SA 2/15
Mediocre losing week last week with returns of $11.60 leading to a loss of $6.40 bringing meet total down to +$11.40 with top picks only. Fun note from last week is that every single pick finished in the Top 4.
Race 1) #1 Mongolian Empire- Short field in the Santa Anita opener but this one has been working well off the layoff and I think she will like the off track much more than she did on debut.
Race 2) #2 Friday’s at Shady- Given the name and location of Arcadia I would assume its referencing Shady Canyon, a beautiful place to be on a Friday. Besides that, the horse had a monster attempt at a big comeback. Should be a little closer today and ready to MOVE!
Race 3) Handicapped race for Off Turf. If it stays on, pick does not apply. #7 Trust Fund Kitty has had a few solid runs on dirt before and because of those, the pedigree, and a trainer I’m fond of, should be a good main track runner.
Race 4) #1 Sweetener looks like a deserved favorite in the 4th. The experience and cut back in some distance should prove favorable for this 4 year old maiden in the Mullins barn. Especially with a wet track, this should be a strong pick. #7 Gio Pronto- I always like first time Gio Ponti starters but given the track, don’t think this is a winner today but I would use underneath.
Race 5) #4 Enlisting Main Track Pick. Sired by Candy Ride, this horse should be best suited for the anticipated off track. I think this horse has had a perfect training regime leading up to this race and all things included, is a solid play.
Race 6) Originally has my eyes on #1 but third off the claim Peter Miller is going to be my top selection. #5 Conqueror- there is nothing not to like about that last race and if replicated, should produce a win. I think the last will be replicated.
Race 7) Same statute to races 3 and 5 apply, Main Track pick. If this race moves to the dirt, I expect #1 Bezzy to be absolutely FLYING. I like Victor Trujilo training this one and if you take a look back to the most recent dirt experience up north at Fresno, Bezzy was flying, working to close an eleven length gap. Although she came up short, should be indicative of a monster effort today. Pick of the Day.
Race 8) I expect #7 to be a big favorite come post time and for that reason, am willing to take a shot with #3 Harrovian. This is the kind of race Harrovian can win and maybe replicate a win back from May. This is looking like a career effort time circumstance for Harrovian and I think he will have some interest in running late. Worth a few bucks.
Good luck to all!
-Hudson Davis