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 – (8) Maitre D takes a worrisome drop off a win and a claim but seems best here. (10) Breezer missed by a neck last time and should be a main contender. (2) Mensa may welcome a return to Tapeta. (4) King Julien could wake up here. Betting strategy: 8 to win, place. Exacta box: 2-4-8-10.
3rd race – (4) La Dinamita was second last time and is way overdue for a maiden win. (1) Pretty Geisha should be a threat from the rail. (3) Valley of Dawn could enter the picture at the end. Betting strategy: 4 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-3-4.
5th race – (1) Gallant Knight looks best off the David claim. (4) Sound of the Beast seems like the one to fear. (6) Saybrook belongs in the exotics. (3) Banneker may improve on dirt. Betting strategy: 1 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-3-4-6.
7th race – (7) Tender Temper was hurt by a wide trip from post 12. Should get a better trip here. (1) Late Night Text may shine on turf. (2) Too Loose La Trek could be a factor switching to Tapeta. (3) Caura may pose a late threat. Betting strategy: 7 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-3-7.
9th race – (6) Backonthechaongang seems primed for a winning effort off the Drexler claim. (8) Split Strike may like the shorter distance. (4) Air Force Cruising has been away but is working nicely for his comeback. (5) Seaver should not be overlooked. Betting strategy: 6 to win, place. Exacta box: 4-5-6-8.