the lane and rallied to finish second beaten a nose at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 27.
PHILADELPHIA PARK
Maja Moto: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced six wide into stretch, closed well from fifth to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths and gained second by 1 ¼ lengths at a mile and 70 yards on the turf Sept. 13.
Show the Flag: Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, lost a couple lengths off the turn, split rivals in stretch, made up nearly 3 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and three-quarters of a length at 6 ½ furlongs on Sept. 3. (Stalked pace more than a length behind in sixth after a half-mile, rallied outside turning for home, took lead by a head in mid-stretch and edged away to win by 1 ¼ lengths on Sept. 20; returned $10.60 on front end.)
RETAMA PARK
Set Expectations: Broke 12th from the rail, dropped to 14th and last more than 11 lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced on turn, swung out nine wide in upper stretch, closed fast to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface Sept. 17; ran final quarter in 24 seconds.
Blushing Sis: Raced sixth and last more than three lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, saved ground on turn, rallied from fourth to make up more than 1 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second by four lengths on Sept. 11.
SUFFOLK DOWNS
Albright: Rushed up to front early, led by a length after three-eighths of a mile, increased margin to seven lengths in stretch and won by 13 lengths ridden out at 5 ½ furlongs on Aug. 21; ran final 1 ½ furlongs in 18 3/5.
TURFWAY PARK
Eroberer: Raced four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, rallied from fifth in stretch to make up 2 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths and a neck at six furlongs on Sept. 11; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.
WOODBINE
Killdares: Raced more than nine lengths behind in 10th after a half-mile, hustled to six wide on far turn, rallied in stretch to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths and a head at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 12.
Howwondofulitis: Raced more than 1 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, lost ground angling out in upper stretch, rallied to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at seven furlongs on Sept. 3. (Stalked pace a half-length behind in second after a half-mile, dueled with winner into stretch and edged away to win by 1 ½ lengths at a mile and 70 yards.)
Something Extra: Broke a step slow, bobbled at break, checked in tight entering turn and rallied in stretch from third to gain second by a half-length at six furlongs on Aug. 12. (Forced pace a half-length behind in second after a half-mile, challenged three wide in upper stretch, dueled, weakened late and was the runner-up by five lengths at seven furlongs on Sept. 12.)
Sugar Bay: Raced third early, dropped to fourth more than eight lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied along rail in stretch and won by a half-length at seven furlongs on the turf Aug. 13. (Raced eighth and last early, advanced to fifth 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile and rallied wide in stretch to finish third by three-quarters of a length at seven furlongs on the turf Sept. 5.)
Real Reason Why Lookin at Lucky Won’t Go in Travers Stakes 2010
By GREG MELIKOV
Shortly after Lookin at Lucky came up with a temperature last week following his impressive Haskell Invitational victory, trainer Bob Baffert announced on his Facebook page the colt would miss the Travers Stakes.
His daily reports on the colt’s progress were welcomed by many, including me, and some of them follow:
Aug. 3: No Travers for Lucky. Woke up with a little Temperature (102) but looks like he is not too sick…
Read full story: "Real Reason Why Lookin at Lucky Won’t Go in Travers Stakes 2010"...
Greg Melikov’s Horses to Watch
Horses worth watching, a list of runners compiled by handicapper/turf writer Greg Melikov, should do well next time out. These thoroughbreds won four times, ran second five times and finished third six times since July 4. They’re worth considering when developing your wagering strategy for online betting or at your favorite track.
ARLINGTON PARK
Adistan: Raced four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, caught five wide on far turn, lost ground carried out further in upper stretch…
Read full story: "Greg Melikov’s Horses to Watch"...
Blame Wins The Whitney Handicap at Saratoga & A Spot In The Breeders’ Cup Classic
Claiborne Farm and Adele Dilschneider’s Blame, ridden by jockey Garrett Gomez, won Sunday’s $750,000 Whitney Handicap at Saratoga Race Course August 7.
The Whitney Handicap is part of the Breeders’ Cup “Win & You’re In” where the winner automatically gets a spot in the Breeders’ Cup Classic starting gate.
Trained by Albert Stall, Jr., Blame covered 1 1/8 miles in 1:48.88 and paid $8.80, $3 and $2.20. Quality Road, under jockey John Velazquez, placed second and returned $2.40 and $2.10. Musket Man with jockey Rajiv Maragh aboard came in third and paid $2.50 to show.
Read full story: "Blame Wins The Whitney Handicap at Saratoga & A Spot In The Breeders’ Cup Classic"...
Haskell Features Cream of Triple Crown Runners’ Crop
BY GREG MELIKOV
The cream of the 3-year-old crop that won or finished second in at least one of the Triple Crown legs collide on Sunday in the $1 million Haskell Invitational.
In addition, three runners have six Grade 1 triumphs to their credit. The Preakness champ Lookin at Lucky has accounted for three of them. His trainer Bob Baffert also has the number 4 in mind — he saddled the winner of Monmouth Park‘s premier race three times in the 21st Century.
Baffert can’t hide his excitement about his colt’s chances in the 43rd renewal…
Read full story: "Haskell Features Cream of Triple Crown Runners’ Crop"...
Jim Dandy Could Be a Bang Up Stakes Race
By GREG MELIKOV
The 47th Jim Dandy Stakes could be a bang up stakes race featuring several runners coming into the summer season with high hopes.
Race horse trainer Nick Zito is sending out Fly Down that’s been on the upswing since capturing the Dwyer on May 10 at Belmont Park by six lengths over Drosselmeyer. The son of Mineshaft came less than a length short of winning the Belmont Stakes on June 10 over the Dwyer runner-up.
Since then Fly Down has been training like a horse on a mission, working exceptionally well at Saratoga.
Read full story: "Jim Dandy Could Be a Bang Up Stakes Race"...
Greg Melikov’s Horses to Watch
Horses worth watching, a list of runners compiled by handicapper/turf writer Greg Melikov, should do well next time out. These thoroughbreds won nine times, ran second four times and finished third four times since June 7. They’re worth considering when developing your wagering strategy for online betting or at your favorite track.
ARLINGTON PARK
Via Di Roma: Raced inside eight lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, gathered momentum leaving far turn, rallied four wide from fifth to make up more than five lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at about a mile on the turf July 16; ran final quarter in 24 1/5.
Read full story: "Greg Melikov’s Horses to Watch"...
Next Entries » « Previous Entries
10% Instant Bonus, Free & Fast Payouts
Up to 60% Racebook Deposit Bonus +5% Weekly Horse Betting Rebate
Get Reward Points For Free Bets