Buy TicketsBy Bob Ehalt and Matt Shifman
Hot List Key:
A : A preferred horse to watch B: Secondary horse to watch
*C: Went down 2 or more betting notches in the final 3 minutes and finished 1st through 3rd
*D: Went down 2 or more betting notches and finished 4th or worse
* - 4 or more betting notches if 11-1 or more.
1st race – (3) I Love Giraffes is an interesting first-time starter who put in a couple of bullet works for this. (2) R P Byrne disappointed in her debut. Can rebound here. (1) Pearl of Pearl missed by a neck on Tapeta. May like turf, too. (4) Delightful Darling should be in the mix with this bunch. Betting strategy: 3 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-3-4. Doubles: 1-2-3-4 with 4-5-7-8.
2nd race – (5) River of Time may appreciate the stretchout. (7) Warrior Wayne may perk up on Tapeta. (8) Wannabeeloved was a close third in his last try on Tapeta. (4) Internal Capital could be a factor on his best try. Betting strategy: 5 to win, place. Exacta box: 4-5-7-8.
7th race – (3) Back Em Up was second to a buzzsaw last time and finds a field he can handle. (6) Grande was second in the Wood Memorial. Will be a main threat if there’s no rust. (8) Praetor could also be a contender despite a layoff. (2) Unclecharliesgift will appreciate a return to dirt. Betting strategy: 3 to win, place. Exacta box: 2-3-6-8.
9th race – (9) Let’s Dance Again drops in class and looks best here. (1) Chloe’s Toy comes off a win and will be a danger from the rail. (2) Plum Irish steps up while seeking a third straight win. (4) Omo Ten Girl cannot be ignored in this field. Betting strategy: 9 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-4-9.
11th race – (4) Shred the Gnar has a ton of speed and could lead throughout. (1) Alpine Princess looks like the one to fear. (2) Senza Parole seems like she’s ready for a big effort. (8) Claret Beret should make her presence felt here. Betting strategy: 4 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-4-8.