We start tonight at Balmoral with a $50,000 Guaranteed Pick4! After a nice break, this is a great way to get back into the hunt to pull down Pick 4’s. The takeout is only 15%, and the guarantee is quite a jump from the usual $15,000. The Pick 4 is Race 7 through 10, we’re sticking with a $24 ticket, and the spread will be a 3-2-2-3. The selections are as follows:
Race 7 #1 Hot Laps ML 10/1 #6 Maximus Meridius N ML 4/1 #10 Rocket Dog ML 8/1
This race should be a battle between the #6 and #10, with Maximus Meridius N winning two in a row. You could also add Samstorm if you want to single Race 8. It’s hard not to stay with Maximus again, he is a great groove and final times are really strong, but for the value I will go with Rocket Dog. His last outing was super good, and strong improvement overall. I believe it’s time for him to be a winner.
Race 8 #3 Towne Nurse ML 5/2 #10 No Doubt ML 5/1
You could single this race with Towne Nurse, and I see no reason this 5YO mare can’t win her third in a row. The Cosling’s have her in a nice spot, winning five of seven, the only downside if the track is off, she could be vulnerable. No Doubt could come from the outside and take it, but will go chalk here with Towne Nurse.
Race 9 #1 Primrose Path ML 6/1 #5 Tinkers Damn ML 3/1
A lot of action will go to the #5 and Madison Paige, but I really like the consistent speed fig’s with Primrose Path. Last three races have been in the 70’s and she has reduced her final times in each race to an even 1:54. The last two races she had a onerous post and tonight she gets the inside, with Leonard in the buggy again, this should be her time to score.
Race 10 #6 Fox Valley Phoebe ML 8/1 #8 Frontier Belle ML 8/1 #9 What’sALittleRain ML 5/1
This race is wide open, and if you didn’t add Samstorm in Race 7 and singled Towne Nurse in the eighth you could add one more here. If you go that direction then consider, Sues Blue Pants. If I had to take one here, it would be the #6 Fox Valley Phoebe, she is dropping in class. In her first race at Balmoral she was not threat, but posted a strong 73 and a solid 1:54.4, her best time in a long time. Would consider this filly to be ready, and getting a better post this time out.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Try and try again for the $15,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral Park
There isn’t much to say about Sunday, another repeat of bombers (we even had one on our ticket, Gravel Crusher that paid $77 to win!) and knocking us out. Today is the $15,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 so let’s see if we can get back to our winning ways.
Race 7 #6 KB’s Taylor ML 6/1 #8 Triggerfish ML 3/1 #9 Johnny B Cool ML 8/1
This race is loaded with good pacers, but I’m staying with the improving Johnny B Cool. The last three races have shown improving speed (71-73-75) that’s about two lengths a race. His last out he got stuck three wide and still finished second . The one you might want to add to this group is Rocket Dog.
Race 8 #2 Madison Paige N ML 7/2 #5 Nannah Montana ML 5/1 #8 Tinkers Dam 4/1
I originally was going to single this race with Madison Paige. But after looking at it closer I added two strong pacers and finally decided Nannah Montana can win this race. Her speed figures are the best even though she shows to be a bouncer. Her last times were outstanding and should put together a great race to win and get a good price.
Race 9 #6 Sentimentaljourney ML 3/1
He has the most consistent speed in this group, has won three in a row before having an off race. Now shipping in from Indy, and those shippers do well on first race out. He certainly not the fastest but knows how to win, and feeling Balmoral will suit him well.
Race 10 #2 Lets Talk About It ML 5/1 #3 Kitty O’Brien ML 3/1 #8 Towne Nurse 4/1
This is a wide open race and the “all” button is warranted. However, I like the #8 Towne Nurse. She came back off the bench to win going away and posting nice speed and a solid final time. I see no reason for her not repeating today, the one that could beat her is Kitty O’Brien. This looks like a good trifecta group on top of the Pick 4.
Race 7 #6 KB’s Taylor ML 6/1 #8 Triggerfish ML 3/1 #9 Johnny B Cool ML 8/1
This race is loaded with good pacers, but I’m staying with the improving Johnny B Cool. The last three races have shown improving speed (71-73-75) that’s about two lengths a race. His last out he got stuck three wide and still finished second . The one you might want to add to this group is Rocket Dog.
Race 8 #2 Madison Paige N ML 7/2 #5 Nannah Montana ML 5/1 #8 Tinkers Dam 4/1
I originally was going to single this race with Madison Paige. But after looking at it closer I added two strong pacers and finally decided Nannah Montana can win this race. Her speed figures are the best even though she shows to be a bouncer. Her last times were outstanding and should put together a great race to win and get a good price.
Race 9 #6 Sentimentaljourney ML 3/1
He has the most consistent speed in this group, has won three in a row before having an off race. Now shipping in from Indy, and those shippers do well on first race out. He certainly not the fastest but knows how to win, and feeling Balmoral will suit him well.
Race 10 #2 Lets Talk About It ML 5/1 #3 Kitty O’Brien ML 3/1 #8 Towne Nurse 4/1
This is a wide open race and the “all” button is warranted. However, I like the #8 Towne Nurse. She came back off the bench to win going away and posting nice speed and a solid final time. I see no reason for her not repeating today, the one that could beat her is Kitty O’Brien. This looks like a good trifecta group on top of the Pick 4.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Sunday $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 Selections for Balmoral
Last night the Pick 4 paid off at over $4900, making that five nights where the Guaranteed Pick 4 exceeded four figures. Two long shots came through the last two races, not much you can do about it, unless you hit the “all” button, neither one figured in the groupings. So tonight, we will try to get back on track with the a Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4. Our $24 ticket will have no singles tonight, going with a 3-2-3-2.
Race 7 #2A Park Lane Hotshot ML 5/2 #5 Mattoutflying ML 3/1 #6 BH Cullen ML 8/1
I like the #5 in this race with consistent speed figures in the 90’s, Miller is back in the buggy where they won together, and this gelding joins a strong performing barn. The outsider in this one is BH Cullen, rising up in class and Casey Leonard is driving. This horse does know how to win, and gets a positive post here.
Race 8 #3 Osage ML 7/2 #8 Lady Lakers 5/1
There are only two horses that look solid in this race and will go with Lady Lakers. While not winning for a while, she does race consistent speed numbers and goes with a strong driver in Costing. This is a mixed bag and where a longshot can upset the whole ticket. But believe the #8 can strike and win against them.
Race 9 #5 NJ’S Fast Fletch ML 12/1 #8 Truly The Best ML 4/1 #10 Gravel Crusher ML 15/1
In this one the standout is Truly The Best. Had won three in a row until last race, and with a nice pairings of 81 - 82 should find himself back in the winner circles. He run’s real well at Balmoral and see no reason for not winning in this spot.
Race 10 #4 OH Poncho ML 5/1 #7 KB’S Robby 3/1
You can’t ignore the #4 here dropping in class and shipping in with an excellent win record and solid speed fig’s. KB’S Robby is a solid performer and will give a good account of himself, but not sure he is fast enough to beat Oh Poncho.
Race 7 #2A Park Lane Hotshot ML 5/2 #5 Mattoutflying ML 3/1 #6 BH Cullen ML 8/1
I like the #5 in this race with consistent speed figures in the 90’s, Miller is back in the buggy where they won together, and this gelding joins a strong performing barn. The outsider in this one is BH Cullen, rising up in class and Casey Leonard is driving. This horse does know how to win, and gets a positive post here.
Race 8 #3 Osage ML 7/2 #8 Lady Lakers 5/1
There are only two horses that look solid in this race and will go with Lady Lakers. While not winning for a while, she does race consistent speed numbers and goes with a strong driver in Costing. This is a mixed bag and where a longshot can upset the whole ticket. But believe the #8 can strike and win against them.
Race 9 #5 NJ’S Fast Fletch ML 12/1 #8 Truly The Best ML 4/1 #10 Gravel Crusher ML 15/1
In this one the standout is Truly The Best. Had won three in a row until last race, and with a nice pairings of 81 - 82 should find himself back in the winner circles. He run’s real well at Balmoral and see no reason for not winning in this spot.
Race 10 #4 OH Poncho ML 5/1 #7 KB’S Robby 3/1
You can’t ignore the #4 here dropping in class and shipping in with an excellent win record and solid speed fig’s. KB’S Robby is a solid performer and will give a good account of himself, but not sure he is fast enough to beat Oh Poncho.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Championship Stakes for $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 @BalmoralPark
Last Wednesday night we got knocked out on the first race when longshot Miss Blues scored at 25/1! The rest of the ticket went fine with Plum Grove our single winning and our groupings doing fine. The Pick 4 ticket paid $1803! That is the 4th Guaranteed Pick 4 that has exceeded a $1000 in a row. Tonight’s races for the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 will be no walk in the park. We have one Stakes consolation and three Stakes Championship races, all good horses and each one can win. Staying the course with a $24 ticket, here are my selections tonight.
Race 10 #1A Flowmaster ML 4/1 #4 Cole Snap ML 8/1 #7 Fox Valley Yukon 5/2
The first race is the consolation race and it’s a tough one for these colts and geldings. I had real trouble choosing between Flowmaster and Fox Valley Yukon. Both have good speed fig’s, had lousy races last out, know how to win and solid connections. In this case, I would wait for the price to dictate the direction here. So will take the one who has the higher odds, and it should be Flowmaster.
Race 11 #4 Pardon ML 6/1 #5 Mystical MJ ML 3/1 #6 Fox Valley Praline ML 7/2
This is a championship pace for 3YO fillies. Some excellent choices here and we have had several of them to win in the past. Mystical MJ is going for her fifth in a row as Fox Valley Praline is in line for four in a row. I’m going to lean slightly to Fox Valley Praline only due to stronger speed numbers of late. It’ll be interesting to see the tactics between Miller and Roberts since the break next to each other. Pardon is dangerous here too.
Race 12 #7 Power Of A Moment ML 7/2
Another 3YO championship pace but this one is for colts and geldings. A tough group of horses and very difficult to single here, but when all said and done I have the #7 holding them off to score. This gelding had a strong streak going and then fell out of form. It looks like Miller has him rounding back into shape and should have a strong race tonight. Many here can’t be ignored but will take the #7 to win it.
Race 13 #2 BOI ML 6/1 #5 He’s So Hot ML 7/2 #8 Dutch Richman ML 3/1
Here is another tough group in this 3YO colt & gelding stake championship race. I like the #8 Dutch Richman here. We had him in our group back on the 10th win he won and that made it 9 wins in 13 tries at Balmoral. His speed numbers have been rising consistently with Marcus Miller driving. After his last effort he looks like he is getting stronger and should win this race.
Race 10 #1A Flowmaster ML 4/1 #4 Cole Snap ML 8/1 #7 Fox Valley Yukon 5/2
The first race is the consolation race and it’s a tough one for these colts and geldings. I had real trouble choosing between Flowmaster and Fox Valley Yukon. Both have good speed fig’s, had lousy races last out, know how to win and solid connections. In this case, I would wait for the price to dictate the direction here. So will take the one who has the higher odds, and it should be Flowmaster.
Race 11 #4 Pardon ML 6/1 #5 Mystical MJ ML 3/1 #6 Fox Valley Praline ML 7/2
This is a championship pace for 3YO fillies. Some excellent choices here and we have had several of them to win in the past. Mystical MJ is going for her fifth in a row as Fox Valley Praline is in line for four in a row. I’m going to lean slightly to Fox Valley Praline only due to stronger speed numbers of late. It’ll be interesting to see the tactics between Miller and Roberts since the break next to each other. Pardon is dangerous here too.
Race 12 #7 Power Of A Moment ML 7/2
Another 3YO championship pace but this one is for colts and geldings. A tough group of horses and very difficult to single here, but when all said and done I have the #7 holding them off to score. This gelding had a strong streak going and then fell out of form. It looks like Miller has him rounding back into shape and should have a strong race tonight. Many here can’t be ignored but will take the #7 to win it.
Race 13 #2 BOI ML 6/1 #5 He’s So Hot ML 7/2 #8 Dutch Richman ML 3/1
Here is another tough group in this 3YO colt & gelding stake championship race. I like the #8 Dutch Richman here. We had him in our group back on the 10th win he won and that made it 9 wins in 13 tries at Balmoral. His speed numbers have been rising consistently with Marcus Miller driving. After his last effort he looks like he is getting stronger and should win this race.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
The All button for the $15,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 @ Balmoral
Last Sunday, scored two nice victories in the Thoroughbreds with Grassy winning the Bowling Green at Belmont and then Sunday, winning the BC Cup at Hastings with Northern Causeway. Then we roll into Balmoral for the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and get creamed. We hit the first race with Fox Valley Absolut and then zilch. It paid over $4,000 and that made the Guaranteed Pick 4’s over four figures for the week. This is a new week and back to our own money now, and this card tonight is no easy one, in fact, if I had the cash would hit the all button in Race 9 & 10. But with $24 to spend it will be one tough ticket in the Guaranteed $15,000 Pick 4 for tonight, so here it goes …
Race 7 #1 Stormont Caviar ML 8/1 #5 Mad Cow Lisa ML 3/1 #6 POW ML 4/1
POW is going to be my choice in this race. This 5YO gelding is dropping in class and has a pair of 81’s recently. His finishing times and class should prevail over this mixed bag of trotters. Michael Reading seems to do well with class droppers and will play that angle.
Race 8 #5 Plum Grove ML 3/1
This race is like Race 7, a mixed bag of horses and that on paper anyone could win, given the perfect trip. The #5 Plum Grove is really in a nice groove with back to back seconds and improving finishing times. Marcus Miller drives her for the third time and looks poised to win it. So will take the shot and single here.
Race 9 #5 Wand’s Cowgirl ML 5/1 #8 Tinkers Damn ML 7/2 #10 Edita Hanover ML 6/1
Another race where anyone of these girls could win, it’s that wide open. If you can afford it hit the “all” button. After all the hemming and hawing, I landed on #8 Tinkers Damn. This mare knows how to find the board and has decent speed. Also, going with the trainer angle here, Kincley doesn’t have a deep string and his horses do real well. If she gets to the lead she will wire this group.
Race 10 #6 Johnny B Cool ML 4/1 #9 Samstorm ML 3/1 #10 Maximus Meridus N ML 5/1
In this claiming race, five horses are dropping in class. This makes it especially tough to find the right class and speed pairing. Like race #9, if you have the funds hit the “all” button and hope for the bombers to show up. Without that luxury I’m playing #9 Samstorm to win. Last two races have been real strong and feel he is top form, the post is the only downfall for him, but if Wilfong keeps him close he can pass this lot. Of all the droppers, Johnny B Cool is the live one here.
Race 7 #1 Stormont Caviar ML 8/1 #5 Mad Cow Lisa ML 3/1 #6 POW ML 4/1
POW is going to be my choice in this race. This 5YO gelding is dropping in class and has a pair of 81’s recently. His finishing times and class should prevail over this mixed bag of trotters. Michael Reading seems to do well with class droppers and will play that angle.
Race 8 #5 Plum Grove ML 3/1
This race is like Race 7, a mixed bag of horses and that on paper anyone could win, given the perfect trip. The #5 Plum Grove is really in a nice groove with back to back seconds and improving finishing times. Marcus Miller drives her for the third time and looks poised to win it. So will take the shot and single here.
Race 9 #5 Wand’s Cowgirl ML 5/1 #8 Tinkers Damn ML 7/2 #10 Edita Hanover ML 6/1
Another race where anyone of these girls could win, it’s that wide open. If you can afford it hit the “all” button. After all the hemming and hawing, I landed on #8 Tinkers Damn. This mare knows how to find the board and has decent speed. Also, going with the trainer angle here, Kincley doesn’t have a deep string and his horses do real well. If she gets to the lead she will wire this group.
Race 10 #6 Johnny B Cool ML 4/1 #9 Samstorm ML 3/1 #10 Maximus Meridus N ML 5/1
In this claiming race, five horses are dropping in class. This makes it especially tough to find the right class and speed pairing. Like race #9, if you have the funds hit the “all” button and hope for the bombers to show up. Without that luxury I’m playing #9 Samstorm to win. Last two races have been real strong and feel he is top form, the post is the only downfall for him, but if Wilfong keeps him close he can pass this lot. Of all the droppers, Johnny B Cool is the live one here.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Pick 4 selections for Sunday's Guaranteed $25,000 at Balmoral park
Last night was one of those nights where we can groan that Fox Valley Praline broke up our Pick 4 in Race 11. Then we can smile as we hit a minor Trifecta in Race 10 for $30 and the big bonanza when Sporty Gypsy strikes for the win in Race 12 for $63! So while we missed the $1300 payoff in the Pick 4 it wasn’t a total loss. Tonight is the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and another bunch Stakes Elimination races with strong fields. Going to stay with a $24 ticket and almost back to zero on our balance.
Race 7 #1 Joinusforsumefun ML 3/1 #3 Devachan ML 8/1 #7 Fox Valley Absolut ML 9/2
This is a tough race and I left off Temperment. In this race I’m going with Devachan, has been flashing consistent speed figures and two back got shuttled back and then last out was an improvement even though being parked out. Third trip for John Roberts and believe he will get him in good position to win this race.
Race 8 #1 Sugar Bunny ML 5/1 #8 Ole Miss ML 8/1 #8 A Nite To Remember ML 8/1
I’ll admit I’m lukewarm on all the choices in this race. Since I have to go with one, I will play the recent winner moving up in class, Sugar Bunny. Wilfong has won 4 out of 8 with this 6YO mare, and has improving speed numbers.
Race 9 #3 GJ Photo Victory ML 3/1
This is an outstanding gelding going for its fourth in a row. He has excellent speed with Marcus Miller driving. This one is as close as a lock as you can get.
Race 10 #7 Won The Battle ML 9/2 #9 Towneism ML 7/2 #10 Bell Valley Zeke ML 8/1
I’m leaning to #9 Towneism with his consistent speed and two wins in last three. Looking for him to bounce back from last race, has the ability to go wire to wire and wouldn’t be surprised if he does. The surprise in the group is Rejoiceandbeglad, who we have had before and has won. But this trio is just too tough for him.
Race 7 #1 Joinusforsumefun ML 3/1 #3 Devachan ML 8/1 #7 Fox Valley Absolut ML 9/2
This is a tough race and I left off Temperment. In this race I’m going with Devachan, has been flashing consistent speed figures and two back got shuttled back and then last out was an improvement even though being parked out. Third trip for John Roberts and believe he will get him in good position to win this race.
Race 8 #1 Sugar Bunny ML 5/1 #8 Ole Miss ML 8/1 #8 A Nite To Remember ML 8/1
I’ll admit I’m lukewarm on all the choices in this race. Since I have to go with one, I will play the recent winner moving up in class, Sugar Bunny. Wilfong has won 4 out of 8 with this 6YO mare, and has improving speed numbers.
Race 9 #3 GJ Photo Victory ML 3/1
This is an outstanding gelding going for its fourth in a row. He has excellent speed with Marcus Miller driving. This one is as close as a lock as you can get.
Race 10 #7 Won The Battle ML 9/2 #9 Towneism ML 7/2 #10 Bell Valley Zeke ML 8/1
I’m leaning to #9 Towneism with his consistent speed and two wins in last three. Looking for him to bounce back from last race, has the ability to go wire to wire and wouldn’t be surprised if he does. The surprise in the group is Rejoiceandbeglad, who we have had before and has won. But this trio is just too tough for him.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Saturday Night Pick 4 Selections Balmoral Guaranteed $20,000
On Wednesday we got knocked out of the Pick 4 by two longshots. The first one to take us out was Maximus Mereidus N, we had him in the past but thought him overmatched in this one and paid the price for turning my back on him. Then in the last race Tilly Filly went off at 20/1 and won, bringing in a nice $2700+ Pick 4 winner. If you had it congrats! Tonight, we have the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and all four races are Stakes Elimination races. It means good horses and wide open results. Still holding to a $24 ticket here are the horses we are going with.
Race 10 #5 Mystical MJ ML 2/1
This will be the single tonight. She has won four in a row and the Miller team looks tough here. I do like Toshie Special and Pardon, but the #5 speed just dominates this group of 3YO fillies. So we are off to a good start or done early, I believe Mystical MJ will have another easy win.
Race 11 #3 She’s Automatic ML 8/1 #6 Nina Coleada ML 12/1 #9 Fox Valley Touche ML 3/1
I’m going with Nina Coleada is this elimination race. Tossing the last out and looking at those two strong speed figures prior. Has Marcus Miller in the buggy and last time he drove her, she won. I’m looking the #6 to bounce back and take this field. The other threat is Fox Valley Touche.
Race 12 #1 BOI ML 9/5 #3 Sporty Gypsy ML 12/1 #Playin For Keeps ML 8/1
I’m going outside on this one and taking Sporty Gypsy. BOI will be the chalk and has all rights to be the favorite and win, after winning two in a row and super speed fig’s. What I like about the #3 is he has shown speed to go with BOI, has won at various tracks and looking for him to run a strong one here. He is definitely the price play of the Pick 4, and if he can to the front might just go wire to wire. If you want to increase your ticket and add another look at #9 Cole Snap moving up in class and has all the ability to surprise.
Race 13 #2 Fox Valley Yukon ML 4/1 #3 He’s So Hot ML 5/2 #4 Dutch Richman ML 2/1
This is one of those races you want to hit the all button and look for the big price to hit. There is that much contention in this race. I‘ll go total chalk here and take #3 He’s So Hot in this race. Nice consistent speed, 84-84-86-87-85 and three wins in a row, and likes to get to the front. Todd Warren and Roger Welch have a supper ROI together and should win again. The fourth horse here would be the #1 Fox Valley Mercury.
Race 10 #5 Mystical MJ ML 2/1
This will be the single tonight. She has won four in a row and the Miller team looks tough here. I do like Toshie Special and Pardon, but the #5 speed just dominates this group of 3YO fillies. So we are off to a good start or done early, I believe Mystical MJ will have another easy win.
Race 11 #3 She’s Automatic ML 8/1 #6 Nina Coleada ML 12/1 #9 Fox Valley Touche ML 3/1
I’m going with Nina Coleada is this elimination race. Tossing the last out and looking at those two strong speed figures prior. Has Marcus Miller in the buggy and last time he drove her, she won. I’m looking the #6 to bounce back and take this field. The other threat is Fox Valley Touche.
Race 12 #1 BOI ML 9/5 #3 Sporty Gypsy ML 12/1 #Playin For Keeps ML 8/1
I’m going outside on this one and taking Sporty Gypsy. BOI will be the chalk and has all rights to be the favorite and win, after winning two in a row and super speed fig’s. What I like about the #3 is he has shown speed to go with BOI, has won at various tracks and looking for him to run a strong one here. He is definitely the price play of the Pick 4, and if he can to the front might just go wire to wire. If you want to increase your ticket and add another look at #9 Cole Snap moving up in class and has all the ability to surprise.
Race 13 #2 Fox Valley Yukon ML 4/1 #3 He’s So Hot ML 5/2 #4 Dutch Richman ML 2/1
This is one of those races you want to hit the all button and look for the big price to hit. There is that much contention in this race. I‘ll go total chalk here and take #3 He’s So Hot in this race. Nice consistent speed, 84-84-86-87-85 and three wins in a row, and likes to get to the front. Todd Warren and Roger Welch have a supper ROI together and should win again. The fourth horse here would be the #1 Fox Valley Mercury.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Get it done in the $15,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Park tonight!
Last Sunday was another near miss in the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4, we had the first three races nailed. Race 7 started out with all three selections coming in and paying a $60.80 Trifecta. Race 8 Joinusforseomefun scored and our single in Race 9, Lookin’ Ahead went off at 3/1 and paid $7.60 to win. It was Race 10 that was our undoing, when Fax Me and Ajs April Doll came in 1 – 2. Our three selections finished 3-4-5 and the Pick 4 paid a nice $230.10. So the handicapping is solid but those two upset the apple cart. Actually I felt when our single hit we were home free, just another reminder how humbling this sport it. This being Wednesday, it’s the Guaranteed $15,000 Pick 4 at Balmoral, our stake is starting to get low, so we need to hit is this week. Let’s get it done this week!
Race 7 #7 Bellvalley Miracle ML 8/1 #9 Itzalassi ML 7/2 #10 Maranatha Hanover ML 9/2
I thought Maranatha Hanover was going to win last out as a favorite. I like her chances here, the only other speed on the front is the #9 which is usually driven by John Roberts, but since he owns, trains and drives Maranatha Hanover, he is obviously staying with her. Got that feeling this will be her night to return to the winners circle.
Race 8 #3 Leutenant General ML 8/1 #7 Lucky Life ML 6/1 #9 Gar ML 4/1
This was a tough race and there are several in here that could upset the ticket, Rocket Dog and Samstorm being just two. I’m going out on a limb and taking the #3 Leutenant General. Beware the shipper here coming in with good speed and class figures, good final times and has de Long in the buggy. This horse should sweep by this group and pick up a tag.
Race 9 #5 Candy N Apples ML 7/2 #8 Fox Valley Smooch ML 10/1 #9 Kennans Kelli ML 9/2
The #9 is dropping in class with excellent speed and class numbers and is hard to ignore here. The post position is the only thing that hurts this mare chances. While Hitman has a tough run of late, the trainer Joel Smith hasn’t, hitting a ROI of .400 with class droppers. She has an excellent shot here and will take it.
Race 10 #1 Kimberely R ML 4/1
She is by far the class and speed of this lineup. Not a lock with Mandy’s Gold and Plum Grove, but this filly has good front end speed and is in the one hole. If she gets a jump she could go wire to wire. She has won 3 of 6 this summer and ready to do it again. For the .50 Trifecta would add Mandy’s Gold and Chevie Fly Bye (dropping down in class).
Good luck and let's get off the "near misses".
Race 7 #7 Bellvalley Miracle ML 8/1 #9 Itzalassi ML 7/2 #10 Maranatha Hanover ML 9/2
I thought Maranatha Hanover was going to win last out as a favorite. I like her chances here, the only other speed on the front is the #9 which is usually driven by John Roberts, but since he owns, trains and drives Maranatha Hanover, he is obviously staying with her. Got that feeling this will be her night to return to the winners circle.
Race 8 #3 Leutenant General ML 8/1 #7 Lucky Life ML 6/1 #9 Gar ML 4/1
This was a tough race and there are several in here that could upset the ticket, Rocket Dog and Samstorm being just two. I’m going out on a limb and taking the #3 Leutenant General. Beware the shipper here coming in with good speed and class figures, good final times and has de Long in the buggy. This horse should sweep by this group and pick up a tag.
Race 9 #5 Candy N Apples ML 7/2 #8 Fox Valley Smooch ML 10/1 #9 Kennans Kelli ML 9/2
The #9 is dropping in class with excellent speed and class numbers and is hard to ignore here. The post position is the only thing that hurts this mare chances. While Hitman has a tough run of late, the trainer Joel Smith hasn’t, hitting a ROI of .400 with class droppers. She has an excellent shot here and will take it.
Race 10 #1 Kimberely R ML 4/1
She is by far the class and speed of this lineup. Not a lock with Mandy’s Gold and Plum Grove, but this filly has good front end speed and is in the one hole. If she gets a jump she could go wire to wire. She has won 3 of 6 this summer and ready to do it again. For the .50 Trifecta would add Mandy’s Gold and Chevie Fly Bye (dropping down in class).
Good luck and let's get off the "near misses".
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Tough ticket in the Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4 at Balmoral
Last night we had a near miss on a $597.70 Pick 4. We started in good shape with Cole Snap winning Race 10 and then Matt Out Flying solos the 11th. Where we got derailed was in Race 12, when Bring The Rain snuck in and won it. My three selections finished second through fourth, close but no cigar. The last race was a nice ending, as all three choices did indeed come in 1-2-3 and close out a nice Trifecta for $111.60. Our balance is now down to $84.00.
Tonight is the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and it is one tough group of races. The first race, #7 is highly contentious and we could be done before the night even get’s started. We will buy a $24 ticket but in truth we could spend a lot more and still feel vulnerable.
Race 7 #3 Jackson Berlow ML 4/1 #4 Major Male ML 7/2 # Drive’em Cowboy ML 3/1
The major threat to this group are two horses is #1 Fox Valley Saint and #2 Fox Valley Libero but in the end I’m going with Jackson Berlow moving up in class with Miller in the buggy. He won last out with nice consistent figures and real improvement in final times. In the last three races, he has won twice with Miller driving, I lean to recent winners moving up in class.
Race 8 #2 Odds On Moinet ML 7/2 #4 Joinusforsomefun ML 4/1 #9 Ole Miss ML 6/1
I’m staying with Odds On Moinet again, really nice speed pairs of 83-82-83-82 and last out the post really hurt her. Class and speed are tops of this group and yes, A Night To Remember is back in again and blew our card up last weekend, but the #2 is ready to win.
Race 9 #9 Lookin’ Ahead ML 7/2
This 6YO gelding is rounding into form and is set up to take the purse tonight. Excellent class and speed ratings, closed down strongly from way back last week and the Wilfongs have a nice ROI together. Detailer is a threat and an improving Clapton Blue Chip could set up and take it. Overall, Lookin’ Ahead is the one to beat.
Race 10 #1 Mearl Finn ML 8/1 #4 Fox Valley Oracle ML 8/1 #7 Dee Dee Sage ML 4/1
Several familiar faces in this race and many I like but finally landed on #7 Dee Dee Sage at 4/1. Has been improving with each race, and has the speed and class to beat this group. She likes to race up close and I f she can stay out of trouble should tag this one.
Tonight is the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and it is one tough group of races. The first race, #7 is highly contentious and we could be done before the night even get’s started. We will buy a $24 ticket but in truth we could spend a lot more and still feel vulnerable.
Race 7 #3 Jackson Berlow ML 4/1 #4 Major Male ML 7/2 # Drive’em Cowboy ML 3/1
The major threat to this group are two horses is #1 Fox Valley Saint and #2 Fox Valley Libero but in the end I’m going with Jackson Berlow moving up in class with Miller in the buggy. He won last out with nice consistent figures and real improvement in final times. In the last three races, he has won twice with Miller driving, I lean to recent winners moving up in class.
Race 8 #2 Odds On Moinet ML 7/2 #4 Joinusforsomefun ML 4/1 #9 Ole Miss ML 6/1
I’m staying with Odds On Moinet again, really nice speed pairs of 83-82-83-82 and last out the post really hurt her. Class and speed are tops of this group and yes, A Night To Remember is back in again and blew our card up last weekend, but the #2 is ready to win.
Race 9 #9 Lookin’ Ahead ML 7/2
This 6YO gelding is rounding into form and is set up to take the purse tonight. Excellent class and speed ratings, closed down strongly from way back last week and the Wilfongs have a nice ROI together. Detailer is a threat and an improving Clapton Blue Chip could set up and take it. Overall, Lookin’ Ahead is the one to beat.
Race 10 #1 Mearl Finn ML 8/1 #4 Fox Valley Oracle ML 8/1 #7 Dee Dee Sage ML 4/1
Several familiar faces in this race and many I like but finally landed on #7 Dee Dee Sage at 4/1. Has been improving with each race, and has the speed and class to beat this group. She likes to race up close and I f she can stay out of trouble should tag this one.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Guaranteed $20,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Selections & $2 Miller Lites
Last Wednesday was a near miss. We had the first three races in the bag going into the dreaded single. I had selected Maranatha Hanover but also mentioned that Maladar would be tough, and tough he was winning the race. Maladar went off at 5/1 and paid $12.40 to win and the Pick 4 paid out $288.20. So if you added Maladar to your ticket, making it a $48 play you would had an excellent return. I’m going to remind all readers that the Pick 4 is the best value play in horse racing, and at many tracks the takeout is low. Here at Balmoral it’s only 14%! It just shows that with a small investment and tight handicapping you can score some nice returns … consistently. In time I will go back and figure out if I added those horses I mentioned but didn’t add, and increase my tickets how many Pick 4’s would I’d hit so far. Maybe by next Wednesday have those numbers.
So tonight is the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral. Races 10 through 13 and this card is very difficult to play on $24, so more luck will be needed tonight. So enjoy those $2 Miller Lites and $2 grill and here we go with tonight’s selections:
Race 10 #3 Waltakawalcek ML 10/1 #5 Cole Snap ML 5/2 #6 Bell Valley Bill ML 3/1
I like Cole Snap in this race, consistent speed figures, the last two races were strong finishes and just missed. The connections are strong and look perfect to grab the winners circle tonight. This gelding’s speed and class numbers are the tops of this group.
Race 11 #8 Mattoutflying ML 8/1
The #8 is shipping in from Indy and has done well in the claiming ranks posting strong speed figures. Now in the NW class and should dominate this group Marcus Miller is driving and has had good success in the past. Going to single here even though Voomerang will be looming.
Race 12 #3 Parked Onda Street ML 8/1 #6 My Boy Luke ML 3/1 #10 Onhishonor Hanover 4/1
The #6 My Boy Luke has the speed and class edge here. Nice efforts on the road and now back in Crete. Has done well here and Todd Warren has gelding in a nice groove.
Race 13 #8 Niteinthebox ML 9/2 #9 All American Solo ML 3/1 #10 KB’s Robby ML 7/2
This is one tough race, several recent winners and great drivers making picking one difficult. I’m going with #9 All American Solo. He has won 3 in a row, consistent speed and solid final times. Miller and Morales know how to win with this gelding and wouldn’t expect anything different tonight.
Late News: Finally conquered Saratoga! Handicapped Havre de Grace to win the Woodward, the analysis is at http://blog.horseplayersassociation.org/ Good luck and will see you tomorrow night with the selections for the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral.
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