TRI's Picks July 25 Mohawk

By Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale

Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale, known as Shadow The Ace on Facebook, is the son of broadcast handicapper and writer Garnet Barnsdale. He too is a young racing aficionado that will be a regular writer on The Racing Inquirer. The Ontario native will have a focus on the WEG circuit, as well as writing previews for big events, columns and race reviews. He is welcomed as a new member of The Racing Inquirer. The thoughts of Nicholas Barnsdale are not that of The Racing Inquirer’s.

Mohawk Racetrack Pick 4, Races 4-7, Thursday, July 25, 2013

On Saturday, we went two-for-four, with our losses being the first two legs. But luckily that combo only cost $24 for a $2 play, which brings us to a loss total of $206. But that could change in one night, so we’ll see if we can start the turnaround tonight.

$2 Play: 2,7/3,6/4,6/2,8 = $36.

Analysis:

Race 4- (2) PUTMEINTOGO has been doing well after a step up to this class. He seems to be doing better than the other starters at this class. She has been improving lately and should be sharp tonight. (7) LYONSSWEETIE has also been racing at higher classes lately, with his most recent showing at this class resulting in a second. He has been sharp against tougher groups recently, making him our preferred choice.

Race 5- (3) ROCKNROLL HARMONY had a bad trip and post position last time. Coming from post 9, he got away far off the pace and could only make up so much ground. Reasoning for his last off the pace effort can be blamed on his sick scratch on July 6, likely needing a start to return to a winning groove. (6) BLACKBIRD SINGING won his last race at this level. He came into the stretch with a burst of speed, gaining 6-and-a-half lengths to win in 1:51. He is showing signs of peaking and will be on the board come the wire.

Race 6- (4) NORTHERN VICTORY quit in his last start due to a first over bid. He was a major threat in this group before his last start, the form he should be returning to with the right trip. (6) HOUSE MONEY is coming off a game effort against this bunch. He got a pocket to ride for a majority of the mile and snuck past rivals to gain runner-up honors. He is a contender within the value market, which if his morning line is correct in its prediction of post time odds, then a game effort and great price will ride on his back.

Race 7- (2) REQUEST FOR PAROLE has been a threat in the Town Pro series, heading into the final with a win and a second in the preliminaries. She won the second leg from on the pace, while the second place effort came from an off-the-pace position. She receives post relief in the final, placing a bigger role in the battle to the winners’ circle. (8) LEAVEUMLADY won the first leg of the Town Pro with ease. She skipped the remaining preliminaries to enter in the big dance, the Canadian Breeders’ Championship. She got to the final, posing no threat to eventual winner Love Canal. She races agaisnt a weaker group this week, one that she has already defeated and should do so again. 

TRI’s Picks July 20 Mohawk

By Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale

Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale, known as Shadow The Ace on Facebook, is the son of broadcast handicapper and writer Garnet Barnsdale. He too is a young racing aficionado that will be a regular writer on The Racing Inquirer. The Ontario native will have a focus on the WEG circuit, as well as writing previews for big events, columns and race reviews. He is welcomed as a new member of The Racing Inquirer. The thoughts of Nicholas Barnsdale are not that of The Racing Inquirer’s.

Mohawk Racetrack Pick 4, Races 4-7, Saturday, July 20, 2013

Our Friday night ticket was a big investment, resulting in only two of the four legs we hit. We came close in the two events we lost last night, with our choices giving us a race and finishing on the board. Last night we were counting the $1 bet, bringing or loss total to a $182. However, there are a few chalk busters thrown in here tonight. Good luck!

$2 Play: 3/3,8/6,10/5,6,8 =$24

Analysis:

Race 4- (3) VIPER SELECT set a lifetime mark in his most recent mile. Now, he is making a step up in class. He draws well tonight, which should allow him to race from his usual postion. We can expect a sharp effort from him this week.

Race 5- (3) MURMUR HANOVER looks sharp off of an impressive victory in the Canadian Breeders Championship elimination. He made a three wide move to brush to the top at the half-mile pole and cleared the front, holding off all challengers to the wire as the favorite. He is developing well his sophomore year and should be sharp tonight. (8) GOTTA SECRET lost his elimination by half a length to MURMUR HANOVER in a closing effort. He is showing signs of improvement and certainly has the class to win this event, looking back to his third place effort in the Goodtimes Trot.

Race 6- (6) MY MAN CHARLEY did very well at this class last time out, leading for most of the mile but receiving runner up honors at the line by three-quarters of a length. He has been racing better miles in his last few starts and should be impressive against this bunch. (10) ROCK ME AMASTREOS won in this class two starts back. He raced against tougher after that, pacing a decent mile. He is returning to the company he emerged victorious in two races back and should return to this class in his winning form.

Race 7- (5) UNCLE PETER ships to Mohawk with a victory at Pocono under his belt. He draws well for the Maple Leaf Trot and may need the assistance of a hot pace and a pocket ride to win this event, both of which are likely. (6) WISHING STONE should be great for a price. He beat UNCLE PETER convincingly in the Maxie Lee stakes, rating well on the lead and drawing clear. We will look for him to be forwardly placed and attack the leaders late in the mile. (8) MARKET SHARE has not lost a race so far this year. In two starts, he won both from off the pace by gunning down the leader until the very end. He will not be a good price for value in this event, so a triactor box with these three contenders is wise for making profit. 

TRI’s Picks July 19 Mohawk

By Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale

Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale, known as Shadow The Ace on Facebook, is the son of broadcast handicapper and writer Garnet Barnsdale. He too is a young racing aficionado that will be a regular writer on The Racing Inquirer. The Ontario native will have a focus on the WEG circuit, as well as writing previews for big events, columns and race reviews. He is welcomed as a new member of The Racing Inquirer. The thoughts of Nicholas Barnsdale are not that of The Racing Inquirer’s.

Mohawk Racetrack Pick 4, Races 4-7, Friday, July 19, 2013

Last night was a disappointing result, only managing to win two of four legs. We didn't spend too much on that play either. But, that’s another $12 onto our loss total, bringing it to a hefty $82. Hopefully we can turn it around tonight!

$1 Play: 4, 7/4, 5, 10/1, 2, 8/1, 5, 8 = $54 ($.20 Play = $10.80)

Analysis:

Race 4- (4) WINDSONG JACOBA has been racing well at this class lately, disregarding his last race in the Ontario Sires Stakes. Two starts ago, he gave chase to the leader, but that was against slightly better. Before that, he came out of the pocket from post 10 and strided away from rivals, a move that should earn him a victory tonight. (7) HILARIOUS HAYLEY has been overtaken in the final strides on the lead twice now, both resulting in third place efforts. Due to the lack of speed tonight, she should be able to pace comfortable fractions and pull away from the field in the stretch.

Race 5- (4) ALIBI SEELSTER is a two-year-old filly showing some great form in her career, having only lost one start. She made an uncharacteristic break in her last start but we can expect immediate improvement, pacing a faster mile than any of her rivals today. (5) PERFORMING ART made the driver switch from Jody Jamison to Sylvain Filion last time, appearing like a positive change. She is coming off a win and returning to the Mohawk oval, where she should be forwardly placed and in the mix late. (10) SUDOKU won her first career start at Rideau Carlton in a division of Ontario Sires Stakes. She is eligible for improvement off that victory as she gets ready to make her second appearance on the track. She will be at a disadvantage coming from the outside and is stepping up in class, but she should leave the gate and get a spot where she can track cover and get into contention.

Race 6- (1) COUGAR HALL skipped leg one of the Summertime series, but comes in sharp with two victories in his belt. He gets post relief this week and should continue improving. (2) AUCKLAND FLYER will be good for a price. He hasn’t been impressive in his last two starts, but has a win three starts back in his fastest time on his past performances. He draws better this week, giving him a better advantage to hit the board. (8) LUCAN HANOVER won his last race. He did not draw well, but will be a major factor towards the end of the mile.

Race 7- (1) ARTHUR BLUE CHIP did well two starts back in a higher class than his most recent effort. His latest race was poor, but he should make a quick recovery and the rail draw will make this horse a strong contender tonight. (5) CRAFTY MASTER handled a big step up with ease last time out. In his last race, he easily went wire-wire, and took off in the stretch, extending to win by 4-and-a-half lengths. He should be a good contender in this mile and give his bettors a race. (8) TWIN B SPY had a good debut, easily breezing by the leader at the top of the stretch to win, timed in 1:53. However, he faces a talented field today and the hurdle of the eighth spot on the gate, making this his first major challenge. With the right trip, all of his obstacles will not be an issue.  

TRI’s Picks July 18 Mohawk

By Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale

Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale, known as Shadow The Ace on Facebook, is the son of broadcast handicapper and writer Garnet Barnsdale. He too is a young racing aficionado that will be a regular writer on The Racing Inquirer. The Ontario native will have a focus on the WEG circuit, as well as writing previews for big events, columns and race reviews. He is welcomed as a new member of The Racing Inquirer. The thoughts of Nicholas Barnsdale are not that of The Racing Inquirer’s.

Mohawk Racetrack Pick 4, Races 4-7, Thursday, July 18, 2013

On Saturday, we got 3 of 4 again on our ticket, so our profit for the year (if you have been betting the tickets for two bucks) is now a deficit of $70. Unfortunate, but tonight, we will turn it around.

$2 Play: 1/ 2, 9/ 5, 6, 7/ 2

Analysis:

Race 4- (1) THORN IN YOUR SIDE is a horse that has been showing good efforts and strong finishes lately. He finished fourth by a few last time out but went a whole second faster than anyone in this field. From the inside post I expect him to step up for a victory. Honestly, few horses will be in contention late, which makes him our key horse. He would be an amazing horse to bet for win if he go off in the 5-1 or higher plateau.

Race 5- (2) ROCKIN WITH DEWEY raced faster than all other horses in their last races, finishing third with a parked mile. She will likely take the lead and cut some fast fractions, being either beneficial or harmful, depending on if she is good enough to hold on tonight. (9) OZZY OZZY is his main rival. He closed like a jet two starts back, which should not be a problem from post 9 if he remains in that form. OZZY OZZY will also be a good horse to bet to win, or the 2, 9 exactor box, as I see a late stretch nail-biter between these two, by which OZZY OZZY should prove better.

Race 6- (5) SHADOW BARAN has been racing spectacularly at a slightly higher class lately and now makes a slight drop in class. His last performance is questionable, but this horse should roll right into improvement. However, he is in against a strong field tonight. (6) SILVER DRAGON who was racing well in higher classes, but not so well off a layoff last start. We are looking for some improvement from him, but our other horse looks much better than SILVER DRAGON. (7) AMBLE OVER HANOVER has been remarkable in his last few starts. It seems his most recent second place effort can be blamed by a slow middle half. This horse can slow it down and pull away in the stretch with ease.

Race 7- (2) VALLEY GLIDER has had some eye-catching performances lately. He’s in against a weaker field tonight and should be sharp. (9) SAMIRA HANOVER will be a contender in this event, but will likely help out VALLEY GLIDER in his path to the winners’ circle. She’ll likely set the fractions in this mile, while VALLEY GLIDER sits a comfortable trip and makes his move into the stretch. It should be an easy win for VALLEY GLIDER, but he is not worth a win bet, as he probably won’t go off above 6/5. In the event he is within the 2-1 plateau, easy money is at hand. 

TRI's Picks July 13 Mohawk

By Nicholas "Ace" Barnsdale

Nicholas "Ace" Barnsdale, known as Shadow The Ace on Facebook, is the son of broadcast handicapper and writer Garnet Barnsdale. He too is a young racing aficionado that will be a regular writer on The Racing Inquirer. The Ontario native will have a focus on the WEG circuit, as well as writing previews for big events, columns and race reviews. He is welcomed as a new member to The Racing Inquirer. The thoughts of Nicholas Barnsdale are not that of The Racing Inquirer's. 

Mohawk Racetrack Early $75,000 guaranteed Pick 4 races 4-7, Saturday July 13th.

Off of our first ticket, the result was a three-of-four finish. Based on the $2 ticket, which is how we will account for our profits and deficits this year, we are down $22 for the year, since Zoe Blue Chip, Creampuff Macdaddy and Oceanview Bindi all went off above the 4-1 plateau. With that said, a $22 deficit is easy to recover from and tonight’s ticket should prove that. Good luck!

$2 Play: 3,6/4,9/5,10/5,6,7 = $48 ($24 for $1; $4.80 for $.20)

Analysis:

Race 4: (3) R GAUWITZ HANOVER has been showing some strong finishes at this level lately but the post draws have not been kind to him. Since he gets an improved post tonight he’ll definitely be a factor. The two horses that beat him in his most recent third place finish will not compete with him this week, so expect good things tonight. (6) CAMS TUX won in this class two races back in 1:49.3, topping my other pick R GAUWITZ HANOVER’s best time in the past three starts. Though, CAMS TUX was defeated by R GAUWITZ HANOVER in his last start. These two will be a great exactor box to bet, since their main rivals who triumphed over them will not go against them again this week.

Race 5- Canadian Breeders Championships Elim: (4) MACH IT SO won an Ontario Sire Stakes (OSS) Gold division last time out and has taken a two-week layoff before getting back on the track tonight. Based on his last start, he will possibly be the only huge factor. (9) WINDSONG JACK might also be a factor in this race. He won an Ontario Sire Stakes Gold Final, but in a significantly slower time than MACH IT SO won his OSS division. However, he finished third by a nose in the Super Final, making him a factor with MACH IT SO. This horse usually paces slower than MACH IT SO and will be at a disadvantage with post 9.

Race 6- Canadian Breeders Championships Elim: (5) MACHAROUNDTHECLOCK finished second last time by a slim margin. She has been showing performances that make her a big threat. We are expecting a good performance from her this week and this horse should beat her rival BEST IMPRESSIONS for the victory.(10) JETTIN JAMIE is the other contender in this field next to MACHAROUNDTHECLOCK. She won her last outing in an Ontario Sire Stakes Gold division, but this horse does have the disadvantage from post 10, making her the second choice of the two.

Race 7: (5) ALSACE HANOVER hasn’t raced since last year, but when he did he finished sixth by a slim 3 lengths in the $787,000 final of the Canadian Pacing Derby, closing from ninth. He also was third in his elimination. Before his Pacing Derby appearance, he raced in a $50,000 open and cruised home from the three-quarter pole. Off of a layoff, this horse can regain his groove quickly enough to win this race. (6) MICHAELS POWER has been showing poor efforts recently and might face some difficulty in this race. His last win came in the Ontario Sire Stakes Super Final three starts back in November of last year. We can probably expect some improvement tonight, but he might have some trouble due to the fact of the fast miles put in by a majority of this field. However, he is a good horse and can get to the wire first under the right circumstances. (7) THINKING OUT LOUD didn’t do so well in his last start, but he didn’t get the best of drives. We can look forward to some improvement from him tonight, as two races back he finished second by a neck to Heston Blue Chip in the Matron Stakes.  

TRI's Picks July 12 Mohawk

By Nicholas "Ace" Barnsdale 

Nicholas “Ace” Barnsdale, known as Shadow The Ace on Facebook is the son of broadcast handicapper and writer Garnet Barnsdale. He too is a young racing aficionado that will be a regular writer on The Racing Inquirer. The Ontario native will have a focus on the WEG circuit, as well as writing previews for big events, columns and race reviews. He is welcomed as a new member to The Racing Inquirer. The thoughts of Nicholas Barnsdale are not that of The Racing Inquirer’s.

Mohawk Racetrack Early Pick 4, Races 4-7,  Friday, July 12, 2013

Presented is the first written piece and Pick 4 of Nicholas Barnsdale’s career at TRI. All rules with when Ray Cotolo did his Pick 4s will apply with Nick’s. If a horse is over 4-1 approaching post time, he will be value to win. Good luck to all!

$2 Play: 3/5,6/1,5/4,7 = $16 ($8 for $1; $1.60 for $.20)

Analysis:

Race 4- (3) Foolish Mind- He has experience against this group and is coming off a romp in an Ontario Sires Stakes event at Clinton. He appears to be the strongest contender in this field, as he has been showing sharpness and should be a big factor in the race. He may not be the value we are looking for, but I would strongly encourage wagering on him if he goes off in the 4-1 plateau.

Race 5- (5) Take That Hanover- Paced the fastest qualifier versus rivals in this field. Few horses will be in contention in this race, but in the event that the Well Said filly can’t hold the lead, then (6) Zoe Blue Chip will be another factor. I watched her win her first qualifier on June 22 in 1:58. She cleared the front with ease and cruised the rest of the way. She might be able to get a nice spot early and catch the leader in the stretch. Out our two contenders, this one will be better in the value market.

Race 6- (1) Murmur Hanover- He outclasses the field, looking back to last year when he finished third to Wheeling N Dealin in the Breeders Crown. As a matter of fact, he defeated Wheeling N Dealin last week, since the two-year-old champion finished fourth in his first outing. He is likely to show improvement starting from the pylons, a luxury he hasn’t had since the Ontario Sires Stakes Super Finals last year. (5) Creampuff MacDaddy- Won the Ontario Sires Stakes Super Final, but he trotted the mile in a soft 1:56; he won through disqualification. Murmur Hanover will be his main rival due the speed he showed last week. Creampuff MacDaddy may have to go through a heated battle with Murmur Hanover heading to the wire to claim victory.

Race 7- (4) Oceanview Bindi- She raced well two starts back against the same class, finishing second in a closing effort. We will exempt her last start, as she broke and was quickly eliminated. Based on her start before that, she can recover quickly and perhaps get a win. She is showing improvement and will continue to show improvement. (7) Ferrari Sena- She been racing against lower-classed fields in in the Maritimes region lately, but three starts back, she made a hike in class and rose to the challenge, finishing third by only a length from off the pace. She steps up slightly this week and might have an easy time with this group. 

TRI’s Picks Meadowlands March 23

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Saturday, March 23, 2013

Last night, we went two-for-four in the Pick 4. The four legs were filled with chalk, resulting in a $223 payoff for $1. Tonight’s ticket should be much more competitive and be filled with value. Good luck!

$1 Play: 2,3,6/4,6,8/2,6/4 = $18

Analysis:

Race 7- (2) Martial Bliss gets post relief after a good second place effort in this class last week. He should try to stalk the pace this week and have a little more for the stretch drive. (3) Come On Ridge steps up from the C-2 pace after three first-over parked efforts over the last three weeks. He was the favorite in two of the three efforts and always challenged the leader. His last start was his first start going the standard mile in awhile. He should improve greatly if he gets the right trip. (6) Arezzo Hanover burned himself out on the lead last week, pacing a :26.4 opening quarter and quitting into the stretch. He’ll need to ration out his speed tonight to have a shot.

Race 8- (4) So Take That is technically stepping down since his B-1 effort on February 23. In that event, he was parked the mile from post 8. His last mile looks the best, giving chase to a speedball at Yonkers. Before that, he raced horribly due to post 6. He should improve with post 4 tonight. (6) Union Man Hanover gets post relief after a good mile from post 10, where he was parked and broke at the line. It was on an off going and he has shown good efforts in this class before. In his first start off a layoff, he was shuffled out of the mile and closed to finish third. He should get a good trip tonight and close from mid-pack. (8) Dr C’s Z Tam is the best horse in this field and may provide value. He has a fierce late kick, even if the mile is fast. He is going against slower tonight, so he should have an easy time closing on this pack.

Race 9- (2) Stonebridge Cowboy ships in from several good efforts at Yonkers. He gets post relief tonight and will likely try to stalk the pace. (6) All My Life is coming off two impressive races at Freehold, winning them wire-to-wire in sub-1:56. He should adapt to the two turn mile better and improve greatly as value.

Race 10- (4) Shellysblockbuster has a lot of potential speed to the inside of him. He’ll likely try to stalk the tempo and kick for home late, like he did last week against claimers. He was shuffled and closed hard to finish fourth in 1:54.4. He should get the right trip to pull off that same stunt again. 

TRI’s Picks March 22 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Friday, March 22, 2013

Last week, we had two winners that were under-lays, Versado ($4.00) and Pembroke Dewey ($8.80). Tonight’s ticket is a little more spread out and the slated Pick 4 races appear wide-open, but I think we nailed them. Good luck!

$2 Play: 3,4/3,4/4,6/1,7 = $16

Analysis:

Race 7- (3) Southwind Jazmin gets post relief off a tough effort last week. She likes to be on the lead and may try to rate the mile or get a pocket spot due to other leavers. Either way, she has a good late kick for home. (4) Unred Hanover is the likely favorite in this event. She’s coming off a second place effort to Rocklamation, where she was shuffled back and shook lose late. She should get a better trip tonight and be a fierce foe, not at a good price though.

Race 8- (3) Hoboken Sonny is a free-legged trotter tonight. He takes off the hopples off of several good efforts against better. He drops into the C-1 tonight and should improve greatly. (4) Westside Lindy is likely going to take some play. He’s dropping down off a tough mile, where he brushed to the top passing the half and tried to rate, but quit. He gets post relief today, so he should have something left for the stretch.

Race 9- (4) Love You Always is excused for her last mile. Post 9 is deadly at The Meadows, so we take a look at her effort from post 5. She made an effort to get into the mile and finished third. She should take to the two turns better and could provide us with an upset. (6) Joanniehasafanny is also upset potential. She is stepping up from the C-2 after an impressive mile. From post 9, she got the lead, was shuffled and retook the lead at three-quarters, winning in one of the fastest miles in the field, 1:53.3. If she gets the right trip, she will be very competitive tonight.

Race 10- (1) Buzz Bomb trotted a good mile from post 7 off a layoff last week. He closed well to finish third and should be better placed with the rail tonight and kick for home better. (7) Spectator K is dropping down off a good mile from post 8. He cleared the lead and settled for fourth. The drop in class should help and he should stay flat as Andy Miller knows this trotter well. 

TRI’s Picks March 16 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Saturday, March 16, 2013

Last night, we didn’t have a written report for the Pick 4, but handed it out on Facebook and Twitter. We went 2-for-4 last night with one bet, Wheels ($28.40). The other winner was Rocklamation ($3.60). We profited $8.40 for the night. Tonight’s ticket looks good, good luck!

$2 Play: 1,2,7/4,8/1,5/2 = $12

Analysis:

Race 7- (1) High Noon steps up off an impressive 1:49.3 mile in the B-1. He’s got a strong late kick and is an improving pacer and may bring some value tonight. (2) Outrageous Art steps up from the B-1 and is on a good streak. He’s a very speedy pacer and should improve greatly tonight. (7) Versado is the likely favorite in this event. He’s done well against the top pacers at the Big M and will be a fierce foe tonight.

Race 8- (4) Yankee Devil ships in to the Meadowlands off a win near similar at Harrah’s Philly. In his start stepping up from a victory in the C-2, he didn’t take a liking to the extra distance, fading back to fourth. He goes the standard distance tonight and should go faster. (8) Mega Lightning is a victor in the C-1 already. In his first start off a layoff, he won at the line at 13-1, then did not do well stepping up. The drop in class should benefit this guy tonight.

Race 9- (1) Pembroke Dewey drops in class after several starts of traffic issue in the B-1. He draws the rail, so he can get a pocket spot and prove he is much better than this field as they turn for home. (5) Gambler’s Tale is a peculiar pacer. It looks like his owners have high hopes for this pacer, since he is nominated for the William Haughton Memorial. That is a slight angle in our selecting, but he is also an improving pacer and should pace an easy mile tonight.

Race 10- (2) Digital Z Tam gets post relief off of a tough mile dropping last week. From post 8, he gunned for the lead and dueled first over, giving way and tucking into a pocket approaching the half. He was parked through a fast :27.1 quarter, which likely burned him out. He sat a pocket trip and bounced back to just miss the victory in 1:51.1. He will likely try and get another pocket trip tonight the leader will likely rate the mile, which means Digital Z Tam will stalk him all the way and pace hard to the wire. This will be one of his best efforts. 

TRI’s Picks March 8 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Friday, March 8, 2013

Last week, we went 0-for-4 in the Pick 4. In three of the four legs, we were on the board, so our horses gave us a race. Tonight’s ticket looks better and should be easier to hit due to less horses being entered. Good luck!

$2 Play: 7,8,9/2,3/3,4/7 = $12

Analysis:

Race 7- (7) Let’s Go Higher is shipping in from Yonkers after coming off some good miles. She drops in class tonight and should be placed near the top for a pocket trip. (8) Smoke Pan Mirrors is a consistent performer. She closes well in every start, but has been burdened many times with bad posts. She draws in with a weak field this week and should be placed around mid-pack, instead of pacing two wide the entire mile. She can close easily if she gets a good trip. (9) Star Keeper is the B-2 pacer in this field. She came from post 9 last week, cleared the lead and lost it into the stretch. She goes against a weaker field as well, so she should have an easier time on the top.

Race 8- (2) Upfront Billy trotted an impressive mile last week, going first over at the half, fighting for the rest of the mile and coming home in :27.3. He is sharp at the moment and I expect him to be placed near the lead, where he can swing into the stretch and pull off the upset. (3) Waldorf Hall used up his energy last week going for the lead. From post 8, he trotted for the top, didn’t get it, so he tucked into third. He trotted well into the stretch, just missing by three-quarters of a length. He should save ground this week and be poised to fly into the stretch.

Race 9- (3) Ideal In Vegas drops in class and makes her first start back off a layoff. She is coming off a good qualifier, where she came home in :27.4. Expect her to be near the top and have something left for the stretch. (4) Rock Ann Rolling gets post relief off a tough mile. Last week, she was parked the entire mile in the back. She’ll get away mid-pack and save ground, where she’ll be live into the stretch.

Race 10- (7) My Leap Of Faith gets post relief after a tough mile last week. From post 10, he got away in the back and closed the entire mile to finish fourth, with a final quarter of :27.2. He’ll be closer to the pace this week and can close hard if needed, but will likely ride cover. 

TRI’s Picks March 2 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Race 7-10, Saturday, March 2, 2013

Last night, we went 2-of-4 in the Pick 4, with Mugshot Jess ($9) and Upfront Billy ($5.20) coming in as winners. Sadly, they weren’t overlays, so there were no win-bet winners last night. Tonight’s ticket looks much better than last night’s. Good luck!

$1 Play: 7,8/1,2,4/6,7/8 = $12

Analysis:

Race 7- (7) Dial Or Nodial is one of the obvious choices in this field. He is a fast pacer that has had bad luck with first over trips against the likes of Golden Receiver. He should do a little better tonight, since he goes against a weaker field, but may go for the top early on. (8) Abelard Hanover is finding his stride at age five. He is excused for his last start, since he was closing on Golden Receiver and the track was sloppy. He should launch off the gate for the lead and can kick home in a sub-:27 final quarter easily, which he would do if he takes command.

Race 8- (1) Freddy Day Hanover did well in his first start dropping in class. He showed he was competitive, pacing a :26 and change half mile to take the lead and quit. Since he draws the rail, he should go for the lead or protect the cones and can save his energy for the stretch drive instead of using it up early. (2) Friskies Cheapsuit gets post relief after a tough first over mile last week. He was parked every step on the slop and when trying to take the lead, was denied clearance. He ended up quitting. He drops into the company he’s won in before and has a good kick in the stretch. He’ll likely be placed near the lead and will slingshot into the stretch. (4) Bettor Win is stepping up off an impressive parked mile last week. From post 7, he came from last riding cover and flew by them all in the stretch to win. He’ll be more forwardly placed tonight and he can kick for home easier closer to the top.

Race 9- (6) Alex Bullville is improving in this company. In his last start, he came from mid-pack and rode cover, flying in to the stretch and taking the lead until Mega Lightning came from nowhere and nipped him at the line. He’ll likely try to pull the same move today, but should have better success off a week’s rest. (7) Andy Baran is coming off a near victory in this class from post 9, getting away fourth and second over, storming down the stretch to lose by a neck. He’ll likely leave to get away near the top and will either ride the cones or pick up cover and close into the stretch.

Race 10- (8) Wall E is making his first start off a long layoff from August. In his last two starts, he made bad breaks. He qualified right after that and he broke again. The layoff looked to be just making some fine-tuning and adjustments. He qualified in the slop flat in 1:58 and on a fast track in 1:56.3. He should improve very well in his first start back and will likely try and go for a spot near the top, getting the coveted pocket trip needed to win this event. 

TRI’s Picks March 1 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Friday, March 1, 2013

Our journey to accomplish the difficult is far from over. We have been on a horrible streak, coming in with 0-for-4 on our ticket last week. The first week of the month of luck does not give us a break. Another sequence has been carded and is more difficult than the last. I’m fairly confident in tonight’s ticket. Remember to bet any horses that are 4-1 or up on this ticket. This is also the first new post on glipho! I’d like to quickly welcome the members of glipho reading this post! Good luck!

$1 Play: 3,4/1,5/3,4,10/3 = $12

Analysis:

Race 7- (3) Mugshot Jess is very consistent against this group. In his last start, he was caught behind dead cover and recovered to finish a good third to a hard closing Photo King. He gets a post near the rail again, so he’ll try and leave for the lead in a race where there is minimal speed, which gives him a chance to rate the mile or ride cover to have something for late. (4) Zuerest steps up off an impressive mile in the B-1 last week. He fought for the lead through a modest :28.1 quarter, yet strolled the rest of the mile practically wrapped up. He should be equally as good as this bunch and should leave for the top, he looks to be the only other speed too. Which means he could rate and storm home.

Race 8- (1) Mojarra Hanover draws the rail in the A-2 again. Last time she drew the rail, she rode the cones and snuck through late to pull off the 20-1 upset. She’ll likely get away mid-pack, due to the incredible amount of speed in this race. It will set up nicely for a closer from mid-pack, plus Bongiorno knows this mare well, so we can expect her to get a good drive. (5) Clear View Hanover is another closer in this equally matched field. She’ll likely be placed closer to the pace this week, so she’ll have less ground to close late. If she gets a good trip, she’ll close in sub :27 easily.

Race 9- (3) Upfront Billy is the obvious horse in this field. Coming off a good qualifier, where he closed in :26.2, and is coming off of the American National and Oliver Trotting Classic. This classy trotter should be primed and ready to go today after that fast qualifier. (4) Dash For The Cash didn’t get a chance to trot last week, as he was locked at the cones for the mile and snuck through to finish fifth. I expect him to be more aggressive tonight, perhaps going first or second over, just to get in the mile somehow. He may even go for the lead in this pace-lacking field. (10) My Leap Of Faith drops down into a class he should do much better against. Unfortunately, he drew post 10, but it should work for his race tactics. He’s a closer, so if he gets away far off the pace, he should have no trouble catching up. He should be forwardly placed tonight, perhaps sixth or seventh, and pick up cover and fly off it late to pull off his patented slingshot-stretch drive combo.

Race 10- (3) Twin B Navigator is coming off of two good efforts in the C-2 trot. He gets post relief, after making a big move to the lead from post 8 and dropping out late. He should be placed in a pocket second or third to save ground, then use his speed as a late kick into the stretch. 

TRI’s Picks February 22 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Friday, February 22, 2013

Last week, we had no winners in the most expensive ticket we have ever given out. For the year, we are down $134.40. Tonight’s ticket is cheap and apart of our new tactic to play $1 tickets instead of $2. Good luck!

$1 Play: 1,5/1,7/4,5/3 = $8

Analysis:

Race 7- (1) Nutmeg Yankee is coming off a good mile, where she sat the pocket but wasn’t good enough to chase down the leader. She goes up against lighter tonight and will try to navigate another pocket trip and should have success from the rail. (5) Hostess Lisa steps down into the B-2 after three failed attempts in the B-1. She has a victory under her belt in this company already. She should stalk the pace and fly off cover late into the turn.

Race 8- (1) Monsignor Flan closed well against this group from post 9 last week. He gets post relief this week and should be better placed with less ground to make up. (7) Il Mago raced well stepping up last week. He rode cover then was first up and finished third. He should be in for the same type of trip tonight, except he’ll ride cover and tip wide into the stretch, where he will use his saved energy.

Race 9- (4) Sweet Hedge is stepping up off an impressive mile in the B-2 pace. From post 9, she made a move for the lead from the start of the mile, cleared at the half and held on from there to win in 1:51.4. She should get a better trip tonight, which she will benefit from. (5) Autumn Magic had pace to offer late into last week’s mile, but was locked in and had to find room to pace. She should find cover to ride this week instead of staying at the pylons, where she will be more aggressive then.

Race 10- (3) Baby Blaze has done well in the C-1 ranks before. In his last start, he made a half-mile brush for the top, which burned him out for the rest of the mile. He should sit the pocket and be a little more patient, until it is time to make a move into the stretch. 

TRI’S Picks February 16 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Saturday, February 16, 2013

Last night, we came up dry. The most expensive ticket we have ever given out was nowhere close to coming in, as we went 0-for-4 on the card. Though, hope is not lost. Starting today, TRI is taking a new approach to the late Pick 4 at the Meadowlands. Tickets will now be given for $1, giving more opportunity for your buck. Remember too to play any horse on the ticket that is 4-1 or up. Tonight’s ticket, we think, is our best shot at hitting. Good luck!

$1 Play: 2,4,5/2,9,10/2,4/3 = $18

Analysis:

Race 7- (2) The Pokester meets up with the A-2 pacers yet again. In his last attempt, he was locked in for most of the mile with pace to offer and then shook lose late to finish seventh by 2 lengths. He’ll likely leave for a top position, but should make a move for the lead or have a helmet to track instead of pacing up the pylons. (4) Rescue Plan steps down into a company that he has already proven victorious. He won in the A-2 back on January 5, then raced three times against A-1 pacers, as well as A-2. The drop in class should benefit him. (5) I Fought Dalaw goes up against only A-2 pacers tonight. After winning in the B-1, he stepped up and went up against A-1 and A-2 pacers. He finally goes against all A-2 pacers, so he should be more aggressive. Expect him to leave the gate and perhaps take the lead, from there, he’ll fight on to the wire.

Race 8- (2) Oscar Oscar gets post relief after pacing a good mile from post 8 against B-1 pacers. He should have no trouble getting the lead and could take this field wire-to-wire. (9) Silver Eagle adds lasix and steps down into the B-1 ranks. In his last start, he battled first over to take command, but ended up quitting. He should leave to get a spot tonight and will either make a first up move by the half or track a helmet, but no matter what, he’ll use his closing kick. (10) Esprit De Kayjay A should be able to adapt with post 10. This horse generally closes, so with post 10, he’ll get away off the pace. From there, he’ll likely pick up cover and use his closing kick to pass rivals as an upset.

Race 9- (2) Freddy Day Hanover steps down into the B-2 after an odd mile last week. He was locked at the rail and had room to pace into the stretch, but didn’t show any effort. The drop in class should help, but he’ll need to be more aggressive tonight. (4) Recent News is coming off an abnormally fast mile for B-2 pacers. He made a move to try and catch Perrito Calliente, but settled for second in a 1:50.4 mile. They’ll go slower tonight and Recent News should be settled in mid-pack, where he can pick up cover or brush to the top and kick for home like usual.

Race 10- (3) Come On Ridge is coming off a good effort at this distance in the C-2. He left for a top spot, then came first over and battled for the top until giving way into the stretch. He parked from the eighth pole on. Tonight, he should have an easier time getting a pocket, where then he can have more power to either brush to the lead, pick up cover or dash up the pylons into the stretch. He’ll likely be value at post time as well. 

TRI’s Picks February 15 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Friday, February 15, 2013

Last week, we had one winner that was not a bet, Action Brad ($6.40). For the year, we are down $64.40. Tonight’s ticket is the most expensive in the history of The Racing Inquirer, but it goes to show how tough the four legs are to narrow down. Remember to bet any horse on this ticket that goes off 4-1 or up. Good luck!

$2 Play: 1,9/1,3,6/1,5/3 = $24

Analysis:

Race 7- (1) Photo King is prime to get another pocket trip against the A-2 ranks. He draws the rail and should leave the gate with speed. With other speed in this field, he’ll likely back into a pocket spot, then make his move after the half. The only thing we must rely on is that he stays flat. (9) Ice Machine is coming off a break on an off going at The Meadows against the Preferred ranks. He generally shows speed, so we expect him to launch off the gate and be a pacesetter early on.

Race 8- (1) Gordyyy’s Pet was parked three wide into the far turn against this company last week. She swung into the stretch and rallied, but then parked again and settled for third. She should be close to the pace tonight with the rail and should have an easier time closing. (3) Arctic Fire N is coming off a tough mile against non-winners of $18,000 at Yonkers. She should show some speed to get away mid-pack or so, then use her late kick like she did in the A-2 back in December and win in her return back to the Big M. (6) Autumn Magic is coming off a valiant mile. She made a three wide move moments after the half-mile, then was caught first over for the rest of the mile, fading back. She’ll likely try to sit off the pace, but should have live cover this week to ride.

Race 9- (1) Asset Management is coming off a win in this class. In her victory mile, she was parked every step and took over the lead in the stretch to hold off a closing Synergy Seelster. With the rail, she should leave the gate a little better and get a better trip, so she’ll have something left in the stretch. (5) Dragon Princess can leave the gate fast in a race with little speed. I expect her to clear the top, but if she gets shuffled back, she’ll need room to pace if she wants to win.

Race 10- (3) Through The Night steps up off a victory in C-2 company last time. In that 1 and 1/16 miles event, he left the gate fast, was shuffled back and shook lose into the stretch to pull of an upset. He gets post relief tonight and I expect him to try and get a pocket trip, but he can close if he gets shuffled back if needed. 

TRI’s Picks February 9 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Saturday, February 9, 2013 

We are back after taking last Saturday off for the Pick 4 and having racing be cancelled last night due to Winter Storm Nemo. Last week was our first week this entire year that we went zero-for-four in our Pick 4 ticket. Needless to say, that brought our profit down greatly. We are currently down $44.40 for the year, but we should be able to make up for it tonight. Tonight’s ticket is filled with bombs that have great chances and when betting the horses on this ticket at 4-1 or up, we should greatly make up for our deficit. Good luck!

$2 Play: 2,3,9/3,5/4/2 = $12

Analysis:

Race 7- (2) Bakin On The Beach gets well-deserved post relief after going tough miles from outside posts against this group. In his last mile, he paced a tough first over trip and just missed the victory by a head. The post relief will help this horse get good positioning and he should ride the pylons for most of the mile and could pull the pocket and go first up if needed. (3) The Pokester looks to have upset-potential stepping back up into the A-2 company. In his last start in the A-2, he was caught at the pylons far off the lead and shook lose late into the stretch, only to be caught behind a wall of horses. He came off that race and won a tough first over mile via disqualification in the B-1 company. He steps back into the A-2 and has a good post, so he should be placed near the lead and won’t make the same mistake he did in this class two weeks ago. (9) Western Tsunami is jumping up in class after an impressive 1:50.4 victory in the B-1 class last week. This horse shows tremendous gate speed and will work to clear the front, so he could get a pocket trip due to other horses in this field wanting the top as well. Expect him to leave and be a speed-factor in this mile.

Race 8- (3) Freddy Day Hanover draws further inside after pacing a good mile in his second start on lasix last week. He gained 9 lengths from the quarter to the half, where he picked up cover, and flew into the stretch off cover just to park on the outside. He should show some speed tonight and be close to the pace, so he doesn’t have to recoup lost ground. (5) Esprit De Kayjay A enters the B-1 company after doing well in the claiming ranks. In his last start, he sat off the pace and rode the pylons until late into the stretch, where he shook loose late into the stretch and got up for second. He should be better placed in the field this week and could provide us with some value.

Race 9- (4) Picture Me has two good efforts in the B-2 company under his belt. Two starts back, he paced a completely first over mile, where he ended up finishing in the back. In his last start, he gunned for the lead, was shuffled back and came back to finish fourth. He should be forwardly placed tonight and have some form of room to close into the stretch.

Race 10- (2) Action Brad is coming off a good start with the addition of lasix. He left the gate fast from post 8, where he then was shuffled back and out of the mile. He drops in class tonight and gets post relief, so expect him to leave for a pocket spot and save ground to close late. 

TRI’s Picks February 1 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Pick 4, Races 7-10, Friday, February 1, 2013

Last week, we had one winner that wasn’t a bet, but our ticket was cheap due to the scratch of Mystic Desire. Our one winner was Yo Cheyenne Rocky ($6.40). Tonight’s ticket looks promising, good luck!

$2 Play: 6,10/1,3/1/4 = $8

Analysis:

Race 7- (6) Gordyyy’s Pet was far off the pace from the second tier last week. She goes against a ten-horse field this week and should be closer to the pace, where she can close better. (10) Delightful Diva left hard against fast fractions last week, causing her to falter towards the end. Although she drew post 10, she should get away fast and not burn out in her attempt to take the lead.

Race 8- (1) Victory Nut makes a drop in class after some good attempts against better. He gets post relief and should show some speed and since he’s going against easier, he should be able to sustain a bid better. (3) Outlaw gets post relief after a good third against similar. He closed off cover, but had to chase down the run-away leader. He should be closer to the pace this week and have the ability to close better.

Race 9- (1) King’s Cavalier gets post relief after a good effort against this company. He never saw the pylons in that mile, but should be close to the pace this week and could close easier if closer to the top.

Race 10- (4) Trouble Hanover has done well against $10,000 Claimers in previous starts. He is in the perfect spot to get the coveted pocket trip needed in these 12-horse fields, so he will likely leave for the top and end up getting a pocket trip. 

TRI’s Picks January 26 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Saturday, January 26, 2013

Last night’s winners helped us make up for our slump we had since the beginning of the year. We had two winners last night, both of which should have been bet because they were 4-1 and up. The two winners were Photo King ($18.40) and Asset Management ($49.80). Those two horses brought us from being down $53.60 this year to being down $18.40 for the year! Goes to show why you should bet the horses on these tickets to win above or at 4-1. Tonight’s ticket looks as good as last night’s. Good luck to all!

$2 Play: 1,4/1,6/4/3 = $8

Analysis:

Race 7- (1) Mystic Desire is coming off a horrible trip against this group last week. He was first over through fast fractions and didn’t see the pylons for the entire mile. He draws the rail this week, so he should have an easier time clearing the top, but will also have to sustain challenges from the field. Worse comes to worse, he loses the top and will have to rally after being shuffled back, which he should be able to accomplish. (4) Mcclelland dueled with Mystic Desire for the lead through ridiculous fractions last week. He worked through a :26.2 quarter to clear the top, then dueled with Mystic Desire through a :53.3 half (:27.1), followed by re-taking the lead at three-quarters in 1:21.4 (:28.1). He was quitting from there because of having to work hard and fight for the top. It was unusual to see him take the lead, since his racing habits show him as a horse that sits mid-pack. He may return to that way of racing and close off cover like he usually did at Dover.

Race 8- (1) The Pokester steps up into A-2 company after winning easily against B-1 horses last week. In that mile, he rode cover and tipped wide into the stretch, passing rivals and sprinting home in :27.2. The rail will help him get a spot into the mile and he will likely be positioned to pull the same move he did last week on this competitive bunch. (6) Woodstock Hanover ships in from Dover after being a menace in the Preferred and Open ranks at the Delaware oval. In his last effort, he rode cover into the stretch, where he closed and finished third in 1:50.3. This horse generally sits off the pace, but should be close to it this week, where if he gets cover, he’ll have tons of speed left into the stretch.

Race 9- (4) Eastend Eddie is coming off of a monstrous mile in his first race off a layoff last week. From post 10, he got away mid-pack, then made a big move at the half to clear the lead. He cleared the lead, but lost it quick due to burning out by three-quarters. He gets post relief this week and should be somewhere mid-pack, waiting to get cover and ride that for most of the mile. He should improve in his second start off the bench as well.

Race 10- (3) Yo Cheyenne Rocky is stepping down off a bad effort from post 10 in the Clyde Hirt. Before that, he was shuffled and rebounded to finish second to One Through Ten in a non-winners of three races event. He is a classy pacer that has gone against better than this field. Tonight, he should be close to the pace and find room into the stretch to pull off a minor upset. 

TRI’s Picks January 25 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Friday, January 25, 2013

Last week, we came so close to hitting the Pick 4 after traveling so far. Our single in the last, Go Go Raider, didn’t even attempt to get into the mile and was given an awful drive in the 12-horse field. So far, we are down $53.60 for the year, so we should be able to easily make that up with a winning ticket. Tonight’s ticket looks promising, good luck!

$2 Play: 3,4,9/3,7/4/5 = $12

Analysis:

Race 7- (3) Waldorf Hall has been a fierce foe in the A-2 trot the last few weeks. His last two tries in the group resulted in a win and a close second in the slop. He gets post relief and should sit close to the pace, where he can close into the stretch and pull off a minor upset. (4) Photo King is being given a second chance after that break last week. He should be able to get a pocket trip this week and close into the stretch. He’ll likely be a higher price due to the miscue he made last week. (9) My Leap Of Faith improves every time he steps up. He should try to leave the gate fast so he isn’t far off the pace and sit a second over trip and fan into the stretch, where he will fly by the field.

Race 8- (3) Rock Ann Rolling is shipping in from the conditioned ranks at Woodbine. In her last effort, she came first over in a move to try and take the lead, but was caught wide through a fast third quarter and quit. She should be forwardly placed this week and sit a good trip to be able to pull off a minor upset. (7) Asset Management has done very well down at Dover, though her lines don’t show it. In her lines, it shows her riding the rail for most of the mile and the passing lane at Dover is often dead. She should race much better at the Big M, where she’ll likely get a covered trip and perhaps blow out this Pick 4.

Race 9- (4) In Your Room is in the perfect spot to upset. Though he shows a mistake in his lines, he should improve really well tonight. He gets post relief and likes to leave the gate, so he’ll likely get a pocket trip. Remember, Simons pulled off a 50-1 upset with a pocket trip with a horse named All About Justice at the beginning of the meet, so it’s likely he’ll pull that same move again with this speedy leaver.

Race 10- (5) Emily Do is coming off an okay effort against bottom level trotters at the Big M. She finished a distant second to Boinga in that mile, but should improve with post relief this week. She also left the gate fast, which means she could get a pocket trip here and in this race, that’s the only way she can win. 

TRI’s Picks January 19 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Saturday, January 19, 2013 

Last night, we had one winner, but it wasn’t a bet, My Leap Of Faith ($8.40). Tonight’s ticket looks more profitable and has a great shot. Remember to bet any horse on this ticket that is 4-1 or up. Good luck!

$2 Play: 3,10/8/2,4,5/2 = $12

Analysis:

Race 7- (3) The Pokester is coming off of a two-wide mile against this group last week. He gets slight post relief tonight and should be placed closer to the lead, where he can use his closing kick to his advantage. (10) Cheyenne Knight is one of two bombers in tonight’s Pick 4. He steps down after going against the best last week in the A-1 and A-2 categories. He kept pace with them and finished towards the rear. This group should be more appropriate for him and he may attempt to leave for the lead, but wherever he gets placed, he’ll be flying through the stretch with some sort of shot.

Race 8- (8) Recent News is stepping up off of an impressive effort last week. He sat far off the pace and closed hard within a quarter of a mile to just miss the victory. He should be closer to the pace this week, since there is not much speed in this group. He can then use his closing kick and win this mile for fun.

Race 9- (2) Lettherockbegin paced a two-wide mile against this group last week. He closed, but others had more than him through the stretch. He gets post relief this week and should have an easier time closing in the stretch. (4) Mussfrmbrussels comes back off a scratch from illness. Before that, he slid up the pylons to finish fifth with more pace to offer after the wire. He gets post relief and should not be stuck at the cones and should not have to slide up the pylons. (5) Lawgiver Hanover tried to close last week. Though he did do well, I expect him to show some speed tonight. Since there is little speed in this race, he could easily take this field wire-to-wire.

Race 10- (2) Go Go Raider steps up off of a tough mile against $10,000 Claimers. From post 10, he took the lead while being three wide through a quarter of :27. He began to falter after that, which is reasonable. The post relief will be useful and the hike in class will be minuscule  He should attempt to sit a pocket trip and make a slingshot move into the stretch.