Sunday 12/26/21 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:09 AM

Fair Grounds (2nd) Big Bella Brown, 7-2
(3rd) Takafumi, 7-2

Golden Gate Fields (3rd) Handsome Account, 7-2
(7th) Vincero Grande, 7-2

Gulfstream Park (1st) Queen Macha, 8-1
(8th) Red Line Overdrive, 7-2

Hawthorne (1st) Talis Park Grad, 3-1
(4th) Score Board, 4-1

Laurel Park (1st) Mad Genius, 7-2
(4th) Where U B, 4-1

Santa Anita (1st) Picota, 4-1
(3rd) Nazuna, 7-2

Tampa Bay Downs (4th) Izshefrosted, 6-1
(5th) Chica Boom, 4-1

Turfway Park (2nd) Super Ready, 3-1
(3rd) Kemba, 9-2

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:10 AM

Jeff Siegel: Santa Anita Analysis/Workout Commentary | Sunday

December 23, 2021

Santa Anita Workout Report, Analysis, Wagering Strategies, & True Odds Calculations
By Jeff Siegel, Handicapper & Analyst

Sunday, December 26, 2021

Specifically designed for the rolling exotic player, Jeff Siegel’s Daily Santa Anita Handicapping Analysis, Wagering Strategies, Workout Commentary, and True Odds Calculations (“TOC”) identify those horses that should be included in daily doubles, pick-3s, pick-4s, pick-5s, and the pick-6.
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The “TOC” quantifies the findings of a personal thoroughbred analytics program that contains in its database the results of every race contested at Santa Anita since 2004. More than 75 critical factors in the fields of class, distance, surface, age, and sex have created 227 individual
algorithms that are highly specific to the race being handicapped. The result is a probability line that reflects each contender’s true odds based on a pure 100 point takeout.

The “TOC” applies its mathematical formula only to non-maiden races. It is suggested that the player utilize the program’s findings to compare each contender’s “true odds” with the morning line and/or actual wagering odds to identify potential overlays and underlays.

Also-eligible runners are not included in any of the calculations until verified as actual starters. When possible, adjustments to the “TOC” will be updated after late scratches.

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Grade Descriptions:
Grade A=Highest degree of confidence
Grade B=Solid Play.
Grade C=Least preferred or pass
Grade X=probable winner but likely at odds too short to play

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RACE 1: Post: 11:00 PT Grade: B
Use: (in order of preference): 11-Crosby Beach; 7-Lottery Pick; 12-Picota

Forecast: As this is penned, we are going to assume that the races will remain on turf (rain was expected in the area Thursday through Saturday). We’ll have an update Sunday morning if there are any surface switches. In a 2-year-old maiden mile grass event that projects to have moderate early fractions, Crosby Beach has a chance to inherit the role as the controlling speed, just has he did last month in a similar event at Del Mar. The juvenile son of Gormley set legitimate fractions, led the way into the lane but then was worn down late while earning a par speed figure for the level. We’re anticipating another forward move today and if the M. McCarthy-trained colt gets over from his outside draw without having to be sent hard (as our pace projection anticipates) he’ll have every chance to lead throughout. Smaller ticket payers can take a stand and use him as a rolling exotic single.

Among those that can be considered as back-ups or savers are Lottery Pick, a race-shape aided fourth in the Cecil B. DeMille S.-G3 last time out but a major player with the return to the maiden ranks, and the first-time gelding Picota, in the frame in all three starts since being imported from England but arguably a bit too one-paced to be completely trusted.

Notable Workouts:

Wellswort (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:02.3h TT). Grade: B-
View Workout Video
In blinkers, broke off a length in front of Picota (5f, 1:02.2h TT) for P. D’Amato and was head-and-head with workmate at the wire, final three furlongs in :36.4, not really asked much, decent enough. May be a tad better than first two local races show, recently gelding, wouldn’t mind seeing him tried on dirt.

Sweet Savant (December 18, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:00.3h TT) Grade: B-
View Workout Video
Broke off about four lengths in front of Noble Hearted (5f, 1:00h TT) in training track drill for P. Eurton and held sway through the lane to finish a half-length in front at the wire, mild coaxing only in the closing stages, splits of :24.4, :36.4 and 1:00.3 on our watches, useful drill for juvenile son of Twirling Candy. Route-type has some ability, but barn has won with just two of its last 49 first-time starters. Probably a down-the-road type at this stage.

Blackadder (December 13, Santa Anita, 5f, :58h TT). Grade: B
View Workout Video
In blinkers, training track team drill for B. Baffert inside Adare Manor (same time), splits of :23.1, :34.2 and :58 flat, both let run most of the way while being ridden along through the lane with Blackadder a neck back at the wire while appearing slightly second best. Fast time for sure but keep in mind the training track is a much quicker surface than the main track. May show more early speed after breaking slowly in his most recent start but not quite sold on him just yet.

Khantaro d’Oro (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:01h). Grade: B-
View Workout Video
In blinkers, worked outside Godsend (5f, 1:01.2h), breaking off a length back and then finishing about a length clear at the wire, final half mile in :23.3 and :48.2 while under strong hand urging through the lane (galloped out far in front). Juvenile by Kantharos is unlike his sire who was very quick; this ridgeling is a one-paced grinding router and probably needs to be close to a moderate early pace to have his best chance.

Picota (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:02.2h TT). Grade: B-
View Workout Video
In blinkers, broke off a length in front of Wellswort (5f, 1:02.3h TT) for P. D’Amato, and wound up head-and-head the wire, neither one asked much but looking solid, final three furlongs in :36.3. Lacks acceleration and his speed figures have stagnated, but at least he’s finished in the money in all three starts since being imported from England. Now a gelding, so that may help.

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RACE 2: Post: 11:33 PT Grade: X
Single (in order of preference): 1-Escape Route

Forecast: Escape Route (TOC=3/5; ML=7/5) has been stuck on seconds (three times) since winning a highly-rated starter’s allowance sprint at Del Mar in early August but his numbers continue to rise and last time out (missed by a neck) the son of Hard Spun earned a career-top 97 Beyer fig, which is eight points better than par for this first-level allowance condition. With the switch to F. Prat (powerful 26% for this barn), the M. Glatt-trained colt shouldn’t have an issue with his rail draw in a small, six-runner field, projecting to settle in the second flight and then having his chance from the quarter pole home.

In the same race Escape Route exits, Sumo (TOC=9/1; ML=9/5 was knocked down to the 7/5 favorite from a cozy outside draw and has absolutely no excuse after enjoying an ideal, in-the-clear stalking trip. His runner-up effort to Triple Tap two runs back seemed decent at the time but we’re thinking it may have been something of a mirage. The analytics don’t like him, either, so for us he’s a play against as the 9/5 morning line second choice.

Notable Workouts:

Escape Route (December 19, Santa Anita, 4f, :48h). Grade: B-
View Workout Video
In blinkers, solo main track drill for M. Glatt, splits of :24.1 and :48 flat, urged some through the lane, okay work, nothing great. Seems to save his best for the afternoon, never off the board in six starts with rising speed figures and still has all of his conditions.

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RACE 3: Post: 12:05 PT Grade: B-
Use (in order of preference): 2-Lava Lane; 6-Nazuna; 7-She’s Devoted; 4-Honor America

Forecast: This Hillside Turf Course sprint for entry-level allowance fillies and mares came up contentious and looks to be stronger than par for the level. Several will be trying it for the first time but have the proper style for the course, including our strong top value pick based on our analytics, Lava Lane (TOC=6/5; ML=6-1) . The daughter of Unusual Heat was visually quite impressive winning a state-bred affair at Del Mar last month, accelerating when room developed in mid-stretch to win going away with a turn of foot that makes her ideally suited for this unique layout. She’s trained well since, and with an extra furlong and a half to work with today she’s very likely to make some serious noise in the final furlong.

Nazuna (TOC=6-1; ML=7/2) sprinted quite well overseas during her juvenile campaign but has two-turned in each of her last six starts. Armed with the always-dangerous route-to-sprint angle, the Irish-bred filly picks up J. Ortiz and seems likely to make a run for it from well off the pace. A nice recent half mile breeze (see below) tells us she’s doing well.

The San Luis Rey Downs-based She’s Devoted (TOC=7-1; ML=4-1) appeared to find five furlongs a bit too sharp when closing well but too late in a similar event at Del Mar last month. It was her first start in 10 months, so she’s likely to produce a forward move with that race behind her and today’s extra distance. She’s a strong fit on speed figures, and though sparingly raced with some issues she could develop for R. Baltas if she can stay sound and string together some races.

Price players may want to find room on their ticket for Honor America (TOC=15-1; ML=20-1) , an Into Mischief filly trying grass and removing blinkers for the first time. She looked nice in a recent breezing training track drill (see below) and may find herself loose on the lead during the early stages.

Notable Workouts:

Lava Lane (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, :59.4h TT). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
In company inside Prince Abama (same time) for P. D’Amato and was under mild coaxing through the lane to be even but a tad the best while earning a strong final time and finishing with something left. Loved her last win, most effective as a late-running turf sprinter and has the style to excel on the Hillside Course.

Noble Hearted (December 18, 5f, 1:00h TT). Grade: B
View Workout Video
Broke off four lengths behind Sweet Savant (5f, 1:00.3h TT) in training track drill for P. Eurton, engaged that one entering the lane but then finished about a half-length back at the wire while being ridden a bit through the lane, appearing slightly second best with yet-to-race maiden juvenile. Was hoping for a bit better, sort of a one-paced type.

Honor America (December 20, Santa Anita, 4f, :49.2h TT). Grade: B-
View Workout Video
No blinkers, breezing in solo training track drill for Ruis, ears up and just galloping through the lane, final three furlongs in :36.4. Probably can improve without blinkers but is still seeking her niche on the local circuit. Maiden win was nice but the other four starts, not so much.

Nazuna (December 17, Santa Anita, 4f, :49.2h). Grade: B
View Workout Video
Solid half mile drill for turf specialist on the main track while even (and going the easier of the two) with Kazan (4f, :49.4h) for L. Powell. Maintains her form in maintenance drill; didn’t get the best of runs in local bow and has room for improvement. Form suggests she may prefer to sprint.

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RACE 4: Post: 12:37 PT Grade: B
Use (in order of preference): 5-Elector; 6-Shaaz

Forecast: Maiden races for 3-year-olds this time of the year don’t usually contain two first-time starters that appear to have major stakes potential but that’s the case with Elector and Shaaz in the field of six that also includes Beholder’s first foal, the Uncle Mo colt Q B One and B. Baffert’s “other” entrant Hopkins, a fast-working son of Quality Road colt that brought $900,000 as a yearling. Make no mistake, Hopkins can run, and if you'd like to include him in rolling exotic play. go right ahead. However, the first two mentioned above are the ones we'll give closest attention to.

Elector is a son of Constitution that was very impressive in a string of workouts last winter before being stopped on and has returned to pick up where he left off in his a.m. drills. The J. Sadler-trained sophomore appears to be loaded with quality, lands F. Prat, and a recent bullet six furlong workout in 1:13 flat (see below) should have him fit enough.

Shaaz, a $1.1 million purchase at the Timonium 2-year-old in training sale in 2020, clearly has had some physical problems but there’s no denying his raw talent. In his most recent workout, the Uncle Mo colt was even but best with the undefeated Malibu S.-G1 entrant Triple Tap (see below), verifying the immense talent he displayed in previous drills. If there’s one concern, it’s that he’s shown a tendency to lug in on occasion and can be difficult to ride (by comparison, Elector is completely straightforward) so of the two we’ll give Elector the edge on top but include both in the various rolling exotics.

Notable Workouts:

Hopkins (December 20, Santa Anita, 4f, :46.3hg). Grade: B
View Workout Video
In blinkers, gate drill inside Uncle Magic (same time) for B. Baffert and looked very good although going a few ticks slower than given on our watches, splits of :23.1, :35 flat and :47.1, mild restraint most of the way, very nice drill while slightly in front when eased up. Seems fit, appears to have plenty of gate zip and is very likely to live and well-meant in his debut based on this drill and those before it.

Q B ONE (December 19, Santa Anita, 6f, 1:13h). Grade: B-
View Workout Video
Broke off a few lengths in front of Missy P. (7f, 1:25h) in a very tough match up for a first-time starter and proved no match for that talented filly in the final furlong, very late changing leads while continuing out to the 7/8 pole several lengths behind at the end under urging, splits of :24.1, :35.3, :47.3, 1:13 flat, tiring late, up in 1:27 flat. Uncle Mo colt from Beholder certainly doesn’t strike us as a win-early type.

Elector (December 18, Santa Anita, 6f, 1:13h). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
Caught him last month in this team drill with Run Snappy (same time), severe restraint early and never really asked much late while head-and-head at the wire, splits of :22.4 and :47.3 on our watches while getting geared up again (had trained very impressively last winter before being stopped on). Haven’t seen his last four drills on video but son of Constitution appears to have a ton of natural ability and should be plenty fit by now. It’ll likely take a very good colt to outrun him.

Shaaz (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:12.4h). Grade: A-
View Workout Video
Brought $1.1 million at the Timonium 2-year-old in training sale in May of 2020 and looked the part in this drill while even but best outside undefeated (and Malibu S.-G1-bound) Triple Tap, splits of :34.4, :59.4 and 1:12.4 over deepish main track, strong restraint down the backstretch before finishing under a hold while wanting to lug in a bit through the lane, a head in front at the wire. Tons of talent but isn’t an easy ride; no telling what he might become if he can overcome his quirkiness in the p.m. Obviously has had problems but is plenty fit by now.

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RACE 5: Post: 1:08 PT Grade: B-
Use (in order of preference): 4-Hit the Road; 2-Friar’s Road; 6-Red Storm Risen

Forecast: Hit the Road (TOC=3/5; ML=8/5) was a vet scratch the morning of the Breeders’ Cup Mile and didn’t breeze again for three weeks, so while his recent tab has been steady (four properly-spaced drills) there’s a possibility that the D. Blacker-trained colt may be a race away. He’s also been a miler throughout his career and this race will be his first over nine furlongs. That said, the son of More Than Ready clearly is the class of this year’s edition of the San Gabriel S.-G1 and his form over the Santa Anita turf track (four wins in six starts) certainly qualifies him as a true “horse for course.” It’s difficult to judge his fitness, as he never been much of a worker on dirt (see below), but we’ll put him on top (but not single him) under the assumption that he’s reasonably fit and ready.

Friar’s Road (TOC=5-1; ML=5/2) is a lightly-raced four-turning-five (11 starts) and may still have some improvement in him. A respectable third in the marathon Hollywood Turf Cup-G2 last month, the son of Quality Road arguably ran his best race when third (beaten a head) in the John Henry Turf Cup-G2 over the Santa Anita lawn two races back. The M. McCarthy-trained colt switches to J. Ortiz and hopefully won’t be given too much to do in a race that projects to have soft early splits.

Red Storm Risen (TOC=5-1, ML=4-1) primarily has performed in conditioned allowance races but he did finish an okay fourth against essentially this level of competition here in the City of Hope Mile-G2 during the fall season. He’ll either be on the lead or in a comfortable stalking position (behind Bob and Jackie) but in either scenario should have his chance to build on his career-top recent overnight win at Del Mar that earned him another chance to tackle graded stakes foes. Toss him in somewhere.

Notable Workouts:

Hit The Road (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:00h). Grade: B-
View Workout Video
In company outside Quick Finish (same time) for D. Blacker, breaking off a length behind and then finishing a long neck back at the wire while being niggled at (workmate breezing), splits of :24 flat, :35.2 and 1:00 flat. Okay work, nothing more, but is a gras specialist and has never looked like much when working on dirt. Was scratched out of the Breeders’ Cup Mile and then didn’t work for almost a month, so it’s hard to be sure how cranked up he is for his first start in nearly three months.

Red Storm Risen (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, :59.3h TT). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
Broke off a few lengths behind Gregory’s Pride (5f, 1:00.1h TT) and was quite keen under stout restraint during the early stages, remained under a tight hold entering the lane but then came off the bridle ever so slightly in the closing stages to win up a neck back at the wire, splits of :24.1, :36 flat and :59.3 for P. D’Amato. Never an easy ride but is a versatile type than win on the lead or from off the pace. Moves into stakes company again in the Sam Gabriel S.-G2.

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RACE 6: Post: 1:40 PT Grade: B+
Use (in order of preference): 4-Hot Rod Charlie; 5-Eight Rings

Forecast: We gave Hot Rod Charlie (TOC=4/5; ML=6/5) a real chance to win the Breeders’ Cup Classic, and while he was never going to beat Knicks Go, we’re convinced he could have finished second had he not been buried on the deep rail every step of the way. Since then, the high-class son of Oxbow has done everything asked of him in the morning (see below) while preparing for this race and then a subsequent trip to Dubai, so we’re anticipating no excuses with a pace-prompting/stalking trip in this year’s renewal of the San Antonio S.-G2 over a mile and one-sixteenth.

Eight Rings (TOC=7-1; ML=4-1) had every chance when enjoying a soft trip in the Native Diver S.-G3 at Del Mar last month but came off the bridle when it mattered and weakened to wind up a disappointing third behind two others entered in this field, Azul Coast and Kiss Today Goodbye. We’re expecting better today. The son of Empire Maker shortens up a half-furlong, removes blinkers (broke his maiden easily in his debut without the hood) and continues to shine in the a.m., easily outworking Azul Coast (see below) just six days ago. The B. Baffert-trained colt, a Grade-1 winner over this track and distance as a 2-year-old, may be able to take this field a long way if not respected on the front end.

Notable Workouts:

Express Train (December 20, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:00h). Grade: B
View Workout Video
Broke off a couple of lengths behind Parnelli (5f, 1:00.2h) and went on by in the closing stages to be a neck in front at the wire without undue pressure, splits of :24 flat, :36.1 and 1:00.1 on our watches, solid drill as usual for J. Shirreffs. Not always dependable in the afternoon but seems in good shape at the present and should fire a good shot in the San Antonio S.-G2. Most effective when relatively close to a moderate pace, always has been kind of a grinder.

Hot Rod Charlie (December 19, Santa Anita, 7f, 1:27.2h). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
Deepish track, so the final time wasn’t fancy, but the D. O’Neill-trained colt appeared on top of his game in this team drill with Nothngoodcomseasy (5f, 1:02.2h), breaking off a few lengths behind and then inhaling that one inside the furlong pole before continuing out to the seven furlong pole and then easing up at the three-quarters, splits of :24.2, :36.3, 1:01.3, 1:13.4 and 1:27.2, mostly on his own. Got stuck on the deep rail in the Breeders’ Cup Classic and got mired down; certainly capable of better and is the one to beat in the San Antonio S.-G2.

Eight Rings (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, :59h). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
Scheduled to remove blinkers in the San Antonio S.-G2 but wore them in this extra sharp five furlong main track drill for B. Baffert while clearly best inside Azul Coastt (5f, :59.2h), splits of :35 flat, :59 flat and 1:11.4 while continuing out to seven furlong pole under light coaxing only, extra sharp. Had no excuse in the Native Diver S.-G2 at Del Mar (perhaps found nine furlongs too far) but can bounce back, especially if he can establish the lead without undue pressure.

Azul Coast (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, :59.2h). Grade: C+
View Workout Video
Outside Eight Rings (5f, :59h) to the top of the lane but then couldn’t stay with him and finished a couple of lengths behind at the wire despite being ridden out. Managed to defeat workmate in Native Diver S.-G2 at Del Mar last month but was no match here. Expected better, question mark, may not be at his best over the Santa Anita main track.

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RACE 7: Post: 2:12 PT Grade: B-
Use (in order of preference): 8-Beyond Brilliant; 4-Zoffarelli

Forecast: Beyond Brilliant (TOC=7/5; ML=5/2) is a perfect three-for-three when he’s able to establish the pace and zero-for-six when he can’t, so unless the talented but enigmatic son of Twirling Candy can get over from his outside draw and outrun the speedy Cane Creek Road before the field hits the clubhouse turn, he’ll be no sure thing to duplicate his Hollywood Derby-G1 10-1 upset victory under the conditions of today’s Santa Anita Mathis Mile. This one mile grass event restricted to 3-year-olds certainly will present quicker fractions than he got away at Del Mar but if he’s amicable to settling just off the pace and then kicking home, he could easily win again from a field that isn’t quite as strong as the one he just beat. The J. Shirreffs-trained colt continues to impress in the a.m. (see below), so we’ll put him on top.

For players seeking a price, Zoffarelli (TOC=8-1; ML=10-1) should be given a close look. The Irish-bred gelding has been victimized in most of his U.S. races by poor trips, traffic trouble, or race shapes that work against his closing style, so we’re willing to toss him in and hope he enjoys a clean journey. The J. Mullins-trained Irish-bred sophomore looked good in a recent training track breeze (see below) and has finished first or second in seven of 11 career starts, so at 8-1 on the morning line he’s worth using on your ticket.

Notable Workouts:

Tarantino (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, :59.4h). Grade: B-
View Workout Video
In blinkers, worked inside Stilleto Boy (5f, :59.2h), breaking off about three lengths in front and then finishing head-and-head at the wire under some urging (workmate breezing), splits of :24.2, :35.4 and :59.3 on our watches. Not bad, but was hoping for better, perhaps he’s more comfortable on turf or synthetic.

Zoffarelli (December 10, Santa Anita, 4f, :49.3h TT). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
Solo training track drill for J. Mullins, easy early and then strong through the lane, final three furlongs in :13 flat and :36.3, never really asked much. Looks good, due for some luck in the afternoon after a series of less-than-ideal trips.

Beyond Brilliant (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:01.4h). Grade: B
View Workout Video
Solo five furlong main track drill for Shirreffs, breezing throughout, final half mile in :24.3 and :49.1 while holding his edge. Most effective on the front end so far (all three of his win have been gate-to-wire) but is a developing type and may be able to stalk and pounce if the race flow demands.

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RACE 8: Post: 2:44 PT Grade: C+
Use (in order of preference): 5-Missy P., 4-Private Mission; 3-Kalypso; 7-Livingmybestlife

Forecast: This year’s edition of the La Brea S.-G1 may be the most challenging race to handicap on the 11-race card. The morning line favorite (8/5) Private Mission may be vulnerable, while comebackers Kalypso and Missy P. could easily be better types now than when last seen. The analytics give no love to Missy P. (TOC=10-1; ML=5/2), but we faith. According to a story by Jay Privman in DRF, she was sent to the sidelines last spring with a breathing problem and subsequently had tie-back surgery, so we’re hopeful she can duplicate the 90 Beyer speed figure that she earned when winning her debut last March. He recent workouts indicate she’s lost none of her speed, and the fact that trainer R. Mandella returns her in a Grade-1 event (even though she still has all of her conditions) is a very strong sign of confidence. There’s plenty of speed signed on, so we’re expecting she’ll enjoy a second flight trip with a legit chance to wear down the leaders in the final furlong.

Private Mission (TOC=2-1; ML=8/5) set suicidal splits in the B.C. Distaff-G1 and stopped to a walk but today against her own age group and backing up to seven furlongs the B. Baffert-trained filly could very well return to winning form. Her sprint numbers are solid but hardly make her a standout, so while we respect her and will use her, she doesn’t really have to win at what probably will be a shorter price than deserved.

Kalypso (TOC=10-1; ML=5-1 is another layoff runner being cold-watered by our analytics, but we’ll still give her a look. Always genuine and consistent when she’s kept around one corner, the so-called “other” Baffert is a two-time stakes winner over the Santa Anita main track and has worked well enough to be fit and ready.

Livingmybestlife (TOC=9/2; ML=5-1 lands the cozy outside post and gives regular jockey J. Hernandez the option to pop and go or stalk and pounce. However, the winner of four of seven career starts will need to produce a career best effort to beat a field of this quality.

Notable Workouts:

Kalypso (December 20, Santa Anita, 4f, :48h). Grade: B
View Workout Video
Solo main tack drill for B. Baffert, :36 flat from the three furlong pole to the wire while working well off the rail and breezing throughout. Seems to have retains all of her speed, been away since April but seems pretty fit.

Private Mission (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, :58.3h). Grade: B
View Workout Video
Much best over Varda (5f, :59.2h), :24.3 to the wire and then galloping out to the seven furlong pole in :37.1. Looked fine though perhaps not as impressive as the blazing final time might indicate. Returns to sprinting in the La Brea S.-G1, wonder if she might be most comfortable over a route of ground.

Missy P. (December 19, Santa Anita, 7f, 1:25h). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
Broke off a couple of lengths behind maiden Q B One (6f, 1:13h), engaged that one quickly while in hand and then was much the best while traveling out to the seven furlong pole, splits of :24.1, :35.3, :47.2, 1:12.2 and 1:25.3 on our watches, a few ticks slower than given but strong, nonetheless. Been away since June but seems to be returning in good shape. Always trains really well.

Livingmybestlife (November 29, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:00.2h). Grade: B
View Workout Video
Caught her about a month ago in this solo main track drill, final half mile in :23.1 and :48 flat, strictly on her own. Maintains her form, should get tested in graded stakes company next time out.

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RACE 9: Post: 3:17 PT Grade: B+
Use (in order of preference): 3-Ultimate Hy; 1-Fantail

Forecast: After perusing her past performance chart, we were surprised to learn that Ultimate Hy (TOC=5-1; ML=4-1) has never sprinted in eight career starts. She gets her chance today. Beaten a neck when second with a career top speed figure in her most recent start at Del Mar in early November, the B. Heap-trained filly prefers to settle early and blast home late and given the type of late kick she can produce over a distance of ground it seems reasonable to expect that her turn of foot will be even more effective down the hill. An easy, healthy series of recent workouts (see below) should have her primed for another forward move, so with regular pilot D. Van Dyke staying aboard we’re expecting this California-bred filly to be difficult to contain in the final furlong.

Fantail (TOC=8/5; ML=5/2) is a non-winner in six starts since being imported from England, though she certainly ran a winning race when nosed out in a turf sprint here over the flat course in late October. A strong series of workouts at San Luis Rey Downs in the interim should have her primed for a major effort, and with the F. Prat/R. Baltas team hitting at a terrific 28% this year with a large sample size she’s a “must use” in rolling exotic play. We’ll try to survive and advance in rolling exotic play using just these two, with preference on top to Ultimate Hy.

Notable Workouts:

Ultimate Hy (November 28, Santa Anita, 4f, :47.3h TT). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
Breezing through the lane in solo training track move late last month, final quarter mile in a sharp :23.3. Has never sprinted but has the turn of foot that should be quite effective shortening up. Would love to see her down the hill.

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RACE 10: Post: 3:49 PT Grade:
Single: 5-Flightline

Forecast: Flightline (TOC=4/5; ML=4/5), a runaway winner by a combined 26 lengths in his first two starts while earning speed figures in both races that would have easily won this year’s Breeders’ Cup Sprint-G1, moves into graded stakes company for the first time and is certain to be the odds-on favorite to take the class hike in stride. A strong, powerful, athletic and agile colt that already has shown the versatility to win on the lead or from a stalking position, the J. Sadler-trained colt has looked terrific as always in recent morning workouts and catches a field that should allow him to dictate the pace flow in any which way he desires. Though today’s seven-eighths trip will be a furlong farther than he’s yet to travel, the extra distance shouldn’t be any issue at all. Anything less than another epic performance will be something of a letdown.

Breeders’ Cup Sprint-G1 runner-up Dr. Schivel (TOC=2-1; ML=5/2) should be able garner enough votes to win the Eclipse Award in the Sprint Division if he can upset the favorite. He’ll certainly deserve the title if he can, but as genuine and consistent as the M. Glatt-trained son of Violence has been, Flightline is a different kind of animal.

American Pharoah’s half-brother Triple Tap (TOC=10-1; ML=5-1), like Flightline a son of Tapit and unbeaten in two starts, has the proper style for seven furlongs but the analytics aren’t bullish on his chances. If he’s going to be a graded stakes type of colt, it’ll probably be down the road over a distance of ground.

Notable Workouts:

Dr. Schivel (December 20, Santa Anita, 4f, :48.1h). Grade: B
View Workout Video
Solo half mile main track drill, niggled at slightly through the lane but looked fine, splits of :12 flat, :23.3 and :47.4 on our watches. Lost a heartbreaker in the B.C. Sprint-G1; faces an arguably tougher assignment today.

Flightline (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:00.1h). Grade: A-
View Workout Video
F. Prat up, a little late changing leads through the lane but was merely galloping every step of the way, effortlessly covering the ground with splits of :23.1, :35 flat and 1:00.1. Plenty fit and ready to resume his brief but spectacular career in the Malibu S.-G1.

Triple Tap (December 19, Santa Anita, 6f, 1:12.4h). Grade: B
View Workout Video
In blinkers, broke off a half-length in front inside highly-regarded yet-to-start maiden Shaaz (same time) for B. Baffert and was slightly second best at the wire while being ridden a bit in the closing stages (workmate under a hold while trying to drift in a bit), splits of :34.4, :59.4 and 1:12.4 while traveling out to the seven furlong pole under some late coaxing. Half-brother to American Pharoah is undefeated in two starts but the form really hasn’t quite held up. Needs to step forward in the Malibu S.-G2.

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RACE 11: Post: 4:20 PT Grade: B+
Use (in order of preference): 5-Going Global; 7-Burgoo Alley; 4-Nicest

Forecast: If she hadn’t been being blocked at a critical stage of the San Clemente S.-G2 in which she finished second, Going Global (TOC=4/5; ML=9/5 would be undefeated from seven starts since being purchased and imported from Ireland. Four of her wins have been accomplished over the Santa Anita turf course, and while today’s American Oaks-G1 will be her first try over 10 furlongs, the extra distance shouldn’t bother her in the least. The P. D’Amato-trained sophomore continues to train in exceptional fashion so there’s no reason to believe she won’t fire another winning shot. She’s 9/5 on the morning line but we suspect will go at least a couple of points lower than that.

Her stable mate, Burgoo Alley (TOC=5/2; ML=6-1), is another that is unproven at this mile and one-quarter distance, but she’s certainly fond of the Santa Anita grass track, having won twice including the Autumn Miss S.-G3 during the fall season. Her speed figures have risen in every one of her six North American starts, and she’ll probably need another significant boost again today, but a series of impressive recent workouts indicate she hasn’t reached her peak just yet. She likely to be stalking or pressing the pace and we’ll find out if she can stay the trip when the pressure is turned on at the head of the lane.

At 8-1 on the morning line, the European Group-1 placed Nicest (TOC=15-1; ML=8-1 is worth including on your ticket as well. An excellent third vs. older fillies and mares in the mini-marathon Red Carpet H.-G3 at Del Mar last month, the daughter of American Pharoah is a tad shy in the speed figure department but is another that clearly has room for further improvement.

Notable Workouts:

Going Global (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:00.4h TT). Grade: A-
View Workout Video
Broke off a long way behind Bacchanalia (5f, 1:02.2h TT) and then inhaled here workmate through the lane in very impressive fashion for P. D’Amato, splits of :24.4, :36.3 and 1:00.4, plenty left without being asked for anywhere near her best. Ready for another super effort.

Burgoo Alley (December 19, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:00.4h TT). Grade: B+
View Workout Video
Broke off a couple of lengths behind Annaghlasa (5f, 1:01h TT) and finished a long neck in front at the wire while in hand throughout and with plenty left, splits of :24.4, :36.2 and 1:00.1 on our watches, faster than given and appearing sharp as a tack. Gets the acid test in the American Oaks-G2 and on paper has to beat her stable mate, Going Global.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:11 AM

Jon White: Santa Anita Stakes Selections | Sunday, December 26

December 22, 2021 | By Jon White

Santa Anita Park presents a terrific 11-race card this Sunday to kick off its long winter-spring meeting.

Six graded stakes races will be contested Sunday.

The trio of Grade I races highlighting this Sunday’s card are the Runhappy Malibu Stakes, La Brea Stakes and American Oaks. These same three Grade I races also were run on last year’s opening-day program. Charlatan won the Malibu as the 8-5 second choice in the wagering. Nashville, the 6-5 favorite, finished fourth. Fair Maiden pulled off a 20-1 upset in the La Brea. Duopoly got the job done in the American Oaks at 6-1.

Sunday’s three Grade II races are the Santa Anita Mathis Mile, San Gabriel Stakes and San Antonio Stakes.

The highly regarded and so far untested Flightline heads the field of seven entered in this year’s seven-furlong Malibu. I installed him as an odds-on morning line favorite.

The Malibu field, in post-position order from the rail out, is comprised of Baby Yoda (6-1), Timeless Bounty (20-1), Stilleto Boy (12-1), Dr. Schivel (5-2), Flightline (4-5), Team Merchants (20-1) and Triple Tap (5-1).

First run in 1952, the Malibu has been won by such outstanding equine athletes as Round Table (1957), Native Diver (1962), Buckpasser (1966), Damascus (1968), Ancient Title (1974), Spectacular Bid (1980), Precisionist (1984), Ferdinand (1986) and Shared Belief (2014).

Runhappy won the 2015 renewal and was voted a 2015 Eclipse Award as champion male sprinter.

More recent editions have been won by such quality runners as Mind Your Biscuits (2016), City of Light (2017), McKinzie (2018), Omaha Beach (2019) and Charlatan (2020).

Two of this year’s Malibu entrants, Flightline and Baby Yoda, are tied for sporting the highest Beyer Speed Figure so far in 2021. They each have recorded a 114 Beyer this year.

In Baby Yoda’s first three career starts, his Beyer Speed Figures were 69, then 79, then 93. In his fourth race, the Florida-bred Prospective gelding skyrocketed to a 114 Beyer when he won a 6 1/2-furlong allowance affair by 4 1/4 lengths in 1:14.33 at Saratoga on Sept. 4.

The day after Baby Yoda reached 114 on the Beyer scale, Flightline matched the figure when he won a six-furlong allowance/optional claiming race by 12 3/4 lengths in 1:08.05 at Del Mar. In his only previous start, the Kentucky-bred Tapit colt had won a six-furlong maiden special weight race by 13 1/4 lengths in 1:08.75 at Santa Anita on April 24.

Below are Beyer Speed Figures of 110 or higher in 2021 through Dec. 21:

BSF Horse (Race, Track, Date)

114 Flightline (alw/opt claimer, Del Mar, Sept. 5)
114 Baby Yoda (allowance, Saratoga, Sept. 4)
113 Knicks Go (Cornhusker Hcp, Prairie Meadows, July 2)
112 Knicks Go (BC Classic, Del Mar, Nov. 6)
111 Hot Rod Charlie (Pennsylvania Derby, Parx, Sept. 25)
111 Knicks Go (Whitney, Saratoga, Aug. 7)
110 Jackie’s Warrior (Gallant Bob, Parx, Sept. 25)
110 Walton Street (Canadian International, Woodbine, Sept. 18)

It appears that Flightline is the speed of the speed in the Malibu. It does not look like anyone is fast enough to go with him early. Considering how marvelous he has looked drawing off in the stretch in his two starts, if he does get the jump on his rivals Sunday, it will be a tall task for anyone to beat him.

Flavien Prat has been aboard Flightline in both of his races. Prat’s also been riding Malibu contenders Dr. Schivel and Triple Tap.

Prat has opted to stick with Flightline in the Malibu. It seems fair to consider this a huge endorsement on the rider’s part.

John Sadler trains Flightline. For me, Flightline’s two scintillating performances remind me of what the Sadler-trained Melair did as a 3-year-old filly in the Grade II Silver Screen Handicap at Hollywood Park in 1986. Melair was breathtaking that day.

I called the 1986 Silver Screen chart for the Daily Racing Form. Sent away at odds of 9-5, Melair won by 6 1/2 lengths while completing one mile around one turn in a marvelous 1:32.80. It was at the time the fastest mile that had ever been run by a filly or mare.

Southern Halo finished second in the field of 12. Snow Chief ended up third as the 3-5 favorite, 11 lengths behind Melair.

Snow Chief, who earlier in the year had won the Grade I Preakness Stakes, was voted the 1986 Eclipse Award as champion 3-year-old male.

Melair never raced again after the Silver Screen. She won all five of her career starts.

Sadler has taken a patient approach with Flightline. The decision was made to take their time and go for the Malibu in late December rather than rush him into the Grade I BC Sprint in early November.

“He’s trained up to the race super,” Sadler was quoted as saying Monday in Ed Golden’s Santa Anita stable notes. “We’ve had our eye on the Malibu for a couple of months. It’s the right conditions, 3-year-olds, a Grade I at seven-eighths, which we think is going to be a good distance for him. It will be his first time against better horses, but we’re excited about the challenge.”

Flightline races for the partnership of Hronis Racing, West Point Thoroughbreds, Summer Wind Equine, Siena Farm and Woodford Racing.

A comment made by Kosta Hronis of Hronis Racing to BloodHorse’s Lauren Gash is an indication of the high expectations for Flightline.

“Flightline, he’s not our horse; I think he’s going to be America’s horse,” Hronis said.

Terry Finley, president and CEO of West Point Thoroughbreds, addressed skipping the BC Sprint with Gash.

“Flightline ran so well in September, while tempting, it didn’t take John [Sadler] long to decide and ascertain that he did not want to take that big of a step and run him in the Breeders’ Cup,” Finley said. “The Malibu is logical, especially when we are so excited about 2022 with this horse. We are all in unison. When you have one like this, you can’t wait for them to run, while we all know that no matter the outcome that this was the right path.

“I’ve been doing this for 30 years. We [West Point] have won almost 1,000 races and run in something like 5,600 overall. And I honestly can’t remember a spot or a particular race where I have been more excited about, or the anticipation this high.”

Dr. Schivel merits the utmost respect in the Malibu. Trained by Mark Glatt, the Kentucky-bred Violence colt had a five-race winning streak snapped when he finished second the BC Sprint. He ran too good to lose that day. Dr. Schivel lost by a scant nose to Aloha West.

In Dr. Schivel’s final start prior to the Breeders’ Cup, he won the Grade I Santa Anita Sprint Championship by 3 1/4 lengths on Oct. 2, a race in which he recorded a career-high 103 Beyer Speed Figure. He was credited with a 100 Beyer for his narrow defeat in the BC Sprint.

What made Dr. Schivel’s Oct. 2 triumph all the more impressive is he won with authority even though Prat lost the use of his right rein early in the race owing to an equipment malfunction. It was a tremendous exhibition of riding prowess on the part of Prat.

Meanwhile, Triple Tap certainly should not be taken lightly in the Malibu. He’s two for two. He won going away both times. How good is he? Who knows? We should have a better idea after he gets tested against the likes of Flightline and Dr. Schivel.

Triple Tap won a seven-furlong maiden special weight race by 4 1/4 lengths when unveiled at Santa Anita back on March 13. He recorded an 83 Beyer Speed Figure. Triple Tap did not race again until he roared home to win a six-furlong allowance/optional claimer by 2 1/4 lengths in an excellent 1:08.44 at Del Mar on Nov. 5. His 97 Beyer showed significant improvement in that department.

What adds to Triple Tap’s appeal is his breeding. Not only is the Kentucky-bred Tapit colt a half-brother to Triple Crown winner American Pharoah, he is a full brother to Grade I winner Chasing Yesterday.

Inasmuch as Triple Tap has two wins in two starts, a wonderful pedigree and several sharp workouts since his Nov. 5 victory, it will not be surprising if he has a big say in the Malibu.

Below are my selections for all six stakes races on Santa Anita’s opening-day card:

Grade II San Gabriel Stakes (Race 5). 1. Hit the Road, 2. Friar’s Road, 3. Red Storm Risen, 4. Ready Soul.

Grade II San Antonio Stakes (Race 6). 1. Hot Rod Charlie, 2. Eight Rings, 3. Express Train, 4. Azul Coast.

Grade II Santa Anita Mathis Mile (Race 8). 1. Beyond Brilliant, 2. Du Jour, 3. Flashiest, 4. None Above the Law.

Grade I La Brea Stakes (Race 8). 1. Private Mission, 2. Livingmybestlife, 3. Missy P., 4. Kalypso.

Grade I Runhappy Malibu Stakes (Race 10). 1. Flightline, 2. Dr. Schivel, 3. Triple Tap, 4. Baby Yoda

Grade I American Oaks (Race 11). 1. Going Global, 2. Fluffy Socks, 3. Closing Remarks, 4. Burgoo Alley.

POWIS CASTLE’S MALIBU PRODUCED BIG BEYER

The 2021 American Racing Manual, which now is digital only and available for free on The Jockey Club’s website, lists Beyer Speed Figure for Malibu winners going back to 1991.

The highest Beyer by a Malibu winner is Powis Castle’s 113 in 1994. Pat Valenzuela was the winning rider. Rodney Rash trained the Kentucky-bred son of Rare Brick. Motown Records owner Berry Gordy’s Vistas Stables owned the colt.

Gordy recently was one of the five 2022 John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts honorees for lifetime artistic achievements.

“The Kennedy Center Honors celebrates luminaries whose art and creativity have enriched us beyond measure,” chairman David M. Rubenstein is quoted as saying on the website www.kennedy-center.org.

The other individuals honored on Dec. 5 were operatic bass-baritone Justin Diaz, “Saturday Night Live” creator Lorne Michaels, legendary stage and screen icon Bette Midler and singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell.

Rubenstein said: “Visionary music producer and songwriter Berry Gordy brought the quintessential soulfulness of Detroit into every home in America, elevating the Motown sound to become a national treasure.”

This also was written of Gordy on the Kennedy Center’s website: “A man of vision, drive, talent and determination, Berry Gordy became a boxer, songwriter, producer, director and entrepreneur, and founded Motown -- the hit-making enterprise born in Detroit, Mich. He discovered and nurtured the careers of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles; Diana Ross and The Supremes; Stevie Wonder; Michael Jackson and The Jackson 5; Marvin Gaye; Lionel Richie and the Commodores; Martha Reeves & The Vandelllas; The Temptations; Gladys Knight & The Pips; and many other musical greats and is responsible for the ‘Motown Sound’ that reached across a racially divided, politically and socially charged country, to transform popular music.”

I kid you not, while I was typing the above paragraph, Marvin Gaye’s 1971 song “What’s Going On” came on while I was listening to the music streaming on “That 70’s Channel.” That Motown hit is one of my all-time favorite songs. I bought that 45 record. If you are interested in further information regarding the song, check out the Wikipedia link: What's Going On (Marvin Gaye song - Wikipedia)

In addition to being a boxer, songwriter, producer, director and entrepreneur, Gordy has been an owner of racehorses, such as Argument and the aforementioned Powis Castle.

After Argument finished second in the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in France in 1980, Gordy and Bruce McNall paid over $1 million to buy the colt. Flown to the U.S., Argument won the Washington, D.C., International that year at Laurel. The Washington, D.C, International pretty much was the Breeders’ Cup Turf of that time.

Powis Castle won three of four starts, all in sprints, as a 2-year-old in 1993. His victories came in a Churchill Downs maiden special weight race, a Churchill allowance race and the Turfway Park Prevue Stakes back when they raced on dirt there.

Anthony Reinstedler trained Powis Castle in 1993. Rash, a former assistant to the great Charlie Whittingham, then took over the training duties.

In Powis Castle’s first two 1994 starts, he finished second to Tabasco Cat in Santa Anita’s Grade II San Rafael Stakes, then again ran second when defeated by Polar Expedition in Turfway’s Grade II Jim Beam Stakes.

Gordy then had the thrill of having a starter in the Kentucky Derby. Powis Castle, with Chris Antley in the saddle, finished eighth on a sloppy track at odds of 20-1 in the field of 14. Go for Gin, ridden by Chris McCarron, won for trainer Nick Zito. Strodes Creek, trained by Whittingham, finished second. Blumin Affair, conditioned by Jack Van Berg, came in third.

Powis Castle subsequently finished ninth in the Preakness Stakes, which was won by Tabasco Cat. In his next start, he won a division of Del Mar’s Oceanside Stakes on the grass.

After the Oceanside, Powis Castle lost four straight before capturing the 1994 Malibu, which at the time had Grade II status. Sent off at 7-1, he completed seven furlongs in 1:20.96.

Though Powis Castle registered a splendid 113 Beyer Speed Figure in the Malibu, he won just two of his next 13 starts before being retired.

Rash died at the age of 36 on March 1, 1996, from the rare blood disorder thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. That was before Powis Castle’s racing career was over. Ben Cecil became the trainer for Powis Castle’s final three starts.

Below are the Beyer Speed Figures for Malibu winners going back to 1991:

2020 Charlatan (107)
2019 Omaha Beach (101)
2018 McKinzie (103)
2017 City of Light (102)
2016 Mind Your Biscuits (107)
2015 Runhappy (102)
2014 Shared Belief (99)
2013 Shakin It Up (106)
2012 Jimmy Creed (105)
2011 The Factor (106)
2010 Twirling Candy (108)
2009 M One Rifle (102)*
2008 Bob Black Jack (108)*
2007 Johnny Eves (94)*
2006 Latent Heat (109)
2005 Proud Tower Too (105)
2004 Rock Hard Ten (100)
2003 Southern Image (108)
2002 Debonair Joe (95)
2001 Mizzen Mast (106)
2000 Dixie Union (104)
1999 Love That Red (102)
1998 Run Man Run (107)
1997 Lord Grillo (110)
1996 King of the Heap (99)
1995 Afternoon Deelites (103)
1994 Powis Castle (113)
1993 Diazo (104)
1992 Star of the Crop (104)
1991 Olympio (112)

*Run on a synthetic surface

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:11 AM

Grand Prix Boxing Day Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 26)

The final racing day of 2021 is on Boxing Day and it features the traditional season ending Grand Prix Stakes. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Twelve previously unraced juvenile fillies open the Boxing Day card. She’s drawn wide but we’ll go with (12) CONCORD QUEEN, who did at least record the fastest time among any of these in her trial. The track was wet and fast but that was true for most of these in their respective heats. She said just off the pace and ran through the line well and has strong claims first-up. The only trial winner is (6) SIRIUS ALPHA, which might be enough to make her favourite. She led all the way in her trial in a fair time and from a good draw is likely to be leading again. (4) DOLBAE posted a decent time in her trial and from a good gate and with a top jockey booking is set to be backed. (3) K N OLD QUEEN and (8) LAST PUNCH are others in the hunt.
Selections (12) Concord Queen (6) Sirius Alpha (4) Dolbae (3) K N Old Queen
Next Best 8, 9
Fast Start 1, 4, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with eight of the fourteen racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on one of those first-timers as (2) USURP ran a strong 2nd in his trial on a fast time, running through the line well. Starting out at 1200M may suit and he gets a great draw. (6) OCEAN STORM won a trial before debuting on November 19th, when she ran on on-pace 2nd over 1000M. She should have come on for the experience and will be expected to be close here. (9) SKY JEJUHYANG also won a trial before performing adequately on debut when she ran 3rd at 1000M sitting handy throughout and is another who may well have come on. Other debut-makers (8) GRAND SUN and (14) JOSEPHINE QUEEN also won their trials and can enter the calculations. Watch the market for any clues.
Selections (2) Usurp (6) Ocean Storm (9) Sky Jejuhyang (8) Grand Sun
Next Best 14, 1
Fast Start 1, 2, 6, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(6) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE has raced twice, improving in the latter to a strong 2nd over 1000M on November 27th. She steps up in trip for the first time but there is nothing to indicate it won’t suit and from a probable on pace or handy position, she can win. (4) TAEYANGMA had a hard time from a wide gate when sent off as favourite over this distance on November 28th, ultimately finishing 6th. From a much better draw today, he must be given another chance. (2) BURUI KKOT ran 4th behind Neoreul Eongwonhae at start number two on November 27th, running on well from a wide draw. The gate is much better today, and she comes down another 2kg to just 50kg which should put her in the finish. (8) WONDERFUL KITTY and (12) MAGIC RUSH are others with at least placing chances in an open race.
Selections (6) Neoreul Eungwonhae (4) Taeyangma (2) Burui Kkot (8) Wonderful Kitty
Next Best 12, 7
Fast Start 5, 6, 13, 14

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s time that (9) CATCH THE SKY got his maiden win and bade farewell to the lowest level of racing. He comes in following a 2nd and a 4th at this distance, registering the fastest time among these for the mile along the way. He goes back and runs on and he can win here. (3) YEONSEUNG BRAVO beat three of these on his way to 2nd place over this distance on December 5th when sitting handy throughout. The same apprentice rider keeps the weight down again and from a nice draw he can be close at hand again. (1) RAON THE MILLION was 4th in that race having led until the home straight. He draws the inside here and should be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (4) BARBELL STORM and (13) CARIBBEAN DAY are others in the frame for places.
Selections (9) Catch The Sky (3) Yeonseung Bravo (1) Raon The Million (4) Barbell Storm
Next Best 13, 8
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(4) HEUNGHAENG DAEBAK came close to winning on debut on December 4th when leading almost the entire way around over this distance only to be denied late on by Wonderful Sam. The time was good, albeit on a wet track, and from an ideal gate he should lead again and have too much for this ordinary looking field. (12) BIG ENERGY took a few starts to figure out what he was meant to be doing but his recent form reads quite well. With three 4th place finishes and a 2nd. Alan Munro climbs aboard today which catches the eye and further improvement is possible. (14) BYEORAK also seems to be getting there with a 4th place when stepped up to 1200M last start. The extra half furlong may help him get closer again. He has a bad draw, though, unlike (2) ALL FOR YOUR DREAM, who has a runner-up finish and a pair of 5ths from three starts so far. He may be ridden a bit closer a bit earlier this time around and can be in the finish. (8) SUNNY BLADE another in the hunt.
Selections (4) Heunghaeng Daebak (12) Big Energy (14) Byeorak (2) All For Your Dream
Next Best 8, 3
Fast Start 2, 3, 4, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Very tricky race with plenty of credible contenders. If it wasn’t for the draw, (14) LANE KILLER might be a more confident top pick. He was a good winner at class 6 level over a mile and has run 2nd and 5th in two goes at this class and distance. He was ridden quite hard to get and early lead last time but given the extreme wideness this time he may just be dropped in, and it may end up paying dividends. (4) HONEY STAR has no problems with the draw, He steps back up in trip after a decent 4th over a mile at his latest start and has had the beating of a few of these in his last two outings. He is versatile but likely to be on or close to the pace here and has solid claims. So too (1) GOLDEN KAISER, who has been knocking at the door in his recent efforts and should get a good run from the inside gate. (11) GEUMA GOOD POINT ran 3rd to Lane Killer’s 2nd on November 19th having led for much of the race. Expect to see him up front early again. (8) THE FIRST FACTOR possibly the best of a competitive rest.
Selections (14) Lane Killer (4) Honey Star (1) Golden Kaiser (11) Geuma Good Point
Next Best 8, 2
Fast Start 1, 4, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A big and very competitive field. We’ll go with (7) WINNER IS WELL, who returned from six months out to run a strong 3rd at class and distance. He draws marginally better today and may well have come on for that run and has as good a chance as any. (5) CHALLAN HANNAL had a hard time when tried at 1700M at his latest start but should be much happier back at a distance at which he has the fastest time among those here who have tried it. (2) YEONGWANGUI CAPTAIN ran a good 4th on his first try at this distance on October 23rd. He came from midfield that day but should be on pace here and can go close. (3) RAON THE TEUKGEUP comes up in class and in distance having scored over 1200M in November. He ran on strongly and can measure up here. (14) WORLD RACER is a perfect one for one and while he comes up in class and distance and draws the widest gate, all of those can be overcome. He swept home like an express train in that debut win at 1200M and shouldn’t be ruled out here.
Selections (7) Winner Is Well (5) Challan Hannal (2) Yeongwangui Captain (3) Raon The Teukgeup
Next Best 14, 10
Fast Start 2, 7, 8, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Another tricky race. (11) I WILL BE FREE struck at start number two on November 21st having run 2nd on his debut. Both were at 1000M but the way he ran suggests the slight increase today won’t be an issue and he has every chance of making it two in a row. Having won an October trial, (12) CAPTAIN YANKEE debuted over this distance on November 11th, making all to win very easily. He comes up in class today and the draw isn’t ideal as he will want to lead again, but he will be vying for favourite status. (2) GEUMBIT SKY, on the other hand, draws very nicely. He too was a front-running winner over this distance at class 6 level at his latest start, when he was returning from five months off and looking significantly better. He should be in the finish again here. Similarly (13) SHY DRAGON, another all the way winner at class 6 level last time, although in her case over 1000M, can measure up in this company too. If you prefer experience at this level already then (8) ECHO MOON might be one to consider.
Selections (11) I Will Be Free (12) Captain Yankee (2) Geumbit Sky (13) Shy Dragon
Next Best 8, 6
Fast Start 2, 11, 12, 13

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Four of these raced each other at class and distance on December 4th. (4) JOEUN GWANGYE was sent off as favourite that day, off the back of a fast 4th over 1400M the start before. He only managed to come 3rd in the end having gone back and run on but is probably worth another chance in similarly weak company today. That day’s winner was (3) RUFFIAN PARK. He was securing his maiden triumph at start number eighteen and sat handy throughout before finishing off well. He comes up 2kg in the weights but has claims again. (11) MAGIC JOY was a good winner on his first try at this distance at class 6 level in November. This isn’t the toughest of races to try class 5 for the first time and he should be competitive. (6) RUN RUN RUN is yet to win but has been consistent and has placed at both his last two starts, both at this distance. He came from a long way back to be a close 3rd at his latest outing and can be dangerous here. (2) JIGEUMYEOGIE, from a nice draw, is another in the frame.
Selections (4) Joeun Gwangye (3) Ruffian Park (11) Magic Joy (6) Run Run Run
Next Best 2, 10
Fast Start 1, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Fillies (and one mare) here. (2) SEUNGNI MAGICQUEEN races for the first time since running 6th in the Luna Stakes, the first leg of the filly Triple Crown back in October, when she was the first Busan-based runner to cross the line. Prior to that she registered back-to-back wins up to 1300M at class 5 level. Form a good draw she should be close to the pace here and should be returning to winning ways. (11) ADELE ROSARIO comes up in class after a smart all the way win over 1200M on November 21st. Prior to that she was considered good enough to be given her chance in the Gimhae Mayor’s Cup and while that didn’t work out, she evidently has talent. While she is the only juvenile in the race, she should have the beating of plenty. (3) FLAT BABE was a winner at this class over 1400M two starts back and while she could only manage 6th over a mile at her latest start, she warrants another chance here. (14) MISS INDIE and (5) SONHADOR among several others with strong claims.
Selections (2) Seungni Magicqueen (11) Adele Rosario (3) Flat Babe (14) Miss Indie
Next Best 5, 8
Fast Start 1, 2, 4, 11

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Having won at this class over 1700M on November 27th, (1) UNICORN ALPHA comes up 3kg in the weights but is nevertheless favoured to prevail again. He ran on very strongly late on and the additional half furlong can be in his favour here. (3) BERRING MAN was favourite in that race and ended up running a close 2nd. He too comes up in the weights and while he should go close, may have to settle for a place again. (4) MUNHAK ENCORE was an all the way winner over 1700M at this class on December 4th. He is up considerably in weight but that is marginally offset by a better draw today and he should be leading again and in the mix for a long way around. (5) JEONGSANG KINGDOM and (9) NORTHERN TIME are others with at least placing claims.
Selections (1) Unicorn Alpha (3) Berring Man (4) Munhak Encore (5) Jeongsang Kingdom
Next Best 9, 2
Fast Start 2, 4, 6, 9

Busan Race 6: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

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Having beaten four of these when 2nd over 1200M at this class on November 26th, (6) COPY THAT is set to be a hot favourite here. He previously ran 4th at this distance on a fast time and with an apprentice jockey meaning he carries next to no weight, looks hard to beat. (4) WONDERFUL KING has been a model of consistency of late and comes up in class after a win over 1200M in November. Two starts back he ran a strong 3rd at this distance and down in the weights and drawn well, he can measure up in this company. (8) NICE ONE ran 3rd behind Copy That in the November 26th race, his second consecutive 3rd place at class and distance and he should be there or thereabouts again while (11) DOCTOR SKY and (7) REVERSE SWEEP are among others who can enter the calculations.
Selections (6) Copy That (4) Wonderful King (8) Nice One (11) Doctor Sky
Next Best 7, 3
Fast Start 2, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) SEUNGBUSA is a winner of two from four and returns to action for the first time since running 3rd in the Nonghyup Chairman’s Cup on October 31st. He was scheduled to run in the Breeders’ Cup at Busan at the start of this month but had a setback a few days before the race. He has been back in work since December 8th. He has plenty of speed about him and from a great draw should be far too good here. (11) CHOEGANG QUEEN has never finished outside the top four in six outings to date and comes in off a good 2nd place at class and distance on November 21st when she drew similarly wide. She only comes up 1kg in the weights for that and should be going close. (10) LUCKY WORLD had a tough day at the office on his first try at this class at the end of November but warrants another chance here. (13) JILJU DAERO and (9) FEVERDINI among others who can go close.
Selections (3) Seungbusa (11) Choegang Queen (10) Lucky World (13) Jilju Daero
Next Best 9, 7
Fast Start 3, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 1 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 110 Million

A really good race. We’ll take a chance on the up and coming locally bred (9) MACH TITAN. Since a disappointing – albeit fast – 6th place in the KRA Cup Mile, he has registered back-to-back wins at a mile and 1400M to bring him up to this class. It is a quantum jump to class 1, but he doesn’t know that (although he will find out once they jump), he comes down a full 6kg in the weights and there is no doubting his turn of foot. (1) DOCTOR CARSON is the probable favourite. He, like many others, had a hard time in the Owners’ Cup at his latest start and it is fair to say the mile is a question mark with him. Nevertheless, he should be in the finish. (3) BARBARIAN too didn’t find it easy in the Owners’ Cup although for him there are no doubts about the distance. He carries a light weight and from a great draw has strong claims. (7) SSONSAL is another more noted as a sprinter but whose class may see him through while (8) BRAVE KINGDOM must be considered after a surprise win over several of these at 1400M at the end of November.
Selections (9) Mach Titan (1) Doctor Carson (3) Barbarian (7) Ssonsal
Next Best 8, 2
Fast Start 1, 3, 9, 10

Seoul Race 8: Class Open (2300M) Grand Prix (KOR G1) Allowance / KRW 650 Million

(3) MOONHAK CHIEF won this race two years ago and at his latest start when second-up from a spell he carried 60kg over 1800m when he raced handy to the lead and ran on to win. Very much up a grade here but drops back to 57kg and with a nice draw should get a cozy run. A repeat isn’t impossible. (12) MR. AFLEET has swept all before him recently, last start winning the KRA Classic over 2000M when he worked hard early to be on the pace and battled away strongly to the line making it win number ten and his first at Group level. It was a terrific run and he’s worth a great deal of consideration. (8) HAENGBOK WANGJA is an up and comer having just been promoted to class 1 before running a great race in the KRA Cup Classic, being on the pace and momentarily leading at the 200m before coming again at the finish. It was a super effort that day and he has a kinder draw here. (9) TIZ PLAN doesn’t know how to run a bad race and at his last start when second up from a spell was a good 2nd in the Busan Owner’s Cup over 1600M. He’s been unplaced only once in his last nine starts over the staying journey. (7) JJANG KONG among others to consider.
Selections (3) Moonhak Chief (12) Mr. Afleet (8) Haengbok Wangja (9) Tiz Plan
Next Best 7, 10
Fast Start 1, 6, 15, 14

Seoul Race 9: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

If she is at her best, (6) JEDI is the one to beat here. She ran a terrific 2nd in the Luna Stakes before finishing down the field in the Oaks but drops back into more amenable company and a shorter trip here. She has posted fast times at the distance and has a great chance. (4) GWANGYANG EUTTEUM comes in off a last start win at this distance when he raced forward and finished off well. He is up in class here, drops 2.5kg and has a nice draw. (3) EAST IMPACT is always competitive. He enters following a good 2nd at this class and distance and can’t be left out. Disregard the latest start of (12) JEONGMUN JIJON when asked to go over 1700M. He is back to a more suitable trip today and a repeat of his performance when last winning at class 5 would have him in the finish here. (5) POWER TOWER is a mare Power Tower Mare who will be at good odds, but she has run fast times consistently and draws well here. She can settle back and run on.
Selections (6) Jedi (4) Gwangyang Eutteum (3) East Impact (12) Jeongmun Jijon
Next Best 5, 2
Fast Start 4, 9, 10, 14

Seoul Race 10: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(2) RAON FASHION was a winner at this class and distance in a super time two starts back and then at his latest he set up a big lead only to be run down on the line. He is nicely drawn to lead again today, and this time can hold on. The probably favourite is (4) MIGHTY GEE. He has been ultra-consistent across his starts to date and drops back in trip following an excellent 3rd from a wide gate in a good race over 1400M. He can sit just off the pace and run on. (5) MORNING HILL is a last start winner at this distance when he sat on pace and ran away from them in the straight. He is up in class but a little down in weight and nicely drawn. (11) SAENAE SUN is the winner of her last two starts, both at this distance, which brings her up in class and down in weight. She may need a bit of luck from the wide barrier but has claims. (6) GLOBAL SINHWA has placed in all his race starts so far and has every chance of maintaining that record in a competitive race.
Selections (2) Raon Fashion (4) Mighty Gee (5) Morning Hill (11) Saenae Sun
Next Best 6, 3
Fast Start 2, 3, 5, 6

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:11 AM

The horse racing tips for Sunday, December 26, 2021

The Quinté + of Sunday December 26 is scheduled at the Vincennes racecourse in the discipline of trotting. Find below our predictions for this race as well as our bet of the day and our bet of madness in two other races on the menu of the day.
THE PRONOS OF THE QUINTE OF DECEMBER 26th
Mathieu Zaccagnini

3 Hohneck (FAVORI)

It shows exemplary consistency in competition and it is well behind the autostart.

2 Havanaise (OUTSIDER)

She keeps improving over the course of her outings and she easily won one of the benchmark races.
Lionel charbonnier

5 Helgafell

His experience at this level should allow him to play the leading roles.
BET OF THE DAY
Meeting 1 (Vincennes) – Race 7: 12 Ampia Mede Sm

The new Vincennes sensation should get its ticket to America. Refurbishment expected!
THE MADNESS BET
Meeting 1 (Vincennes) – Race 2: 1 Modern History

Unlike her last outings, she will be barefooted. It can surprise.

Dimitri Blanleuil Journalist RMC Sport

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:12 AM

Santa Anita Picks & Rainbow Pick 6 Betting Analysis for December 26: Opening Day
By J.N. Campbell

SANTA ANITA PARK Picks
26th December 2021

Race 1 : 12-7-11-8
Race 2 : 1-5-3-4
Race 3 : 6-1-9-7
Race 4 : 6-5-1-2
Race 5 : 6-4-2-3
Race 6 : 4-7-2-3
Race 7 : 9-1-6-4
Race 8 : 1-4-6-3
Race 9 : 6-5-9-7
Race 10 : 5-4-7-1
Race 11 : 9-4-3-5
View Today's SANTA ANITA PARK Entries

Opening Day at Santa Anita ... is there anything that sounds better? Once again, the SoCal track is open for business, and they have a card that is strong top to bottom. The signature bet is the .20 Rainbow Pick 6, which is sure to have a Pool that is brimming with cash! Check out J.N. Campbell's analysis below ... Note: Be sure to check the forecast, rain might make an appearance overnight.

At Horseracing.net/us we have you covered, including all of the action from what is known as "The Great Race Place." It is a good time for some of the best that North American racing has to offer. Stay tuned!

If you're looking for picks elsewhere around the country this Sunday be sure to check out our free Horse Racing Picks via the gold button below. Do not forget to follow us on Twitter ... @Horseracing_USA ...
Horse Racing Picks
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.20 RAINBOW PICK 6…

LEG 1: (Race 6: Dirt, 1 1/16th, San Antonio S. (G2), $200k, 3+)

Opening Day @SA … let’s tuck in, and deconstruct this Rainbow P6 ticket! Starting off is a real highlight—Grade 2 San Antone! There is a history here of repeat champs that dates back 10 years ago to the likes of Bob Baffert’s Game On Dude and Hoppertunity, plus John Sadler’s Gift Box. All went back-to-back … This year we have the return of Eric Kruljac’s Kiss Today Goodbye #6. If you are not familiar with him, he is a conditioner with a smaller stable, especially when compared to the Baffert or Doug O’Neill. Those fellas are in here too, and will try to spoil Kruljac’s return to the SA Winner’s Circle. I think they have a shot to play that role since the colt by Cairo Prince has not won since running in last year’s race. Sure, he competed in celebrated contests like the Pegasus WC (G1), the Big ‘Cap (G1), and the San Diego (G2), but he was literally “no factor” in any of them. As for Baffert, he has his customary uncoupled entry ready to enter. Eight Rings #5, a colt by Empire Maker, and Azul Coast #7, a 4-yr-old by Super Saver, are perfectly nice horses, but to me they have some weaknesses when it comes to class. That is especially evident when you compare their dossiers to that of O’Neill’s Hot Rod Charlie #4. The Vox Populi Award recipient was one of the top 3-yr-olds in 2021, and the Boys from the Boat are looking to see this guy head to Dubai, if all goes well. Frankly, I am not sure anyone can beat him with that tactical ability of his. Flavien Prat will have a stablemate entered in Go On #3, and that will provide a rabbit who can go out on the lead. All “Charlie” #4 needs to do is steer clear of traffic, and use those late gears. I like John Shirreffs’ Express Train #2 plenty, but not in this situation. O’Neill has himself a superstar … it is a “Single” for me … I know, not very inventive … but look what is coming!

Selections: 4 (Single)

LEG 2: (Race 7: Turf, 1 Mile, Santa Anita Mathis Mile S. (G2), $200k, 3)

Moving right along on this Sunday, we are switching to the SA Turf Course, and this G2 route that might have some "give" to it. Formerly known as the Sir Beaufort S., the past 3 winners of this contest have come from Jeff Mullins (River Boyne (IRE), Peter Miller (Mo Forza), and last year’s victor, Mike McCarthy (Smooth Like Strait). Each has an entry once again; though Miller has officially retired, the capable Ruben Alvarado is in-charge. I like None Above the Law #1 (Alvarado), Zoffarelli #4 (Mullins), and Law Professor #9 (McCarthy) because they are each going to be great prices on the tote. McCarthy’s #9 might not have the class per se, but the gelding by Constitution gets frequent-flyer Jose Ortiz back aboard—he rode this one to victory @DMR back in Nov. He can make a difference when you least expect it. To my eye, the toughest guess to make in this race is how will John Shirreffs’ Beyond Brilliant #8 runback after scoring by-a-neck last out in the Hollywood Derby (G1) @DMR? That was quite a surprise considering the odds of 11/1, and it gave rider Kent Desormeaux “Jock of the Week” honors. Who doesn’t like the offspring of Twirling Candy on the turf? If this one can handle the shorter distance (the HWTC was 1 1/8th), then he could be very tough! I am going to take a stand against him, and instead back Leo Powell’s Flashiest #6. This gelding by Mizzen Mast is perfect for a spot like this one … remember when he scored in the Oceanside 100k on Opening Day @DMR? The distance … same as today. He has the class to measure up, even if his jockey is not the best on the sod—Abel Cedillo. One other entry that I am going to spurn is Bob Baffert’s Du Jour #7, that is partly-owned by his wife. Even though the colt is bred for the lawn by Spendthrift’s Temple City, gets Flavien Prat, and 2/2 @SA, I think his form is suspect. I thought he got amazing trips those times, and in the American Turf (G2) on the Derby undercard. That will not happen today, so I am sticking with my picks … going 4-Deep. Here is where we really have a shot at a nice price!

Selections: 1/4/6/9 (4-Deep)

LEG 3: (Race 8: Dirt, 7F, La Brea S. (G1), $300k, 3F)

This is what I consider to be the toughest race in the sequence because you could make a case for any of these fine fillies. Of course, about 10+ years back this race was a ping pong match between 2 trainers, Bob Baffert and John Sadler. But Baffert was the last to win one, and that was way back in 2012. Since then, it has flipped between Jerry Hollendorfer (long gone from SoCal), and a bevy of other conditioners. There is no question that Baffert has an uncoupled entry that is going to get a ton of play. Both Kalypso #3 and Private Mission #4 are formidable, and they have the class lines to back it up. But I have some questions … The former by Brody’s Cause, is coming off-the-bench, and the last time we saw this filly was in the Eight Belles (G2) @CD on the Oaks undercard. You never want your comment in the form to read, “Bled; eased; walked off.” I am sure Baffert has done his recalibration, and he clearly has the proper rider in Johnny V (who is in for the Meet from NY/FL). Still, I think she needs a race … plain and simple. As for the latter, this daughter of super sire Into Mischief did not flash much talent down at Del Mar in the BC Distaff (G1). She led … and then she didn’t … dead last 11th. Though not quite short on experience, she is going to have to earn the “deserving favorite” tag. She can win, but I am not backing her as a “Single.” My top selection comes from the barn of Mike Puype … or I should say, Todd Fincher. Canoodling #1 is owned by B4 Farms, and has in the past wanted to run out in SoCal (they did this last year @DMR). They trust Fincher, but his realm is more in New Mexico, so they have transferred this well-bred filly by Pioneerof the Nile to Mike Puype’s outfit. Fincher broke her originally, and though it might not appear so, she has battled some tough company in the lower ranks at Sam Houston, Lone Star, and all the running NM tracks. Jockey Roimes Chirinos makes the trip out as her regular rider, and I think this filly will be much tougher than anyone might think. Puype is a class act, as is Fincher, so it would be ultra-impressive to see this one run well. Just in case there is a pace meltdown, or some miss the break, I am hitting the “All” button … sensible, especially because I have some definite opinions when it comes to the 2nd half of this .20 P6 sequence.

Selections: 1-7 (All)

LEG 4: (Race 9: Hillside Turf, 6½F, ALLW69k, F&M 3+)

There is nothing in North American racing, or for that matter, the World, like the Hillside Turf Course at Santa Anita. It offers everyone from riders to handicappers a unique challenge. Certain truisms supposedly exist … like, horses drawn inside (say gates 1-2) have an inordinately difficult time winning. Or, never bet a horse that has not tried this meandering way … they could get lost traversing that dirt track before the top of the lane. When it comes to a top choice in this race, I will fall on John Sadler’s Kalon #6. Owned by the powerful Hronis Racing, this filly by Bernardini has strong turf experience, and gets JJ Hernandez in the irons. He had a special year in 2021, and can really make snap decisions on the grass when it matters the most. Let’s use this one, which could hover around 8/1, but I also want to include a few others. I am intrigued by Simon Callaghan’s new acquisition from the barn of Hugo Palmer—Glesga Gal #5. Some that come over from Europe are being dealt, looking for a new lease on life. This filly by the excellent Lope De Vega (IRE) is not one of those types. She was up against some tough competition, and even though her US debut was a flop in the Goldikova (G2) at Del Mar, she can rebound in this lesser spot. To expand the ticket, and give us some backup, I also like Jeff Mullins/Jose Ortiz’s Inner Beauty #7, Ben Cecil’s Another Eddie #8, and rounding things out, the aptly-named Xmas Surprise #9. That last one could do just that at odds that could rise into the double-digits. That should complete the line … moving on from “The Hill!”

Selections: 5/6/7/8/9 (5-Deep)

LEG 5: (Race 10: Dirt, 7F, Runhappy Malibu S. (G1), $300k, 3)

What a Runhappy Malibu that we have for your enjoyment this year … It is going to be a true barnburner, and of course, everyone is chattering about John Sadler’s lightly-raced speedster called Flightline #5. In a pair of lifetime races, this colt by Tapit (part-owned by Hronis), has absolutely smoked the field he has faced. A MSW61k @SA was won by 13-lengths, while an OC40k was by 12 … Flavien Prat simply was along for the ride, as his mount made the others look like they were being timed with a sundial. Let’s put it this way, if Sadler’s charge can post a speed fig like he did last time, then this race will be over after a few furlongs. I am willing to bet, based on his works and the company, that this talented colt gets it done. I know there are horses that come into spots like this one, and they are in actuality “not ready” … this is not one of those. I think a “Single” is in order, despite the fact that the impressive Dr. Schivel #4 from Mark Glatt’s midst comes calling after getting nailed by Wayne Catalano’s Aloha West in the BC Sprint (G1) back at Del Mar. I make this claim, even with HOF trainer Bob Baffert’s entry … the undefeated Triple Tap #7, that is also out of Tapit … go figure. This will be a “heck’of a” race to quote John Madden, but I think Sadler gets to visit the SA Winner’s Circle … scoring his 2nd Malibu S.; the last being Twirling Candy in 2010.

Selections: 5 (Single)

LEG 6: (Race 11: Turf, 1¼, American Oaks (G1), $300k, 3F)

Over 10 years ago, when this race was contested at Hollywood Park, it boasted a purse of $750k. Even though the current valuation is not quite that high, it still brings together a good group of competitive 3-yr-old fillies who will be starting their journey from the mouth of the Hillside Turf Course. Super turf trainer Chad Brown has won a pair of these races (Competitionofideas, 2018 and Duopoly, 2020). He is used to invading, and when he comes to pillage, he means business. I must say that I have never been a fan of his entry, Fluffy Socks #1. Ever since I first saw her run at Pimlico in 2020, I always thought that when she won, it was just pure unadulterated luck. In the Jimmy Durante (G3) that same year, Irad Ortiz literally “bullied” his way to victory aboard her (he does that?). I am willing to look elsewhere because I do not care for Mike Smith as a lawn jockey. He is a HOF-er, but he simply does not ride enough on the surface. Sure, you can bring up that win aboard that Charlie Appleby-trainee last summer, but I am not listening. I am actually much more intrigued by another “invader” who is going to be a boxcar price for sure at something like 30/1. Core Values #2 is trained by the Kentucky-based Vicky Oliver, and the daughter of Honor Code won some nice races back in June/July/August. That score at Ellis Park was just by a whisker. Shipping into hostile territory like Santa Anita will be tough, but I sure would like to see Oliver come away with a victory! Let’s use this one on our ticket, but I also think that 2 of Mike McCarthy’s runners look promising. How about the form of Irish Oaks (G1) participant Nicest #4, and also the Eclipse-owned Queen Goddess #9? The latter is way more talented than her dossier might admit, and the Empire Maker filly is sitting on a big race, in my good opinion. I am hoping her odds float towards double-digits because I will be using her in several types of wagers! Last, but not necessarily least, I want to add Carla Gaines’ Closing Remarks #3 and Phil D’Amato’s Going Global #5. Each is steeped in Santa Anita experience, and D’Amato’s ace is 4/4 … we cannot leave them off the ticket. That should round things out in what has amounted to a massive card. How exciting, especially considering the potential size of this P6 Pool! Everybody in!

Selections: 2/3/4/5/9 (5-Deep)

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.20 P6 TICKET COST: $140.00

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:13 AM

Fair Ground Picks & All-Stakes Pick 5 Betting Analysis for December 26: Gun Runner Day
By J.N. Campbell

FAIR GROUNDS Picks
26th December 2021

Race 1 : 5-8-4-7
Race 2 : 5-2-7-6
Race 3 : 6-10-3-13
Race 4 : 10-3-1-6
Race 5 : 3-1-8-4
Race 6 : 8-5-6-9
Race 7 : 3-5-8-4
Race 8 : 2-5-10-4
Race 9 : 12-10-11-3
Race 10 : 5-7-8-6
Race 11 : 3-1-6-4
Race 12 : 7-4-6-10
Race 13 : 2-6-8-7
View Today's FAIR GROUNDS Entries

Right on the heels of Christmas Day, the Fair Grounds in New Orleans is hosting a good one ... it's Gun Runner Day! With races that have KY Derby and Oaks implications, it should be a great afternoon in the Big Easy. The new Gun Runner S. is a welcome addition to the Trail, and offers 10-4-2-1, when it comes to Points! How about that ...

At Horseracing.net/us we have you covered, including all of the action related to another excellent Louisiana Series @FG! It is a good time for some of the best that North American racing has to offer. Stay tuned!

If you're looking for picks elsewhere around the country this Friday be sure to check out our free Horse Racing Picks via the gold button below.

ALL-STAKES .50 PICK 5…

Guaranteed $100k (Races 7-11)

LEG 1: (Race 7: Turf, 5½F, Richard R. Scherer Memorial S., $75k, 3+)

This Fair Grounds card on Sunday is a special one since it is anchored by the newly created Gun Runner Stakes. Starting things off with a turf sprint is really going to get our blood pumping. The favorite will be a runner that I so wanted to win back at Keeneland in the April running of the Shakertown (G2). Just Might #5, a gelding trained by Michelle Lovell, was a square 7/1 that day … finishing 10/12 on what was a sparkling day in Central KY. The result was a miss, I admit, but there was much to come, as this son of Just Phillip found his stride at Colonial Downs and Churchill over the summer. Switching to dirt really ignited something inside of him, and it wasn’t until the Grade 2 Phoenix @KEE in October that he failed on the step-up. Now, coming back to the grass, with that strong form, he could be really tough. Watch for his frontend speed to be on full display. The hot-riding Colby Hernandez gets the call … I think we have to use this one because his PPs are strong, but let’s also add in Mark Casse’s Lucky Curlin #3. Here is a versatile turf sprinter by the legendary Curlin, who looks pretty classy after running up at Woodbine. The yielding ground up there did not suit him last time out in the Nearctic (G2), so maybe less give will suit. I like his running style, and when you get an Oxley-bred, Barber-owned gelding like this one, you know ability is present. Plus, Florent Geroux comes to town from Oaklawn, and gets back on a surface he loves to ride on. This pair should get us through …

Selections: 3/5 (2-Deep)

LEG 2: (Race 8: Dirt, 1 1/16th, Tenacious S, $100k, 3+)

If you thought the previous race was a tough one, then get a load of this one … In this “Non-G” 100k, we have 10 that will be routing on the MT. Trainer Brad Cox, who will be trying to garner the Eclipse “Trainer of the Year” honors once again, has a fairly strong entry in Shared Sense #5. The ridgling was up against his stablemate, Knicks Go and Eclipse T-bred runner Independence Hall last time at Churchill in the Lukas Classic (G3). Ending up 3rd was more than respectable, and most will back him here based on that result. Brian Hernandez is already having a good Meet, so it is tough to argue against this 4-yr-old homebred that was reared by Godolphin. Since winning both the Indiana and Oklahoma Derbies this year, he has continued to be competitive (except for a poor showing at IG 7 July). Still, I want to add one more runner that looks inviting … Greg Foley’s Major Fed #2. This KYD146 Trail rider has a number of stellar efforts to his name. Even though he could not hit-the-board at Keeneland in the Fayette (G2) against the short-priced Independence Hall/Code of Honor, I still like his style. He can match up with Godolphin’s entry, and Mitch Murrill proved last year during this Meet that he can ride well in tough races. Foley doesn’t always get his due as a conditioner, and I like his chances at a square price—9/2. Going with this Ghostzapper 4-yr-old might do the trick. Again, a duo … moving on!

Selections: 2/5 (2-Deep)

LEG 3: (Race 9: Turf, 1 1/16th, Buddy Diliberto S., $75k, 3+)

Next up, it is time to head to my favorite kind of event at the Fair Grounds … a turf route. The Diliberto sure came up tough this time around, as 12 will go forth. A scan through the M/L odds tells you as much. If he does not scratch, I suppose that Jason Barkley’s Spooky Channel #10 could be the race time favorite. Mike Stidham’s Pixelate #11 will also take money. These are a pair of turf routers with strong experience, but they seem to me to be streaky shooters. If either shows up with their best, they could make it a blanket finish in the end. But that is a big “if” because I wouldn’t trust either of these to get the job done as a “Single.” Let’s use them, but when it comes to a top selection, I am more interested in Mike Maker’s Forty Under #12. Realize … this Uncle Mo gelding is an alum of the Wright Memorial 75k, a BT Fair Grounds contest that Another Mystery #6 won at a double-digit price. Maker’s entry ran 4th … halfway through. I am banking on David Cabrera getting to the lead, controlling the fractions, and having enough in the tank to get this one home. Just as back-up, I will keep the other pair on the ticket. Going 3-Deep is about all I can afford considering what is coming up in the back half of the sequence. Head to the outside …

Selections: 10/11/12, include the 6, if the 10 scr (3-Deep)

LEG 4: (Race 10: Dirt, 1 Mile 70yds., Untapable S., $100k, 2F)

A pair of bookend races that have Oaks/Derby implications are going to finish off this excellent All-Stakes P5. Up for grabs are Points … 10-4-2-1, in that order of finish. The filly version is up 1st, and many eyes will be on George Leonard’s California Angel #2. This runner garnered a ton of attention at the Breeders’ Cup, trying the turf for the 3rd time in her career. She won the Jessamine (G2) @KEE, but at DMR she missed … finishing 11th. Coming to FG she will be a sentimental pick. I am shying away from her because instead, I really think that Kenny McPeek’s Cocktail Moments #5 will win. The filly broke her maiden at Churchill in late November, and it was an impressive 9-length victory at the astronomical odds of 26/1. By Uncle Mo, a super sire, that was against a 12-horse field. McPeek makes the jockey switch to Brian Hernandez, and I am going to make an outlandish claim … this one will be in the 2022 Oaks! She has that late breakaway ability, and let’s face it, her conditioner knows how to bring young ones like this along. Without a doubt, this is my “Single,” in what amounts to a manageable field to appose. I cannot wait to see this duo develop through the Louisiana Series at the Fair Grounds, if that is what McPeek intends.

Selections: 5 (Single)

LEG 5: (Race 11: Dirt, 1 1/16th, Gun Runner S., $100k, 2)

Rolling into the finale, it is quite fitting that we end on a new race when it comes to the KY Derby Trail … named for one of Steve Asmussen’s greatest. Out of these 7 that are breaking from the FG gate, I am keen to back 3 of them. To my eye, Asmussen’s Epicenter #1, Brad Cox’s Rocket Dawg #3, and Bret Calhoun’s Tejano Twist #6 are capable. I would lean towards Cox’s #3 because the colt by Classic Empire really finished nicely, breaking his maiden back at Churchill on 19 November. Working well for this excellent outfit, the 2-yr-old by Classic Empire won by 5+ lengths that day. Getting Florent Geroux back up is a plus, and Frank Fletcher is hoping the $375k he spent on this one was worth it. I think so … Just a note, the place horse in that last race already came back to win @TP in a MSW race for Mike Maker. Maybe more to come from Grantham, as the Trail develops … As for the other pair I mentioned, I like Asmussen’s entry based on the fact that Winchell invested $260k in this son of Not This Time. He broke his maiden at Churchill in his 2nd career contest. As for Calhoun’s play, let’s not count this conditioner out. His experience in the business is just as sound as anyone’s, and I do like this sire—Practical Joke. The Tom Durant homebred already has 8 races under him, and in a situation like this, experience can count. These 3 should help us get this P5 ticket home. You know the Pool is going to be a juicy one from Sunday!

Selections: 1/3/6 (3-Deep)

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.50 P5 TICKET COST: $ 18.00

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:13 AM

Rocket Picks ��: Gulfstream, Santa Anita, and Fair Grounds for December 26, 2021

The holiday’s are over, now we’re back to business! For the free pick 4, we will head to Gulfstream Park today, which has a great card today. There is also great action at Santa Anita Park and Fair Grounds to keep us entertained all day long! Let’s see if we can hit this late pick 4 at Gulfstream!

Below is our free Late Pick 4 for Gulfstream Park:

Gulfstream Park December 26, 2021

Race 8: Maiden Special Weight

#8 American Icon is another debut Todd Pletcher horse who is working well leading up to this race. Luis Saez jumps aboard here, which is also a good sign. #1 Hard Frost is an interesting alternative to the favorite. Walsh is good with first timer starts, and this horse has some solid works leading up to the race.

Race 9: Starter Allowance
freestar

#2 Sir Seamus has solid form over a synthetic surface, which should lead to an advantage in this spot. He also fits in well from a class standpoint. #4 Attentive has solid turf form at this track, which should translate well to the synthetic surface today.

Race 10: Tropical Park Derby

#2 Never Surprised looks to be the classiest horse in this field by a good margin. He has run against the best in this division all year, and last time out won a stakes nicely. #5 Yes This Time also has solid form all year long over the turf. He fits in well with this group, and has a big chance to beat the favorite here with some luck.

Race 11: Maiden Claiming

#2 Kanithappen drops down in class for this race after gaining valuable experience over this surface last time out. Expect an improved performance today. #6 Mighty Tough also gained solid experience over this surface, and ran well, finishing fourth in a tougher race.

THE TICKET

$.50 Pick 4 (Races 8-11) 1,2,6,8 / 2,4,5,7 / 2 / 1,2,4,5,6,7 – $48

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:14 AM

Free Horse Racing Tips Today – Sunday, December 26, 2021

We have studied the form from all races across the country for Sunday, December 26, and provided our best horse racing tips.

There’s plenty to love about Boxing Day. Cold drinks by the pool, leftovers from Christmas lunch, a little bit of backyard cricket, now all we need is to back a few winners!

We have made five selections in total and are confident that we have found you some winners! So, read on below to find our best horse racing tips for this Sunday, December 26.
Randwick, Race 1 – 3. Hard to Say ($4.50)

Plenty of nice two year olds about at this time of year, but with the feature Magic Millions B.J. McLachlan being run at Doomben, this looks one of the leaner juvenile fields we’ve seen of late. Smart move by the Deamer stable to come back south with this Exceed and Excel colt after running into the handy Palazzo Spirit last start in the Phelan Ready.

He keeps getting better with each start and his experience, match fitness, and the step back out to the 1100m on a reasonable surface are all big pluses. He covered ground off a let up and boxed solidly on a heavy surface that day, then really picked up late when chasing the leader home in his latest start. Can get punters off to a flyer.
Randwick, Race 3 – 4. Kirwan’s Lane ($3.10)

A tricky affair to line up this one with plenty resuming, a couple bringing Melbourne form, and a few with hard luck stories of late. But there is none more so than this John O’Shea 5yo gelding.

He was absolutely flattened when resuming in the Goulburn Cup and then found a dead end when building into the race second up. We expect fitness and class to play big factors in the result here and at the mile and Bm88 grade, he looks to have this lot covered.
Randwick, Race 7 – 7. Criaderas ($4.60)

We’ve been sweating on this son of Lonhro getting to this race for sometime now. It is hard to say what has been more frustrating. His racing pattern, or the way the stable have placed the horse. But we finally get to what has long appeared to be the trip he is crying out for, the 2000m on the roomy expanses of Royal Randwick.

We tipped him as the ‘Best Roughie of the Day’ in the Villiers Stakes a fortnight ago and as expected he was the flashing light run in the race, motoring home late for third in the Group 2 at big odds.

It might be a Group 3 race this week, during the festive season when Sydney racing doesn’t attract the strongest fields, but don’t be surprised if this horse bobs up in some of the better middle distance and staying races going forward.

He relaxes in his races to a fault, has a beautiful long and low action and is by an Australian Cup winner out of a Dehere mare which tells us this should be his prime racing range. Both the sire and broodmare sire throw types that are adaptable on all going, and with a chance of a bit of cut out of the track, we think today is finally this blokes day.
Doomben, Race 6 – 1. Palazzo Spirit ($14/$2.30)

The $1.35 favourite Coolangatta absolutely smoked them on debut in the Gimcrack and was hard held when winning a recent trial with the rest of the field under vigorous riding behind him. It’s very hard to see him getting beaten here but 2yo racing is one of the more prevalent and greatest uncertainties in racing, and if the filly has an off day, then we think this colt out of the O’Dea and Hoysted yard is the one to pounce.

This stable has had good success with their youngsters in recent years without cracking a big one, and based on what this son of Spirit of Boom has shown them to date, we have no doubt they are thinking he might be the one.

He has a wonderfully deep pedigree but shows considerable more precociousness than the lot of his black type siblings combined. He has given nothing else a look in at his two starts to date. Drawn well again here and worth playing at the odds each way and save on the Quinella.
Caulfield, Race 7 – 9. Bonvicini ($3.20)

We are looking to the Maher and Eustace galloper to send us out a winner here late on the Boxing Day card. She looked to be travelling sweetly in the run having spent no petrol to the corner when box seating third the fence behind a muddling tempo.

She was just flattened at a vital stage in the straight when attempting a rails run before picking up again late. Jye McNeil sticks with this 5yo mare who was a good thing beaten last start at good odds. We won’t get them Saturday but this is similar company and she looks the one to beat here.

Best Bet – 7. Criaderas (Randwick, Race 7)
Next Best – 4. Kirwan’s Lane (Randwick, Race 3)
Best Roughie – 1. Palazzo Spirit (Doomben, Race 6)

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:14 AM

Fair Grounds: Turf stakes plays for Dec. 26
John Mucciolo

A total of six black-type contests will take place at Fair Grounds on Sunday. In this piece, I will focus on the trio of grassy endeavors that are on the fantastic slate.
Bet Fair Grounds Live Racing here!
Race 5 – Blushing K. D. Stakes

A total of eight fillies and mares will vie in the 1 1/16-mile affair. I liked the turf sprint prep put in by Michael Stidham’s #6 Advocating (8-1) last time out and consider the filly a dangerous front-end contender. The daughter of Uncle Mo will need a lifetime best to upset this cast, but I foresee her firing a big shot second off the shelf at a nice price.

Recent Dowager S. (G3) heroine #1 Summer in Saratoga (9-5) fetched a final bid of $630,000 in November and is a logical top-two inclusion in the race. The Kentucky-bred mare was a stakes winner in her latest run over the course, and the bay five-year-old gets a cozy draw along the rail.
Race 7 – Richard R. Scherer Memorial S.

The 5 1/2-furlong grassy dash attracted a well-matched field of nine. If the pace is as swift and contested that I expect it to be, then #8 Manny Wah (9-2) rates a big chance from well off of the early tempo for conditioner Wayne Catalano. The chestnut son of Will Take Charge has just one lifetime run on the lawn, but it was a fine victory in the Kenner S. at Fair Grounds in January. Corey Lanerie will make one run atop the five-year-old.
Race 9 – Buddy Diliberto Memorial S.

A huge field of 12 will go postward in the 1 1/16-mile fray. I’m not in love with #9 Midnight Tea Time (10-1) as a single in the tough handicapping puzzle, but I do expect the talented sort to receive a great trip to the top of the lane at a nice price in this endeavor. The Joe Sharp trainee is consistent on a whole and does some of his best work at Fair Grounds, where he sports an 8-1-2-3 career mark. The Midnight Lute six-year-old will track, or possibly set, moderate early splits to the head of the stretch under Deshawn Parker.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:14 AM

Equibase Analysis: Runhappy Malibu Opponents May Need To Sprout Wings To Beat Flightline
Sponsored by:
by Ellis Starr | 12.25.2021 | 1:40pm

Seven horses are entered in the Grade 1, $300,000 Runhappy Malibu Stakes, one of six stakes races, all graded, which make up the opening day card for the 2021-'22 meet at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, Calif.

In terms of earnings, Dr. Schivel tops the group with $876,000 banked to date, much of it earned last month when second and beaten a nose in the G1 Breeders' Cup Sprint against older horses. Prior to that, Dr. Schivel won the G2 Santa Anita Sprint Championship and the G1 Bing Crosby Stakes to prove he belongs in this race.

Stilleto Boy also ran in a race on that star-studded card but didn't fare nearly as well when fifth of eight in the G1 Breeders' Cup Classic, with his best effort of the year coming when second in the G1 Awesome Again Stakes at Santa Anita one month earlier.

Next in terms of accomplishments is invader Timeless Bounty, who has earned $210,714 in his career and who just pulled off the 59-1 upset in the $250,000 Steel Valley Sprint Stakes one month ago at Mahoning Valley in Ohio.

Baby Yoda won three of his first four starts including a pair of impressive efforts at Saratoga this summer. At this level, however, he did not fare so well, finishing third in the G2 Vosburgh Stakes before a seventh-place effort as the heavy favorite in the Steel Valley Sprint.

Team Merchants won the non-graded Let It Ride Stakes on the turf last month and has won two of five on dirt but his two previous tries in graded stakes resulted in fourth and 13th-place finishes.

Last but absolutely not least are a pair of horses who are undefeated in two starts to date and who are running in a stakes for the first time. One of those is Flightline, with an average winning margin of 13 lengths in his two wins. The other is Triple Tap, a half-brother to champion and Triple Crown winner American Pharoah. Triple Tap has won his two starts by a combined 6 1/2 lengths and appears to be a horse with an exceptionally bright future.

Win contender:

There is no discussion about this race that does not involve Flightline winning, and possibly dominating, this year's Runhappy Malibu Stakes. I cannot ever recall a 3- year-old doing what this colt has done in his two starts to date. In his debut in April, Flightline was bumped at the start and found himself sixth of eight and about 1 1/2 lengths from the leader. After a sixteenth of a mile had been run, Flightline had taken the lead and by the time the field hit the stretch he was in front by 10 lengths, eventually drawing off to win by 13 1/4 lengths. For that effort, Flightline earned a virtually unheard of 116 Equibase Speed Figure which at that time of year would have high enough to win a graded stakes.

Away from the races for a little over four months after that, Flightline relaxed in second for the first quarter mile and then won by nearly 13 lengths, this time earning a grade 1 figure of 130. To put that kind of effort into perspective, Breeders' Cup Sprint winner Aloha West earned a 110 figure and Breeders' Cup Classic winner Knicks Go earned a 118 figure. Even impressive Breeders' Cup Mile winner Life is Good (120 figure) did not run as fast as Flightline did in that effort on September 5.

Rested almost four months this time, Flightline has been working out strongly every six to eight days since October 31, including three straight workouts that were the best of the morning from among 28, 57 and 41 horses that day. Jockey Flavien Prat, who rode Flightline to victory in both starts, also rode Dr. Schivel to win four straight races and to a nose defeat in the Breeders' Cup Sprint but chooses Flightline in the Malibu. Prat also rode Triple Tap to both of his impressive wins and chooses Flightline.

Going back to how fast Flightline has run in his two starts to date, comparing those efforts to the rest of the Malibu field, even the 116 figure Flightline earned in his maiden win in April is faster than the best figure any other horse in the field has earned this year, and if he repeats the 130 figure effort from September, and even if horses like Triple Tap (107 last race figure and Dr. Schivel (112 and 110 figures in his last two races) improve off those recent efforts, it is going to be very difficult to beat Flightline in this race.

The rest of the field, with their best Equibase Speed Figures, is Baby Yoda (111), Dr. Schivel (112), Stilleto Boy (106), Team Merchants (109), Timeless Bounty (100) and Triple Tap (107).

The horse to beat in this year's Malibu Stakes is Flightline.

If you are looking for a horse to come on strongly in the late stages and to finish second or third, the best options appear to be Dr. Schivel, Team Merchants and Timeless Bounty.

Runhappy Malibu Stakes – Grade 1
Race 10 at Santa Anita
Sunday, December 26, 2021 – Post Time 6:49 PM E.T.
Seven Furlongs
Three Year Olds
Purse: $300,000

Ellis Starr is national racing analyst for Equibase

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:15 AM

Turfway Park: How to bet the Gowell Stakes on Dec. 26
John Mucciolo

An octet of two-year-old fillies will travel six panels on the Tapeta at Turfway Park in Sunday’s $100,000 Gowell S. My focus will be on a pair of ladies in the well-matched field.

Gowell Wagers

$10 exacta box 5-7 ($20)
$1 trifecta 7 with 3, 5 with all ($12)
$1 superfecta 5, 7 with 5, 7 with 3 with all ($10)
$1 superfecta 5, 7 with 5, 7 with all with 3 ($10)

Bet Turfway Park Live Racing here!

Fern Creek S. heroine #7 Marissa’s Lady (5-2) has looked the part from a pair of fine tallies on the dirt at Churchill Downs to kick start her career. Trained by Bill Morey, the Violence homebred was ultra-game in running down a clear one on debut, prior to professionally dispatching her six foes en route to her first black-type tally.

The unbeaten gray Kentucky-bred shows two solid morning drills on the surface, and she possesses both the speed and closing punch to thrive at the distance. If she handles the All-Weather, which I believe that she will, then she will be super tough on Sunday with regular pilot Rafael Bejarano in the silks.

I am also a fan of recent Woodbine maiden victress #5 Vantarsi (4-1), who will make her first run since joining the barn of Brendan Walsh. By Speightstown, the Kentucky-bred dark bay won in a virtual hand ride at her third start, and she seems poised to make a major impact while making her stakes and local bow. Gerardo Corrales will guide the $80,000 yearling purchase.

I will use the aforementioned pair in my horizontal plays, as well as keying the duo on top for the vertical wagers. #3 Beverly’s Charge (12-1), a hefty $80,000 claim for Mike Maker, will make her synthetic debut in the stakes ranks. The Greeley’s Conquest filly had been a sharp winner of two straight sprint races prior to fading in the stretch when going long most recently, and I feel that the cut back in trip will be a very good thing. I expect her to challenge for a top-three spot with Edgar Morales taking the reins.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:15 AM

Grand Prix Stakes 2021 – All The Runners Preview

The temperature will be several degrees below zero and dusk starting to fall on Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon when Moonhak Chief bids to become the first horse since Dongbanui Gangja more than a decade ago to record back-to-back victories in Korea’s historically most prestigious race, the Grand Prix Stakes (KOR G1-2300M). CLICK HERE FOR RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW OF ALL SEVENTEEN SUNDAY RACES AT SEOUL & BUSAN.
Moonhak Chief won the Grand Prix 2 years ago (Pic: KRA)

With no race last season, it’s now two years since Moonhak Chief followed up his 2019 Korea Cup victory by scoring by a length and a half that December. Only two of the rest of that day’s field return, Cheongdam Dokki and the retiring Dongbang Daero, but a host of new challengers have arisen in the meantime, meaning Moonhak Chief is going to need to be at his very best if he is to retain his crown.

Peter Wolsley won this race with Bold Kings in 2016 and the Australian trainer saddles Mr. Afleet this time, fresh off his triumph in the KRA Cup Classic back in October. That’s day’s close runner-up Haengbok Wangja is another leading contender and given the way he was finishing in the Classic, may even start as the favourite.

The President’s Cup, the top race restricted to Korean-bred horses, has provided two winners in recent years with Indie Band in 2013 and Gyeongbudaero in 2015 and the 2021 winner Simjangui Godong also takes his chance, as does proven Group winner Tiz Plan.

Touch Star Man, who won two legs of last year’s Triple Crown series, will be attendance, representing trainer Kim Young-kwan, who has won the race five times.

The Grand Prix Stakes is race 8 on Seoul’s 10-race Boxing Day card. Here is a full run down of all sixteen runners:

1. CHEONGDAM DOKKI (USA) [To Honor And Serve – Elusive Gold (Strike The Gold)] – His 4th attempt at the race with his best being 2nd in 2018. An excellent winner at 1800M in October before a flat performance in the KRA Cup Classic. He then ran 5th to Moonhak Chief back at 1800M on November 27th. Only returned to work last week and while there is no doubting his quality, this looks a very hard ask. Great draw though.

2. GALLOP CURLIN (USA) [Curlin – Colona (Pulpit)] – Gets his chance following a good win over 1800M at class 2 level earlier this month when midfield and running on. Tactically versatile and well-drawn but this is a big step up into the unknown in terms of distance and competition.

3. MOONHAK CHIEF (USA) [Pioneerof The Nile – Tallulah Lula (Old Trieste)] – Winner of the last edition of this race two years ago having won the Korea Cup that September. Seventh in the Cup Classic but returned to the winner’s circle on November 27th comfortably scoring over 1800M although he did get spooked by the finishing line light and stopped very quickly. At his best he is the one to beat.

4. CRAZY CONTI (USA) [Constitution – Ghostly Darkness (Ghostzapper)] – Came from well back to run a strong 3rd over 2000M at Busan two weeks ago in his first start since September. Beaten by Mr. Afleet and Touch Star Man in the summer so there is form for him to overturn here but he may appreciate the distance.

5. GEUMA ACME (KOR) [Hongji – Ms. Travelin (Lycius)] – A super 2nd in the President’s Cup to Simjangui Godong, coming from off the pace. Yet to win at higher than class 3 is a concern when stepping into this company, but the additional distance can suit. Alan Munro, who rode him in his last three starts, rides Jjang Kong instead.

6. HUNCH (USA) [To Honor And Serve – Sergeant O-Rourke (Forestry)] – Wasted a great draw by blowing the start in the Cup Classic, won by stablemate Mr. Afleet, in what was his first start since August. He has won at class 1 over 2000M in a fast time though and with a clean getaway can be competitive but may not be ready to beat the elite just yet. Minor money chance.

7. JJANG KONG (USA) [Tizway – Carietta (Stephen Got Even)] – Runner-up to Cheongdam Dokki in October before running a 3rd in the Cup Classic when handy all the way and battling on to the line. He likes it race close to the lead, so the draw works out well. He’s stubborn enough to get the 2300M and it would be no surprise seeing him in the minor money.

8. HAENGBOK WANGJA (USA) [Daredevil – First Installment (Broken Vow)] – up and comer having just been promoted to class 1 before running a great race in the KRA Cup Classic when on the pace and wide most of the way and momentarily leading at the 200m and coming again at Mr. Afleet the finish. It was a super effort, and plenty will back him to win here.

9. TIZ PLAN (USA) [Tiznow – Amusing Plan (Pleasantly Perfect)] – A horse who doesn’t know how to run a bad race. At his last start when second-up from a spell, he was a good 2nd in the

Busan Owner’s Cup at 1600M. He’s won at Group level and been unplaced only once in his last nine starts over the staying journey and he is in the frame.

10. SIMJANGUI GODONG (KOR) [Jigeum I Sungan – Howareyou (Whywhywhy)] – The President’s Cup winner over 2000M at his latest start when sitting midfield and running on too strong for the rest. That was against locally bred opposition only so this is harder but the President’s Cup/Grand Prix double has been done twice recently and it’s not impossible.

11. BRIGIDIER GENERAL (AUS) [Tapit – Amature’s Prize (Pure Prize)] – He has had a lot of near-misses and a habit of coming up short in the really big races as well as a habit of getting way too far back and finding trouble in running. The draw isn’t great but Choi Bum-hyun climbs aboard which may offer something different and he could run a big race.

12. MR. AFLEET (KOR) [Afleet Alex – In Escrow (Vindication)] – has swept all before him recently and at his last start won the KRA Cup Classic over 2000M when he worked hard early to be on the pace and battled away strongly to the line making it win number ten from fifteen and his first in Group company. It was a terrific run and he’s worth a great deal of consideration.

13. STAR ROAD (USA) [Bernardini – Fanfare (Curlin)] – A class 1 winner over 1800M at Busan in June before running 6th behind Mr. Afleet in August. He had a setback after that and this is his first start since though he looked good when winning a trial earlier this month. This is a big ask first-up.

14. JEONGMUN SAI (KOR) [Simon Pure – Kayville (Giant’s Causeway)] – Back-to-back wins over 1800M at class 3 and class 2 enabled him to take his chance in the President’s Cup and he made the most of it, running on superbly for 4th. This is another step up in terms of competition and he will be an outsider but can give a good account of himself.

15. TOUCH STAR MAN (KOR) [Testa Matta – Useung Touch (Menifee)] – Winner of two legs of the Triple Crown in 2020, he’s had a stop-start career since and arrived first-up at the President’s Cup last month. From the widest gate he battled across and showed at the front but weakened to finish among the trailers. He is much better than that, but he has a tough ask again in an even tougher race.16. DONGBANG DAERO (USA) [Curlin – Willa Joe (El Gran Senor)] – The nine0year-old has been a super servant over the years, most notably running 2nd in this race in 2017, beaten only a head by the great Power Blade and ahead of Triple Nine and Cheongdam Dokki. He can still sneak minor finishes now and then, but this is a very tough ask. Hopefully his final race as he has earned his retirement

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 12-26-2021, 09:15 AM

Free Winners for Sunday, December 26th 2021 from THE LEGEND!
FREE HORSE PICKS
LAUREL PARK
RACE #7
TIME: 3:20 PM EST
PICK: BET #1 Smooth With A Kick 5/2 odds to win @ Bovada