Friday 2/4/22 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:15 AM

Aqueduct (4th) A Fling Thing, 6-1
(5th) Eudaimonia, 8-1

Charles Town (4th) Ghandhi’s Castle, 4-1
(5th) Commcat, 9-2

Delta Downs (3rd) Violet Shadows, 9-2
(4th) Sobek, 6-1

Fair Grounds (1st) No Pedigree, 3-1
(2nd) Soul Coaxing, 7-2

Golden Gate Fields (3rd) Lucas McCain, 7-2
(5th) Fait Accompli, 6-1

Gulfstream Park (1st) Cajun Mandate, 3-1
(4th) Bob Marco, 3-1

Laurel Park (3rd) Mutakaamil, 3-1
(5th) Kid d’Oro, 9-2

Oaklawn Park (2nd) Milana, 9-2
(3rd) Rift Valley, 3-1

Penn National (3rd) Yankee Joe, 4-1
(6th) Ready and Rich, 7-2

Sam Houston (4th) My Call, 6-1
(6th) Coach Dan, 5-1

Santa Anita (3rd) A Crown for Kitten, 3-1
(7th) Dicey Mo Chara, 3-1

Tampa Bay Downs (1st) Acaciahelpme, 3-1
(3rd) Clever Fellow, 5-1

Turfway Park (1st) Solesofhershoes, 3-1
(3rd) Ice Queen, 7-2

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:16 AM

Top Horse Racing Picks for Friday, February 4, 2022
By J.W. Paine in Horse Racing

It was all morning-line favorites and deep underdogs with nothing in between at the three horse racing tracks I assessed for my Friday picks.

Golden Gate Fields refused to yield anything by favorites, while Laurel Park slipped in a 5/1 underdog between the two favorites. And then Turfway Park brought it all home for us, offering up nothing but underdog moneymakers in all three races.

Don’t forget to review the full race-cards of all three tracks at one of our top online racebooks.

Good luck!
Friday’s Picks for Golden Gate Fields

We’ll begin with race two, a one-mile starter allowance run on the all-weather track for fillies and mares four years old and upward. I’m in agreement with the morning-line here: Buy a win ticket on the 2/1 favorite, Squared Shady, ridden by Heriberto Figueroa.

This four-year-old filly finished in the money nine of her 16 career starts, winning two, including her most recent claiming race in January. She notably finished third in the Campanile Stakes (Black Type) here at Golden Gate last April, and ran fifth out of twelve in the Sweet Life Stakes (Grade III) on Valentine’s Day a year ago at Santa Anita.

With two decades in the horse racing business, Aggie Ordonez trains Squared Shady for McLean Racing Stables.

Race four is a six-furlong allowance race on the all-weather track for fillies and mares four years old and upward. In this short field of five, the 1/1 morning-line favorite is my pick: Dynasty of Her Own, with veteran jockey Evin A. Roman in the irons.

This five-year-old mare moneyed 13 of her 18 career starts, winning ten of them, including her most recent run at Golden Gate. She also finished first in the Borderplex Stakes (Black Type) at Sunland Park and the California Oaks (Black Type) here at Golden Gate back in 2020.
Did I mention Dynasty of Her Own is my no-brainer pick of the day? I think I just did.

Jonathan Wong trains Dynasty of Her Own for Tommy Town Thoroughbreds LLC.

Race six is a one-mile allowance optional claiming race on the all-weather track for three-year-old fillies. Me and the morning-line are going steady, apparently, because I’m backing the 7/5 favorite here—Sen Sen, piloted by Assael Espinoza.

This filly finished four of her six career starts in the money, two of them wins, including her most recent. She also finished third in a field of eight at the Golden Gate Debutante Stakes (Black Type) in November.

Longtime horseracing veteran Steven Specht trains Sen Sen for owner Antone Metaxas.
My Friday Picks for Laurel Park

Let’s begin here on the main track with race two, a six-furlong starter allowance optional claiming race for fillies and mares four years old and upward. Yes, I’m touting the morning-line favorite in this race: Gifted Heart, with Victor R. Carrasco aboard.

In this five-horse field, it’s hard not to notice the horse with the best record. This five-year-old mare finished eleven of her 20 career starts in the money, winning six, including her latest last month. She’s had a bit of success at the stakes level, as well, but nothing recent.

Phil Schoenthal trains Gifted Heart for owners Rashid’s Thoroughbred Racing, Linda Walls, Rick Wallace, and Kingdom Bloodstock, Inc.

Incidentally, keep an eye on the 15/1 underdog, Notion Interruptus, ridden by Bryson L. Butterfly for trainer David R. Mohan.

This four-year-old filly has been steadily improving since her first maiden attempt last year, and her speed figures have improved right along with her.
Notion Interruptus appears poised to enter her prime competitive season. Toss in Butterfly’s apprentice weight allowance, and I’d recommend a value show ticket.

Race five is a seven-furlong allowance race on the main track for four-year-olds and upward. Speaking of Butterfly, he’s aboard one of the three 5/1 underdogs in this race (and my pick): Swing West.

This five-year-old gelding finished in the money 16 of his 24 career starts, winning six, including his two most recent claiming races here at Laurel Park. Butterfly was in the irons for both of those wins.

David R. Mohan trains Swing West for Mohan Stable, Inc.

Race seven is a 6-1/2 furlong allowance optional claiming race on the main track for three-year-olds. I’m betting my two dollars on the 8/5 morning-line favorite, Heffner, piloted by veteran jockey Horacio Karamanos.

This gelding moneyed three of his five career starts, winning one. He’s the best this six-horse field has to offer.

Emanuel J. Geralis trains Heffner for owner Joseph E. Colgain.
Friday Picks for Turfway Park

Let’s start on the all-weather track with race three, a one-mile claiming race for fillies and mares three years old and upward that have never won two races. My money’s on the second-favored (at 4/1) Admaa, with John McKee in the irons.

This five-year-old mare moneyed six of her eleven career starts, winning one. In this broad 14-horse field, she’s the one to watch.

Longtime horse racing veteran Eric R. Reed trains Admaa for owner Jerry Jamgotchian.

Race six is a one-mile run on the all-weather track for three-year-olds and upward that have never won three races. I’m backing the 6/1 underdog, Heat of the Night, piloted by Gerardo Corrales.

This four-year-old gelding finished in the money four of his ten career starts, winning two, including his most recent claiming race at Turfway.
Two weeks after winning his initial maiden attempt, Heat of the Night finished fifth in a field of seven at the 2020 Summer Stakes (Grade I) at Woodbine.

Top-100-ranked Timothy E. Hamm trains Heat of the Night for Blazing Meadows Farm LLC and Frederick Hertrich III.

Race eight is a one-mile allowance optional claiming race for three-year-olds and upward. I’m betting on the 6/1 underdog, Solidify, ridden by Albin Jimenez.

This six year-old gelding moneyed eleven of his 21 career starts, winning five. He finished first in the Grey Stakes (Grade III) in Woodbine a month after winning his initial maiden attempt back in 2018.

A glance at his record might suggest that Solidify’s glory days are in the past, but a closer look will reveal consistently high speed figures and regular money finishes. In this otherwise unimpressive field of 12, that should be enough.

Thirty-year horse racing veteran Claude L. Brownfield, III trains Solidify for owners Stephen Chesney and Cory S. Hoffman.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:16 AM

Aqueduct Picks: Suspended Campaign for Duggan on February 4
By J.N. Campbell

Aqueduct Picks - Friday, February 4, 2022

Race 1: 2-4-7-6
Race 2: 6-2-5-1
Race 3: 2-4-1-5
Race 4: 6-3-5-9
Race 5: 2-11-8-13
Race 6: 3-1/1A-2-7
Race 7: 4-1-5-9
Race 8: 5-2-6-4
Race 9: 7-4-2-8
**Most Likely Winner: Pier Forty #3 (Race 6)**
**Best Value: Suspended Campaign #4 (Race 7)**

Most Likely Winner: (Race 6: Pier Forty #3, 7/2):

The Perez Stables is hoping that a recent claim made by Juan Vazquez results in a nice win. Based on this trainer’s record, it could very well happen. The conditioner has a good Meet going, and last time the connections watched as this 6-yr-old by City Zip lost the lead at the top of the stretch … ending up 2nd. Maybe Eric Cancel will not let that happen again, since he and his mount will only be travelling 1 mile … not a 1 1/8th. This one looks like a nice play, and he has a record of consistency dating back to when he ran under Orlando Noda. If we could get 7/2 … that would be a gift!

Wagering Recommendation: $100 Win, #3

Off-the-Pace Play of the Day: (Race 7: Suspended Campaign #4, 6/1):

Trainer David Duggan has a small, but effective stable. With 15 starts during this portion of the NYRA Meet, he is 1-4-2. That is not terrible, even if it comes to a 7% winning clip. I like this entry because this filly is coming in for her 3rd run in the cycle. She gets Jorge Vargas, who is not a poor rider when it comes to sprints. This daughter of Honor Code should be around 6/1 on the tote come post time. She is shortening up a touch, running 7F, and easily has the class to hang with this crowd. What a bet!

Wagering Recommendation: $100 Bankroll, Graduated Wager WPS #4 ($10-W, $15-P, $75-S)

Spotlight Race of the Day: (Race 8: Dirt, 1 1/8th, OC62.5k, 4+):

On an afternoon where the track surface might be less than inviting, we find ourselves in the middle of a “Non-Winners” of 2, OC contest. The purse is healthy, $84k total … and 4 of the 7 that are drawn in here, are up for moving to another barn. That might or might not happen. It looks as though favoritism will swing into the corner of Chad Brown’s Mystic Night #6, a gelding by famed sire Into Mischief. Peter Brant and Three Chimneys brought this one along, and he looks to be the one with the best form. Manny Franco has some experience aboard the 5-yr-old, and backing him makes a ton of sense. Let’s use this one on our ticket, but I am much more interested in Rudy Rodriguez’s new barn member, the well-known Prioritize #5. I say “well-known” because last year the son of Tizway ran against a classy crowd … Max Player, Art Collector, Mystic Guide, and happy Saver … just to name a few. His ability to stretch out is there, even though the results were not stupendous for the Bond-trainee. Still, Michael Dubb claimed him, and maybe a new perspective is just what is needed. Eric Cancel remembers this one from ’20, so he should be ready to make his official debut in the new year. He can be claimed though … interesting. One other entry that is intriguing comes from HOF trainer Todd Pletcher, who hails from The Lone Star State. Texas Swing #2 rides into Aqueduct with a 3-race win streak to his credit, and this son of Curlin is looking to elevate. Last out at Parx, he won in the end, but the race was closer than you might think. Kendrick Carmouche is going to have to be cautious about not taking his 5-yr-old out too quickly. He is not the only speed that is signed on here. These 3 runners are going to battle it out in what comes to a deep route by American standards. It should be a fun one …

Wagering Recommendation: $2 Trifecta Box, 2/5/6

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:22 AM

INTERSTATE RACING TIPS – FEBRUARY 4TH

RSN927

RSN Form Analyst Shayne Montgomery covers all the daily racing tips for the NSW meeting at the Walcha on Friday the 4th of February.

Along with our Interstate Racing Tips, you’ll find Greyhound and Harness Tips, plus a full preview of every Victorian meeting, each and every day of the week with RSN927’s Expert Tipsters and race-callers.

Rail Position: True
Track Type: Turf
Track Condition: Heavy 8
Weather: Showers
Shayne Montgomery Walcha Tips

Walcha, February 4th 2022

Race 1 Selections: 6,4,1,2
Race 2 Selections:2,4,5,8
Race 3 Selections: 1,11,5,8
Race 4 Selections:16,5,9,10
Race 5 Selections:1,3,8,13
Race 6 Selections:1,3,9,5
Race 7 Selections:6,2,10,5
Race 8 Selections:2,6,5,3
Best Bet

Race 3 Number 1 Amulet Street
Next Best

Race 4 Number 16 Foxstorm
Best Value

Race 1 Number 6 Everluck
Quaddie

Quaddie 1:1,3,8,13
Quaddie 2:1,3,5,9
Quaddie 3:2,5,6,10
Quaddie 4:2,3,5,6
Play Of The Day

Race 3 Number 1 Amulet Street all up Race 4 Number 16 Foxstorm

RSN Form Analyst Michael Charge covers all the daily racing tips for the QLD meeting at the Cairns on Friday the 4th of February.

Along with our Interstate Racing Tips, you’ll find Greyhound and Harness Tips, plus a full preview of every Victorian meeting, each and every day of the week with RSN927’s Expert Tipsters and race-callers.

Rail Position: +2m 1400-320m (Cutaway applies); True Remainder.
Track Type: Turf
Track Condition: Soft 7
Weather: Overcast
Penetrometer: 8.16
Michael Charge Cairns Tips

Cairns, February 4th 2022

Race 1 Selections: 3,2,1,4
Race 2 Selections:2,5,1,3
Race 3 Selections: 4,2,8,9
Race 4 Selections:3,1,2,5
Race 5 Selections:1,3,6,8
Race 6 Selections:5,6,2,11
Race 7 Selections:2,4,1,9
Race 8 Selections:1,2,11,4
Best Bet

Race 6 Number 5 Right Bower
Quaddie

Quaddie 1:1,3,6,8
Quaddie 2:5,6,2
Quaddie 3:2,4,1,9
Quaddie 4:1,2,11

RSN Form Analyst Howard Walter covers all the daily racing tips for the QLD meeting at the Sunshine Coast on Thursday the 3rd of February.

Along with our Interstate Racing Tips, you’ll find Greyhound and Harness Tips, plus a full preview of every Victorian meeting, each and every day of the week with RSN927’s Expert Tipsters and race-callers.

Rail Position: 4 metres Entire Course.
Dual Track Meeting: Y
Track Condition: Soft 6
Weather: Overcast
Howard Walter Sunshine Coast Tips

Sunshine Coast, February 4th 2022

Race 1 Selections: 8,1,7,2
Race 2 Selections: 7,6,5,4
Race 3 Selections :6,10,12,13
Race 4 Selections: 2,10,6,11
Race 5 Selections: 3,10,6,12
Race 6 Selections: 8,9,2,4
Best Bet

Race 5 Number 3 Theaglehaslanded
Best Value

Race 4 Number 2 Brave Nick
Quaddie

Quaddie 1:6,10,12
Quaddie 2:2,6,10,11
Quaddie 3:3,6,10
Quaddie 4:2,4,8,9
Play Of The Day

Race 4 Rove 2 in a Trifecta with 6,10,11

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:22 AM

DAILY HARNESS TIPS – FEBRUARY 4TH

Dan Mielicki

Get the RSN Race-callers best bets and Harness Racing Tips for Melton Harness on Friday the 4th of February.
Dan Mielicki Melton Tips
Dan Mielicki

Melton, February 4th 2022

Race 1 Selections:3,1,8,5,7
Race 2 Selections:3,6,5,4,7
Race 3 Selections:5,1,8,2,4
Race 4 Selections:2,1,5,9,4
Race 5 Selections:3,10,7,11,9
Race 6 Selections:6,10,11,8,5
Race 7 Selections:12,11,6,2,13
Race 8 Selections:6,8,5,4,1
Race 9 Selections: ** Field assembled from Races 3 & 4
Race 10 Selections:8,5,4,7,12
Best Bet

Race 1 Number 3 Me Pat Malone
Next Best

Race 4 Number 2 Majestuoso
Best Value

Race 2 Number 3 Majestical Belle
Quaddie

Quaddie 1:3,7,10,11
Quaddie 2:6,10,11
Quaddie 3:2,6,11,12,13
Quaddie 4:5,6,8

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:22 AM

Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | February 4, 2022
James Herbert

What Moonee Valley Races
Where Moonee Valley Racing Club – 1 McPherson St, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039
When Friday, Friday 4, 2022
First Race 6:15pm AEDT

Racing returns to Moonee Valley on Friday night with an eight-part card, and HorseBetting’s Victorian form expert presents his best bets and quaddie selections for the evening. The track has come up a Good 4, the rail is out 3m for the entire circuit, and racing is set to start at 6:15pm AEDT.
Moonee Valley Best Bet – Joseylin

The Ben & JD Hayes-trained Joseylin is coming off a narrow win at Flemington on January 14, and we think she can go on with the job at The Valley. With two wins and two runner-up efforts in her past four runs, she is in some serious form, and the three-year-old Pride of Dubai filly looks well-placed by the stable once again. With Josh Richards sticking on board and claiming 2kg, she is set to go around with 57.5kg on her back, a 2.5kg rise on her last-start win. Her racing pattern is hard to knock, especially at The Valley considering she wants to be close to the speed throughout. She will need a touch of luck to not get trapped wide without cover from barrier six, but if she is afforded that, she is more than good enough to take out a race like this.
Best Bet
Race 4 – Joseylin (#2)
$7 with Sportsbet
Next Best Bet at Moonee Valley – Teofilo Star

Coming off a maiden win at Geelong on January 23, the Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott-trained Teofilo Star looks to be a great bet in the second leg of the quaddie. Having led the field up on that day, the four-year-old son of Teofilo managed to offer a kick on the home turn and ultimately proved too hard to run down. From barrier 10 and with Craig Newitt retaining the ride, it looks set to be a carbon copy of that run when he steps up to the 2500m on Friday night. He looks set to gain an uncontested lead and fresh off a 3.25 length win, he is racing in fine form and looks one of the best bets on the card. We are more than happy to take the $4 on offer with online Bookmakers.
Next Best
Race 6 – Teofilo Star (#5)
$4 with Ladbrokes
Moonee Valley Value Bet – Her Empire

Despite Elite Icon looking like a smart type in the opening event, we are happy to side with the Mark & Levi Kavanagh-trained Her Empire at a price. Just three runs back, the three-year-old filly out of Deep Field went within 2.5 lengths of taking out the Group 3 Scarborough Stakes, she has been short on luck since. She draws barrier three on Friday night and will gain the services of Brett Prebble for the first time. She will need a touch of luck when cornering, but her turn of foot is good enough to win this.
Best Value
Race 1 – Her Empire (#7)
$9 with Sportsbet
Friday quaddie tips for Moonee Valley
Moonee Valley quadrella selections
Leg 1: 2-6-7
Leg 2: 5-6
Leg 3: 2-4-7-8-10
Leg 4: 5-9-10
Investment: $90 for 100%

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:22 AM

Sunshine Coast racing tips & top value bets | 4/2/2022
Nicholas Lloyd

What Sunshine Coast Races
Where Corbould Park Racecourse – 170 Pierce Ave, Caloundra QLD 4551
When Friday, February 4, 2022
First Race 6pm AEST
Watch Live
Sky Racing Watch Live
Sportsbet

Streaming Live at Sportsbet

HorseBetting’s Queensland racing analyst presents his best bets for the six-race card at the Sunshine Coast on Friday night, with odds from Australia’s top betting sites. The first race of the night will be run on the synthetic track, with races 2-6 back on the turf, where the track will be rated a Soft 5 and the rail is out 4m for the entire course. Racing will get underway at 6pm AEST with the running of a Benchmark 62 over 1100m.
Best Bet – Buying Time

It’s a nice race, this. Just like they did in Saturday’s Sunshine Coast Cup, we are expecting that siblings Boris and Stephanie Thornton will be fighting it out aboard their mounts Buying Time and The Rattlesnake. We are siding with the former, however, who is looking to remain unbeaten after a good debut win at this track and distance on January 2. Trained by Steven O’Dea & Matt Hoysted, the three-year-old son of Deep Field settled down midfield on debut before coming with a good run to defeat Mishani Bandit and Ralphie by half a length. Ralphie has since won stylishly and lines up in this race as well on level weights, so it’s hard to see him turning the tables under almost identical circumstances, while The Rattlesnake may just need the run first-up, although he did win on debut – albeit over 800m. From barrier three, Boris Thornton will get all of the favours in the run and can steer Buying Time to another victory.
Best Bet
Race 2 – Buying Time (#6)
$4.20 with Sportsbet
Next Best – Evita La Vie

In the final race of the night, Chris Meagher and in-form hoop Ben Thompson combine with Evita La Vie. The five-year-old mare resumed as a winner at this track over 1400m on December 19, where she defeated subsequent winner If You Can Dream. At her next start, she failed at Doomben as a $3 favourite, before returning close to her best back at this track and trip on January 21, finishing off well into third behind Ginja. She gets in well with 54kg on Friday night and the booking of Ben Thompson is a big advantage, while barrier five should see her land in a beautiful spot behind the speed. There are a couple of classy stayers in this race, so she will have to bring her A-game, but she only has to lug the minimum weight, which brings her right into this, especially now that she is fourth-up and rock-hard fit.
Next Best
Race 6 – Evita La Vie (#5)
$3.90 with Sportsbet
Best Value – Isabella’s Spring

There’s no denying that Isabella’s Spring was plain at best in her first-up run, but a couple if things were against her that day at Doomben. Harlequin Field was able to lead and control the race in an absolute walk, so it was never going to suit backmarkers, while 1350m is not this mare’s go. She settled down last and worked home to beat two runners home in what can be described as a forgive run. The Barry Lockwood-trained five-year-old won at this track over 2400m in June, so she will relish getting out to 1800m. The daughter of Fruehling finished eight-tenths of a length off Incentivise at this track and distance in April in this same grade, so a repeat of that run would have to see her competitive. On a track with a bit of sting out of the ground and a good jockey in Wendy Peel aboard, Isabella’s Spring is well worth a shout at $23 with Sportsbet.
Best Value
Race 4 – Isabella’s Spring (#1)
$23 with Sportsbet
Friday quaddie tips for Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast quadrella selections
Leg 1: 2-3-9-10
Leg 2: 1-2-6
Leg 3: 3-9-10-13
Leg 4: 1-3-5
Investment: $144 for 100%

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:25 AM

Walcha horse racing tips & quaddie picks | Friday, February 4
Nicholas Lloyd

What Walcha Cup Day
Where Walcha Racecourse – 140 Darjeeling Road, Walcha NSW 2354
When Friday, February 4, 2022
First Race 1:35pm AEDT
Feature Race R7: Walcha Cup (1440m)
Watch Live
Sky Racing Watch Live
Sportsbet

Streaming Live at Sportsbet

HorseBetting’s New South Wales form analyst brings you his best bets and quaddie numbers for Friday’s meeting at Walcha in NSW’s Northern Tablelands, along with picks in both the Walcha Cup and the Lightning Handicap. The track is rated a Good 3, the rail is in the true position for the entire course, and the first race is set to jump at 1:35pm AEDT.
Walcha Cup – Celestial Doll

In the Walcha Cup, Will Freedman and Matthew Palmer combine with the consistent Celestial Doll. Having won by 3.5 lengths at Glen Innes on January 8, the mare by Star Witness took that form to Parkes and won in track-record time under 57.5kg in Open company. Both of those wins came over 1400m, so the 1440m will be no issues for this four-time winner. Jumping from barrier seven, Celestial Doll is likely to land in the one-out, one-back position, which will give her the final say in the straight. Prior to her two back-to-back wins, she wasn’t beaten all that far at Rosehill and Randwick in Highway races, which is certainly strong from for this. The four-year-old drops down to 55kg from her last-start win and looks extremely hard to beat again.
Walcha Cup
Race 7 – Celestial Doll (#6)
$3.70 with Sportsbet
Lightning Handicap – Rexx

Rexx is one galloper we have always had a bit of time for, especially in this neck of the woods. Three starts ago, the Ian Cook-trained six-year-old finished just over two lengths away from Edit in the Spring Cup at Tamworth over 1200m, before winning the Denman Cup at Muswellbrook on October 4. Rexx was then spelled before returning to the races at Grafton on January 23, where he was dominant in winning a Benchmark 86 over the 1000m by 0.63 lengths. Casey Waddell steered Rexx home to victory at the end of last campaign, and she hops back aboard here, utilising her 1.5kg claim to get him in with just 59.5kg. From barrier five, he is likely to push forward and find the front, which will make him very hard to run down over 1000m.
Lightning Handicap
Race 8 – Rexx (#2)
$4.40 with Sportsbet
Best Bet at Walcha – Metal Bar

Jeremy Sylvester and Brooke Stower combine with Metal Bar in the second race of the day, where they look very hard to stop. The four-year-old gelding has been knocking on the door in his past few starts, having finished second in three of his last four outings. The son of No Nay Never hasn’t been beaten far in any of those three runs, and he was up against tougher opposition than this in all of them. This is a pretty average maiden over 1440m, so if he replicates what he has been doing in his past few starts, we expect him to win.
Best Bet
Race 2 – Metal Bar (#4)
$4.40 with Sportsbet
Next Best Bet – Keep Me Loyal

In the first leg of the quaddie, Luke Morgan saddles up four-year-old gelding Keep Me Loyal. The son of Exosphere was bred by Gerry Harvey and originally trained by Chris Waller, but he didn’t make it to the races until he debuted at Tamworth in October for Morgan. In his three starts to date, Keep Me Loyal has been the bridesmaid on two occasions, going down by half a length on debut before finding Tucson Valley too speedy over 1100m at Armidale on January 24. Now back to 1000m in weaker company, he should prove pretty hard to beat at start four. Jackson Searle did the piloting last time and on debut, with his 1.5kg claim proving advantageous. From what will be barrier eight after the emergencies come out, Keep Me Loyal should be able to find a forward spot and be able to break his maiden status.
Next Best
Race 5 – Keep Me Loyal (#1)
$4.20 with Sportsbet
Next Best Again – Dixie Can

Dixie Can resumes on Friday in what is a competitive Class 2, but nothing he has done to date suggests he can’t measure up. The Craig Martin-trained gelding has had six starts, winning at Tamworth in the second of those before justifying his even-money quote at Gunnedah in May. The five-year-old has had his runs spread apart, with his last start coming back in June when beating just the one runner home at Grafton over 1115m behind city winner Liza With A Zee. From barrier five, the son of Dixie Prospect is going to get a lovely run off the speed, which is going to give him every chance to resume as a winner. Brooke Stower will do the riding aboard Dixie Can for the first time on Friday, so that is a plus as she rides these country tracks well. It is a tough race, but he’s got the class to win first-up.
Next Best Again
Race 6 – Dixie Can (#3)
$4 with Sportsbet
Friday quaddie tips for Walcha
Walcha quadrella selections
Leg 1: 1-2-7
Leg 2: 1-2-3-8
Leg 3: 1-3-6
Leg 4: 2-5
Investment: $72 for 100%

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:26 AM

Aqueduct Horses in Focus for Friday, February 4
Posted on February 3, 2022 by David Aragona

RACE 1: HEYMACKIT’SJACK (#3)

This field is desperate for a new face, as proven options like Brew Pub, Scherzando, and even Feathers Road do very little to get the pulse going. Brew Pub arguably has the best form of them all, but he’s hard to endorse as a win candidate given his 0 for 20 career record. The obvious fresh face is the first time starter Mr Breadwinner. This 4-year-old colt sold for $75k at OBS March in 2020 after working a quarter in 21 3/5. However, it’s taken him nearly two years to get to the races after that. Tonalist is just a 7% debut sire, and the dam lost both starts. She’s produced one winner from 3 foals to race, but all were pretty limited in terms of ability. That said, Horacio DePaz is 11 for 58 (19%, $2.50 ROI) with first time starters in dirt sprints over 5 years. That Jan. 28 workout is fast, and his gate drill on Dec. 31 matches Sweet Solare, who took money and was 3rd on debut for this barn last week. I think he’s dangerous, but the new face that I want figure to be a more generous price. Heymackit’sjack is a former Kimmel runner who returns in the barn of top jump trainer Keri Brion While she is just 1 for 31 (3%, $0.16 ROI) in flat races over the past 5 years, most of those starters were cheap claimers at Penn National. This colt comes in a little light on speed figures, but he was last competing as a newly turned 3-year-old, so he has a right to do better now. It’s also worth noting that he was outside against a rail bias when he last competed on Feb. 25. He’s a half-brother to 7-time dirt winner Money in the Bank, so there’s pedigree for him to pan out, and this is not the toughest field.

RACE 6: PIER FORTY (#3)

Mister Candy Ride was entered in that Jan. 13 affair that many of these exit, but he got scratched by Linda Rice, who went with Royal Tryst instead. Rice was listed as the owner that day, but now he comes back in a common ownership entry with Royal Tryst. Rice is 22 for 65 (34%, $2.00 ROI) first off the claim in Aqueduct dirt routes over the past 5 years. However, her barn has been on a cold streak at this meet. He arguably ran the best race despite losing to Royal Tryst at Churchill last time as he made the first move into a pace that collapsed. This horse once showed a lot of promise for Ken McPeek, and his last effort suggested he was getting back on track. I’m not against him, but I didn’t want this entry at a short price. Extreme has to be considered a threat given his ample early speed in a race lacking a clear pace scenario. He’s been pretty disappointing since the claim by Ray Handal, failing to make much of an impact in two starts at this level. That said, he faced an unfavorable pace scenario two back at Churchill when he got outrun to the lead through very fast fractions in a race that collapsed late. I’m not convinced that he really wants a mile, but he may be catching the right field here. Among the horses exiting that Jan. 13 race at this level, I’m most interested in Pier Forty. He undoubtedly ran the best race, as he got outrun into the first turn despite a hustling ride, and then was forced to make a wide move into the backstretch. He followed the early bid of High Tide and then put that rival away in the lane before getting overhauled by a closer. It was a big effort considering the ground loss and overall pace collapse. He’s a little tough to endorse off his prior form, but perhaps he’s just a new horse since the claim by Vazquez, who is on quite a run at this meet. I like the turnback to a mile for him as well.

RACE 8: PRIORITIZE (#5)

Mystic Night will probably go favored here as he drops in class back to the N2X allowance level. He was surely overbet in the Queens County last time when pounded down to even-money despite facing a strong field of seasoned stakes performers. That said, he still ran poorly that day, unable to take advantage of an outside bias while significantly regressing from a speed figure standpoint. The bottom line with him is that he’s been favored at odds of 9-5 or less in his last four starts and has lost all of them. You can make some excuses for him, but his form has nevertheless been declining ever since that amazing performance to win here last March. This is among the softest fields he’s met recently, but I have to let him beat me at what figures to be a short price. I’m also against Hammerin Aamer, who steps up in class after beating $40k claiming foes off the claim last time. He’s been steadily improving ever since last fall, but at some point there has to be an upper limit to his progress and I feel like he probably reached it last time. He’s also had little success going this 1 1/8 miles distance. I’m most interested in two horses. My top pick is Prioritize. His recent form leaves something to be desired, but he actually closed decently into a moderate pace two back, and then lost all chance at the start last time. Dec. 31 was also a day that was favoring speed types, so he was doubly compromised. He was claimed out of that race by Rudy Rodriguez, who is 21-for-65 (32%, $2.18 ROI) first off the claim in dirt routes at Aqueduct over the past 5 years. Furthermore, he’s getting to stretch back out to his preferred 1 1/8 miles distance, and he’s being reunited with Eric Cancel, who rode him when he was in peak form. At a bigger price, I also want to use Croation. Tony Dutrow doesn’t have the strongest numbers off the claim, but this horse has plenty of back races that put him in the mix. He wants to run all day, so I like stretching out to two turns, and he was compromised by a moderate pace that held together last time.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:26 AM

Rocket Picks ��: Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita for February 4, 2022
By: Aaron Halterman

We’ve made it to the weekend! For the free pick 4, we will head to Gulfstream Park today, which has a solid card. We will also be covering Santa Anita today for the paid Rockets, so be sure to check those out. Let’s kick off the weekend in a good way!

Below is our free Late Pick 4 for Gulfstream Park:

Gulfstream Park February 4, 2022

Race 7: Claiming

#5 Straight Shot has a speed figure advantage over this group, but returns from a long layoff today. #1 Big Daddy Dave will look to make it two in a row after an impressive gate to wire win at this level last time out.

Race 8: Starter Optional Claiming
freestar

#4 Cagua has been solid over this surface since moving to it back in October. She will look to make it two in a row today. #3 Golden Bow moves over to the synthetic surface after a nice victory over the dirt last time out.

Race 9: Allowance Optional Claiming

#3 American Icon and #6 Iron Works were both ultra-impressive maiden special weight winners for Pletcher on debut. Both should run well here, but it is important to note that Saez has chosen to ride American Icon.

Race 10: Maiden Claiming

#7 Conundrum Queen has a speed figure advantage over this group, but runs off of a long layoff today, which is a question mark. #2 What Knot moves to the turf after a decent debut over the synthetic last time out.

THE TICKET
freestar

$.50 Pick 4 (Races 7-10) 1,5,6 / 1,3,4,6,8 / 3,6 / 2,7 – $30

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:26 AM

Frank Carulli: Stronach 5 Analysis | Friday, Feb. 4, 2022

February 3, 2022 | By Frank Carulli

STRONACH 5 ANALYSIS
February 4, 2022

The Stronach 5 paid more than $43,000 for a $1 wager in three of the last eight weeks it was offered. This week's sequence covers four tracks nationwide and could produce another big payout. Here's an early look at the action, with an update to follow Friday after scratches:

LEG A: (Laurel Park, race 8, 3:57 EST) -- PIT STOP MAN raced inside a 4-way duel for the lead, battled back after the favorite cleared on the turn and got caught by a 33-1 deep closer. He will be an underlay but will be tough to beat as controlling speed. MONEY CODE trailed at the top of the stretch in the same one-mile race but finished strongly in the 2-path for third. KEEN ON YOU saved ground, lost contact with the leaders on the final turn and finished okay in a heavily-bet second start. He worked 4F in :47.3 after he was claimed in that November race and is a wake-up candidate with Lasix.

LEG B: (Gulfstream Park, race 8, 4:11 EST) -- READY TO FILM, much improved since adding blinkers, runs on a synthetic track for the first time after a pair of photo-finish placings on the turf behind winners who are a combined 4-for-10. CAGUA, one of four entrants coming in off a maiden claiming victory, rallied to win in a longer route race with first-time Lasix and should get plenty of pace flow in a repeat try. WAR OF AGES benefited from several troubled rivals behind her but still looked good drawing away to a second-out sprint victory after two months away.

LEG C: (Santa Anita, race 3, 4:33 EST) -- ARDIS chased a faster pace at 6F than a $50,000 sprint for the boys at 5/1/2F on the same card. She dropped back after she was bumped into the turn, now lures Prat for start number two. AN AGENT MISTAKE, a first-time starter by 2016 Del Mar Futurity winner Klimt (3-8, $468k), shows a series of steady workouts for her debut. PRETTY RENA encountered trouble in a pair of turf sprints, then tired badly in a double key turf-to-dirt mile. She gets Velazquez to ride for a 24-percent barn with MSW class droppers.

LEG D: (Gulfstream Park, race 9, 4:42 EST) -- Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher unveiled a pair of promising 3-year-olds this month at Gulfstream. AMERICAN ICON, a $400,000 sales buy, and IRON WORKS, a $550,000 purchase, won by a combined 12-1/4 lengths and fired bullet workouts since then. Pletcher runners repeat 28 percent of the time, so look for one of them in the winners' circle.

LEG E: (Golden Gate, race 3, 4:49 EST) -- Seven entrants ran for a higher claiming price in their last start and only two have won a race since last May. That being said, use WINK AND A DREAM and MINSKI, who both ran well despite trouble lines when last seen in winter sprints that produced next-out winners. BOURBONWITHATWIST should be used as the likely favorite with three consecutive runner-up finishes at the $6,250 claiming level.

Suggested $1 Ticket
Leg A: 3, 4, 7
Leg B: 4, 5, 8
Leg C: 3, 5, 7
Leg D: 3, 6
Leg E: 3, 5, 8
COST: $162

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:26 AM

Al Cimaglia: Cal Expo Pick 4 Analysis-$30,000 Guaranteed Pool

February 4, 2022 | By Al Cimaglia

Cal Expo starts the weekend with a 9-race card. The popular 0.20 Pick 4 is set to roll in Race 6. The sequence has a $30,000 guaranteed pool with a 16% takeout, and it will be my focus.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 6

1-Uniquerock (5-1)-One move sort needs a trip from this post to sit inside and look to shake loose late. Fits with this bunch and Lackey should put in play.
3-Devils Brother (3-1)-Barn has been cold and will toss the last dull try. Usual pilot Kennedy returns, he has been red-hot and could work an efficient trip. Does its best work racing near the top of the stack and could drop in right behind the program chalk #5.
8-SD Watch Me Now (4-1)-Makes the 2nd start of the meet and this time Roland steers his trainee. Drops into a comfortable spot and should be tough to beat with a top effort.

Race 7

2-Ivy B Poison (7/2)-This will be the 3rd start at CalX and comes off a tough trip. This is Kennedy's choice over #7 and should be in the hunt with a smooth journey.
4-Kiss On The Lips (7/5)-Longo won't be driving his pupil tonight as Plano grabs the lines over #1 and will use that angle. Was raced hard from the 8 hole in last and faded after getting the top. Looking for a better steer and a better outcome.

Race 8

4-Villa For Rent (8/5)-Was used very hard in the opening quarter last week and couldn't hold the lead. Did pace hard to the wire and will look for a better trip here at a small price.
6-Western Devil (2-1)-Came out of the same race as the one above and stayed inside but was locked in down the lane. Replay watchers will be betting and did have a valid excuse. But will be a short price and not sure the troubled trip cost a picture.
7-Fox Valley Triton (5-1)-Here is another out of the same race that was used hard off the gate. Did rally down the lane but then hung. Should be in the hunt with a smooth trip.

Race 9

1-Almost Cut My Hair (8-1)-Takes a meaningful drop and gets post relief. Lackey should be able to get into striking range by the top of the lane. Can bring one good move and the price should be right.
3-Some Playa (3-1)-This veteran also takes a good drop and has had excuses in the last 2 starts. Plano should be out and rolling and looks to be a player with a sharp steer.
5-Outlaw Blue By You (5/2)-Hasn't won since last year but this could be the night. Drops to the lowest level of the meet and may finally have found a beatable field for team Kennedy.

0.20 Pick 4

1,3,8/2,4/4,6,7/1,3,5
Total Bet=$10.80

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:27 AM

Jeff Siegel's Santa Anita Analysis/Workout Commentary - 2/4/22

February 4, 2022

“What You Need to Know” - Santa Anita
By Jeff Siegel, Handicapper & Analyst

Specifically designed for the rolling exotic player, Jeff Siegel’s Daily Santa Anita Handicapping Analysis, Wagering Strategies, Workout Commentary, and True Odds Calculations (“TPC”) 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 and displays a maximum of four runners considered the most likely contenders to win. Also listed is the specific algorithm’s sample size plus the top-rated horse’s win percentage and return on investment (ROI). 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.

For additional commentary, follow us on twitter @jsiegelracing.

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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: 12:30 PT Grade: B
Use: 4-Moody Jim; 1-Red King

Forecast: Moody Jim (TOC=4/5; ML=6/5) returned four weeks ago following a 25 month layoff to wire a $40,000 claiming field while displaying early speed that he had never shown in six starts during this sophomore season. A perfect two-for-two over the Santa Anita turf course, the ex-Irish performer may be able to dominate again on the front end or from a soft stalking position in this starter’s allowance nine furlong grass affair, though he’s rallied from 13 length back to win in the past, so F. Prat has the option to assess the race flow and then implement a strategy. The J. Mullins-trained gelding is fast on speed figures and only became eligible for this condition when virtually claim proof off the bench last time out, so there’s every reason to believe he can win right back in this five-runner affair, though at 6/5 on the morning line he won’t be offering much in the way of wagering value. For those seeking a back-up for protection, consider Red King (TOC=7.2; ML=9/5), successful in a mini-marathon at Del Mar in his most recent appearance in November at Del Mar. A multiple graded stakes winner in his younger days, the eight-year-old son of English Channel is a five-time winner over the Santa Anita turf course, he’s the most dangerous of the committed closers, and will be tough if a decent pace materializes.

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RACE 2: Post: 1:00 PT Grade: B-
Use: 4-Mongolian Legend; 1-No Hang Charlie

Forecast: Mongolian Legend (TOC=5/2; ML=4-1) makes a monumental trainer switch to D. O’Neill following a $32,000 claim in late December and returns in a starter optional $25,000 affair after a healthy series of four workouts since raced. A solid 18% with the first-off-the-claim angle, the barn switches to one of its “go to” riders A. Cedillo, and while this son of Mucho Macho Man is hard to trust (a lifetime record of 1-for-25), we’re expecting a career top performance, one that should be good enough to win. No Hang Charlie (TOC=6-1; ML=7/2) graduated by seven lengths two-turning vs. bottom-rung maiden claimers over this dirt strip two races back in an effort that produced a competitive speed figure in this league. Freshened since November and showing a strong series of works at San Luis Rey Downs in the interim, the son of Oxbow should have every chance with a ground-saving trip from his preferred rail post position. Additionally, with a break in the weights and the switch to bug boy D. Herrera, the R. Baltas-trained gelding has had just three career starts, so there is plenty of room for improvement. These are the two we’ll be using in rolling exotic play with preference on top to Mongolian Legend.

Notable Workouts:

Star Sailor (January 30, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:01.4hg). Grade: B-
In blinkers, useful move from gate for the D. O’Neill-trained colt while much best with Over Regulated (5f, 1:02.1hg), on his own to the top and then asked to pick it up in the final furlong, splits of :25.2, :37.3, :49.4 and 1:02 flat on our watches, then galloped out with some energy to the wire in 1:16.2. Once-paced grinding type graduated from a maiden $20,000 field last month and may have a bit of improvement in him.
View Workout Video

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RACE 3: Post: 1:33 PT Grade: B+
Single: 7-Ardis

Forecast: Ardis flashed good early speed to be close up early, dropped back midway, then picked it up again late and actually galloped out quite well when sixth of eighth debuting in a much stronger maiden $75,000 dirt sprint here last month. She’s returned to work a nice half mile from the gate in 47 3/5 seconds (fifth fastest of 87), so we’re expecting the daughter of Mohaymen to step forward considerably and earn her diploma in this maiden $50,000 grass sprint that appears on paper to be weaker than average. The significant jockey switch to F. Prat is a major part of the equation, so at 3-1 on the morning line we’ll make her a win play and rolling exotic single.

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RACE 4: Post: 2:04 PT Grade: B-
Use (in order of preference: 5-Take a Leap; 4-Destiny’s Journey

Forecast: We’ll double the fourth race, a low-level $10,000 claiming miler for older fillies and mares. Take a Leap (TOC=2-1; ML-9/5), a solid runner-up vs. a slightly tougher field over this track and distance last month, has always been fairly reliable (first or second in 12 of 28 starts) and a repeat of her best race should be good enough. The switch to Johnny V. for the red-hot V. Cerin barn guarantees she’ll get plenty of play, so there may not be a whole lot of value to be found at 9/5 on the morning line. Destiny’s Journey (TOC=6/5; ML=2-1), dropping a notch following a $12,500 claim by R. Hanson, is the one to fear most as the likely controlling speed. In the frame in seven of eight career starts over the Santa Anita main track (and first or second in five of those outings), the daughter of Paynter retains regular rider A. Cedillo, and if she can clear the field without undue pressure, she should take this field a very long way.

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RACE 5: Post: 2:35 PT Grade: B
Use (in order of preference): 4-Wilder Than Most; 6-Balley’s Charm

Forecast: Wilder Than Most (TOC=7/5; ML=3-1) just crushed a first-level allowance state-bred field in a race that came off the turf, but he can be equally comfortable if not more so on grass, so the return to the lawn shouldn’t be an issue. The lightly-raced gelding employs an effective pace-stalking style that guarantees a trouble-free journey, and with F. Prat riding him back, the C. Gaines-trained runner looks well-spotted for a repeat score. Bally’s Charm (TOC=7/2; ML=3-1) is a need-the-lead type, and in a race without much pace he projects to enjoy his role as the controlling speed. He’s a 3-year-old tackling older but has rising speed figures and is a first-time Lasix user, so if not pressured up front the J. Mullins-trained gelding could take this field a long way. Both should be included in rolling exotic platy; we’ll have extra tickets keying Wilder Than Most on top.

Notable Workouts:

Wilder Than Most (January 30, Santa Anita, 4f, :48.3h). Grade: B
In blinkers, breezing through the lane, final three furlongs in :11.4 and :36.2, nice drill for C. Gaines. Easy defeated Cal-bred foes last month with a career-top equaling figure, should be competitive with open company next time out.
View Workout Video

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RACE 6: Post: 3:06 PT Grade: B-
Use (in order of preference: 2-Grandconcourse Guy; 3-Dixie’s Two Stents

Forecast: Grandconcourse Guy has little to beat in this maiden $40,000 sprint for older horses and rates top billing by default. He’s a first-off-the-claim play or R. Hess, Jr. and also shows the blinkers-off angle that we like, so in the absence of other contention we’ll make the front-running son of Distorted Humor the logical top pick while also including in our rolling exotics Dixie’s Two Stents, a money burner but a fit on numbers. ‘Stents most recently was a no-excuse third as the 6/5 favorite on grass but a repeat of his race-before-last – a distant fourth in a blazing race won by the promising Shaaz - makes him a reasonable contender in this affair.

Notable Workouts:

Candy Fury (January 29, Santa Anita, 6f, 1:14.3hg). Grade: C+
In blinkers, was slightly second best inside Talklessworkmore (5f, 1:00.1hg) for V. Garcia and was head-and-head to the top without much pressure but weakened through the lane while failing to change leads, splits of :24.1, :35.3, :47.3 and 1:00.4 on his way to a final clocking on our watches of 1:15.1, slower than given and not particularly impressive. Has some speed, has been away since last May, has yet to win in 12 starts and needs soft maiden claimers.
View Workout Video

Speed Boat (January 10, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:00.2h). Grade: C+
Broke off several lengths behind Disco Ball (5f, 1:00h), closed the gap to challenge entering the lane but then fell back despite urging (workmate just galloping) to be no match for much speedier workmate, splits of :12.2, :24 flat, :35.3 and 1:00.3 on our watches. Four-year-old gelding probably a maiden claimer at this stage.
View Workout Video

Surf Ranch (January 19, Santa Anita, 4f, :49.1h). Grade: C+
Was under some restraint leaving the pole and then was breezing to the top, was asked through the lane and finished fair to moderate, splits of :12.2, :24.2 and :49.2 on our watches. May have a bit of early speed but seems to be modest state-bred maiden claiming material.
View Workout Video

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RACE 7: Post: 3:39 PT Grade: B
Use (in order of preference): 5-Evening Sun; 1-Perfectionist

Forecast: Evening Sun (TOC=3/5; ML=5/2) looks pretty solid in this nine furlong grass affair for older horses based on his winning form over the local lawn, the projected race flow that favors his closing style, and his two sharp wins last summer at Del Mar, one of which he was disqualified from and therefore keeps him eligible to this second-level allowance condition. D. Van Dyke knows him well, stays aboard, and should have this J. Mullins-trained English-bred along in time. For protection, Perfectionist (TOC=3-1; ML=8-1) is worth tossing in on your ticket at 8-1 on the morning line in his first try around two turns. The son of Vronsky projects to enjoy a ground-saving, stalking trip from his rail post and then have every chance when the pressure is turned on. If he’s ever going to handle nine furlongs, it will be in his first try, and based on his sprint numbers the P. D’Amato-trained horse can be a fit at this level.

Notable Workouts:

Offlee Naughty (January 23, Santa Anita, 5f, 1:01.3h). Grade: C
Unable to keep pace with Friar’s Road (5f, 1:00.4h) after staying even to the top of the lane, winding up almost five lengths back despite being ridden, splits of :37 flat and 1:02.1 on our watches, several ticks slower than given. Hardly encouraging, clearly needs grass to be at his best.
View Workout Video

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RACE 8: Post: 4:11 PT Grade: B+
Use (in order of preference): 5-Fashionably Fast; 1-Took Charge

Forecast: Fashionably Fast (TOC=3-1; ML=2-1) always has been dynamite over the Santa Anita dirt track (four career wins), and after being freshened since November the veteran son of Lucky Pulpit seems likely to return in peak form. A strong and healthy recent work tab should have him plenty fit, and from his cozy outside draw the D. Pederson-trained gelding should draft into an ideal pace-stalking position. Took Charge (TOC=8/5; ML=5/2) got beat on the square when worn down late in a similar affair in late December and must deal with an extra half furlong today, so he may not be one to totally trust. Winless in the three starts over the Santa Anita main track, the R. Baltas-trained gelding has only one way to go from his rail post, but If he can shake loose early and slow it down midway, he might stick around for a long time. The bulk of the action will go to Fashionably Fast, but we’ll have tickets using both in our rolling exotics.

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RACE 9: Post: 4:41 PT Grade: B+
Use (in order of preference): 7-Exactly Wendy; 5-Madiha

Forecast: Exactly Wendy has the classic two-sprints-and-a-stretch-out pattern and a pedigree that should allow improvement at this one mile distance. The state-bred daughter of Nyquist found her best stride late when a willing third over the local lawn last month, shows two easy breezes since, and looks capable of settling in the second flight and then producing a winning late kick. Madiha is an eight-race maiden but five of her starts have come in stakes races, including the Cal Cups Oaks over this course and distance in her most recent outing in which she finished a respectable sixth, beaten five lengths. Clearly, this is an easier spot, and based on speed figures she’s probably the one to beat. We’ll try to get by using just these two in rolling exotic play, with Exactly Wendy, listed at 4-1 on the morning line, the slightly preferred top pick.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-04-2022, 10:27 AM

Brian W. Spencer's Daily Picks

Charles Town - Race #7
Picks Notes
#7 Someday Is Today Think this filly is going to be tough at a short price after romping in the local debut to earn the graduation score. She should be right up on the splits again, and she is not meeting a deep field for the level.
#8 Long Legs Louise Loved her last when prompting the pace and drawing off easily, but that maiden score was the exception to the rule over the course of her 10-start career, and she was no match at all for the top choice when they met in that one's maiden win.
#5 River Rewards RVF Forward player looked good when second in that first try around two turns, but she'll still need better to put any serious scare into the top choice.
Race Summary Price won't be much on Someday is Today, but the other options aren't all that appealing. Long Legs Louise looks like the right mid-range price player to get in the frame, but she has some serious tables to turn if she's going to land this one.

Charles Town - Race #8
Picks Notes
#8 Swiss Legacy He was pretty solid in the debut when landing a win right out of the box, and he beat one of tonight's likely chalks in the process. Have to think he's in line for a great trip right near the top on the move around two turns.
#9 Math Man Marco Tough to argue with his debut try, and he draws well to prompt whatever pace shows up from the inside. He might be quick enough for the front in any case, and he obviously hinted at having a touch of talent in the debut run.
#2 Noballstwostrikes He stepped forward nicely in the second start when trying two turns, and he should be right up on the splits again here. Think he's one of the ones, and maybe the outside runner keeps the price just playable here.
Race Summary Swiss Legacy might get just a little overlooked as something like the third or fourth choice, but he did it right to land the debut run when tracking a sprint pace. He'll go two short turns tonight, but he might be able to relax just enough to rate and finish.

Charles Town - Race #9
Picks Notes
#10 New South He's a 14-start maiden, so I won't be making any excuses for him, but there is not much pace signed on in here tonight, and he has always done his best work from right up on the pace. Chance to graduate on the engine?
#11 Vatican Moon He's another with some ability to sit near the top here from the wide draw, but he does tend to give away ground late, making him vulnerable again in this spot.
#3 Hands Down He'll land in the easiest spot he has seen so far while cutting the price tag in half, and he has at least shown enough speed to think he'll be in touch with a modest pace tonight. Not impossible.
Race Summary New South might get the right kind of run right up top here, as all of those drawn inside of him are likely to sit a bit off the pace. He may be able to control the tempo and get brave in an iffy race.