Saturday, August 17, 2013

Pocono's Undercard Invitationals Result to be World’s Best

WILKES-BARRE, PA— Filling in on the undercard of Super Stakes Saturday at Pocono Downs were three Invitationals, each going for $50,000. An Invitational was contested for the Mare Pacers, Open Trotters and Open Pacers. All three Invitationals resulted in World Record performances.

Drop The Ball crushed her division again, off of a win in the Lady Liberty, coasting around the Pocono oval to win her Invitational in 1:48.2, breaking the mark held by Southwind Tempo and Camille.

Fashion Mystery secured the lead from the rail, with Camille getting away in second and Hula’s Z Tam in third. Krispy Apple was pacing in fourth and Drop The Ball was parked in fifth looking for a spot. Fashion Mystery led by the quarter in :26.2. Drop The Ball was unable to find a pocket and was forced to move towards the front. Camille pulled out of the pocket and supplied her cover at three-eighths. Camille cleared the lead but Drop The Ball was close to dictating the terms at the half in :54.1 (:27.4).

Drop The Ball cleared the lead as they entered the backstretch. Camille sat in second while Krispy Apple progressed first over into third. Feeling You was tracking her cover, but began to gap at three-quarters in 1:21.2 (:27.1).

Drop The Ball began to get separation at the top of the stretch. Camille was giving chase in second, Fashion Mystery was pacing into third and Krispy Apple was trying to hold onto fourth. Drop The Ball was a clear winner in the midst of the stretch and she went on to stop the clock in 1:48.2, setting a world record for mare pacers. Camille was second, Fashion Mystery was third and Krispy Apple finished fourth.

Drop The Ball ($2.60) is a five-year-old mare pacer by Western Terror, out of the mare Mattcheck Girl by Matt’s Scooter. She is owned by Let It Ride Stables, Dana Parham and Robert Cooper Stables, trained by Ross Croghan and Corey Callahan guided the mare to a 1:48.2 world record effort.

Wishing Stone continued the World Record-streak, rating the middle part of the mile and keeping all closers at bay to win the Open Trot Invitational in 1:51.2.

Wishing Stone took the lead, with Sevruga sitting in the pocket and Uncle Peter getting away third. Market Share was trotting in fourth at the quarter in :26.4. Heading to the clubhouse turn, Market Share was the first one to make a move, going first over after Wishing Stone. Yannick Gingras rated the half, giving Wishing Stone a breather in :56.2 (:29.3).

Market Share inched his way toward Wishing Stone down the backstretch. Arch Madness took to the outside to track his cover. Sevruga remained in the pocket behind leader Wishing Stone at three-quarters in 1:23.3 (:27.1).

Wishing Stone turned away his challengers at the top of the stretch, drawing away by 2 lengths. Sevruga moved into second and Market Share was trotting in third, but Wishing Stone was home free to pull off an upset. Sevruga finished second, Market Share was third and Uncle Peter held on for fourth.

Wishing Stone ($18.60) is a six-year-old horse by Conway Hall, out of the mare Meadowbranch Magic by Valley Victory. He is owned by Cowboyland Aalborg, T L P Stable, Jerry and Theresa Silva Stables and Deo Volente Farms, trained by Ron Burke and Yannick Gingras was the pilot to a world record of 1:51.2, beating Varenne’s 1:51.3 mark set in Finland.

A Rocknroll Dance who, courtesy of fractions set by Hurrikane Kingcole, swept by his competition to score in a world record-equaling 1:47.4 in the final of the three Invitationals.

Hurrikane Kingcole dashed to the front, with Dynamic Youth moving with him in second and Abelard Hanover was in third. Dynamic Youth went off stride as Hurrikane Kingcole passed by the quarter pole in :25.2. Golden Receiver made an attempt to challenge Hurrikane Kingcole to the half, otherwise there was no change in order. Hurrikane Kingcole kept his speed consistent at the half in :53.1 (:27.4).

Golden Receiver retreated from his bid entering the backstretch. Hurrikane Kingcole was left alone on the lead heading to three-quarters. Pet Rock was flushed first over by A Rocknroll Dance from fourth. Sweet Lou ended up third over in that flow while Hurrikane Kingcole paced by three-quarters in 1:20.3 (:27.2).

Hurrikane Kingcole was enveloped by the closers at the head of the lane. Pet Rock swept by him to take a short lead. A Rocknroll Dance was making his move down the center of the course, as was Sweet Lou. A Rocknroll Dance was flying by and got up by three-quarters of a length to win in 1:47.4. Pet Rock was second, Sweet Lou was third and Abelard Hanover settled for fourth.

A Rocknroll Dance ($10.00) is a four-year-old horse by Rocknroll Hanover, out of the mare Wichita Hanover by Cam’s Card Shark. He is owned by A Rocknroll Dance Stable, trained by Jim Mulinix and Tim Tetrick was the pilot, steering A Rocknroll Dance to a lifetime mark of 1:47.4. 

Sunshine Beach Heads “The Captain” in Brandywine Upset

WILKES-BARRE, PA— In a battle similar to that of the Colonial moments ago, Sunshine Beach had the inside edge on Captaintreacherous and won the $500,000 Battle of the Brandywine by a bob in 1:47.4.

Lonewolf Currier gunned for the lead, with Sunshine Beach getting away in second and Mach It So in third. Lonewolf Currier sped to the quarter in :25.3. Sunshine Beach pulled the pocket into the stretch and cleared the lead at three-eighths. Captaintreacherous made his move from fourth and he progressed first over to challenge Sunshine Beach. The two hooked up at the half in :53.3 (:28).

The battle was a gruesome test of speed and endurance entering the backstretch. Sunshine Beach at the cones, Captaintreacherous first over and trying to take the lead. They were on equal terms as they drew away from the field passing three-quarters in 1:20.3 (:27).

Sunshine Beach nosing Captaintreacherous in 1:47.4
(Ken Weingartner Photo)
The distance between the battle and the rest increased at the head of the lane. Speed was the main attribute to the final quarter, as Captaintreacherous got his nose in front, but Sunshine Beach fought back and retook the lead. Captaintreacherous came back with one final lunge, but the wire came just in time for Sunshine Beach to pull off a monumental upset over Captaintreacherous. Twilight Bonfire finished third and Wake Up Peter was fourth.

Sunshine Beach ($12.20) is a three-year-old colt by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Light Up by Artsplace. He is owned by Hudson Standardbred Inc., Conrad Leber and Diane Bertrand, trained by Mark Steacy and Brian Sears picked up the drive, guiding Sunshine Beach to equal the world record set by Bolt The Duer of 1:47.4. 

Spider Blue Chip Rides Through the Speed Storm to Emerge Victorious in Colonial

WILKES-BARRE, PA— Driver Ron Pierce mapped out a perfect trip for Spider Blue Chip, stalking the speed battle between Smilin Eli and Royalty For Life to then come up the passing lane and pull off a minor upset in the Colonial, winning in 1:52.2.

Smilin Eli left for the lead, with Spider Blue Chip getting away second and Corky was third. Royalty For Life didn’t launch off the gate and ended up parked at the quarter in :26.3. Royalty For Life trotted his way towards Smilin Eli to try and take the lead, but Tim Tetrick was stubborn to give Brian Sears the advantage. Smilin Eli and Royalty For Life trotted to the half on equal terms in :54.1 (:27.3).

The two continued their war down the backstretch. Corky began to edge to the outside and make a bid, while Spider Blue Chip remained patient in the pocket. The tempo was gradually slowing as Smilin Eli had defeated Royalty For Life at three-quarters in 1:23.1 (:29).

Royalty For Life was fading fast at the top of the stretch. Smilin Eli still had a stampede to hold off after his battle. Spider Blue Chip had room up the passing lane to slip through, while Corky was flying down the center of the track, as was Aperfectyankee from the back. At the line, Spider Blue Chip got up to win over Smilin Eli, Corky was third and Aperfectyankee finished fourth in 1:52.2.

Spider Blue Chip ($10.20) is a three-year-old gelding by Andover Hall, out of the mare Southwind Caitlin by Muscles Yankee. He is owned by David Mc Duffee and Melvin Hartman, trained by Chuck Sylvester and Ron Pierce steered Spider Blue Chip to a world record 1:52.2.

“I thought I had a shot against Royalty For Life,” driver Ron Pierce said. “I just wanted to get on Smilin Eli’s back and see from there. I knew Timmy wouldn’t let Brian cross over and I’d get a trip.”

“Well we knew we were in tough, but if we got luck and the two battle it out we’d have a shot,” trainer Chuck Sylvester said. 

I Luv The Nitelife Continues to Awe Spectators in Valley Forge

WILKES-BARRE, PA— I Luv The Nitelife sat back through a fast quarter and swept to the front at three-eighths, emerging to flight into the stretch to win the $350,000 Valley Forge final in 1:48.4.

Shebestingin broke before the start and never recovered. Somwherovrarainbow blasted to the lead, with Charisma Hanover pacing fast to get positioning and I Luv The Nitelife was in third. Somwherovrarainbow led by the quarter in :25.2. I Luv The Nitelife made her move passed the stands and brushed to the lead at three-eighths. Somwherovrarainbow sat the pocket and Charisma Hanover was racing third. Novascotia Hanover came first over, supplying cover to Love Canal and Belle Boyd. I Luv The Nitelife went by the half in :53.2 (:28).

Novascotia Hanover attempted to march with I Luv The Nitelife down the backstretch, but remained a length off of her presence. Somewherovrarainbow rode the pocket and was ready to pace at three-quarters in 1:21 (:27.3).

Tim Tetrick showed the whip to I Luv The Nitelife at the head of the stretch and she exploded. She flew down the clay stretch and was a clear winner over Somwherovrarainbow, Novascotia Hanover was third and Belle Boyd was fourth in a world record 1:48.4, breaking the 1:49 time held by Economy Terror and set by Shebestingin last week.

I Luv The Nitelife ($2.80) is a three-year-old filly pacer by Rocknroll Hanover, out of the mare Lisjune by Camluck. She is owned by Richard and Joanne Young, trained by Chris Ryder and Tim Tetrick steered the division leader to a world record 1:48.4.

“I sat until the dust settled [on the lead], I moved her right to the front and she raced her butt off,” driver Tim Tetrick said. “My mare felt awesome, I was worried about Montrell’s [Somwherovrarainbow], but I was pretty confident. She’s tough, Chris said she’s a big grinder on the lead.”

“I’m just lucky enough to get the nice, tremendous fillies,” trainer Chris Ryder said. “She’s got everything except Kentucky up next, going to the Juggette, Simcoe, Breeders Crown and a few in Cleveland. She’ll race at four, if she’s able to race, she’ll be racing. I was not surprised she went 1:48, she’d been improving.” 

Blistering Fractions and Pocket Trip Provide Johny Rock with Brandywine Win

WILKES-BARRE, PA— John Butenschoen scored his second training win of the night with Johny Rock, sitting behind a speed battle and flying up the open stretch to win the Battle of Brandywine Consolation in 1:48.3.

Rockin Amadeus blasted for the lead, with Johny Rock getting away in second, Resistance Futile in third and Sweet Talkin Satin pacing fourth. Rockin Amadeus with ease went by the quarter in :25.4. Olde Time Hockey flushed out Sweet Talkin Satin, so those two began their pursuit towards Rockin Amadeus. Rockin Amadeus took the group by the half in :54.2 (:28.3).

Sweet Talkin Satin was making his way toward the leader with ease down the backstretch. Olde Time Hockey was having trouble keeping up, while Johny Rock kept a close eye on the battlers from third. Resistance Futile made a break from fourth at three-quarters in 1:21.2 (:27).

Rockin Amadeus was getting ready to quit but Sweet Talkin Satin was just starting. Johny Rock had room at the top of the stretch, flying up the passing lane. He left Sweet Talkin Satin in his wake, as well as a faltering Rockin Amadeus. Johny Rock coasted away to win the Battle of Brandywine Consolation in 1:48.3. Sweet Talkin Satin was second, Rockin Amadeus was third and Big Brad finished fourth.

Johny Rock ($7.20) is a three-year-old colt by Rocknroll Hanover, out of the mare Soggy Britches by Allamerican Ingot. He is owned by William Wiswell, Jean Goehlen and Eugene Schick, trained by John Butenschoen and Andy Miller was the driver. 

Creatine Goes Coast to Coast in Colonial Romp

WILKES-BARRE, PA— Hambletonian elimination winner Creatine survived all attacks from foes and trotted away effortlessly to a 1:52.2 score in the $200,000 Colonial Consolation.

Creatine got the lead, with the filly To Dream On getting away in second and Possessed Fashion third. Creatine took the field by the quarter in :27.2. Bluto had been parked from the start and made a venture to take the lead, but got a chance to tuck into a pocket when his stable mate To Dream On went off stride. Creatine led by the half in :55.3 (:28.1).

Possessed Fashion came first over from third to challenge Creatine heading to three-quarters. Bluto was sitting a pocket in third and Vibe Blue Chip was tracking Possessed Fashion. Creatine led by three-quarters in 1:24 (:28.2).

Mike Lachance turned Creatine’s engine on at the head of the stretch, leaving Possessed Fashion and a rallying All Laid Out in his wake. Vibe Blue Chip was struggling to old on to a minor placing, but all eyes were on Creatine as he strolled to the wire, stopping the clock in 1:52.2 (:28.2). Possessed Fashion was second, All Laid Out was third and Vibe Blue Chip finished fourth.

Creatine ($3.00) is a three-year-old colt by Andover Hall, out of the mare Berry Nice Muscles by Muscles Yankee. He is owned by Diamond Creek Racing, trained by Bob Stewart and Mike Lachance was in to drive. 

Nikki Beach Held Command for Every Post in Valley Forge Consolation

WILKES-BARRE, PA— Nikki Beach took the lead early in the mile and used her speed to hold off all challengers and pace strong until the wire, stopping the clock in 1:50.

Nikki Beach got the lead, with Live Entertainment getting away in second, Handsoffmycupcake third and Carols Desire fourth. Nikki Beach led by the quarter in :26.2. Champagne Tonight began the two wide flow from fifth, but stalled in an attempt to flush cover. Carols Desire took the bait and then Handsoffmycupcake became the two-wide leader from third. Nikki Beach went by the half in :55.4 (:29.2).

Handsoffmycupcake steadily made her way towards Nikki Beach down the backstretch. Carols Desire was tracking her in third and Live Entertainment was getting a perfect trip. Handsoffmycupcake threw in her towel at three-quarters in 1:22.4 (:27).

Nikki Beach was left by herself on the lead around the turn. Carols Desire fanned three wide and began a bid, while Live Entertainment waited for the passing lane. Through the stretch, Nikki Beach’s only enemy was Live Entertainment, but she was only a minor one as Nikki Beach continued on her path to victory, winning the Valley Forge Consolation in 1:50. Live Entertainment finished second, Carols Desire was third and Handsoffmycupcake was fourth.

Nikki Beach ($4.40) is a three-year-old filly pacer by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Western Wisdom by Western Hanover. She is owned by Brittany Farms, trained by Tony Alagna and Ron Pierce guided Nikki Beach to a lifetime mark of 1:50. 

Ultimate Beachboy Equals World Record in Battle of Brandywine Consolation

WILKES-BARRE, PA— Scratching out of the Adios due to lameness, the improving Ultimate Beachboy crushed his fellow glamour boy pacers to provide the public with another victory in the Battle of Brandywine, scoring in 1:48.3.

Good Day Mate got the lead, with Rocnrolwilneverdie getting into the mix, as well as Sir Richard Z Tam, parked three wide heading to the quarter. Ultimate Beachboy followed Sir Richard Z Tam once he entered the two wide path on his way to command at the quarter in :26. Sir Richard Z Tam cleared the lead shortly after the quarter, soon having to brace the challenge of Ultimate Beachboy, who cleared the lead with ease at three-eighths. Rocnrolwilneverdie was sent to the outside to take his shot at the half in :53.4 (:27.4).

Rocnrolwilneverdie made a huge brush to challenge Ultimate Beachboy down the backstretch, but could not clear the lead. Near inches away from getting the lead, Ultimate Beachboy gave him the cold shoulder and Rocnrolwilneverdie began his retreat. Sir Richard Z Tam was moving up the inside in third and Good Day Mate was passing tiring horses. Ultimate Beachboy began to isolate himself at three-quarters in 1:20.4 (:27).

Ultimate Beachboy began opening his lead at the top of the stretch. Sir Richard Z Tam inherited second, but soon lost it to the closing group. Net Ten Eom paced into second and Normandy Invasion got up for third with Good Day Mate fourth, but the battle for minor honors was far from Ultimate Beachboy, striding home to a world record-equaling 1:48.3 performance.

Ultimate Beachboy ($2.80) is a three-year-old gelding pacer by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Ultimate Bet by Bettor’s Delight. He is owned by Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi, M1 Stables and Jack Piatt III, trained by Ron Burke and Dave Palone was the pilot to the track and world record-equaling mile, as well as a lifetime mark for Ultimate Beachboy. 

Flat Mile for Punxsutawney Showcases Talent in Colonial

WILKES-BARRE, PA— Misfortune by foot issues early in the season, Punxsutawney managed to mind his manners on the Pocono oval and trot away from the field in the $100,000 Colonial Consolation II in 1:53.2.

Wheeling N Dealin left the gate fastest, with Lindy’s Tru Grit moving with him into second and Sailer Eddie into third. Corey Callahan sensed Show Ticket on his flank and flushed Punxsutawney first over at the quarter in :28. Wheeling N Dealin was cruising on the lead entering the clubhouse turn while Punxsutawney was journeying to challenge him. Wheeling N Dealin rated the half, going by in :57.1 (:29.1).

Show Ticket was not progressing second over, forcing third over Raven Victory to move three wide in the midst of the backstretch. Meanwhile, Wheeling N Dealin was digging for another gear when Punxsutawney managed to get his nose in front. Lindy’s Tru Grit had an opening and slipped through to track Punxsutawney as cover at three-quarters in 1:25.1 (:28).

Punxsutawney and Lindy’s Tru Grit turned it into a duel at the head of the stretch. They left Wheeling N Dealin in the dust as well as pocket rider Sailer Eddie. The rallying Raven Victory went off stride at the top of the stretch, leaving the duo on the lead unthreatened. In the face of irony, Lindy’s Tru Grit went on a gallop, leaving Punxsutawney to get to the finish pole by himself in 1:53.2. Sailer Eddie rallied to finish second, Boffin snuck passed horses to get third and Wheeling N Dealin faded to fourth.

Punxsutawney ($11.20) is a three-year-old colt trotter by Glidemaster, out of the mare Sunseeker Kosmos by S J’s Photo. He is owned by Jerry Graham, conditioned by John Butenschoen and Corey Callahan steered him to a season’s and lifetime mark of 1:53.2. The second consolation of the Colonial gives Punxsutawney his first win of the season. 

Uf Dragon’s Queen Steals the Show in Valley Forge Consolation II

WILKES-BARRE, PA— Uf Dragon’s Queen, sent off the heavy 1-9 favorite by the public, brushed passed her foes in the early stages of the mile and was content to holding command, winning the Valley Forge Consolation II in 1:50.3.

R Marie Hanover took the lead from the outside, with Ideal Ginny getting away in second and Spotlight On in third. Uf Dragon’s Queen was pacing in fourth and was sent first over at the quarter in :27. David Miller guided Uf Dragon’s Queen to the front passing three-eighths. Ideal Ginny circled R Marie Hanover and was racing second and Spotlight On remained in fourth. Exotic Beach was flushed first over approaching the half, being followed by Mistresstothestars and Sweet Lady Jane. Uf Dragon’s Queen led by the half in :55.3 (:28.3).

Exotic Beach was striding her way towards pace setter Uf Dragon’s Queen down the backstretch. Mistresstothestars slightly gapped her cover, as did Ideal Ginny in the pocket. Uf Dragon’s Queen was under no urging at three-quarters in 1:23.1 (:27.3).

Exotic Beach began faltering at the head of the stretch, forcing Mistresstothestars three wide. Ideal Ginny was the only threat to the favorite Uf Dragon’s Queen, trying to get by up the passing lane, but Uf Dragon’s Queen responded to David Miller’s urging to win with ease in 1:50.3. Ideal Ginny was second, Mistresstothestars was third and Spotlight On finished fourth.

Uf Dragon’s Queen ($2.20) is a three-year-old filly pacer by Dragon Again, out of the mare Queen Teen by The Panderosa. She is owned by Up Front Racing LLC, trained by Kelly O’Donnell and was driven by David Miller to equal her lifetime mark of 1:50.3. 

Friday, August 16, 2013

HarnessRaycer Picks August 17

Last weekend was a blowout, and not the good kind. We managed to make back some of our wagers at Georgian; otherwise, our bankroll remains profiting at $220. This weekend looks to be one of our biggest, with our focus going on Super Stakes Saturday at Pocono Downs. With our past success on these super nights, I expect nothing less. Good luck!

BANKROLL: $220
Saturday, August 17, 2013

Pocono Downs

Race 1 - $50,000 Mares Invitational Pace

(4) Feeling You – Came off a month layoff with an impressive closing effort in the Lady Liberty, sitting off a fast pace and rallying for fourth. Her second start off a layoff at an oval she has experience on will prove to be a lethal combination to her foes.

Plays: $4 Across the Board on 4             Cost: $12

Race 4 - $100,000 Battle Of The Brandywine Con. II

(8) Sir Richard Z Tam – Appeared to have woken up in a Sires’ Stakes event on August 2, parking through a :25.4 quarter and saving the rest of his energy to finish second. His gate speed makes his outside post a miniscule threat to his walk to the winners’ circle. A pocket mile is the most likely scenario for this Pat Lachance-trainee.

Plays: $6 Win-Place on 8            Cost: $12

Race 8 - $200,000 Battle Of The Brandywine Con. I

(3) Sweet Talkin Satin – Dominated on the Indiana circuit against their Sires’ Stakes group, being a lethal colt on the lead with a tremendous amount of controllable speed. His racing-style should suit the Wilkes-Barre oval like a dog to a chew toy.

Plays: $4 Across the Board on 3, $2 exacta 1,2,3,7/1,2,3,5,7,8       Cost: $52

Race 11 - $500,000 Colonial Trot Final

(2) Aperfectyankee – Debatably one of the best horses to compete in the Hambletonian, showing two dimensions in the elimination and the final. This colt generally likes to stalk early and sweep by late, a very possible winning move in a race bombarded with speed. Expect a great price on the Jim Oscarsson colt.

Plays: $6 Across the Board on 2            Cost: $18

Race 12 - $500,000 Battle Of The Brandywine Final

(4) Captaintreacherous – The best colt in the division. He has crushed every rival in his way, on or off the pace. It would be an enigma if he didn’t win this race, coming off a layoff and a refreshing qualifier. Good luck trying to beat him and that’s with all the sincerity I can express in the written word.

Plays: $30 Win on 4     Cost: $30

Total Bet: $124
BANKROLL: $96

Saturday, August 10, 2013

HarnessRaycer Picks August 10

Due to scheduling, we were unable to do a blog last week, but return this week with plenty of profit potential! Last time, we had one winner in Martini Hanover, returning $75.20 for us, but we bet $93. With that slight loss, our bankroll is still profiting overall, but the numbers could be greater. Good luck!

BANKROLL: $289.10

Saturday, August 10, 2013

Tioga Downs
Race 4 - $4,000 Claiming $5,000

(3) Treasure Hunter – Seems to be at his top form at the moment. He returns to the open claiming ranks, going against better in a conditioned event two weeks ago. His good draw and leniency into how he needs to be raced will be beneficial tonight.

Plays: $6 across the board on 3, $3 exacta 3/1,4,5,9                      Cost: $32 

Race 7 – Non-Winners of $3,001 Last 5 Conditioned 

(3) Major Work Of Art – He was impressive against this group last week, parking the entire mile and faltering slightly. This race looks to be one where the winner will emerge from the middle of the pack and with this colt’s position on the gate, which will be his getaway point. Off of that tough mile he should prove to be impressive as he was against lower companies.

Plays: $4 across the board on 3, $2 exacta box 3,4,7                Cost: $24 


Georgian Downs
Race 5 - $4,000 Claiming $6,000 

(2) Zorgwijk Impact – He made his first start against this group since June 29 three weeks ago, being tortured by a treacherous pace. He should benefit from the rest he was given and use his gate speed to map out a perfect trip and be live turning for home.

Plays: $5 across the board on 2            Cost: $15

Race 9 - $4,500 Conditioned Claiming $8,000

(2) Benns Rocket – Steps down and ships into a bigger oval this week. Has been residing and competing at Grand River’s half-mile track. He had shown he has speed on that track and is exempt from his last start, due to his disliking of an off track. His speed will be useful here and the movement to a bigger track never hurts either.

Plays: $4 across the board on 2              Cost: $12


Pocono Downs
Race - $8,500 Claiming $10,000

(1) Skitsofrantic – He was impressive in his hike to this class last time out, nearly taking the field gate to wire. He has a ton of speed, but will most likely be rationed and sit a pocket mile to save energy for the stretch drive. The rail position helps that possibility as well.

Plays: $10 across the board on 1            Cost: $30

Total Bet: $111.00
BANKROLL: $178.10

Saturday, August 3, 2013

The Combinations are Endless: A Hambletonian Preview

Somehow, it’s already that time of year again, in the wake of August’s arrival comes the biggest weekend on the harness racing calendar, featured by the $1.2-million Hambletonian, which reverts to it’s former format of heat racing in the 88th edition. To add on to the excitement following Saturday’s events, the undercard of the Hambletonian looks to be among the greatest betting cards that the Meadowlands has presented on the day of it’s most prestigious event. Without further ado, let’s kick off Hambletonian 2013 with the card analysis!

Race 1
$125,000 Miss New Jersey 3yofp Final
Picks: 7-2-3

(7) Jerseylicious – Monstrous in the prep for the Miss New Jersey, coming from last to get nosed by I Luv The Nitelife in the final strides. In what was one of the best stretch battles by this division this season, she looks to have recovered to whatever was amiss in the Mistletoe Shalee final and can certainly get the job done with the right trip.

(2) I Luv The Nitelife – The obvious pick in this race. She will get crushed in the betting, to the extent where the second choice will be ten or so to one. She is deserving of the favorite title, losing only one out of eight starts this year. She is a caution sign on the highway to victory for the other six fillies, but just won’t be an acceptable price come post time.

(3) Ms Caila J Fra – Made her first start off of a month layoff in the prep last week, sitting a perfect trip and appearing to be flat into the stretch. She can certainly return to her old form in her second start but against this field, it will be one of her biggest challenges yet.

Race 2
$321,700 Merrie Annabelle 2yoft Final
Picks: 2-3-4

(2) Heaven’s Door – She was very intriguing making her first start, improving in two qualifiers and showed true heart. She came into the Merrie Annabelle elimination from post 10, launching off of the gate, but was used too hard to the quarter and broke. Remarkably, she recovered and rode cover to finish third to Lifetime Pursuit in 1:55.2. With a much better post and a mile on the Meadowlands surface now behind her, it will look to be bombs away in the Merrie Annabelle.

(3) Lifetime Pursuit – Will be the overwhelming chalk once behind the gate. She has shown talent in her only three starts, winning all three in an improving fashion. Taking her at what she will likely be at 1-9 will be preposterous, seeing as to her left flank is a horse with tremendous potential.

(4) Cee Bee Yes – Has two victories at the Meadowlands, with the most impressive coming in the New Jersey Sires Stakes final. She sat a perfect trip and won in 1:56.3. A lot will have to go her way for her to make it to the winners’ circle, but she is a serious, yet chalky, contender in the exotics.

Race 3
$55,000 Ima Lula 4yomt Final
Picks: 5-7-9

(5) D’orsay – Constantly gets beaten up in miles; her last one being a parked first over mile, yet she was very game in the stretch drive, not caving in to minor honors easily. There is no denying that this mare is improving and will need to get the right trip, which is very possible, to score against her fellow mares.

(7) Personal Style – Seems to be peaking for this event. Her problem seems to be that she gets off the gate too far from the leader. Has gotten a handle on that issue and has an incredible late kick, which should be beneficial turning for home.

(9) Maven – The original division leader at the beginning of the year showed vulnerability in the first leg of this series, going to defeat by Real Babe in 1:53.2. No doubt you can’t throw her out, she needed a week off and returns on Hambletonian day fresh as clean laundry.

Race 4
$217,100 Lady Liberty FFA Mare Pace Final
Picks: 5-2-6

(5) Rocklamation – Has begun to peak off of two starts in the Roses Are Red stakes. In her first start off a layoff, she blasted home to finish second by half a length to Anndrovette in the elimination of the Roses Are Red. In the final, she was used hard to the three-quarter pole, leaving her with nothing turning for home. The pace should be hot here, allowing her to fly by rivals.

(2) Krispy Apple – Always picks up the pieces in the final strides. She proved that in the Roses Are Red, sneaking up the cones to finish fourth at the line. She should get a better spot from the inside and a perfect trip to get into the exotics.

(6) Anndrovette – She’s an incredible speedster, though let Drop The Ball set the fractions in the Roses Are Red final. She’ll be fairly aggressive here and with plenty of speed in this field, she might end up third best.

Race 5
$280,500 Peter Haughton 2yoct Final
Picks: 1-3-4

(1) Nuncio – The major consensus in the challenge to beat Father Patrick. He set the fractions in his elimination and dug in gamely to lose by a head to Father Patrick at the wire. He makes his third lifetime start in the Peter Haughton final and will be dangerous from the rail.

(3) Father Patrick – He is the one to defeat in this final. He appears to be a standout among the other nine freshmen entered here, but his odds come race time will not be good enough for us.

(4) Southwind Spirit – He won the other elimination of the Peter Haughton in 1:57.3 in a first over fashion. He has shown power in his career so far and will likely complete this trifecta.

Race 6
$75,000 Vincennes Trot Invitational
Picks: 2-5-9

(2) Take My Picture – Shown improvement in his first two starts after his Elitlopp venture. Shipping south of the border today, he should be returning to his old champion form that earned him a ticket to the elite trotting race. 

(5) Cedar Dove – This is a tough mare that is capable of putting up a good mile against the boys. She trotted a tough first over mile against talented top condition trotters in a Winners-Of event at Harrah’s Philadelphia. She should be peaking today and sharp as ever.

(9) Coco Lindy – The favorite in this bunch. Has been dominating the Preferred bunch up at Mohawk in recent starts, with his last triumph being in a gate-to-wire 1:52.2. On the lead or off the pace, he’ll be a threat in the stretch.

Race 7
$70,000 Hambletonian Elimination 3yot 1st of 3
Picks: 2-7-4

(2) Smilin Eli – Got a good start off a layoff last week, parking the second half of the mile and finishing third to High Bridge in 1:54.3. He makes his second start since June today and should take a liking to the afternoon format.

(7) E L Rocket – Stamped himself as a major contender in the prep last week, battling hard with Corky to be headed at the wire in 1:54.3. Has been gradually getting better with every mile and could be value heading into the eliminations.

(4) High Bridge – Defeated major contenders in the prep last weekend, winning in 1:54.3 after brushing to the lead from the half. With the right trip, he’ll be on the board within the final strides.

Race 8
$70,000 Hambletonian Elimination 3yot 2nd of 3
Picks: 8-2-7

(8) Creatine – Has been improving this year. He has the ability to get near the pace and is a major menace once the stretch comes around. He should be the value in this division.

(2) Aperfectyankee – The Peter Haughton champion has been lightly used this year. His only starts came in restricted stakes this year, but he has been successful in those attempts. Should be very sharp today.

(7) Dontyouforgetit – Coming off a giant recovery-effort in the Yonkers Trot, gaining 19 lengths after being interfered to finish fourth. He will be over bet in this field, but is not one to throw out. 

Race 9
$70,000 Hambletonian Elimination 3yot 3rd of 3
Picks: 1-6-5

(1) Possessed Fashion – Has been showing guts and talent in his last three miles, always finding a way to get into the mix late in the mile. From the rail, he should instantly go for a stalking spot in the pocket and burst with speed in the stretch.

(6) Spider Blue Chip – He has been very sharp as of late. He likes to be near the pace, which should not be a problem in a 7-horse field. Coming to the wire, he always seems to want to get there first. Price-wise, he’ll be better than Corky.

(5) Corky – Has shaped up from the usual runner-up in major events, claiming victory in the Earl Beal Memorial and Dickerson Cup to name a few. He is coming into the Hambletonian today off of an easy mile last week, which should prove beneficial for him.

Race 10
$318,350 John Cashman Jr. Memorial FFA Trot Final
Picks: 7-9-10

(7) Sevruga – Has a shot to defeat Market Share today. Loves to race on the lead and this field does not have the early speed that Sevruga contains. Perhaps he works out easy fractions on the lead and saves himself for the final quarter. Keep in mind that he was only three-quarters of a length off of Market Share in a Free For All event on June 21.

(9) Market Share – Not a clear cut favorite, but is definitely talented. The fact that he will be hammered at the windows discourages any value from him. He remains a foe today and one to beat as well.

(10) Wishing Stone – Has the ability to pick up the pieces. He can leave well from post 10 to get into position early on and strike in the latter stages of the mile. He’ll provide some value underneath, but will be around the third or fourth choice come post time.

Race 11
$500,000 Hambletonian Oaks 3yoft Final
Picks: 3-2-4

(3) Classic Martine – Worth a shot to go against Bee A Magician. She has been coming around in form recently, finishing second in her Oaks elimination to Mistery Woman. She loves to race on the front and can get a trip and the job done, too.

(2) Bee A Magiciain – The major consensus on those who just want to have “winners.” No doubt that she is on a whole other level than these other fillies, but taking her at 1-9 is asinine.

(4) Mistery Woman – Can sit a perfect trip and fly from there. The problem is that she seems to only be able to win from there. It is likely she will get a good trip, but might only pick up the pieces for the trifecta.

Race 12
$1,000,000 Hambletonian 3yot Final
Picks:

Not Available

Race 13
$250,000 New Jersey Classic 3yop Final
Picks: 3-6-9

(3) Real Rocker – He was supposed to show improvement last week, but made an odd break and was eliminated from the race. Before that, he was gradually showing improvement. He draws well today to sit a good trip and be monstrous turning for home.

(6) Word Power – No doubt he gets into the top three. He sat a good trip and flew late to finish third in the Adios final. He won’t be a good price, but he is a major contender across the board solely because he outclasses this group.

(9) Lucan Hanover – Ships to the Meadowlands off of a sweep in the Summertime Pacing Series. He has been very sharp the last few weeks, but stepping up to the stakes caliber horses will be one of his biggest challenges of his lifetime.

Race 14
$213,650 U.S. Pacing Championship FFA Pace Final
Picks: 1-8-7

(1) A Rocknroll Dance – Arguably the best horse in this race. He has been rounding into form the last couple of weeks, coming off a parked mile and finished third. He gets a great amount of post relief for the final, drawing a spot that will suit his stalking racing style.

(8) Hurrikane Kingcole – Remains a horse to be wary of heading into the final. He is a very sporadic horse and very few have picked up on it. They think that he can’t go up against the Free For All stakes horses, when he can. He needs the right day and the right conditions to show us the true Kingcole.

(7) Pet Rock – Has been racing his best miles in the last few months. He has shown he can race from on or off the pace, but he’ll need to be near the front as there is not a good chance of a tremendous amount of speed allowing for closers. Regardless, he is talented and value as well. 

Race 15
$40,000 FFA Pace
Picks: 3-5-10

(3) Malak Uswaad N – He has been incredibly sharp on a half-mile track, taking to the four turns with ease. He’ll probably be sharper moving to the mile track, showing more speed than usual. Good to use anywhere across the board.

(5) Bettor’s Edge – He has shown to be peaking in his last two starts, claiming victory as he heightened in class. He goes up against a weaker field today and will be one to beat and a price.

(10) Hugadragon – Formerly was a menace in this class. Since he can leave the gate, he’ll have no problem leaving from post 10. He needs to ration his speed and strength to emerge victorious here.