Manofmanymissions takes second Hambo elim

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Manofmanymissions (Andy Miller) was sound, stayed flat and went fast to be victorious in the second Hambletonian elimination, winning in 1:52.4.

Bambino Hall (Dave Palone) took the lead, while Whiskey Tax (Yannick Gingras) was behind in second and Magnum Kosmos (George Brennan) was third. “Bambino” went by the quarter in :27.4. “Whiskey” was in second and Magnum stayed tucked in third.

Manofmanymissions came on to the outside and “Magnum” came first over approaching the :56.1 half. Bambino gave way to Magnum and “Man” was first over in third.

Around the turn, Magnum was under pressure from Man. Bambino was at the inside in third. Pastor Stephen (Ron Pierce) was gapping cover in fourth. Charlie De Vie went off stride in the back.

Magnum had the lead coming to the wire and Man was on the outside. “Pastor” tipped three wide, coming after the two and Opening Night passed an off-stride Big Rigs. At the wire, Man passed Magnum to win. Pastor Stephen settled for third, Opening Night closed for fourth and Whiskey Tax passed tiring rivals to finish fifth.

Hollywood Heyden asked driver Andy Miller if he had to remind the colt [Manofmanymissions] to keep trotting.

“I had to help him along the way,” said Andy. “But that’s him, he’s always been that way. There was enough there when I asked him to keep going. He still felt like he had enough trot to go on.”

Manofmanymissions is trained by Erv Miller for Manofmanymissions Stables, Mystica Marker Farms and the Biasuzzi Stables.

Broad Bahn wires first Hambo-elim field

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Fam Alber Horse Racing’s Broad Bahn (George Brennan) went just about wire to wire to win the first Hambletonian elim in 1:53.

The Noel Daley-trained Broadway Hall colt who returned at three after having a severe leg problem, took the lead from Fawkes, who rushed out early, and went the first quarter in :27.3.

Broad Bahn would cut the half in :56.1 and three-quarters in 1:24.2. He was never threatened, even though the favorite, Chapter Seven (Mike Lachance) was closing strongly in the final lengths.

Luckycharm Hanover (David Miller) came first over, giving “Seven” cover but it was all a chase around the two turns.

Chapter Seven, in only his second start at two, took the place spot.

Fawkes (Yannick Gingras) held for third at 70-1 to make the final. Whit (Tim Tetrick) was fourth and fifth went to Luckycharm Hanover.

Orlando and Big Sky Storm broke early and were out of it, while Blue Porsche, one of the highly touted contenders, did not fire and didn’t make the final.

“I was able to rate my mile pretty well,” said Brennan about putting Broad Bahn on the lead right away. “He’s got a great attitude, he’s big, he’s strong, he gets himself where he has to be at the beginning of a race.” Brennan said he thinks the colt can win the final.

Second Oaks elim to tough Iron Lady

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ -- Iron Lady (Luc Ouellette) came up strong to take the second Hambletonian Oaks elimination in 1:53.3. Bold And Fresh (Mike Lachance) came up to finish second, Lady Rainbow (Richard Zeron) finished third.

Jezzy (Tim Tetrick) made a huge recovery after a break just before the gate opened to finish fourth and Seducedbychocolate (David Miller) was the fifth horse to go to the final next week.

Jezzy broke before the start and she was 15 lengths behind the gate. Crème De Cocoa left, along with Cedar Dove and Migisi was with them all as they went around the turn. “Cedar” took the lead in a :27.4 quarter. “Crème” was three wide in second and Migisi was between horses in third. “Seduced” was behind in fourth.

By the three-eighths Cedar was in front and Seduced sat in second. Migisi pulled back into third and Crème was guided to the rail in fourth. Bold And Fresh came on to the outside at the half, in :56.1 (:28.1).

Cedar was under no pressure around the far turn and Seduced was right behind in second. “Bold” was on the outside in third and Iron Lady came on to the outside into fourth.

They came into the stretch and “Iron” applied pressure to Cedar and “Rainbow” was starting her late charge four wide. Jezzy came back into the mix and found room at the wood to get a position, her only goal to be at least fifth to get into the final.

Seduced gave way, along with Cedar amd Iron was home free at the 1/16 to win the second elimination.

Frederik Persson trains Iron Lady for owners Jerry and Theresa Silva.

Hollywood Heyden asked Luc Ouellette how his strategy changed once Jezzy broke.

“I turned around and looked a couple of times and said now this is a wide open race,” Ouellette said. “She surprised me tonight. They went at it a bit tonight but I was able to move her late and turned her loose at the end of the stretch and she showed what she’s made of.”

Crys Dream takes first ‘Oaks’ elim

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – The first Hambletonian Oaks division went to the game Crys Dream (Luc Ouellette), who was coupled with Hey Mister (Brian Sears), in a 1:54.4 mile.

The strong Taurus Dream-sired member of the Jerry Silva-owned entry, after six weeks off and a lot of controversy surrounding her racing in Canada, was powerful grinding from behind and taking a first-over trip to win.

Celebrity Katie and Sashay left quickly but as they got around the first turn it was a slow first quarter, :29, and the shuffling began.

The half went in :57.3, when Hey Mister took the top, winning the shuffling war. This left Crys Dream to grind through three-quarters in 1:26 but it was no problem. She easily passed her entry mate and went to the wire first in 1:54.4.

Sashay (Yannick Gingras) closed to pick up second, passing Hey Mister. Martiniontherockes (Ron Pierce) was next and Wincinnatti took the last berth available to be in next week’s final.

Henrik Hollsten trains Crys Dream.

Hollywood Heyden asked Ouellette if the layoff was a concern to him.

“That’s a long time off,” Ouellette said, “the breather we got early was like Heaven there for a while, to be able to put her in and then come out around the last turn. We were fortunate the race went the way it did.”

“We believe in this horse,” said Hollsten, not going into details about the filly’s extended hiatus. “She’s just a fabulous filly and there was talk of going against the boys in the Hambletonian but with the 42 days off it was just too much. We’ll deal with the boys in the future.”

Alsace Hanover Big in Adios

Alsace Hanover closed hard to win the 45^th Delvin Miller Adios in a world record 1:48.3, lowering the record he set last week in the elimination. Custard The Dragon came up short, finishing second and Real Special was third.

Powerful Mist left for the lead, with “Custard” sitting in second and “Real” sat third. “Mist” went the quarter in :26.1. Custard was in second and Real was in third. “Alsace” came first over at the three-eighths and gave cover to Wind Me Up.

Alsace was challenging Mist at the half, which went in 53.3 (:27.2). Alsace cleared the lead at the five-eighths and Mist was in second. Custard was boxed in third. “Wind” was stuck first over at three-quarters in 1:20.3 (:27).

Alsace was drawing away in the stretch, while Custard came into the passing lane and Hugadragon was closing six wide. But they could not catch Alsace. Custard held off Real to finish second and “Hug” settled for fourth.

“He felt just as good as he did last week,” driver Ron Pierce said.

“He keeps getting better and better,” said trainer Tony O’Sullivan. “I think he was ready for these races.”

Alsace Hanover returned $4.40 to win. He went the mile in 1:48.3, a lifetime mark and a world record.

TRI’s Picks July 30 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 6-9, Saturday, July 30, 2011

In our Pick 4, we had two winners, Il Villaggio ($7.40) and Best Boss ($8.80). Our profit dropped to -$42.60. I still encourage you to play these horses to win. Good luck!

$2 Play: 68/6/46/1 = $8

Analysis:

Race 6- (6) Opening Night has been dominating in the Pennsylvania Sires Stakes. This is the first time he leaves Pennsylvania and he may show his best this week. (8) Charlie De Vie has shown us one flaw; he can break. If he stays flat, he may be a good price.

Race 7- (6) Melvyn made a huge close to win in his most recent appearance. He gets an outside draw this week and he may do well as the field is poor in competition.

Race 8- (4) Southern Sport stepped down from this class in his last start and he finished second. He steps back up and may improve off his last effort in this company. (6) Mccedes was hung in this company at Pocono three starts back. He has been racing at Yonkers and makes a slight step down this week.

Race 9- (1) Bettor Sweet is the horse to beat in this Invitational. He recently won in an Open at Pocono. He was second best in the Ben Franklin, losing to We Will See. He gets the advantage of the rail this week.  

High Noon takes Adios Consolation

High Noon went wire-to-wire to take the $50,000 Adios Consolation at the Meadows. Feel Like A Fool closed late to finish second and Westwardho Hanover gave way in third.

High Noon went for the lead, with Rockabille on the outside in second. Coming to the eighth pole, Rockabille went off stride. “Noon” was in front by 2 lengths, going a quarter in :26. Pan From Nantucket was sitting in second and “Westwardho” was in third. They went by the three-eighths and “Nantucket” went off stride. 

Noon still had command, with Something For Doc applying pressure in second. “Westwardho” sat behind in third and Feel Like A Fool was in fourth. “Doc” quit coming to three-quarters and Noon still had the lead.

They came into the stretch and “Feel” circled out three wide, with Westwardho came two wide. Noon was ahead by about 2 lengths approaching the wire and Feel was not able to catch. Feel settled for second, Westwardho gave way in third and Doc finished fourth.

“He has been racing tough against tough horses,” trainer Jimmy Takter said. “I’ve been very happy with his performance.”

High Noon won in 1:51, a lifetime mark. He returned $5.80 to win.

TRI’s Picks July 29 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 6-9, Friday, July 29, 2011

In our Pick 4, we had two winners, Ramalama ($14) and Must Be The Bunny ($8.20). Our profit went up to -$38.80. I encourage you to play these horses to win. Good luck!

$2 Play: 17/26/1/1 = $8

Analysis:

Race 6- (1) Il Villaggio steps down after a fifth-place finish in the Maple Leaf Trot. He may do better this week and is the likely favorite. (7) Corleone Kosmos won in this company last week. He may do better as the field is not as good.

Race 7- (2) Aisling was hung in an Open at Yonkers in his last start. Stepping down will help. (6) Matrix Hall won in this class at Chester. He may show that effort again tonight.

Race 8- After going a parked mile, (1) Best Boss gets post relief this week. She may do better if she gets a good trip.

Race 9- (1) Heidi Falls steps down after improving in non-winners of $10,000 last five. He may be the best horse in this field.

Campbell Returns to Sulky

After a spill on May 30 at Chester, Hall of Famer John Campbell resurfaced the Meadowlands Racetrack during the Thursday, July 28 qualifying session.

Campbell wanted to use to the session as a testing ground before deciding if he will drive his horse, Live Jazz in the second Hambletonian elimination.

The Hall of Fame reinsman, who suffered a broken right shoulder, right knee, collarbone and cracked ribs on May 30, didn’t waste any time getting back to the sulky.

He drove Friendly Persuader to a 2:03.2 mile in the first qualifier. He got aboard Southwind Moni in the second qualifier and drove him to a 2:00.2 mile. He came back in the third qualifier, aboard Top Billing. “Top” went a 2:03.1 mile. After a two qualifier rest, Campbell returned on Ibeza, who made a break at three-quarters; she finished last. He drove world champion Pilgrims Chuckie to a 1:55.3 second-place finish in the seventh qualifier. His last drive of the session was aboard Pirouette Hanover in the ninth qualifier. He steered “Pirouette” to a 1:54.4 victory.    

TRI’s Picks July 28 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 6-9, Thursday, July 28, 2011

In our Pick 4, we had one winner, All Speed Hanover ($4.40). Our profit dropped to -$41. I encourage you to play these guys to win. Good Luck!

$2 Play: 12/47/8/6 = $8

Analysis:

Race 6- (1) Ramalama went a mile of 1:54.2 in her most recent showcase. She may do improve this week. (2) Jk Cracklin Rosie gets post relief this week after a second-place finish from post 10. She may do better from the rail.

Race 7- (4) Adrenaline went a parked mile in his last start. He may do better with post relief this week. (7) Must Be The Bunny paced a good mile in his most recent start. He may do better in this poor field.

Race 8- Coming off a victory in this class, (8) Beautiful In Blue is the one to beat in here. She may bring a price with her outside draw.

Race 9- (6) Harrah’s Best had a great trip in his most recent start. He moves slightly inside this week and may improve off his last effort.

Eliminations set for Hambletonian and Oaks

On Tuesday, July 26, two eliminations were drawn for the $140,000 Hambletonian two for the $70,000 Hambletonian Oaks at the Meadowlands Racetrack for the July 30 program

Out of our 29 predictions for the Hambletonian eliminations, we missed one horse, Bambino Hall (Tom Ridge). The horses from our list that did not make it were Evil Urges (Cash Hall), Leader Of The Gang (Muscles Yankee), Winuendo (Windsong’s Legacy), Whitewater Rapids (Credit Winner), Mr Web Page (Muscles Yankee), Ice Machine (Muscles Yankee), Del Cielo (Broadway Hall), Broadway Legs (Broadway Hall), Vc Chocoholic (Chocolatier), Buffalino Hanover (Cantab Hall) and Swan In A Million (Andover Hall).

Here are the fields for the Hambletonian eliminations (Drivers are subject to change).

Elimination One Race Five

PP-Name-Sire-Driver-Trainer

1 Whit-Classic Photo-Tim Tetrick-Homer Hochstetler

2 Big Sky Storm-Classic Photo-Ron Pierce-Chris Marino

3 Orlando-Andover Hall-Catello Manzi-Don Swick

4 Luckycharm Hanover-Andover Hall-David Miller-Thomas Haughton

5 Celebrity Bombay-Yankee Glide-Brian Sears-Staffan Lind

6 Chapter Seven-Windsong’s Legacy-Mike Lachance-Linda Toscano

7 Fawkes-SJ’s Caviar-Yannick Gingras-Jonas Czernyson

8 Broad Bahn-Broadway Hall-George Brennan-Noel Daley

9 Blue Porsche-Glidemaster-Trevor Ritchie-Blair Burgess

(Note Chapter Seven and Blue Porsche are a Jerry Silva owned entry) 

Elimination Two Race Six

PP-Name-Sire-Driver-Trainer

1 Whiskey Tax-Revenue S-Tim Tetrick-Thomas Durand

2 Magnum Kosmos-SJ’s Caviar-David Palone-Tony Dinges

3 Pastor Stephen-Cantab Hall-Ron Pierce-Jimmy Takter

4 Big Rigs-Andover Hall-Tim Tetrick-Kelly O’Donnell

5 Bambino Hall-Tom Ridge-David Palone-Kelly O’Donnell

6 Opening Night-Broadway Hall-Brian Sears-Jim Campbell

7 Manofmanymissions-Yankee Glide-Andy Miller-Ervin Miller

8 Charlie De Vie-Yankee Glide-Tim Tetrick-Chris Ryder

9 Live Jazz-Andover Hall-Tim Tetrick-Charles Sylvester

 

In the first elimination, Blue Porsche, along with stable mate Chapter Seven, will be the heavily bet favorites. The one that will be ignored is Fawkes. He broke in a three-year-old Open and can trot well from the outside. He will be in it if he stays flat.

In the second elimination, Manofmanymissions will be the favorite for his victory in the Stanley Dancer. If he stays flat, he will be the one to beat, along with Charlie De Vie. He went on a speed break in the “Dancer” and was disqualified for failing to lose ground while on a break. The only way this horse will break is if he goes too fast when it is unnecessary (a common problem with speed in trotters these days). Also watch Opening Night. He trots his heart out in every start. Who knows what will happen if he gets a perfect trip?

Here are the eliminations for the Hambletonian Oaks (Drivers are subject to change). 

Elimination One Race Three

PP-Name-Sire-Driver-Trainer

1 Martiniontherocks-Conway Hall-Ron Pierce-R. Dustin Jones

2 Hey Mister-Muscles Yankee-Brian Sears-Ross Croghan

3 Crys Dream-Taurus Dream-Luc Ouellette-Henrik Hollsten

4 Sashay-Yankee Glide-Yannick Gingras-Bob Stewart

5 Lost Symbol-Yankee Glide-Trond Smedshammer-Trond Smedshammer

6 Intense America-Taurus Dream-Tim Tetrick-Normand Bardier Jr.

7 Winncinnatti-Windsong’s Legacy-Yannick Gingras-Brett Bittle

8 Celebrity Katie-SJ’s Caviar-Brett Miller-Staffan Lind

9 Pantholops-Andover Hall-Andy Miller-Jonas Czernyson

10 Thatsnotmyname-Windsong’s Legacy-Ron Pierce-Jimmy Takter

(Note Hey Mister and Crys Dream are a Jerry Silva owned entry)

Elimination Two Race 4

PP-Name-Sire-Driver-Trainer

1 Seducedbychocolate-Chocolatier-David Miller-Jonas Czernyson

2 Southwind Amiga-Chocoatier-Brian Sears-Trond Smedshammer

3 Cedar Dove-Andover Hall-Ron Pierce-Noel Daley

4 Bold And Fresh-SJ’s Caviar-Ron Pierce-Doug Miller

5 Iron Lady-Taurus Dream-Luc Ouellette-Fredrick Persson

6 Jezzy-Credit Winner-Tim Tetrick-Raymond Schnittker

7 Migisi-Andover Hall-Catello Manzi-Don Swick

8 Crème De Cocoa-Chocolatier-D.R. Ackerman-D.R. Ackerman

9 Lady Rainbow-Muscles Yankee-Richard Zeron-Richard Zeron

(Note Jezzy and Iron Lady are a Jerry Silva owned entry)

In the first elimination, Hey Mister, along with stable mate Crys Dream, will be the heavy favorite. After her victory in the New Jersey Sires Stakes, Winncinatti will be the one to watch. She closed hard to beat Crème De Cocoa. She did not do as well in the Del Miller, losing to likely favorite Hey Mister. Also watch Lost Symbol. She was second against the boys in the Magician stakes. Before that, was caught by a wide Hey Mister and a 104-1 Crème De Cocoa.

In the second elimination, Jezzy will be the likely favorite and horse to beat. But the horse to watch is Crème De Cocoa. After her second-place effort at 104-1, she has done really well. Ackerman is back on “Cocoa” and may do better. Also watch Lady Rainbow. This is the second start she is not against Crys Dream. The first time, she almost beat Jezzy, proving she could be better.

Hambletonian Box Closed

With 18 colts and 19 fillies, the Hambletonian eliminations have been filled. There will be two eliminations for both races, set for July 30 at the Meadowlands Racetrack.  

Amoung the 19 fillies are Jezzy, winner of eight straight races and freshman Dan Patch trotter Crys Dream, who has won four straight races.

Among the 18 colts are Stanley Dancer champion and Breeders Crown champion,

Manofmanymissions. Canadian sensation Blue Porsche is amoung the 18 too.

The fields will be posted later today.

Jim Morrill Jr. Returns After Lengthy Suspension

The weekend stakes action at Buffalo Raceway brought sight to the return of  Jim Morrill Jr. He is back after a 270-day suspension by the Kentucky Horse Commission for refusing to take a breathalyzer test last October.

The veteran reinsman made his return with nine drives on Buffalo Raceway's program. He steered two of his mounts to the winner's circle and recorded a lone second-place finish and two thirds.

Overall, Morrill has driven his mounts to 4,925 wins and to purse earnings of over $68 million.

Tioga to Hold Cane Pace from 2011-12

Tioga Downs is proud to announce that it will hold the $450,000 (est.) Cane Pace, the first jewel of the Pacing Triple Crown. Freehold Raceway and Tioga Downs’ management have worked out an agreement to move the prestigious race from New Jersey to New York for 2011 and 2012.

“We worked out a deal with Freehold to be the host track of this prestigious event for the next two years and we are extremely excited,” Tioga’s Vice President of Racing and Simulcast, Jason M. Settlemoir, said. “We would like to thank the Southern Tier Harness Horsemen’s Association for working with us to be able to host the Cane Pace and continue to promote our industry. The final will take place on closing night at Tioga Downs, which always draws a huge crowd and has a great atmosphere.”

"Freehold has been a proud host of the Cane Pace since 1998, unfortunately, due to expected purse payments from the New Jersey Sports and Expositions Authority, as part of our contract for Casino Purse Enhancement funds, not being released Freehold has been placed in a serious purse funding situation.

“We appreciate Tioga's willingness to step in quickly to keep the Cane Pace going for the next two years," said Penn Wood Racing President Christopher McErlean.

The eliminations, if necessary, for the Cane Pace will be held on Saturday, September 3. The final will be held on closing night at Tioga Downs, Saturday, September 10.

Horses that are not eligible for the Cane Pace can supplement into the race for $35,000, due at time of declaration. As part of the Pacing Triple Crown special supplemental declaration, a horse not eligible to the Little Brown Jug must win the Cane Pace and then pay a supplemental payment of $45,000 to be eligible.

In addition to the “Cane,” Tioga Downs will hold the filly division of the Cane, the $150,000 (est.) Shady Daisy. It will be held the same night as the Cane. Three-year-old filly pacers can supplement into the final with a supplemental payment of $7,500 due at declaration.

For more information, visit www.tiogadowns.com

San Pail Makes History in ‘Trot’

San Pail made trotting history yesterday in the $730,000 Maple Leaf Trot final, winning three years in-a-row. Arch Madness finished second and a 70-1 Hot Shot Blue Chip closed for third.

Enough Talk, Define The World and Arch Madness all left the gate fast. San Pail sat behind the three in fourth and the French mare Premiere Steed sat in fifth. “Define” split horses to clear the front at the first turn, “Arch” applied pressure in second and “Talk” was buried in third. “San” sat behind in fourth and Il Villaggio passed a first over “Steed” in fifth.

Arch cleared the lead through a :27.1 opening fraction, Define was shuffled into second and Talk sat back in third. San came first over and cleared the lead at the half in :55 (:27.4), Arch gave way into second, in at the pocket third was Define and Talk was buried in fourth. “Ill” came onto the outside, while Steed was gapping cover.

San started to draw off at three-quarters in 1:23.4 (:28.4). Into the stretch, San started to play “Catch me if you can,” according to track announcer Ken Middleton. Arch was trying to catch in second and Ill started to fade in third. San drew off by 3 lengths to win, Arch could not catch in second and “Hot” was third. San paid $8.70 to win in a stakes record 1:51.1.

 “He is such an awesome horse and he gives it his all, all the time,” Waples said. “I can’t be happier for the horse, for Rod and his family. The fact that I get to drive him is amazing. As great as the horse is, it takes a great trainer to make him a great horse.”

San Pail is the second horse to win three consecutive Maple Leaf Trots, since Grandpa Jim, who notched three “Trots” from 1969 to 1971.

This victory gave San Pail career earnings of $2-million plus.

TRI’s Picks July 23 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 6-9, Saturday, July 23, 2011

In our Pick 4, we had one winner, Corleone Kosmos ($13). Tonight is looking a bit promising, with some poor fields and outsiders. Our profit has dropped to $24.40. Good Luck!

$2 Play: 5/14/28/2 = $8

Analysis:

Race 6- (5) All Speed Hanover is facing a poor field this week. He lost by a neck in his most recent showcasing, finishing third. He may do better this time out.

Race 7- (1) Thanks For Stoppin gets post relief this week, after winning from post 9 in non-winners of $4,000. He may do better this week, even though he is stepping up. (4) Mighty Young Joe was in tight quarters in his most recent appearance, finishing sixth. In a poor field like this, he gets the upper hand.

Race 8- (2) Last Dragon is the one to beat in here. He has already won in this company and steps down this week. He also moves to the inside which may help. (8) I’m Feelin Good made a huge recovery in a quarter of a mile. He quit, but lost little ground in the end. He may get an advantage of this field being poor.

Race 9- (2) Beau RIvage N had a tough trip in his most recent start. He may do better in this poor field.

TRI’s Picks July 22 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 6-9, Friday, July 22, 2011

In the Pick 4, we had two winners, Susumna ($5.60) and Man O’ War ($21). We also finished third with Harrah’s Best at 19-1 and Medoland Santorni scratched in the final leg. This week, our profit is up to -$17.40. I encourage you to play these picks to win. Good luck!

$2 Play: 34/210/3/2 = $8

Analysis:

Race 6- (3) Coreleone Kosmos is making a step down after facing tougher in the Titan Cup. He may do better in here. (4) Donttellmywife made a good recovery after going off stride at the start. He may adapt to the mile better than the half.

Race 7- (2) Mcflirty is the one to beat in here. She has lost once in her last five starts. (10) Best Boss came close to beating Mcflirty last week. With the outside, she may close better.

Race 8- (3) Konchie had a bad trip last time out, finishing seventh. He gets post relief this week and it may help.

Race 9- (2) Odds On Moinet is doing well in this company. She makes a slight step down this week and gets an inside post.

TRI’s Picks July 21 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 6-9, Thursday, July 21,2011

Last week, we had one winner, I Fought Dalaw ($9). This week’s profit dropped to -$30. It is a new week and let’s start it off with cheap tickets and winners.

$2 Play: 7/37/5/3 = $4

Analysis:

Race 6- (7) Harrah’s Best came from the 10 post last week, got cover and made up 9 lengths in the mile, finishing fifth. Moving a bit inside may help.

Race 7- (3) Truly The Man went the best mile of his last six starts in his most recent appearance. If he paces a mile that well again, he may bomb the Pick 4. (7) Susumna can endure any type of pressure. He is the one to beat. 

Race 8- (5) Man O’ War faced tougher in his last start, the step down may help.

Race 9- After winning in this condition at Yonkers, (3) Medoland Santorni is the best horse in this field. If he is the favorite, he will still be an overlay.

Approaching the Trail’s End

With two weeks left until the Hambletonian eliminations (scheduled for July 30), the Hambletonian Trail is coming to an end. So, we have predicted 29 horses that may show up in the Hambletonian eliminations. Listed below are the top 10 trotters that made it onto that list.  

Blue Porsche (Glidemaster) made his three-year-old debut a winning one. He returned in the Goodtimes elimination, where he won. In the final, he went the entire mile on the outside and still drew away. Although he is undefeated this year, his talent is still in question since most of the other top colts were at Pocono for the Earl Beal eliminations.

Broad Bahn (Broadway Hall) came late on the scene. He scratched from the Breeders Crown at two, due to injury. He came back in a Pennsylvania Sires Stakes on May 30, finishing second. He won his next start, in non-winners of $12,000 last five starts. He then went to the “Beal” elims, finishing second and was third in the final. He beat the early Hambo favorite, Pastor Stephen, in a three-year-old Open in his next start. His most recent start was a second-place effort in the Stanley Dancer, losing to a 13-1 Manofmanymissions.

Charlie De Vie (Yankee Glide)  was purchased at two from Oyvind Hegdal. Now in Chris Ryder’s barn, “Charlie” will be Ryder’s ticket to the Hambletonian. Charlie started off his year well by winning his first four starts. He then disappointed in the Beal elimination, where he made a bad break in the stretch, finishing seventh. He came back in a three-year-old Open, where he won. His most recent start was the Stanley Dancer, where he broke in deep stretch and was placed sixth.

Pastor Stephen (Cantab Hall) was the early Hambletonian favorite. He won his first three starts of the year and then faced Dejarmbro (a non-eligible). He finished second to Dejarmbro in the Beal elimination and again in the final. They met again in the Dancer, where Dejarmbro was third and “Pastor” finished seventh.

Yonkers Trot-winner Leader Of The Gang (Muscles Yankee) looks to become the first horse to win the Yonkers Trot and the Hambletonian since Glidemaster.  He will return July 22 in a division of the $44,500 New Jersey Sires Stakes at the Meadowlands.

Breeders Crown champion Manofmanymissions (Yankee Glide) has been a wild card this year. No one knows what he will do, run or trot. He made a bad break in a three-year-old Open, finishing eighth. Then he returned and won by 6 lengths, paying $29.

Chapter Seven (Windsong’s Legacy) came very late to the scene, debuting with two weeks until the elims. He made his appearance in the Stanley Dancer worth it, where he was in a stretch duel with Big Rigs and got the best of that one to win. Chapter Seven is similar to soph-filly trotter Jezzy in their racing records. Both of them have only lost one race.

Opening Night (Broadway Hall) has not left the Pennsylvania circuit. He has been racing in the sires stakes against horses like Orlando and Swan In A Million.

Magnum Kosmos (SJ’s Caviar) is in the same situation as Opening Night; he has not left Pennsylvania. He has only raced in the sires stakes and the Reynolds at Pocono. In those races, he has dominated horses like Del Cielo and Buffalino Hanover.

Fawkes (SJ’s Caviar) has been the “under-the-radar” horse, he is always a longshot no matter how he raced previously. Jonas Czernyson trained another under-the-radar horse, last year’s Temple Of Doom (now in the hands of Larry and Ray Remmen).

Here is the list of the horses, in no particular order, we predict will appear in the 2011 Hambletonian eliminations.

Pastor Stephen (Cantab Hall)

Manofmanymissions (Yankee Glide)

Charlie De Vie (Yankee Glide)

Evil Urges (Cash Hall)

Leader Of The Gang (Muscles Yankee)

Winuendo (Windsong’s Legacy)

Whitewater Rapids (Credit Winner)

Fawkes (SJ’s Caviar)

Live Jazz (Andover Hall)

Orlando (Andover Hall)

Mr Web Page (Muscles Yankee)

Ice Machine (Muscles Yankee)

Whit (Classic Photo)

Celebrity Bombay (Yankee Glide)

Del Cielo (Broadway Hall)

Luckycharm Hanover (Andover Hall)

Chapter Seven (Windsong’s Legacy)

Blue Porsche (Glidemaster)

Big Rigs (Andover Hall)

Big Sky Storm (Classic Photo)

Broadway Legs (Broadway Hall)

Whiskey Tax (Revenue S)

Vc Chocoholic (Chocolatier)

Broad Bahn (Broadway Hall)

Magnum Kosmos (SJ’s Caviar)

Opening Night (Broadway Hall)

Buffalino Hanover (Cantab Hall)

Swan In A Million (Andover Hall)

Roll With Joe takes the 34th Meadowlands Pace; ‘Peelers’ Makes it 20

Roll With Joe won the 34^th $1-million Meadowlands Pace, with Big Jim closing for second, Wink N Atcha moving in third and Foreclosure N found his way through for fourth.

Custard The Dragon was the pacesetter, with Roll With Joe sitting in second and Wink N Atcha stalked third. “Joe” came first-over by the five-eighths and “Wink” was following Joe. Big Jim started his late pace three-wide in fifth. Feel Like A Fool circled wide with Powerful Mist. It was anybody’s race in the stretch.

“Custard” was passed by Joe, Wink and “Jim.” Joe was starting to draw off and Jim was wide, charging after Joe. At the line, Joe held on by a neck, with Jim finishing second and Wink finished third. The mile time was 1:48.2.

Roll With Joe is owned by Blue Chip Bloodstock Inc., Stephen Demeter, Not To Worry Stable and Winbak Farm, trained by Edward Hart and driven by Ron Pierce. Roll With Joe is by Cam’s Card Shark, out of the mare Classic Wish by Armbro Emerson. He is a full brother to Bettor’s Delight, who finished second in the 2001 Meadowlands Pace to Real Desire.

Pierce picked up the drive for the Ed Hart trained Roll With Joe, after Brian Sears opted off and took Feel Like A Fool (finished seventh).

"Several people called me up and told me that this colt can really go," Pierce said.  "He was better than everybody thought he was, I can tell you that.  He was as slick as they come.  I'm telling you, he really felt super.

Roll With Joe now stands with five wins out of 15 starts. This was Ed Hart’s first appearance in the Pace and he made it a winning one.

"He had an excellent week, trained good," Hart said.  "[Ron] Pierce drove him super.  He put him in the race and he had real confidence in him.  I'm just thrilled.  I've been at the Meadowlands my whole life.  To win this race, I can't believe it!"

See You At Peelers made it 20 for 20 in the $127,000 Tarport Hap stakes at the Meadowlands in a 1:51 mile. Idyllic finished second and What’s New Pussycat was third.

“Peelers” worked for the top, clearing at the three-eighths. Krispy Apple, after pacing three-wide around the clubhouse turn, challenged Peelers and took command at three-quarters. “Krispy” quit down the stretch, while Idyllic came chasing Peelers. “Pussycat” started her close at the 3/16th pole. Idyllic came out in the final 1/8th and went off stride. Peelers was home free at the line, with Idyllic regaining stride and finishing second and Pussycat, with a final quarter of 26.3, finished third. 

"They took some good shots at her tonight," Sears said.  "Timmy's horse [Tetrick and Krispy Apple] looked like she wanted to pull up on the last turn.  Then Dave [Miller and Idyllic] came at her strong and just happened to go off stride.  She was pacing hard to the wire, so I've got no complaints.  She's a hell of a mare and they've been doing a great job with her."

See You At Peelers is trained by Jimmy Takter and was driven by Brian Sears. Peelers career earnings hit $1,287,539.

"This was basically all the top fillies in one spot," Takter said.  "I knew it wouldn't be easy.  She had to work hard to get to the half and she worked it out.  I was a little surprised when Tim came on the outside.

"It looks like [her next start] could be at Yonkers , 10 or 11 days from now," Takter said.  "It's nice to continue the winning streak.  It's good for the sport.  It's nice to have a filly like this who is cheered on by the crowd."

Hambo Hopefuls Dancing

On Saturday, July 16, fourteen Hambletonian eligibles squared off in two divisions of the $332,000 Stanley Dancer Memorial at the Meadowlands. Also, 11 Hambo eligibles went to post in the $201,812 Pennsylvania Sires Stakes (PASS) at Pocono Downs.              
In the first “Dancer” division, Manofmanymissions (Yankee Glide) went off at 13-1 based on his dull running trip the week before when he was beaten by Charlie De Vie (Yankee Glide). This week, however, “Man” was all out, in stride and drew away from the field to win it.

Broad Bahn (Broadway Hall) got second, while Dejarmbro, the only non-eligible, was placed third as “Charlie” went off stride and was disqualified for not losing ground after a break.

Off the board were Live Jazz (Andover Hall), Whit (Classic Photo), Luckycharm Hanover (Andover Hall) and Pastor Stephen (Cantab Hall).

The second Dancer division did more to cloud the Hambletonian picture, as Chapter Seven (Windsong’s Legacy) made his first start of the year a big one, fooling no one wagering as the 4-5 choice. He beat Big Rigs (Andover Hall), who had a smooth-gaited night like Man, and Big Sky Storm (Classic Photo) got the show money.

Off the board were Mythical Hall (Andover Hall), Evil Urges (Cash Hall) and Pegasus Blue Chip (Glidemaster).

In the first PASS division, Magnum Kosmos (SJ’s Caviar) won, with Orlando (Andover Hall) second and Fort Valley As (Tom Ridge) third.

“Valley” took the lead, with Buffalino Hanover (Cantab Hall) in second and Orlando was first over in third. “Magnum” got cover from Orlando, in fifth. Unabating (Broadway Hall) went on a break. Swan In A Million (Andover Hall) went on a break entering the stretch.

Magnum took command at the three-eighths, while Orlando sat in second and Valley was shuffled to third. “Buffalino” came first over at three-quarters, challenging Valley for third. In the stretch, it was Magnum and Orlando dueling it out to the wire and Magnum was able to hold off Orlando by a nose. Valley finished third. Unabating, Buffalino, Del Cielo (Broadway Hall) followed.

In the second division, Opening Night (Broadway Hall) won, with Just In (Andover Hall) finishing second and Fawkes (SJ’s Caviar) was third. Onirique took command, with pressure from Bambino Hall (Tom Ridge) and Sevruga sat third. In the stretch, “Bambino” gave way, while “Opening” circled three wide and took command. Opening drew away, while “Just” gave chase in second and Fawkes was closing in third. Opening won, with Just finishing second and Fawkes was third. Bambino finished seventh.

Roll With Joe Takes the 34th Meadowlands Pace

Roll With Joe took the 34th Meadowlands Pace in 1:48.2. Big Jim finished second, Wink N Atcha was third and Foreclosure N was fourth. The full story will be posted shortly.

TRI’s Picks July 16 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 6-9, Saturday, July 16, 2011

In our Pick 4, we had one winner, Hey Mister ($2.60). Lost Symbol finished third at 21-1, All Heart Gal was fourth at 50-1, Sea Raven was fifth at 25-1, Hurrikane Marni was eighth at 24-1 and Linden Beauty was second at 3-1. Our profit made a turn for the worst, reaching -$13. Let’s try and raise it this week with the $150,000 Guaranteed Pick 4. I still encourage you to play these horses to win.

$2 Play: 4/28/2/369 = $12

Analysis:

Race 6- Having a terrific year so far, (4) Charlie De Vie may be under bet this week, since he is going up against Pastor Stephen, Dejarmbro and Broad Bahn.

Race 7- (2) E Street Plan made two moves in his most recent showcase and faded to fifth. If he paces an easier mile, he will be in contention. (8) I Fought Dalaw has already won from the outside. He is undefeated this year and will be the one to beat.

Race 8- After being shuffled back in his last start, (2) Best Magic closed to finish third. If he doesn’t get shuffled back this week, he will finish on the board.

Race 9- (3) Custard The Dragon may still be underrated after his victories in the Meadowlands Pace elimination and the Hoosier Cup. (6) Powerful Mist may get the advantage in here. There is a lot of speed in this race and it may set up for closers. (9) Bestofbest Hanover may also get the advantage of this race setting up for closers.

‘Dancer’, Major Prep for the Hambletonian

Over the years, the “Dancer” has played a major role in predicting the field for the Hambletonian eliminations and the final.

In 2010, 17 horses from three divisions of the Dancer competed in the Hambletonian eliminations. Eight of them went on to the final. The 2010 winner, Muscle Massive, won this before the Hambletonian. The runner up, Lucky Chucky, finished second in the Dancer. Third-place finisher Wishing Stone finished fifth in the Dancer.

In 2009, 12 horses from two divisions of the Dancer competed in the Hambletonian eliminations. Five of them went on to the final. One of them was 2009-winner Muscle Hill. Runner-up Explosive Matter finished second in the Dancer. Third-place finisher Calchips Brute finished fifth in the Dancer.

On Saturday, July 16, 14 Hambletonian hopefuls will square off in the $332,000 Stanley Dancer Memorial at the Meadowlands.

The first division features the likes of Live Jazz (Andover Hall), Broad Bahn (Broadway Hall), Whit (Classic Photo), Charlie De Vie (Yankee Glide), Manofmanymissions (Yankee Glide), Luckycharm Hanover (Andover Hall) and Pastor Stephen (Cantab Hall). Of those seven, the one to watch will be Charlie De Vie. Since Pastor Stephen and Broad Bahn are in here, “Charlie” will be underbet.

The second division brings Mythical Hall (Andover Hall), Evil Urges (Cash Hall), Chapter Seven (Windsong’s Legacy), Big Rigs (Andover Hall), Big Sky Storm (Classic Photo), Mr Web Page (Muscles Yankee) and Pegasus Blue Chip (Glidemaster) to the scene.

Of that septet, Evil Urges will be the outsider. He surprised us in the Yonkers Trot, where he finished third to Leader Of The Gang and Del Cielo. He is making his Meadowlands debut at three and may do well from the 2 post.

TRI’s Picks July 15 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 6-9, Friday, July 15, 2011

In our final Pick-5 ticket, we had two winners. They were Peace ($5.40) and Quit Smoking Now ($6.60). In our Pick 4, we had one winner, Kissmatt ($6.80). Our profit for the year dropped to $7. Lets make this weekend a winning one. I still encourage you to play these horses to win as well.

$2 Play: 29/3/1/17 = $8

Analysis:

Race 6- (2) Hey Mister has faced the conditioned ranks after her victory in the New Jersey Sires Stakes. She is the morning line favorite and may be the one to beat. (9) Lost Symbol made two moves in her most recent appearance and finished fourth. Before that, finished second against the boys in the Magician. She may do better tonight.

Race 7- After finishing third at 111-1 in the slop, (3) All Heart Gal will be under rated in here. She is stepping down and stays at the inside. She went up against the likes of Mcflirty and Dragon Princess in here last start. If the track is fast, she may be the bomb in the Pick 4.

Race 8- Coming off of a parked mile on off going, (1) Sea Raven may be able to get a better trip from the inside.

 
Race 9- (1) Hurrikane Marni worked hard for the front from the 10 post. Since she has the rail and she may pace an easier mile. The same angle went for Showherthemoney, who paid $72.60 in my Pick 4. (7) Linden Beauty has shown that she likes to close. She moves a bit inside this week and takes a drop in class.

TRI’s Picks July 15 National Pick 4

National Pick 4, Race 8 Meadowlands, Race 8 Northfield, Race 9 Yonkers, Race 6 Maywood, Friday, July 15, 2011

$2 Play: 1/2/25/13 = $8

Analysis:

Leg A (Race 8 Meadowlands)- Coming off of a parked mile on off going, (1) Sea Raven may be able to get a better trip from the inside.

Leg B (Race 8 Northfield)- (2) Mindy Love Brown is stepping up after a second-place finish in non-winners of $300 per start. Her post may help.

Leg C (Race 9 Yonkers)- (2) Donttellmywife made an attempt to close four wide but finished seventh by 2 lengths. The inside may help him get a better trip. (5) TJ’s Mr Lavec trotted a parked mile in his most recent showcasing and came on to finish fifth by 1 1/4 lengths. He may trot a better mile this week.

 
Leg D (Race 6 Maywood)- (1) Stylish Soiree N gets some post relief this week. With there being little speed, she may sit in the pocket and soar right by this field. (3) Kickapoo Cher will be under rated this week, since her driver is Scott Banks. That does not matter to me. She left the gate slow and was able to make up 5 lengths in the two-wide flow. She ended up fading, but came back to finish sixth. Her post may help.