First off, thanks to The Daily Gallop for posting my selections during the Oaklawn season, and to readers who may have found a useful tidbit here and there. I enjoyed the process.
1st and 2nd: no opinion
3rd: 10-8-2
Cash Me Ousside contended for the lead while on dull rail in route, albeit vs. a weak field, should appreciate return to sprint.
Run Ballerina has finished second twice versus similar.
Stormin’s Shoes was soundly beaten by Run Ballerina last time but is eligible to improve in her second start.
4th: 3-8-2
Drinkwiththeirish was overmatched in starter company last out while racing wide. Better fit today.
Preacher Time has been against the grain of the track several outs this meet.
Mr. Benz is on a winning streak (to my chagrin), bested former handily last time.
5th: 7-8-4
Drexel had troubled trip last out, figures to improve.
Destinedtobeastar comes out of a good try versus winners in Arkansas-bred stake.
My Golden Diablo debuts for Al Stall, who has strong numbers with first starters.
6th: 2-7-1
Sure Thing Sheila faced males last time, a significant class difference at this level.
Icy Dawn has back class, a factor in starter allowance races.
Silvera is speed on the rail.
7th: 6-10-2
Warm Beauty drops in class. Trainer Stanley Roberts has had a good meet.
Go Spread the Word has just one race two years ago. I don’t mind long layoffs for maidens.
Melissa flashed brief speed versus better in her debut. Several big-priced winners at this meet displayed similar form.
8th: 2-9-1
Tikhvin Flew could pay an extra fillip due to hard-to-pronounce name. Overmatched versus Omaha Beach last out.
Breaking News and Mason Dixon make their two-turn debuts but showed eagerness for more ground when sprinting.
9th: 9-8-7
Dance Proposal is on a two-race winning streak. Versatile style.
Alittlecomplicated looked good winning last time but was on the favorable part of the track.
Serious I Candy didn’t get beat too much by the top pick last time.