TRI’s Picks November 26 Cal-Expo

After a week off from the frenzic stakes action, I am back and ready for another zero-percent takeout pick four at Cal-Expo. We had no winners, but Red Star Penney returned to pay $26 after her loss. So this is where I come to say, watch all of these horses to win in any start. Chances are they will come back well. Now onto the winning ticket selections!

$2 Play: 46/10/17/1 = $8

Analysis:

Race 12- (4) Jessalilpeace is coming off a closing effort to finish second last week. He may do better in this weak field. (6) Thouartthegreatest won from a hung trip last week. He showed talent and may give a better effort this week.

Race 13- (10) Cladstownnmpression traveled first over and faded bad last week. Since he’s coming from the second tier, he will likely get a better position.

Race 14- (1) Matty Rose went a gruesome first over last week from post seven. This week, she draws post one, hopefully helping her not get a bad trip. (7) Barona Destiny is coming off a similar effort to Matty Rose last week. She will have to get a better trip to win.

Race 15- (1) Golden Gate Admiral came first over from fifth and just lost by a head to Heelwin. He will likely get the lead and hopefully hold on to win.

The Battle for End of the Year Honors

Every owner, trainer and driver wants to be involved in a horse that is the best of the year. And 2011 certainly showed competition in the 12 divisions of standardbreds. This column is to remember the top horses of 2011 and preview the odds of who will win the Dan Patch Awards in February. If there name is bold, they are eligible for Pacer/Trotter of the Year. If their name is underlined, then they are eligible for Horse of the Year.

Two-Year-Olds

The two-year-old divisions have been competitive all year. These freshmen will likely become the top sophomore horses in 2012, but here are the likely contenders for Dan Patch Awards.

Two-Year-Old Colt Trot

POSSESS THE WILL----1-9

UNCLE PETER------------9-1

Two-Year-Old Filly Trot

CHECK ME OUT----4-5

WIN MISSY B--------6-5

Two-Year-Old Colt Pace

A ROCKNROLL DANCE----3-5

SWEET LOU--------------------7-5

Two-Year-Old Filly Pace

ECONOMY TERROR----6-5

AMERICAN JEWEL------4-5

Analysis:

The two-year-old colt trot division is pretty obvious. Possess The Will has a 1-9 (90%) chance of winning the Two-Year-Old Colt Trotter of the Year. Possess The Will won such races as the Valley Victory, Breeders Crown elimination, two divisions of the Bluegrass and a couple Pennsylvania Sires Stakes. He has earned $550,789 in his lifetime, with a lifetime mark of 1:54.

The second choice is Uncle Peter. Although he came into the picture in September, he did win the Breeders Crown, which is a big advantage to winning a Dan Patch Award. He has earned $346,582 this year, with a mark of 1:54.2.

The two-year-old filly trotter division is pretty close. It is between Check Me Out and Win Missy B. Check Me Out won such races as the Merrie Annabelle, Breeders Crown, Bluegrass, Champlain, Pennsylvania Sires Stakes and the Matron. She has earned $900,619 this year, with a mark of 1:53.2, a world record effort.

Win Missy B is the second choice in the balloting. She has won such races as the Bluegrass, Peaceful Way (defeating Check Me Out), Kentuckiana, New York State Fair Stakes, New York Sires Stakes and the Goldsmith Maid. She has earned $731,175 this year, with a mark of 1:53.3.

Another tight division is the two-year-old colt pacing division. It is between Sweet Lou and A Rocknroll Dance. A Rocknroll Dance may be the likely winner by a slight margin. He has won such races as the Metro elim, two Bluegrass divisions and the Governor’s Cup. He has earned $863,325 this year, with a mark of 1:49.1.

Sweet Lou has won such races as the Breeders Crown, several Pennsylvania Sires Stakes, Bluegrass, Pennsylvania Sires Stakes Championship and the Elevation. He has earned $686,647 this year, with a mark of 1:49.

The final two-year-old division is the two-year-old filly pacers. That is between Economy Terror and an injured American Jewel. Although American Jewel missed the biggest races of the fall, she stayed undefeated until she was injured in a division of the International Stallion Series. She has won other races such as the Bluegrass, She’s A Great Lady (defeating Economy Terror), Countess Adios and the Eternal Camnation. She has earned $677,166 this year, with a mark of 1:50.2, a world record.

Economy Terror won such races as the Three Diamonds, Pennsylvania Sires Stakes, Breeders Crown and a division of the Bluegrass. She has earned $926,520 this year, with a mark 1:50.3, a world record.

Three-Year-Olds

The sophomore standardbreds have shown their talent all throughout the year, making it harder to choose who was the best of 2011.

Three-Year-Old Colt Pacers 

BETTERTHANCHEDDAR----9-1

ROLL WITH JOE----------------1-9

Three-Year-Old Filly Pacers

SEE YOU AT PEELERS----7-5

KRISPY APPLE---------------4-1

DROP THE BALL------------5-2

IDYLLIC------------------------16-1

Three-Year-Old Colt Trotters

BROAD BAHN-------------------4-1

MANOFMANYMISSIONS----8-5

CHAPTER SEVEN---------------2-1

DAYLON MAGICIAN----------10-1

Three-Year-Old Filly Trotters

CEDAR DOVE-----------8-5

CRYS DREAM-----------7-5

BOLD AND FRESH----5-1

Analysis:

The three-year-old colt pacing division has been starting to narrow down. It is between Roll With Joe and Betterthancheddar. Roll With Joe won such races as the Messenger, Meadowlands Pace, Battle of the Brandywine, first heat of the Jug and the Somebeachsomewhere. He has earned $1,649,725 this year with a mark of 1:48.2.

Betterthancheddar won such races as the American National, Windy City Pace, Breeders Crown and the Cane Pace. He has earned $777,283 this year, with a mark of 1:49.1.

The three-year-old filly pacing division used to be obvious until See You At Peelers was defeated. It is now between her, Krispy Apple, Drop The Ball and Idyllic. See You At Peelers won the New York Sires Stakes, Valley Forge, Empire Breeders Classic, Fan Hanover, Art Rooney and the Tarport Hap this year. She has earned $916,611 this year, with a mark 1:49.2.

Krispy Apple won the New Jersey Sires Stakes, Bluegrass, Shady Daisy, Miss New Jersey and the Fan Hanover elimination this year. She has earned $548,766 this year, with a mark of 1:49.1. She was the second best to “Peelers” in many of her starts.

Drop The Ball started to get her act together late in the year. She won the Mistletoe Shalee, Breeders Crown elimination, Shady Daisy, Bluegrass and the Matron this year. She has earned $528,357 this year, with a mark of 1:49, a Canadian Pacing record.

Idyllic is the underdog in this division. She defeated See You At Peelers in the Nadia Lobel. She went on to win the Jugette. She has earned $510,218 this year, with a mark of 1:50.

The three-year-old colt trotters will likely be against two horses. They are Manofmanymissions and Chapter Seven. Daylon Magician also has a say in the Dan Patch, but the Hambletonian is a major credit to a Dan Patch winner, so Broad Bahn is also in contention. Broad Bahn won not only the Hambo, but the Pennsylvania Sires Stakes, a conditioned event and a three-year-old open. He has earned $1,324,561 this year, with a mark of 1:53. He has been runner-up in many races, as well.

Manofmanymissions overcame his breaking problem to win such races as the Kentucky Futurity, New Jersey Sires Stakes, Breeders Crown elimination, Colonial and the Stanley Dancer. He has earned $782,100 this year, with a mark of 1:52.1.

Chapter Seven won such races as the Stanley Dancer, Breeders Crown, Matron elimination and a Bluegrass. He has earned $720,392 with a mark of 1:52.4.

The last horse that has a shot in the three-year-old colt trot division is Daylon Magician. He won such races as the Canadian Trotting Classic, Ontario Sires Stakes, Ontario Sires Stakes Super Final and the Goodtimes consolation. He has earned $1,082,455 this year, with a mark of 1:52.3.

The final division is the three-year-old filly trotters. This division is between Cedar Dove, Bold And Fresh and Crys Dream. Crys Dream won such races as the Hambletonian Oaks elimination, Matron, Elegant Image and the Casual Breeze. She has earned $677,676 this year, with a mark of 1:53.2.

Bold And Fresh won such races as the Pennsylvania Sires Stakes, Hambletonian Oaks and the Bluegrass. She has earned $606,330 this year, with a mark of 1:53.1.

Cedar Dove won the Pennsylvania Sires Stakes, Kentucky Filly Futurity, Breeders Crown and the Matron elimination. She has earned $543,316 this year, with a mark of 1:53.2.

Older Horses

The free for all division has been defeating each other all year. It will surely be, a tough pick for the divisional winners. 

Older Pacer

WE WILL SEE--------1-1

FOILED AGAIN-----6-1

BETTOR SWEET----9-5

Older Mare Pacer 

DREAMFAIR ETERNAL-----6-5

ANNDROVETTE----------------4-5

Older Trotter

SAN PAIL---------------1-1

ARCH MADNESS----1-1

Older Mare Trotter

FRENCHFRIESNVINEGAR----8-1

JERSEY AS--------------------------20-1

AUTUMN ESCAPADE-----------8-5

ACTION-BROADWAY-----------7-5

Analysis:

The older pacing division has been defeating each other in week to week combat. But it has come down to a vote between We Will See, Foiled Again and Bettor Sweet. Bettor Sweet won such races this year as the Bettor’s Delight, Breeders Crown, U.S. Pacing Championship, several Opens and Invitationals. He has earned $879,000 this year, with a mark of 1:48.1.

We Will See won such races as the Canadian Pacing Derby, Allerage, U.S. Pacing Championship, William Haughton elimination, several Opens and the Ben Franklin. He has earned $1,242,745 this year, with a mark of 1:47.2.

Foiled Again had suffered many bad trips during this year, but went on to win such races as the Battle of Lake Erie, Bobby Quillen, Canadian Pacing Derby elimination and the American National. He has earned $1,405,747.

It is between two horses for Mare Pacer of the Year. It is between Dreamfair Eternal and Anndrovette. Anndrovette has been fresh all year and won the A Spring of Hope Invitational, Artiscape, Betsy Ross and the Breeders Crown this year. She has earned $747,112 this year, with a mark of 1:49.2.

Dreamfair Eternal started to fade out coming to September. But she won the Roses Are Red, Ellamoney, Golden Girls and the Lady Liberty this year. She has earned $646,657 this year, with a mark of 1:49.2.

The Older Trotter of the Year is between San Pail and Arch Madness. Arch Madness was the “now” horse back at the start of the Meadowlands Championship Meet. He won the Titan Cup, heat of the Ellitlloppet, several Opens and the Oslo Grand Prix in Norway this year. He has earned $817,270 this year, with a mark of 1:50.2, a world record.

San Pail stayed mainly in Canada. He came to America twice this year. He won the Maple Leaf Trot, several Opens, Breeders Crown, Nat Ray Invitational, Credit Winner and the Allerage this year. He has earned $1,289,000 this year, with a mark of 1:50.4.

The tightest out of all the divisions is the Mare Trotters. With Buck I St Pat doing worse than expected in 2011, this division is wide open. It is between Frenchfriesnvinegar, Jersey As, Autumn Escapade and Action-Broadway. Action-Broadway won such races as the Armbro Flight, a division of the Miss Versatility, several Opens, Muscle Hill and she finished second in the Breeders Crown. She has earned $538,944 this year, with a mark of 1:52.3.

Autumn Escapade won such races this year as the Miss Versatility final and several Opens against the boys. She has earned $309,644 this year, with a mark of 1:52.3.

Jersey As was and underdog this year. She won such races as the Peretti Matchmaker and several Opens. She has earned $139,607 this year, with a mark of 1:51.3.

Frenchfriesnvinegar won the Breeders Crown, several Open and Preferred events in Canada. She has earned $355,490 this year, with a mark of 1:53.

Pacer and Trotter of the Year 

There are several worthy horses to win Pacer or Trotter of the year.

Pacer of the Year

ROLL WITH JOE------------------6-5

WE WILL SEE---------------------5-2

FOILED AGAIN------------------10-1

BETTOR SWEET-----------------7-1

BETTERTHANCHEDDAR----33-1

Trotter of the Year

SAN PAIL--------------------------1-1

ARCH MADNESS----------------9-1

MANOFMANYMISSIONS----4-1

CHAPTER SEVEN---------------9-1

Horse Of The Year

There are three horses worthy of the honor of Horse of the Year.

SAN PAIL--------------------------8-5

WE WILL SEE--------------------5-2

MANOFMANYMISSIONS----2-1

Big Rigs Defeats Chapter Seven to Close Out Night of Matrons

DOVER, DE— Big Rigs pulled off a 17-1 upset to win the $174,940 Matron three-year-old colt trot at Dover Downs on Sunday, November 13. Chapter Seven finished second, Broad Bahn was third and Big Sky Storm was fourth.

Broad Bahn, Big Rigs and Chapter Seven all left for the lead heading around the turn. Broad Bahn cleared the lead heading to the quarter, with Big Rigs sitting in second and Chapter Seven settled in third. Broad Bahn took them by the quarter in :26.3.

Broad Bahn had the lead down the stretch, with Big Rigs sitting in second and Chapter Seven came first over in third. Chapter Seven came right next to Broad Bahn at the half in :55.3 (:29).

Broad Bahn still had the lead down the backstretch. Chapter Seven was progressing little by little heading to three-quarters, with Big Rigs in third and Opening Night back in fourth. Chapter Seven took the lead heading to three-quarters. Big Rigs circled two wide and passed Broad Bahn at three-quarters in 1:23.2 (:27.4).

Chapter Seven still had a huge lead into the stretch. Big Rigs barreled to the passing lane and passed Chapter Seven. Big Rigs drew off by about 2 lengths and won. Chapter Seven finished second, Broad Bahn was third and Big Sky Storm finished fourth.

Big Rigs is a three-year-old colt by Andover Hall out of the mare Filly At Bigs by Donerail. He has earned $471,416 in his lifetime. He is owned by Miller’s Stables Inc., Dm Stables LLC and Ed Mullinax, trained by Kelly O’Donnell and Dave Palone was in the bike to win the Matron in 1:52.4.

“I didn’t want to come too quick because we made a mistake in the Breeders Crown. When I asked for him, he was full of trot. Kelly told me he was going to be better than he was last week,” driver Dave Palone said.

Westwardho Hanover Holds Off Alsace Hanover to Win Progress Pace

DOVER, DE—Westwardho Hanover held off Alsace Hanover to win the $330,000 Progress Pace at Dover Downs on Sunday, November 13. Alsace Hanover finished second, Rock To Glory was third and Mr Tommy Fra was fourth.

Westwardho Hanover, Samander and Mr Tommy Fra all left the gate with speed. Westwardho Hanover cleared the lead, with Mr Tommy Fra settling in second and Fashion Delight was three wide in third. Westwardho Hanover had the lead at the quarter pole.

Westwardho Hanover had the lead approaching the half. Fashion Delight was first over at the half mile. Alsace Hanover tracked his cover second over.

Westwardho Hanover had the lead down the backstretch. Alsace Hanover came three-wide and passed Fashion Delight. Alsace Hanover came right next to Westwardho Hanover heading around the far turn, drawing away from Mr Tommy Fra and Rock To Glory.

Westwardho Hanover lead the way into the stretch. Alsace Hanover was giving chase on the outside in second and Rock To Glory came into third. Westwardho Hanover had the lead coming to the wire and he won. Alsace Hanover finished second, Rock To Glory was third and Mr Tommy Fra finished fourth.

Westwardho Hanover is a three-year-old colt by Dragon Again out of the mare Western Duel by Western Hanover. He has earned $882,009 in his lifetime. He is owned by Westward Ho Stable, trained by Ron Burke and Dave Palone was in the sulky to win the Progress Pace in 1:49.1.

Crys Dream Rebounds in Matron

DOVER, DE—Crys Dream defeated Cedar Dove to win the $151,990 three-year-old filly trot Matron at Dover Downs on Sunday, November 13. Beatgoeson Hanover finished second, Cedar Dove was third and Martiniontherocks finished fourth.

Crys Dream, Cedar Dove and Firstclassprincess all left the gate with speed heading around the turn. Crys Dream took the front heading to the quarter. Cedar Dove was first over in second and Firstclassprincess was third. Crys Dream took them by the quarter in :27.

There was no change at the half in :55.2 (:28.2). Jezzy came first over from fourth and Beatgoeson Hanover tracked her cover. Cedar Dove settled in at the inside in second down the backstretch. Crys Dream lead the way down the backstretch. Cedar Dove was in second and Firstclassprincess was in third. Crys Dream took the field by three-quarters in 1:24.1 (:28.4).

Crys Dream lead the way into the stretch. Jezzy was fading first over and Beatgoeson Hanover came off cover three wide. Cedar Dove was giving chase in third. Crys Dream had the lead and she won. Beatgoeson Hanover finished second, Cedar Dove was third and Martiniontherocks came from the clouds to finish fourth.

Crys Dream is a three-year-old filly by Taurus Dream out of the mare Crysta's Image by Balanced Image. She has earned $1,186,073 in her lifetime. She is owned by Reve Avec Moi Dreamwithme, Deo Volente Farms and T L P Stables and Jerry Silva. She is trained by Fredrick Persson and Luc Ouellette was in the bike to win in 1:54.

“It came down to the post position and we drew inside. Tonight, it was now or never. What happened to her this year you can’t hold against her. She is getting her rest now. This is not the horse we’ve seen before, it’s unfortunate what happened to her this year,” driver Luc Ouellette said.

Drop The Ball Holds Off Pressure to Win Matron

DOVER, DE—Drop The Ball won the $116,000 three-year-old filly pace Matron in 1:51.2 at Dover Downs on Sunday, November 13. Strike An Attitude finished second, Myluvmylife was third and Foxy Lady finished fourth.

Foxy Lady, Drop The Ball and Strike An Attitude all left the gate with speed heading into the first turn. Foxy Lady cleared the lead, with Strike An Attitude settling in second and Drop The Ball first over in third. Foxy Lady took them by the quarter in :26.3.

Drop The Ball cleared the lead heading down the stretch and Foxy Lady pulled back into second. There was no change from there at the half in :55.4 (:29.1).

Myluvmylife tipped to the outside and was progressing first over heading to the backstretch. Myluvmylife was on Drop The Ball’s wheel heading to three-quarters. Strike An Attitude came second over at three-quarters in 1:23.1 (:27.2).

Drop The Ball lead the way into the stretch. Strike An Attitude came off cover three wide and was closing hard. Myluvmylife was trying to dig in and Foxy Lady had no rally. Drop The Ball had enough to hold off Strike An Attitude to win. Myluvmylife was third and Foxy Lady finished fourth.

Drop The Ball is a three-year-old filly by Western Terror out of the mare Mattcheck Girl by Matt’s Scooter. She has earned $533,643 this year. She is owned by Let It Ride Stables, Mr Parham and Robert Cooper Stables. She is trained by Jeffrey Webster and Yannick Gingras was in the bike to win in 1:51.2.

A Rocknroll Dance Mambos to Winner’s Circle in Governor’s Cup

CHESTER, PA— A Rocknroll Dance easily won the 22^nd edition of the $510,000 Governor’s Cup in 1:51 at Harrah’s Chester on Sunday, November 13. Speed Again finished second, Escape The News was third and Mybrothergeorge finished fourth.

Mybrothergeorge, Speed Again, Escape The News, A Rocknroll Dance and Dynamic Youth all left the gate with speed heading into the first turn. A Rocknroll Dance took the lead, with Speed Again in second, Mybrothergeorge in third and Escape The News was in fourth. A Rocknroll Dance took the field by the quarter in :26.3.

Mortal Zin came first over approaching the half. He flushed out Escape The News at the half in :55.4 (:29.1). A Rocknroll Dance had the lead down the backstretch. Speed Again was in second and Mybrothergeorge was in third. Escape The News was progressing first over in fourth. A Rocknroll Dance lead the way at three-quarters in 1:23.3. (:27.4).

A Rocknroll Dance lead the way into the stretch. Speed Again was trying to come on in second and Escape The News was giving chase in third. A Rocknroll Dance was home free and he won. Speed Again finished second, Escape The News was third and A Rocknroll Dance finished fourth.

A Rocknroll Dance is a two-year-old colt by Rocknroll Hanover out of the mare Wichita Hanover by Cam’s Card Shark. He has earned $608,325 in his lifetime. He is owned by Jim Mulinix, D. Miller, Jerry and Theresa Silva, trained by Jim Mulinix and Yannick Gingras was in the bike to win the Governor’s Cup in 1:51.   

Economy Terror Shines in Three Diamonds

CHESTER, PA— Economy Terror shows she is the best of the freshmen filly pacers in the $380,000 Three Diamonds at Harrah’s Chester on Sunday, November 13. Handsoffmycookie finished second, Pirouette Hanover was third and Shelliscape finished fourth.

Pirouette Hanover and Economy Terror both blasted out of the gate heading into the first turn. Pirouette Hanover cleared, with Economy Terror in second and Shelliscape was in third. Pirouette Hanover took the field by the quarter in :27.

Economy Terror came first over as they went down the stretch. She cleared heading to the clubhouse turn. Pirouette Hanover gave way in second and Shelliscape remained in third. Robin Cruiser came first over at the half in :56.1 (:29.1) from the back of the field.

Robin Cruiser flushed out Handsoffmycookie down the backstretch. Economy Terror still had the lead, with Pirouette Hanover staying with her in second. Handsoffmycookie came right next to Economy Terror at three-quarters in 1:23.1 (:27).

Economy Terror had the lead in the stretch. Handsoffmycookie was giving it all she had on the outside in second and Pirouette Hanover came up the passing lane in third. But Economy Terror was too good and she went on to win. Handsoffmycookie finished second, Pirouette Hanover was third and Shelliscape finished fourth.

Economy Terror is a two-year-old filly by Western Terror out of the mare Mattatonic by Matt’s Scooter. She has earned $736,520 in her lifetime. She is owned by Chuck Pompey, Howard Taylor and Edwin Gold, trained by Chris Oakes and Brian Sears was in the sulky to win in 1:50.3, a track record.

Win Missy B Dazzles in Goldsmith Maid

CHESTER, PA— Win Missy B easily won the 22^nd edition of the $365,000 Goldsmith Maid at Harrah’s Chester on Sunday, November 13. Superstar Hanover finished second, Lady Andi was third and Pittypat Hanover finished fourth.

Win Missy B, Superstar Hanover and Lady Andi all left the gate with speed heading to the first turn. Win Missy B cleared the front, with Superstar Hanover in second and Lady Andi was in third. Can’t Have My Moni broke in the back of the field. Win Missy B lead by the quarter in :27.3.

There was no change in order at the half in :57.4 (:30.1). Playwear Hanover came first over from fifth heading down the backstretch. Win Missy B still had command, with Superstar Hanover sitting in second and Playwear Hanover progressing into third. Aunt Mel was tracking that cover heading to three-quarters. Aunt Mel came off cover and was three wide at three-quarters in 1:26.1 (:28.2).

Aunt Mel immediately broke into the stretch. Win Missy B still had the lead and Superstar Hanover was coming up the passing lane. Lady Andi circled out two wide in pursuit of Win Missy B, but she was long gone. Win Missy B won easily. Superstar Hanover finished second, Lady Andi was third and Pittypat Hanover finished fourth.

Win Missy B is a two-year-old filly by Conway Hall out of the mare Winning Missbrenda by American Winner. She has earned $548,675 this year. She is owned by Robert Key, trained by Charlie Norris and Brian Sears was in the sulky to win in 1:55.1, a track and local stakes record (local stakes means at Chester, the Fall Final Four alternate from Woodbine and Chester).

Possess The Will Dominates in Non-Wagering Valley Victory

CHESTER, PA— Possess The Will easily won the $410,000 Valley Victory stakes in 1:56 at Harrah’s Chester on Sunday, November 13. Highland Yankee finished second, No Frosting was third and Vic Smith was fourth.

Highland Yankee, Vic Smith and No Frosting all left the gate with speed heading to the far turn. Highland Yankee took the lead, with Vic Smith in second and No Frosting was in third. Vic Smith went off stride heading to the quarter. Highland Yankee lead the field at the quarter pole.  

Possess The Will came first over and cleared the lead approaching the half. Highland Yankee sat in second and No Frosting was in third. Vic Smith regained his stride in the back and Southwind Warsaw went on a break.

Possess The Will lead the way down the backstretch. With Highland Yankee in second and No Frosting was in third. Vic Smith came first over at the 5/16 marker. Possess The Will had the lead at three-quarters.

Possess The Will lead the way into the stretch. Highland Yankee was giving chase in second and No Frosting was in third. Vic Smith went off stride again. Possess The Will had the lead at the wire and he won. With Highland Yankee finishing second, No Frosting was third, Vic Smith was fourth and Southwind Warsaw finished last.

Possess The Will is a two-year-old colt by Donato Hanover out of the mare Aurora Hall by Self Possessed. He has earned $345,789 this year. He is owned by Fashion Farms LLC, trained by Jim Campbell and Tim Tetrick was in the bike to win the Valley Victory in 1:56.

Roll With Joe Wins Messenger; Rocklamation Takes Lady Maud

YONKERS, NY— Rocklamation took the $194,890 Lady Maud stakes at Yonkers Raceway on Saturday, November 12. New Album was second, Krispy Apple was third and City Delight finished fourth.

Krispy Apple took the lead around the first turn, with Rocklamation in second, City Delight in third and New Album trailing. Krispy Apple took them by the quarter in :27.3.

There was no change in order at the half in :56.1 (:28.3). There was no change in order at three-quarters in 1:24.4 (:28.3). New Album came first over from third to challenge Krispy Apple.

In the stretch, Kirspy Apple had the lead. Rocklamation came up the passing lane and New Album was first over. Krispy Apple went off stride, so Rocklamation inherited the lead and held on to it to win. New Album finished second, Krispy Apple was third and City Delight finished fourth.

Rocklamation winning the 2011 Lady Maud

Rocklamation is a three-year-old filly by Rocknroll Hanover out of the mare Art Sale by Artsplace. She has earned $606,330 lifetime. She is owned by Stable 45, trained by Ron Burke and Brian Sears was in the sulky.  

Roll With Joe took the 56^th edition of the $401,000 Messenger Pace in 1:52.4. Sea Venture finished second, Sir Ziggy’s Z Tam was third and Keystone Velocity finished fourth.

Mojo Terror left for the lead, with Roll With Joe settling in second and Sea Venture in third. Mojo Terror took the field by the quarter in :27.4.

There was no change in order approaching the half. Mojo Terror took the field by the half in :56.4 (:29). Roll With Joe came first over and Keystone Velocity tracked that cover. Roll With Joe took the lead in the backstretch and drew away. He took the field by three-quarters in 1:24.3 (:27.4).

Roll With Joe was long gone in the stretch. He drew away by 8 lengths heading to the wire and he won in 1:52.4 (:28.1). Sea Venture finished second, Sir Ziggy’s Z Tam was third and Keystone Velocity finished fourth.

Roll With Joe winning the 2011 Messenger

Roll With Joe is a three-year-old colt by Cam’s Card Shark out of the mare Classic Wish by Armbro Emerson. He has earned $1,604,602 in his lifetime. He is owned by Not To Worry Stables, Winbak Farm and Chesapeke City. He is trained by Edward Hart and Ron Pierce was in the bike to win his third Messenger stakes.

“This colt can go, he’s tough, he’s an iron horse. His willingness, gait and confirmation really impress me,” driver Ron Pierce said.

“He is a super horse, I never had one better. He showed a lot of potential at two, but he got himself together at three,” trainer Ed Hart said.

“He’s done [retiring]. Eddy did a great job with mapping out his career. Eddy had him ready in every start,” co-owner Tom Grossmen said. 
  
                                          Roll With Joe 2011 Messenger

Betterthancheddar Romps in Final ‘National’ at Balmoral

CRETE, IL— Betterthancheddar dominated the sophomore pacers in the $225,000 American National at Balmoral Park on Saturday, November 12. Hugadragon finished second, Mystic Desire was third and Something For Doc finished fourth.

Hugadragon, Betterthancheddar and Big Bad John all left the gate with speed heading into the first turn. Mystic Desire came from the outside and settled in fourth. Hugadragon cleared the lead around the turn, with Betterthancheddar in second and Big Bad John was in third. Hugadragon took them by the quarter in :27.1.

Betterthancheddar came first over and cleared the lead at the three-eighths. Hugadragon was in second and Big Bad John came first over in third. Mystic Desire followed that cover in fourth. Betterthancheddar took them by the half in :54 (:26.4).

Betterthancheddar had the lead into the far turn. Big Bad John came right up to his wheel and Hugadragon was in third. Mystic Desire was second over in fourth and Something For Doc was regaining ground in fifth. Betterthancheddar lead the way at three-quarters in 1:21.3 (:27.3).

Betterthancheddar had the lead in the stretch. Hugadragon came up the inside and stayed right behind Betterthancheddar. Big Bad John was starting to fade and Mystic Desire was starting to close. Something For Doc came up the inside in fifth. Betterthancheddar had the lead coming to the wire and he won for fun. Hugadragon gave all he had, finishing second, Mystic Desire was third and Something For Doc was fourth.

Betterthancheddar is a three-year-old colt by Bettor’s Delight out of the mare Lady Ashlee Ann by Camastic. He has earned $586,283 lifetime. He is owned by Steve Calhoun and the West Wins Stable, trained by Casie Coleman and George Brennan was in the sulky to a 1:50.3 victory.

“I wasn’t sure how I was going to race him coming into the race. Then I thought I’ll try him on the front end. I wasn’t going to be first over, I was either going to be on top or in the two hole. I scored him down in the wind and it didn’t bother him. Casie did a great job getting him ready for the “National”,” driver George Brennan said.

Foiled Again Dominates Aged Pacers in ‘National’

CRETE, IL— Foiled Again easily won the $175,000 aged pace American National at Balmoral Park on Saturday, November 12. Bettor Sweet finished second, Atochia was third and St Elmo Hero finished fourth.

Foiled Again and St Elmo Hero blasted out of the gate. St Elmo Hero cleared the lead around the turn. Aracache Hanover was in second and Foiled Again was in third. Aracache Hanover came first over and challenged St Elmo Hero for the lead at the quarter in :28.4.

Aracache Hanover cleared the lead heading down the backstretch. St Elmo Hero was in second and Foiled Again was in third. Foiled Again came first over at the three-eighths and cleared the lead at the half in :55.1 (:26.2).

Foiled Again had the lead into the far turn. Bettor Sweet came first over and challenged Foiled Again. Aracache Hanover was shuffled into third and St Elmo Hero was in fourth. Meirs Hanover tracked Bettor Sweet’s cover along with One More Laugh. Foiled Again lead the field by three-quarters in 1:24 (:28.4).

Foiled Again had the lead into the stretch. St Elmo Hero came up the inside and Atochia was dashing through all the pockets that were open. Bettor Sweet was trying to hold on and One More Laugh came off cover. Foiled Again had the lead and he won it by about 2 lengths. Bettor Sweet finished second, Atochia was third and St Elmo Hero finished fourth.

Foiled Again is a seven-year-old gelding by Dragon Again out of the mare In A Safe Place by Artsplace. He has earned $3,334,555 lifetime. He is owned by Burke Racing Stables LLC, Weaver Bruscemi and Jjk Stables. He is trained by Ron Burke and Yannick Gingras was in the sulky to win his third American National on the card in 1:51.4.  

“I just wanted to make sure I kept Bettor Sweet behind me,” driver Yannick Gingras said. “He never had an easy trip, he never needed one. I hope he wins divisional honors. He’s just a great horse, he’s the toughest horse I have ever driven and saw. The tougher the better, that’s the way he likes it. I don’t know how he is this fresh week in and week out. He’s just an amazing animal,” driver Yannick Gingras added.

Looking Hanover Upsets in Aged Trot ‘National’

CRETE, IL— Looking Hanover came back to upset in the $143,000 aged trot American National at Balmoral Park on Saturday, November 12. Lucky Jim finished second, Hot Shot Blue Chip was third and Flex The Muscle finished fourth.

Looking Hanover, Flex The Muscle and Lucky Jim all left the gate with speed. Looking Hanover cleared the lead into the first turn. Flex The Muscle was in second and Lucky Jim was in third. Lucky Jim came first over at the quarter in :30.2.

Lucky Jim cleared the lead at the three-eighths. Looking Hanover was in second, Flex The Muscle was in third and Abc Mercedes came first over in fourth. Lucky Jim lead them by the half in :58.1 (:27.4).

Lucky Jim had the lead into the far turn. Abc Mercedes was right next to him in second and Looking Hanover was buried at the rail in third. Hot Shot Blue Chip was second over in fourth. Lucky Jim lead them by three-quarters in 1:26.2 (:28.1).

Lucky Jim lead the way into the stretch. Hot Shot Blue Chip came off cover and Flex The Muscle came up the inside. Abc Mercedes was fading and Looking Hanover circled onto the outside. Hot Shot Blue Chip was closing and Flex The Muscle was pulling back. Looking Hanover came right by Lucky Jim to win by a nose. Hot Shot Blue Chip finished third and Flex The Muscle was fourth.

Looking Hanover is a six-year-old gelding by Muscles Yankee out of the mare Lady Bar by Malabar Man. He has earned $700,836 lifetime. He is owned by Dawn Marie Gannon and Yannick Gingras, trained by Edwin Gannon Jr. and Yannick Gingras was in the sulky to win in 1:56.  

Swinging Beauty “Swings” from Mid-Pack to Win Photo Finish

CRETE, IL— Swinging Beauty rebounds after a failed effort in the Breeders Crown to win the $135,000 three-year-old filly pace American National at Balmoral Park on Saturday, November 12. Ole Miss finished second, Mystical Mj was third and Honky Tonk Woman finished fourth.

Ole Miss, Honky Tonk Woman and Fresh Idea all left for the lead into the first turn. Ole Miss cleared the lead heading to the quarter, Honky Tonk Woman was in second, Fresh Idea was in third and Jamaica Hanover was in fourth. Ole Miss took them by the quarter in :28.

Ronettica took the lead approaching the half mile. Honky Tonk Woman was shuffled into second and Ole Miss was in third. Ole Miss came first over and supplied cover to Swinging Beauty at the half in :55.1 (:27.1).

Into the far turn, Ronettica had the lead. Ole Miss was in second on the outside and Honky Tonk Woman was buried at the rail in third. Swinging Beauty was second over in fourth at three-quarters in 1:24 (:28.4).

Ronettica was under pressure in the stretch. Honky Tonk Woman came up the inside and Swinging Beauty came off cover three wide. Mystical Mj was closing from the back of the field. Swinging Beauty came after the new leader, Ole Miss. At the line, Swinging Beauty won by a nose. Ole Miss finished second, Mystical Mj was third and Honky Tonk Woman finished fourth.

Swinging Beauty is a three-year-old filly by Art Major out of the mare Stunning Beauty by Camluck. She has earned $380,829 in her lifetime. She is owned by William Switala  and James Martin, trained by Gregg McNair and Peter Wrenn was in the sulky to a 1:54.1 victory.

“She raced a nice trip tonight, I think the wind bothered her a little bit but she came out of it fine,” trainer Gregg McNair said.

Crime Of Passion Closes in Second ‘National’

CRETE, IL— Crime Of Passion closed from mid-pack to win the $121,000 two-year-old colt pace American National at Balmoral Park on Saturday, November 12. Star Recruit finished second, Caviart Key was third and Peck Blue Chip finished fourth.

Peck Blue Chip, Goose On The Rocks and Fridaynightflight all left for the front heading to the first turn. Peck Blue Chip cleared, with Fridaynightflight in second and Goose On The Rocks was in third. Peck Blue Chip took them by the quarter in :28.3.

Star Recruit came first over approaching the half mile. Fridaynightflight came out and forced Star Recruit three wide. Peck Blue Chip and Fridaynightflight were dueling at the half in :56.3 (:28). Caviart Key tracked Star Recruit’s cover and settled in third.

Peck Blue Chip still had the lead around the far turn. Fridaynightflight was on the outside in second and Caviart Key was in third. Crime Of Passion was third over and came off cover three wide at three-quarters in 1:25.1 (:28.3).

Peck Blue Chip had the lead in the stretch. Crime Of Passion circled out four wide and Caviart Key came up the inside. Star Recruit was two wide and coming on. Crime Of Passion took the lead at the wire and he won. Finishing second was Star Recruit, Caviart Key was third and Peck Blue Chip finished fourth.

Crime Of Passion is a two-year-old gelding by Armbro Mackintosh out of the mare Broadway Passion by Broadway Express. He has earned $116,317 in his lifetime. He is owned by Erv Miller, Omer Miller and Leland Mathias. He is trained by Erv Miller and Marcus Miller was in the bike to win in 1:54.3.

“I was hoping I could catch some live cover and get up close. When he’s good, he will run down the horse in front of him. He’s very fast and has a good attitude,” driver Marcus Miller said.

Princess Cruiser Strides Home to Win First ‘National’

CRETE, IL— Princess Cruiser was untouched and went on to win the $86,800 American National two-year-old filly pace at Balmoral Park on Saturday, November 12. Starlana finished second, Podges Lady was third and Kendyl finished fourth.

Starlana, Kendyl and Princess Cruiser all left the gate with speed. Starlana took the front heading to the quarter, with Kendyl in second, Princess Cruiser was in third and No Respect was in fourth. Starlana took them by the quarter in :28.3.

Princess Cruiser came first over and took the lead approaching the half mile. Starlana was shuffled back into second and Kendyl was in third. Sleazy Does It came first over from mid-pack and flushed out No Respect. No Respect dashed up to Princess Cruiser’s wheel at the half in :56.4 (:28.1).

No Respect immediately went off stride and interfered with Sleazy Does It, causing her to go on a break. Princess Cruiser had the lead coming to three-quarters. Podges Lady was first over in second and Starlana was in third. Princess Cruiser took them to three-quarters in 1:26.

Princess Cruiser lead the way into the stretch. Starlana was trying to come on, along with Kendyl and Podges Lady. Princess Cruiser was untouched and went on to win. Starlana finished second, Podges Lady was third and Kendyl finished fourth.

Princess Cruiser is a two-year-old filly by Yankee Cruiser out of the mare Princess Justice by The Panderosa. She has earned $24,395 lifetime. She is owned by Millers Stable Inc., trained by Jim Mullinix and Yannick Gingras was in the bike.  

“She won it easy, when I moved her she responded. When I called on her in the stretch, she responded,” driver Yannick Gingras said.

Pekoe Fashion Gives Tetrick Hat Trick of Matron Wins

DOVER, DE— Pekoe Fashion closed out the night, winning the $116,175 Matron Stakes at Dover Downs on Saturday, November 12. Southwind Austin finished second, Delano was third and Gym Tan Laundry finished fourth.

Delano, Pekoe Fashion and Gym Tan Laundry all left the gate with speed. Delano cleared the lead around the first turn. Gym Tan Laundry applied pressure and went off stride. Pekoe Fashion inherited the second spot and Fashion Astral was in third. Delano took them by the quarter in :27.4.

Fashion Astral came first over from third heading to the half. Delano was in front, with Pekoe Fashion in second and Fashion Astral was first over in third. Delano took them by the half in :57 (:29.1).

Fashion Astral settled in the third spot heading to three-quarters. Delano had the lead and Pekoe Fashion was in the pocket second. Southwind Austin came first over and so did Gym Tan Laundry in the back of the field. Duluth attempted to go two wide but was interfered and went off stride. Delano took them to three-quarters in 1:25.3 (:28.3).

Delano lead the way into the stretch. Pekoe Fashion circled out from the inside and Southwind Austin closed hard and came up the passing lane. Delano was under pressure. Pekoe Fashion and Southwind Austin both passed him Pekoe Fashion on the outside was able to beat Southwind Austin by a neck. Delano was third and Gym Tan Laundry finished fourth.

Pekoe Fashion is a two-year-old colt by Broadway Hall out of the mare Orange Pekoe by at Donerail. He has earned $168,813 this year. He is owned by the Fashion Farms LLC, trained by Jim Campbell and Tim Tetrick was in the back to win his third Matron on the card in 1:56.1.

“Last week was the first week I drove him, tonight he responded and he got the job done. He gets a little excited and he’s willing to go anytime you ask him,” driver Tim Tetrick said.

“Timmy gave him a great drive and it worked out great. He has shown more speed and made more money, so he was the stronger of the two entries. He was great from the beginning, trained with no problem, we can’t be any happier with him,” trainer Jim Campbell said.

Heston Blue Chip Equals Track Record in Matron Stakes

DOVER, DE— Heston Blue Chip equaled the track record to win the $177,275 Matron Stakes at Dover Downs on Saturday, November 12. Allstar Legend finished second, Steelhead Hanover was third and Divulge finished fourth.

Steelhead Hanover, Allstar Legend and Heston Blue Chip all left the gate with speed heading to the first turn. Steelhead Hanover cleared the lead by the quarter in :26.2. Allstar Legend was in second and Heston Blue Chip was in third.

Heston Blue Chip came first over and cleared the lead heading to the half. Steelhead Hanover was in second and Allstar Legend was in third. Hurrikane Kingcole came first over from fourth at the half in :54.1 (:27.4).

Hurrikane Kingcole was wheel to wheel with Steelhead Hanover in second. Heston Blue Chip was untouched approaching three-quarters. Heston Blue Chip took them by three-quarters in 1:21.3 (:27.2).

Heston Blue Chip had the lead in the stretch. Allstar Legend came onto the outside and Steelhead Hanover came up the passing lane. Hurrikane Kingcole was fading fast and Divulge came from nowhere into fourth. Heston Blue Chip was able to hold off Allstar Legend for the win. Allstar Legend finished second, Steelhead Hanover was third and Divulge finished fourth.

Heston Blue Chip is a two-year-old colt by American Ideal out of the mare Shot Togo Bluechip by Cam’s Card Shark. He has earned $287,013 this year. He is owned by Kenneth Jacobs, trained by Linda Toscano and Tim Tetrick was in the bike to win his second Matron on the card in a track record equaling time of 1:50.4

“He raced really well in the race. He’s a good horse and he has proven he is a good horse. I take none away from the other horse [Hurrikane Kingcole], he worked hard to get my horse,” driver Tim Tetrick said.

“We thought we could win this race [with Heston]. We thought we should give him a chance,” owner Kenneth Jacobs said.

“He is a good horse and a pleasure to be around. He is a nice and calm horse. I had confidence that he wasn’t overdriven last week. I thought he would be a little sharper tonight,” trainer Linda Toscano said.

Destiny’s Chance Holds on to Win the Matron Stakes

DOVER, DE— Destiny’s Chance held off Four Starzzz Girl and Notreadytobenice to win the $126,600 Matron at Dover Downs on Saturday. Four Starzzz Girl finished second, Notreadytobenice was third and Frontierpan finished fourth.

Destiny’s Chance, Four Starzzz Girl and Notreadytobenice all left the gate with speed heading around the far turn. Destiny’s Chance cleared the lead at the quarter in :26.2.

There was no change in order down the stretch approaching the clubhouse turn. Southwind Johanne came first over, supplying cover to Frontierpan and Four Starzzz Girl. Destiny’s Chance lead the field by the half in :56.2 (:30).

Southwind Johanne and Destiny’s Chance were in a full on duel around the far turn. Frontierpan was coming off cover, going three wide. Four Starzzz Girl was tracking her. Notreadytobenice was starting her bid four wide.

Destiny’s Chance lead the way in the stretch. Notreadytobenice and Four Starzzz Girl were full of pace. Destiny’s Chance had enough left to hold off Four Starzzz Girl and Frontierpan in a 1:53 mile. Four Starzzz Girl finished second, Notreadytobenice was third and Frontierpan finished fourth.

Destiny’s Chance is a two-year-old filly by Four Starzzz Shark out of the mare Four Starz Sands by The Panderosa. She has earned $223,798 this year. She is owned by Randy Ringer, trained by Ron Burke and David Miller was in the bike.

“She’s out to get real sharp and I can’t ask for her to get any better. I left last week to get the front and I tried to do that again this week. It almost cost her the race. She raced very game to the wire, I didn’t give up on her she kept on going, driver David Miller said.

Check Me Out Blows Away Field in Matron

DOVER, DE— Check Me Out overcame a big miscue in the first turn to win the $129,050 Matron at Dover Downs on Saturday, November 12. Voluptuous Ronda finished second, Exercise To Go was third and D’orsay finished fourth.

D’orsay, Paris Kentucky and Blue Muscles all left the gate with speed. Check Me Out settled in fourth. Heading to the quarter, Paris Kentucky cleared the front, with D’orsay in second. Check Me Out went off stride from fourth and was behind by about 12 lengths. Blue Muscles settled in third. Paris Kentucky took the field by the quarter in :27.4.

Paris Kentucky was unchallenged heading to the half. D’orsay was in second and Blue Muscles was in third. Voluptuous Ronda circled two wide and started her first over bid. Exercise To Go was gapping cover at the inside. Paris Kentucky lead the way at the half in :58.1 (:29.2).

Voluptuous Ronda cleared the lead heading to three-quarters. Paris Kentucky was in second and D’orsay was buried at the rail in third. D’orsay found a spot and came second over. Exercise To Go rushed to the outside and sat third over. Check Me Out started closing three wide around the far turn. Voluptuous Ronda had a length advantage at three-quarters in 1:27.4 (:29.3).

Voluptuous Ronda lead the way in the stretch. Check Me Out was on the outside and D’orsay came off cover and was closing four wide. Exercise To Go barreled to the inside and was gaining. But Check Me Out was able to regain 20 lengths to win. Voluptuous Ronda finished second, Exercise To Go was third and D’orsay finished fourth.

Check Me Out is a two-year-old filly by Donato Hanover out of the mare Illusion Bi by Toss Out. She has earned $836,094 this year. She is owned by Ray Schnittker and Charles Iannazzo. Ray Schnittker is the trainer and Tim Tetrick drove her to a 1:58 victory.   

“I just tried to be nice to her, she trotted to the eighth pole good. She overcame my mistake in the first turn. I should of parked everybody to make it easier for her,” driver Tim Tetrick said.

“We’ll bring her back mid-February. We wil make sure she stays healthy, co-owner and trainer Ray Schnittker said.

TRI’s Picks November 12 Balmoral Park

The $30,000 guaranteed pick 4 features four divisions of the American Nationals, including the open pace, open trot, three-year-old colt pace and three-year-old filly pace. Listed below are my picks for this week’s pick 4. I encourage you to play these horses to win. Good luck!

$2 Play: 23/3/36/9 = $8

Analysis:

Race 7- (2) Jamaica Hanover has done well at Balmoral Park this year. She is coming off a strong effort from post 9 in a division of the Circle City at Indiana. She should be coming into this race sharper than ever. (3) Ronettica is also coming off a strong effort from post 9 in the Circle City. She traveled first over and lost by a ½ length. She will be tough to beat in here.

Race 8- (3) Abc Mercedes is the only reliable horse in this race. Lucky Jim has a breaking issue and the rest of the field has class issues. Abc Mercedes dominated the Hoosier Park Invitational circuit this year and will be tough to beat in here.

Race 9- (3) One More Laugh raced better than expected in the Indiana Pacing Derby, traveling first over and finishing fourth. He really has not done much this year and is looking to redeem that today. (6) St Elmo Hero knows Balmoral very well. It is where Charles Eustis III claimed him and he went on to win 25 in a row. This is his home track and he wants to prove that today.

Race 10- (9) High Noon has been under the radar in the sophomore colt pacing division. He defeated the two-year-old sensation Big Jim in that start. After his third place finish in the Monument Circle, he is looking super sharp and has the leading driver (in wins) on him, Dan Noble. That has no significance, it’s just a fun fact.

TRI’s Picks November 12 Cal-Expo

Thank you for reading these picks. This will be like what I did for the Meadowlands during their championship meet. The special feature about the pick 4 at Cal-Expo is that it is a zero percent takeout. I encourage and applaud you if you bet these horses to win. Good luck!

$2 Play: 246/29/1/8 = $12

Analysis:

Race 9- (2) Youremyaddiction sat mid-pack in her most recent start and closed to finish second at 20-1. Post 2 should help. (4) Red Star Gilda was impeded in her performance last week and still finished second. That performance showed how tough she is and she is likely to improve. (6) Cinnamon narrowly beat Red Star Fiona last week at 5-1. He will likely be bet in here.

Race 10- (2) Pedal Pad sat behind the leader last week and just lost by a head at 13-1. He will likely be able to get another leisure trip with his post, which should likely result in victory. (9) Devilish Donnie traveled a first over mile last week and faded badly. He will need a better trip for a victory.

Race 11- (1) Cigarchompin Mona sat first over in The Bronte Epilepsy race and faded to fifth. This company should be right for her.

Race 12- (8) Red Star Penney was hung last week and faded badly (Similar to Devilish Donnie’s trip). She will hopefully get a good position and show her endurance that she used last week.