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Aqueduct (2nd) Naught Grace, 7-2
(5th) Brass Pear, 4-1

Charles Town (1st) Java for Two, 8-1
(4th) Roche, 6-1

Delta Downs (4th) Tough Thomas, 3-1
(8th) Dreamy Kid, 7-2

Fair Grounds (4th) Hail to the Nile, 3-1
(7th) Skip the Pinot, 6-1

Golden Gate Fields (1st) Due Believe, 6-1
(5th) Siberian Winter, 4-1

Gulfstream Park (2nd) Silver Lucky Q, 10-1
(10th) X Y Jet, 5-1

Hawthorne (3rd) Miss Lucky, 5-1
(5th) Champagne Tony, 10-1

Laurel (4th) Aruban Truth, 6-1
(6th) Remember the Prom, 9-2

Mahoning Valley (4th) Brass Buckle, 9-2
(8th) Tupelo Playboy, 3-1

Oaklawn Park (1st) Sea of Change, 3-1
(6th) Jan's Perfect Star, 7-2

Parx Racing (1st) Vianney Lane, 9-2
(9th) Irish Rose, 10-1

Penn National (3rd) Aisle Ring, 3-1
(6th) Magic Lion, 9-2

Santa Anita (2nd) Pay the Debt, 4-1
(4th) Smoove It, 4-1

Sam Houston (2nd) Senor Smokey, 7-2
(10th) Expect Distinction, 9-2

Sunland Park (6th) Theplane Theplane, 8-1
(10th) Montezuma Creek, 10-1

Tampa Bay Downs (2nd) Drill Sergeant, 7-2
(11th) Welcome Speech, 10-1

Turf Paradise (1st) Sea Side Story, 7-2
(6th) Thrills and Chills, 4-1

Turfway Park (1st) Poblanita, 6-1
(9th) Vanilla Man, 6-1

Dave Litfin -- Aqueduct

BEST BET: Wild Freud (9th race)

First Race
1.na 2.na, who stretches back out in his second try for Gary Gullo following a 12-point Beyer improvement; gets ample pace up front, at least on paper. HIDDEN WARRIOR could be long gone here based on last four races of 2014, but he has been away eight weeks since stopping abruptly, and the New York-bred with two allowance conditions is being practically given away; could be caught wide early if PRIME TIME CITY and SHOUTOUT also go for the lead. WINNITUDE drops in price and stretches out from the rail after racing wide; two of his last five Beyers - on fast and wet tracks - give him money chances at a price.

Fourth Race
1. David Rocks 2. Call Me Stoney 3. Stone Crab
Bruce Levine will run either DAVID ROCKS or CALL ME STONEY, who have earned the top Beyers (but only once), and either one looks quick enough to make the lead off the drop to maiden $40K. STONE CRAB ran his last quarter in under 25 seconds - not bad for this level - first time out, and was flattered when the winner came back to win a N.Y. Stallion race; main stretch threat to whichever half of the entry goes.

Fifth Race
1. Round 2. Leilani's Ticket 3. Chapman
ROUND put up 90+ Beyers on fast and muddy tracks through four starts last year, beginning with a maiden win off a longer layoff, and in each case showed the ability to reach striking range through the second quarter; has the most upside among these. LEILANI'S TICKET gets off the rail and picks up the leading apprentice, after a fast finish to miss in a photo with CHAPMAN; either or both of those New York-breds could benefit from a pace battle among the vastly improved BRASS PEAR, STALLWALKIN' DUDE and/or BILLY THE BULL.

Sixth Race
1. Coast of Sangria 2. Sus Annmaries Gold 3. Just Catty
COAST OF SANGRIA may be rounding back to form after racing closer to the pace at every call Jan. 18 than she had in a while, and through brisk fractions to boot; drops back to the level of her fifth and final victory in a solid 2014 campaign. SUS ANNMARIES GOLD is third back from a layoff, and turns back after finding hr best stride belatedly; reunited with red-hot Junior Alvarado. JUST CATTY and SILVER SILENCE share similar profiles based on their last races, when they grabbed the lead and never looked back against open claiming routers in late January; both have shown the ability to win from off the pace if need be.

Seventh Race
1. Lookingoutforyou 2. Cleancut Kid 3. Flag On the Play
LOOKINGOUTFORYOU drops after racing wide in a starter allowance first off the claim; either of two prior sprint Beyers - both 78s - give him a solid shot in this competitive restricted claimer. CLEANCUT KID stumbled at the start, was very wide running his second quarter in under 23 seconds around the turn, and sustained the rally to keep dropdown favorite War Hero driving through the lane Jan. 17; entitled to improve second time dirt. FLAG ON THE PLAY was nursed along through moderate splits to get a maiden win first time back from a layoff, thereby winning himself out for current connections, who are now playing with house money dropping him to a realistic spot; any footing okay.

Eighth Race
1. Wealth to Me 2. Classic Sense 3. Son of a General
WEALTH TO ME had a streak of four straight 90+ Beyers halted at Laurel most recently, when caught wide at a distance shorter than he prefers; uncorked two big races on this circuit last fall with Cornelio Velasquez, who is back aboard. CLASSIC SENSE made substantial progress winning on wet tracks at Aqueduct, Belmont & Saratoga at 3, and his race on a fast track at the Spa closing day was just as good from a figure perspective; determined score with similar time between starts early at the meet. SON OF A GENERAL missed the second half of 2014 after being claimed, returned in the pink to beat Village Warrior (subsequently second in last week's Evening Attire); proved capable of putting big races back to back last May.

Ninth Race
1. Wild Freud 2. Masterkey 3. Fratello Del Nord
Since claimed from a tough spot against El Deal (2 for 2 after big win over starter/optional sprinters), WILD FREUD has run respectably in two starts on the inner dirt, including a chase of N.Y. Stallion winner Chasing Bubbles; moves inside after breaking from posts 9 and 10. MASTERKEY is by 2007 True North winner Will He Shine; he has turned in some promising works for a capable debut barn. FRATELLO DEL NORD is a full brother to Colleen's Sailor, a six-time winner of $323K who has done his best running on synthetic surfaces. EL VIEJO VERDE the one to catch, has given up five clear leads.

GOLDEN GATE -- CHUCK DYBDAL

BEST BET: RACE 2, INTAXICATION

FIRST RACE
COUNTRY COUNTESS
BEAUTIFUL DESERT
THE WUGGIS

SECOND RACE
INTAXICATION
ROYAL ALEXEI
GENO’S BAMBINO

THIRD RACE
UNBRIDLED CANDY
ELEGANT SKY
LISTO WARRIOR

FOURTH RACE
MADIBA
MUCHO MACHO DAN
ROSARY MAN

FIFTH RACE
QUISTADORABLE
SIBERIAN WINTER
CAVALLA

SIXTH RACE
JACKSONS A BOBCAT
VARGAS
DEMON DANCER

SEVENTH RACE
WILD DELILAH
WETHERBEE LAKE
MILADY MAID

EIGHTH RACE
TORUK MAKTO
EAGLE SCREAMS
ARGYLE CUT

NINTH RACE
SUMMER STORY
PASZCATCH
COUSIN JACK

Gulfstream -- Ron Nicoletti

1: 1-9-7
2: 5-9-7
3: 4-2-6
4: 4-10-5
5: 5-8-1
6: 6-1-11
7: 10-5-7
8: 4-11-3
9: 11-3-14
10: 1-7-3
11: 6-5-10
12: 8-11-5

Oaklawn Park - Terry

1st race
2-Sea of Change
7-Lee’s South
1-Dever Heaven
5-Insideonoutside

2nd race
8-Anymore Bling
9-Obama’s Vow
3-Bundler
5-Wholedifferentgig

3rd race
11-Mahalo Arturo
10-Hat of Jacks
3-Mr. Obeso
7-Tale of Honor

4th race
12-Goodheartedgirl
1-Impetuous Bay
7-Misty Grove
4-Velvet Zip

5th race
7-World Elite
4-La Crema Rouge
6-Abraz
1-Remember Lucy

6th race
2-Jan’s Perfect Star
1-Easter Shoes
5-Pistolpackinpenny
1a-Faith Rising
3-Miss Beautiful

7th race
8-Street Strategy
6-Fabulous Kid
7-Quiet Man
4-El Guapo

8th race
7-Mallard’s Bro
5-Tour De Rock
11-We Be Stormin
6-Bumpy Cat

9th race
5-Noble Hustle
6-Kenjiislucky
1-Dion
10-Malibu Man

Best Bet 8th race, #7 Mallard’s Bro

Best Longshot 2nd race, #8 Anymore Bling

SANTA ANITA -- BRAD FREE

BEST BET: RACE 5, MASOCHISTIC

FIRST RACE
The improving BLUE LAW stretched out last time for his first try on turf and ran the best race of his brief career.
He finished second to Eckersley, scheduled to start as one of the favorites Friday in a first-level allowance (race 6).
‘LAW has tactical speed to either set or press the pace; this field came up short on speed. He can win if he can stay
a mile and an eighth. ROCKIN ROBIN got lost in traffic and did not make a run when he shortened to a mile. But his
runner-up finish two starts back at this distance/surface makes him a threat. He should be on or near soft fractions.
MILTEE has been compromised by racing luck in several of his starts. One of these days, the six-start maiden will
get a good trip/ride and possibly spring an upset.

SECOND RACE
PATRIOTIC BROTHER won this race ($16k claiming, N3L) two starts back when she raced over her conditions.
Subsequently overmatched last time in a N1X, she returns to the restricted-claiming level of her recent win. She
actually looks quite obvious. PAY THE DEBT finished second, more than three lengths clear of third, in her most
recent start against similar. She usually rallies from behind for a piece. LUST FOR LIFE is back doing what she
does best. That is, sprint. Look for her late. HOTALING HEART and SKY ROSA are the speeds in a race that could
unfold at a soft pace.

THIRD RACE
OLIGARCH can defeat the streaking NEXTDOORNEIGHBOR in this $25k claiming sprint. OLIGARCH has been setting/
pressing fast fractions lately, and running well without winning. Runner-up last out for $32k, he drops a notch to the
level at which he was claimed two back by Robertino Diodoro/Sean Williams. He should get the jump over his main
foe, and hold him off at this six-furlong distance. However, ‘NEIGHBOR is among the sharpest claiming horses of
winter, or at least February. He won an $8k claiming sprint on Feb. 8, won a $14-16k claiming sprint Feb. 16, and now
jumps up another couple notches while running for a $22.5k tag. He has an ambitious series of races, and thrives
on the activity. The sharp horse commands respect. ENDLESS CRUISE had a tough trip his most recent start early
last month. He finished fourth, while blocked in the lane. SACRED OVATION looks like the speed. He could steal it.

FOURTH RACE
HUMORISTICA can win this N1X turf sprint if she moves forward off her winning debut on the same downhill
course. She chased a strong pace, opened up, and seemed to win with something left. The filly she beat, Taylor
Lane, was scheduled to start favored in a special-weight on Thursday (race 5.) A good effort by Taylor Lane would
flatter HUMORISTICA. MARGIE’S MINUTE finished a sneaky-good third last time in a similar N1X turf sprint. She
set the pace, shook off her rivals, but was swallowed late in a race otherwise dominated by closers. ‘MINUTE ran
smack against the “shape” of the race. Looks like less speed in this spot. SMOOVE IT will be running late. Her top
speed figures are the highest in the field; her rider is ranked 21st in the standings with a 4-for-72 record.

FIFTH RACE
MASOCHISTIC returns from a layoff of nearly six months with sharp works, speed figures consistently higher than
his rivals, proven ability to run well fresh and early pace that will have him either on the lead or pressing from the
outside. The “best horse” in the field, his low odds will correspond to his apparent superiority. Rather “best bet,”
a more accurate description would be “most probable winner.” BATTI MAN figures to be forwardly placed, and
among the first to attack if the favorite misfires. ‘MAN has run well at this level or higher, but he is a mystery in
North American sprints. He did win two sprints in South America. A vet scratch Feb. 6, ‘MAN posted two good works
since. He will be in the hunt early. AIRFOIL will pick up the pieces. He has been stuck at this N2X level for six starts,
in the money four times. He will roll late. RENO REBEL, first-time gelding, should be involved early.

SIXTH RACE
If they stay out of each other’s way, front-runners WABEL and THE MAN can turn this route race into a parade. Both
are trained by Bob Baffert, both are quick enough to set the pace. Seems doubtful the stablemates will go head-andhead.
WABEL has not started since a sharp runner-up finish in a fast race opening day. He subsequently was a vet
scratch from race 8 on Jan. 16, but returns with a good-looking recent work pattern, and a pedigree that suggests
two turns is okay. First start back, first time long, he gets the call. THE MAN is a contender up front. His runner-up
finish last time out was disappointing considering he started as the 3-2 favorite, but it turns out he got beat by a
good horse. The winner Why Two returned last weekend to win the $75k Turf Paradise Derby. THE MAN takes blinkers
off. The pace will be set by one of top choices. IDEAL stretches out in his fourth start. The even-paced style he
shows in sprints suggests he wants to run long. SCORPIOUS and HONOR SOCIETY are works in progress. SCORPIOUS
improved around two turns; ‘SOCIETY has always been billed as a two-turn colt. Now he gets it, blinkers on.

SEVENTH RACE
The debut crusher last summer by 2-year-old filly LUMINANCE was the most impressive performance of the season
by a California-based juvenile filly. She raced wide, powered home impressively, and ran like a filly that wants more
than the five furlongs of that race. That was July 20, and it was her only start. She returns with a solid workout pattern,
and as much potential as any main-track filly on the West Coast. She might be special. WILD AT HEART has
something the top choice lacks. That is, recent racing. She followed her good runner-up debut with a sharp maiden
win. She won going away, with something left, and should easily handle the stretch from seven furlongs to a mile.
LADY ZUZU makes her first start in nearly five months. She won a special-weight route on turf at Keeneland last fall
by more than five lengths. A sibling to near-millionaire Optimizer, the Dynaformer filly will be making her first start
in California for trainer Paulo Lobo. She returns with a solid workout pattern.

EIGHTH RACE
CURLIN’S FOX broke into the game like a potential star. She trained like a beast into her debut, and ran accordingly.
Despite losing much ground into the lane of the turf sprint, she mowed down the field and won by a deceptive
three-quarter length margin. The win was easier than it looks; she galloped out super past the wire. Sired by Curlin,
produced by multiple graded stakes winner Foxysox, CURLIN’S FOX has worked well on dirt and might be special.
It is tough to stretch out following a single sprint, but trainer Carla Gaines has a super record with debut winners
making in their second career start. GLORY has an experience advantage over the top choice. GLORY won a fast
maiden race second out, then ran well to finish second in a route stakes on Golden Gate synthetic. It was a good try
by an improving filly. ENCHANTING LADY makes her first start in eight months. Her blowout win in the Landaluce
Stakes last summer was among the most impressive of the season by a California juvenile filly. She was sidelined
with shins in summer, but has worked well for her comeback. She might be the one to catch. LIGHT THE CITY
finished second in the G1 Las Virgenes. She might be ranked too low by this handicapper.

NINTH RACE
Despite having lost twice as the favorite already, 5-year-old SWEET SENSE is the right choice to wire these maiden-
20 fillies and mares. She is the quickest in the field based on the fractions she set last summer at Del Mar,
therefore likely to clear the field. Furthermore, she is dropping to the bottom class level for the first time and returns
from a seven-month layoff with solid workouts. Long gone, first start back. PREVARICATOR exits the same Del Mar
race as the top choice. PREVARICATOR (definition = liar) was not quick, but finished an okay fourth. Her comeback
workout pattern is light, but so are her foes. She might fit with these, and it is only the second start of her career.
CINDYS SECRET was unable to establish position from the rail, and completely misfired in a tougher spot. She is
back with her friends at the maiden-20 level, gets off the rail, and should make her presence felt up front. WARRENSDOLLARSIGNS
finished more than five lengths clear of third last out, but she was able to set very slow pace
in that race. The fractions are likely to be quicker here.

Tampa Bay Downs - Andrew

Race 1:
(1) True History
(6) Cool Temper
(5) Naughty Humor

Race 2:
(4) Lock N Roll
(6) Put Summ Back
(3) Hippie Slippers

Race 3:
(1) Silver Crusader
(3) Sky Soldier
(4) First Dibs

Race 4:
(4) Great Aztec
(5) Callmeback
(2) Ritmo Criollo

Race 5:
(7) U and Tequilla
(8) Igotthemoneyhoney
(1) Bella Bamba

Race 6:
(1) Stef and Me
(2) Lyons High Jump
(7) Highland Dancer

Race 7:
(5) Annamonarchos
(8) Cuppy Cake
(9) Bellarada

Race 8:
(8) Spoils of War
(2) Spearhead
(6) Resourceful

Race 9:
(3) Paige Me
(6) Brother Pat
(7) Oxford Street

Race 10:
(9) Fantasmagorico
(10) Quiet Rebel
(6) Pocketmedal

Race 11:
(6) Replay
(9) Woodwin W
(3) Fuhrious Warrio

Saturday Fair Grounds

Michael Beychok
February 28, 2015


Race 1
6 – Independent Girl – seems to have the speed to lead this slow bunch
5 – Granny Grump – has had 13 tries to win her first one – maybe today?

Race 2
9 – Chief Dante – favored in many of last few starts – gets lead from outside today
3 – Bellamy Run – has some nice works amongst a field of slow horses – longshot

Race 3
6 – Betty Mc – been trying to get this one over the line last few but came up short
9 – Rosettas Charm – back to sprinting after showing some speed in last

Race 4
2 – Grand Isle – has run two good races over the Fair Grounds turf this season
9 – Hail to the Nile – will be on the lead here trying to go all the way

Race 5
3 – Comfort Level – thought last was a much better race than looked and is tough in here
1/1A – Radiant/Marveilluese – either of these is second choice and tough coupled entry

Race 6
4 – Folsum Fire – nice comeback race and can improve for a big effort here
5 – Knockitdownhard – beat top choice in last – likes FG – has top trainer in Amoss

Race 7
8 – McGeehees Mercy – price will be inflated due to last flop on dirt – serious turf talent for this one
5 – Cougar Bait – big win in last was no fluke and can improve today at a price

Race 8
4 – Saint of Saints – last two dirt races are much better than most of these and has speed
5 – Indycott – claim from Sharp to Amoss and repeat of last blows these away

Race 9
1 – Two Step Temper – very good last race beating 3rd place by over 7 – loves turf
9 – Another Lemon Drop – no knocks – has a win over turf and ran well in Lecomte

Race 10
6 – Mobile Bay – big effort behind nice winner and will improve off of that race
8 – Grande Basin – always around the wire and beat top choice in last

Around the Track

Today’s Black Gold Handicap honors one of the two horse buried in the infield at the Fair Grounds – Black Gold. The other being the great sprinter “Panzy” or Pan Zareta. Black Gold won the 1924 Kentucky Derby after winning the Louisiana Derby. It was the fiftieth running of the Derby and Black Gold, owned by Rosa Hoots, was placed in the Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 1989. Black Gold was known as the “Indian Horse” and after a failed career at stud, he was back racing at the Fair Grounds when he tragically broke down while racing and was buried in the infield.


Our Best Bet today will be in the Black Gold in Race 9. Let’s go with # 1 Two Step Temper – very good last race and already has win on the turf – nice price. Good Luck and may they all come home safely.

Gulfstream Park courtesy of Kevin Cox


Race 1


#9 DOWNTOWN takes his first go round on the dirt today after doing all of his business on the poly and turf. By my calculations, the breeding says a 15% improvement over that turf number is quite feasible, and if that ends up being the case, then the 66.2 number from last can easily be in the 80 range, which makes this one a major player. Over the last 5 years Parente is 2 for 5 when dropping one turn dirt runners like this ( $6 & $7 ) and is 1 for 3 going turf to dirt with one turn dirt claimers. Nicely drawn, as well. #1 SHINNING POWERS is your deserving favorite based on the odds on handy win against similar last out. Can't knock from any perspective. #3 LUDICROUS SPEED won under nearly identical circumstances two back beneath today's pilot, Zayas. If odds float up a bit on the 6YO "Horse" ( Don't give up the fight, fella ! ), then the interest floats right with it.


Race 2

#5 WINSTANLEY was a game 2nd versus much cheaper here 2 1/2 weeks ago. Was claimed that day, and the first thing the trainer does is jack him up in price ( always a positive sign ). As a matter of fact, Gonzalez is 2 for 7 when doing this, at HUGE prices ( $28 & $45 ). Caraballo takes the helm, and it's worth noting that the 5th place finisher from that day returned to win next out, posting a 67 Beyer. #4 SILVER LUCKY Q had the lead turning for home in last, but was beaten up like Glass Joe in the stretch. Moves to a new barn today, and steps back up in class off the sharp effort. #10 WEEKEND EXPRESS has surrounded the one nice turf race with two dirt flops. Bravo starving and may hustle for 3rd. OFF TURF: 4-1-9-2-3


Race 3


Brutal deal cookin' here, so let's play a trainer that's having a brutal meet. Pat Farro ( of the oh for 65 fame ) claimed #8 EXCLUSIVE SYMPHONY 2 back for 12.5, then stepped her up a notch, but the filly bumped at the onset and went 97 wide turning for home, but was already a finished animal by that point. Gal drops back to the level claimed today, and in the past 5 years this barn is 25% 2nd off the claim in mid level dirt sprints ( $2.16 ROI ). #4 SO IT'S TRUE makes 3rd consecutive drop today, but figures 1-2-3. #1 NO ONE IS LIKE ME is as bad as any to round out the triple.


Race 4

#4 CAPTAIN MOSS hasn't been seen since the summer at the Spa, where he barely beat the chase ambulance home that day. In all fairness, that turned out to be a tough heat, as EVERY horse hit the board in their next start ( wow ), with a cumulative record of 7:3-1-3 . The average next out Beyer for those horses was a 71.4, and included amongst those is stakes performer Bayerd. Need more ? Zito--11% this year--is 4-11 ( 36% ) with Mdspwt runners returning after 6 months and sprinting on the dirt ( $3.38 ROI ). Oh yeah---Johnny V. rides, and there's that dazzling 47 2/5 bullet breeze up at Payson on the 16th. We'll be making this last-out, last-place finisher our play of the day, folks. "Do it for Johnny, man --- DO IT FOR JOHNNY!!" ( The Outsiders, 1983 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpIcPde4rAo #9 ICEFIELD is extremely well bred, and any firster Kieran puts out is worth a looksie. #2 SCORCH has been working great for 3 months now, and 419 Tomlinson at the distance is heavy baby, heavy.


Race 5

#4 PINE NEEDLES was life and death to break her maiden right here on National Hangover Day at first asking. Clement adds Lasix today, and he's a fantasmical 9:5-2-0 when doing such with a turf runner after a maiden win ( $4.91 ROI ). #8 CONSUMER CREDIT has won 3 in a row, and done it while going up the ladder. Logical, deserving favorite. The only blemish on the record for the #5 QUALITY ROCKS was an up the track finish in the Breeders' Cup. Lost to the above in last by just a length, but gets a favorable weight switch today. OFF TURF: 1-9-8-6-2


Race 6

Quien es MUCHO MAS MACHO ? Why Ricardo Montalban and the #8, of course ! This Collazo trainee was overmatched in the Grade 2 Fort Lauderdale Handicap, but drops in for a tag today for the first time in over 3 years. Neck loss 2 back was wicked sharp. Price is nice. #1 INCHCAPE has Beyered in the 80's in 8 straight, but is beginning to give the appearance of being a nibbler. Sensible "unders" player. #3 EL JEFE GRANDE is another one dropping in for a tag today, and this fella is 13:4-3-0 @ the dx. OFF TURF: 14-4-10-8-9


Race 7

#10 WISECRACKER finished a clear second behind superhorse Khozan in debut, and will blitz these at 2-5. #2 BREAKING LUCKY was purchased for 100 thousand samolyans at the Keeneland Novmber sale in 2012, been working decently, and drags in a killer 444 Tomlinson for this distance. Whenever you believe there's gonna be an open lengths winner, it's always beneficial to look for a bomb underneath, and this fella is 20-1. #7 UNBRIDLED JUAN ran a nice 3rd in debut, and now adds lasix.


Race 8

#4 FEATHERED tangled with Eclipse champion Take Charge Brandi in final two races of 2014, then was justifiably given a brief freshening by Pletcher to gear up for her 3YO campaign. Workouts up north have reportedly been swell, and this is a fairly easy spot for her return. #11 SPARK got the job done right out of the box last month for Jimmy Jerkens, and draws well for first try against winners. #9 MOMAMEAMARIA was a nervous nellie prior to the start when overmatched in a Grade 2 last out, and Cannizzo, who recently returned from suspension, has this one at the level of the solid placing two back. Rosario signs back on and he was aboard this filly's two finest efforts.


Race 9

#3 DAD'Z LAUGH is back in sharp form, having won two straight, and is a popular item at the claim box, having been snagged in both. Pino is the most recent purchaser, and he instantly jacks this one up more than 50% in claiming price ( a move he's 29% with over the last 5 years, with a $2.54 ROI ). He's got blood in the saddle, which always ensures an honest ride, and is 8:3-3-0 at Hallandale Beach. 3rd straight chalk in the works ? #9 FLASH PAWS hasn't shown much in last two, but digs this place ( 2 for 5 ) and Nevin ( 23% on an everyday basis ) is a whopping 11 for 29 ( 38% ) with dirt sprinters first off the claim. Huge chance. #2 UNION LABEL, scratched on Thursday, has 2 wins and a second from the three starts when entered for a tag, and is 3 for 8 at this trip.


Race 10

#6 GRAND BILI began his career on the right note, when being involved at every point of call in debut, and grinding out a hard fought win at 6-1. Mister Castellano was aboard that day, and obviously he boogeys on over to the Pletcher steed, so Luis Saez gets the nod. The figure earned from that day was comparatively solid to the others in here, and I've made quite a bit of money in the past by betting undefeated horses in stakes races at 5-1 or more. #7 X Y JET, like many others, has stepped up his game a bit since moving into the Navarro barn two months ago. Great early zip, and could put a scare into the remaining 6 pack if Zayas is able to procure an easy lead early on. BEATABLE FAVORITE/3RD CHOICE: #1 DAREDEVIL is trying some things for the first time today : New track, first time going one turn over a fast track, 4 month layoff, the rail, and a tricky 7 furlong distance. The 'Devil may get a slice due to the back class, but do you really want to take 3-5 with those question marks hovering like a summer Secada ? I sure don't.


Race 11

#9 DIVISIDERO really looked like a professional when winning first start here three weeks ago. Was seemingly shot out of a cannon at the halfway point while going from 11th to the winners' circle at 25-1. Fractions weren't particularly swift that day, which made the 6 wide move all the more impressive. Place horse was 4 clear of the rest, and love the fact that this closer worked a best of 32 bullet here last week. #6 NIGHT PROWLER got up in time to win the Dania Beach on 1/3, and is your typical Chad Brown turf monster in the making, as he's 4:2-0-2 over the stuff, and has elevating firm turf numbers of 69-75-80 . Place horse from the last race returned to win an optional claimer on the grass, hanging an 82 Beyer for his efforts. #5 DUBAI SKY goes for his 4th straight today, and will most likely be on the choo choo early beneath Johnny, who was aboard for two of those. OFF TURF: 5-1-7-2-6


Race 12

Okay, so let me get this straight. Castellano gets off a 9-2 shot that he just piloted to a runner up finish, to get on a 12-1 shot with a lower figure ? Let's take a gander at this ridgling, shall we ? Okay, yes, the number of the #11 BUTTERFLY STRIKE was a little bit lower, but this one appears to be the clear speed of the race ( nice ), has an outside draw which Castellano has won with several times in turf routes at this meet ( nicer ), and recently, Pierce is 5 for 10 2nd off the monster layoff ( nicest ! ). 12-1 ? Yeah, right. #8 EASEMENT is the aforementioned horse that Javier gets off, and has earned nearly 4K per start, but done it all without getting the Polaroid taken. ( Do they still make those ? ) We'll keep putting him in the lower echelon until he proves me wrong. #4 VEYA has had trips to forget in his last two, but sheds 10 pounds today, and with that weight off, may be permitted to work out a more trouble free journey. OFF TURF: 3-4-1-7-12(MTO)

Gulfstream Park courtesy of DanonymousRacing


R1: 1 – 7 – 9

#1 Shining Powers is the deserving favorite of the opener. He has strung together a series of decent efforts and enters off of a win. He has shown an affinity to the Gulfstream surface and should prevail today.

R2: 5 – 4 – 7

#5 Winstanley (IRE) enters off of a decent effort in his second start in the United States. He gets the added benefit of Lasix this time and his last start showed that he may like the distance. Silver Lucky Q, the 4, returns from a decent effort that should allow him room for improvement. This is his first start for his new barn, and the trainer is batting at 33% wins with new starters according to DRF Formulator.

R3: 2 – 4 – 6

#6 Pretty Girl Anna comes back from a decent win in her last start, and carrying only 113 lbs with an apprentice jockey on board won’t harm her chances. #4 So It’s True suffered a wide trip last out, covering 28 feet (about 3 ¼ lengths) more than the winner. With a better trip she could find herself hitting the board.

R4: 9 – 2 – 1

In this well-bred maiden race, #9 Icefield enters for Kiaran McLaughlin. His dam is a half to Bernardini. The Street Cry sire suggests that he may want more distance, but the class and the connections are hard to overlook. #2 Scorch enters off a bullet workout to make his first start. He gets the mount of Rajiv Maragh, and his dam was a graded stakes winning sprinter. #1 Sustainability’s dam is a half to Canada’s champion two year old filly Tu Endie Wei and to Canadian Horse of the Year Biofuel. Trainer Delgado Gustavo is 20% with first time starters, and like Scorch, Sustainability receives Lasix for the first time. Gustavo and Edgard Zayas together are a great time, winning at 30%.

R5: 8 – 5 – 1 – 6

#8 Consumer Credit’s turn of foot in the Sweetest Chant was very impressive and forces me to place the filly, who enters off a three race win-streak, on top. #5 Quality Rocks was second in that race after a wide trip that left her covering 22 feet (2 ½ lengths) more than the winner according to Trakus. She is clearly talented and should hit the board. #1 Devine Aida also had an interesting trip last out while taking the Ginger Brew, covering 31 feet ( 3 ¾ L) more than the second-placed horse, and 34 feet (4 L) more than third.

R6: 11 – 1 – 8

#11 Sycamore Lane returns from a strong effort back in January where he defeated fellow competitor, the #1 Inchcape. Inchcape vied for the lead throughout but it took a toll on him as he was not able to get the victory. He was wide for a large part of the race and today he receives the rail position which will allow him to send for the lead and get an inside trip. There is not much speed in the race which improves his chances. Inchcape also gets the mount of top jockey Javier Castellano. #6 Taghleeb has won and placed here from two starts, and last out he won, covering more ground than the first seven finishers behind him.

R7: 10 – 5 – 7

#10 Wisecracker enters off a runner-up to Khozan who has since gone on to easily win an allowance. Wisecracker is one of three who has previous experience in this field of maidens, and he has quite the connections. #5 Seeking Alpha is a first time starter for Chad Brown. A $385,000 Keeneland September purchase, the three year old has been working nicely and Chad does very well with first time starters, and is 28% in maiden special weights. #7 Unbridled Juan put in a solid effort last out and ran on willingly. He should benefit from the added distance.

R8: 4 – 11 – 6 – 7

#4 Feathered returns after a very good two-year-old season for top trainer at the meet, Todd Pletcher. She enters the race a deserving favorite. #11 Spark was impressive in her debut for Jimmy Jerkens, putting in the fastest final fraction and covering more ground than her opponents in her debut. Jerkens is 32% with horses that won their last start. #6 Skywarn has run well in both of her efforts for Bill Mott, though the long break may be a bit to overcome. She also receives Lasix for the first time.

R9: 3 – 8 – 11

#3 Dad’z Laugh has won his past two starts since discovering he likes to run on the lead and has three wins and three seconds from eight tries at Gulfstream. He may be able to wire the field. #8 Strike Bold enters off a maiden special weight victory and a huge layoff. With the apprentice jockey he gets in carrying a light weight which will be beneficial. #11 Best Man has not done much recently but has two wins from three starts at Gulfstream and drops down in class here while also cutting back a bit in distance.

R10: 1 – 2 – 5 – 7

It’s hard to pick against Todd Pletcher’s Daredevil (#1), who breaks from the rail here and should go straight to the lead. The horse was a very good winner of the Champagne last year before a troubled start in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. His main competition will come in the form of the other speedster Souper Colossal, who won the Texas Glitter here over the turf in his last start. While the turf may be his preferred surface, he has proven he can win on both. #2 Senor Grits is an interesting choice as a closer considering the speed that enters this race. #7 X Y Jet is yet another speed horse who ran well in the Hutcheson in his last start to secure second to Barbados. He has four seconds and a third from five starts at Gulfstream.

R11: 6 – 10 – 5 – 2

#6 Night Prowler retains the mount of Javier Castellano after his win in the Dania Beach despite Castellano riding the 10, Croninthebarbarian, to a third in the Kittens Joy most recently. Croninthebarbarian suffered a wide trip last out in the Kitten’s Joy, covering 35 feet (about 4 lengths) more than Dubai Sky. He draws wide today but will hopefully have#5 Dubai Sky has been steadily improving since breaking his maiden back in September. Last out he won the Kittens Joy, and now holds two wins from two starts on the Gulfstream turf. #2 Eh Cumpari experienced a difficult trip last out, travelling 45 feet (5 ¼ L) more than the winner, losing only by 1 ½ lengths.

R12: 2 – 5 – 12

#2 Generous Kitten is an obvious choice for Michael Maker, who wins with about 24% of his first time starters. Kitten’s Joy is 17% winners from first time starters as well, and the Kittens love Gulfstream. #5 Fair Prospect put in a nice effort last out to get second. #12 Juba should win if this race is off the turf.

Gulfstream Park courtesy of ShapperDaCapper


TOP PLAYS OF DAY- R2- #9 Viable Option, R11- #2 Eh Cumpari



BOXCARS OF DAY- R6- #6 Taghleeb, R8- #9 Momameamaria, R9- #7 Piloting, R12- #11 Butterfly Strike



Rain is in the forecast so please be sure to check scratches and track conditions. This analysis is based on a fast/firm course, not an off surface.



RACE 1- 9-1-3-8



The final Saturday in February begins with a non-winners of three $6250 claimer at one mile over the main track. 7-5 ML favorite (1) Shining Powers won for fun in his last and looks tough to beat on the move up in conditions. (9) Downtown is the one with the best shot and we think this five-year old son of Street Sense will get it done given the advantage of the outside draw. These two look to be the clear ones to beat. (8) Rack’em Earl and (3) Ludicrous Speed will likely pick up the pieces.


RACE 2- 9-2-3-6



The second is a $75k maiden claimer going one mile over the Gulfstream Park lawn. We like the look of Viable Option for trainer Carlo Vaccarezza and Paul Pompa Jr. in this one. This son of Big Brown ran very well on the lead before stopping to fifth in his debut on January 29th. Top grass rider Javier Castellano returns for the mount on our first top play of the day. He should improve immensely from his first race and get the job done on Saturday. Street Passage and Reynard Fox are lightly raced geldings that we will use as long shots. Rhythm Park drops in from the MSW ranks and could run big for trainer William Bradley. Conqeust Dancer and Vicariousliabiity have looks as first-time starters for barns capable of winning on the lawn.

RACE 3- 4-3-5-7



The third is a $12,500 claimer at six furlongs over the Gulfstream Park main track. (4) So It’s True looks to be the one to beat in this one on the drop in class. She did not get much of a pace to run at in last, but should sit a nice trip and pounce home for Luis Saez and trainer Kathy Ritvo. We will pass on (2) Pretty Girl Anna who was on an uncontested lead throughout on February 16th. (5) Peggy Grives Me, (3) Dads Little Girls and (7) Bonne Nuit have a shot to outrun their ML odds and provide some value underneath in the exotics.


RACE 4- 10-5-3-4



The fourth is a MSW event for three-year olds run at six furlongs over the main track. This is a solid field of inexperienced runners led by 3-1 ML favorite (10) Easy to Say. This New Farm colt was heavily backed in his debut over the slop on January 11th and returns to the races on Saturday. He will be tough on the move off the rail and the experience of his debut. (9) Icefield is the first-time starter with the lowest morning line, but several have a shot to run well in here. (2) Scorch for Mark Frostad and (6) Donworth for Graham Motion have the look of runners, but may prefer more ground. (4) Stevie’s Wonder is a half to Pick of the Litter and draws Javier Castellano for his debut. This gelding should not be ignored. (8) Private Safe will be a bomb, but is out of a productive mare and goes out for a barn that is 27% with its debut runners. (11) Grey Glory will try to break trainer Tom Albertrani’s 50-plus starts at the meeting without a victory. (3) Captain Moss and half-brother to First Dude, (5) Market Guessing are runners that could improve immensely from their last effort. This one is wide-open if Easy to Say disappoints again.



RACE 5- 1-4-8-6



The fifth is the $150,000 Grade III Herecomesthebride Stakes run at a mile and a sixteenth over the Gulfstream Park turf course. (8) Consumer Credit is the deserving 9-5 ML favorite for trainer Chad Brown and Klaravich Stables. This daughter of More Than Ready has won three in a row, including two stakes races but will need to prove she can get the 9- furlong distance. She has yet to race at further than a mile. Bill Mott trained (5) Quality Rocks returns after a second place effort in her last against Consumer Credit. She will likely have to rate if she wants to turn the tides on the ML favorite. (1) Devine Aida is 3 for 4 including two wins on the grass to start her career for trainer Ramon Morales. This daughter of Unbridled’s Song has done little wrong and is undefeated since adding the blinkers last October at GP West. Jesus Rios will likely send from her rail draw. She will require some catching if she gets loose. (4) Pine Needles made the lead without much effort in her debut for Christophe Clement and Jon + Sarah Kelly. This daughter of Giant’s Causeway is bred on both sides to be a turf star and has the best chance to pull the upset on Saturday. (6) Temper Mint Patty is a must use at anything near her 20-1 ML odds as she may improve on the lawn.


RACE 6- 6-11-1-3



The sixth is a $62,500 optional claimer run at a mile and a sixteenth over the Gulfstream turf. (1) Inchcape is the 7-2 ML favorite in here off a second place effort in his last and the rider upgrade to Javier Castellano. This son of Indian Charlie certainly warrants respect in here, but we will look to others. We simply do not foresee a better trip than he had in his last when he was unable to get the job done over this same course and distance. An underneath finish seems much more likely. We will also pass on the ML second choice (2) Shock Leader. This son of Bernstein has had his chances and just does not seem to have the needed punch to win at this level. (11) Sycamore Lane is one that is in with a big shot. This son of Artie Schiller makes his second start as a four-year old as well as with the anti-bleeding medication Lasix and could be ready for a monster effort and he can avoid a wide voyage from his outside post. (3) El Jefe Grande also merits respect given his desire to win races. This son of Silver Train may not fire every time, but when he does he runs down the entire field. A fast pace upfront gives this one a real shot at a big price. Our top choice and boxcar selection in this one is (6) Taghleeb for Kiaran McLaughlin and the Shadwell Stable. This son of Hard Spun moves up in class after a visually impressive victory on January 17th and can improve enough in this second start of 2015 to win again. We like his chances in here.


RACE 7- 10-7-5-4



The seventh is a very competitive MSW event for three-year olds run at one mile over the main track. (10) Wisecracker is going to be the heavy favorite and for good reason. This son of Distorted Humor ran huge in his debut when losing by less than three lengths to the highly touted three-year old Khozan. A repeat of that effort makes this one nearly unbeatable. His biggest test will come from (7) Unbridled Juan. This son of Unbridled’s Song is out of the extremely productive mare Sugar Swirl. This colt gets Lasix for the first time and has the look of a real star. The top two will take a lot of work to beat, but first-time starters (5) Seeking Alpha, (3) Shadow Rider, and (2) Breaking Lucky could outrun their ML odds. Semblance of Order ran well in his debut and will likely improve for trainer Jena Antonucci. (4) Mountain Cry should improve in his third career effort for Nick Zito.



RACE 8- 9-4-2-3



The eighth is a $75k optional claimer for three-year old fillies run at seven furlongs over the main track. This race marks the return of (4) Feathered for Todd Pletcher and Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners. This filly was last seen in Southern California where she ran second to Take Charge Brandi in the Grade I Starlet at Los Alamitos. Her speed figures and class tower over this field. She has not shown a huge desire to hit the wire first making her risky at even money, but she will be hard to beat. (11) Spark ran a huge one in her debut for Jimmy Jerkens, but she will have to run another big one from her outside post to beat this group. The seven panels distance could be a bit tricky for Feathered in her return to the East Coast. We are going to take a shot that it is and make our top choice and boxcar selection (9) Momamemaria for trainer David Cannizzo. This daughter of Quality Road ran a few good ones this winter before failing miserably in the Grade II Forward Gal. The outside draw, Joel Rosario and the seven eighths of a mile all seem to be positives. (2) Makin’ Sense could also spring the big upset if they go fast enough upfront. Carl Nafzger adds the shades on this daughter of Street Sense.


RACE 9- 7-3-10-9



The ninth is the start of the late Pick Four and is an optional claimer going six panels over the main track. (3) Dad’z Laugh is the 3-1 ML favorite and the one to beat first off the claim for trainer Michael Pino. This five-year old son of Black Mambo has the experience edge in this group and could be tough to catch. We will use him as well the outside runners (11) Best Man, (10) Joh’s Gone Wild and (9) Flash Paws, but our top choice and boxcar selection in this one will be (7) Piloting for trainer Tom Bush. The upgrade in riders to Javier Castellano is enough to give us reason to bet this son of Tapit who has already had some success over this track. The time away is a bit of a concern, however the workout reports have been fabulous. At 10-1 he is certainly worth taking a shot with off the bench.



RACE 10- 1-7-2-5



The tenth is featured Grade II $200,000 Swale Stakes run at seven furlongs over the main track. This race marks the return of Todd Pletcher trained (1) Daredevil. This son of More Than Ready won two races over the slop before being buried in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile last November. The rail and his price are not ideal, but he will be very tough to beat off the bench. (5) Souper Colossal was extremely impressive in his return to racing at five furlongs on the grass, but will need to show that seven furlongs on the dirt against top-level competition is something he can handle. (3) Ready for Rye and (7) X Y Jet both have early speed and have run well against stakes company. They will need to avoid a pace meltdown if they want to defeat Daredevil. (2) Senor Grits might not be fast enough, but he could be rolling late if they go too quickly on the front end. (6) Grand Bili was very impressive in his debut, but this is a big step up.


RACE 11- 2-5-6-11



The eleventh is the $150,000 Grade III Palm Beach Stakes for three-year olds. The race is conducted at a mile and a sixteenth over the grass. (6) Night Prowler is the 5-2 ML favorite for Chad Brown and Paul Pompa, Jr, but we are concerned that there will not be enough pace to set things up for this late runner. (5) Dubai Sky who won a head bob against Courtier in the Kittens Joy should have a tactical advantage, but certainly needs to prove the extra furlong is not an issue. We respect the top two and (10) Croninthebarbarian, but our top choice and other play of the day will be (2) Eh Cumpari. This son of Elusive Quality had an extremely bad voyage in this last in the Kittens Joy where he was incredibly wide in a race with a slow pace. This Michael Dilger runner still ran on well to finish fifth and should improve immensely today with his inside draw. This Anstu Stables colt has some serious talent and can win this if he puts it altogether on Saturday afternoon. (9) Divisidero and (11) Decision Day could run well at big prices, but winning may be a bit much to ask.


RACE 12- 11-5-10-7



The finale is a MSW event for older runners at seven and a half furlongs over the Gulfstream Park lawn. (5) Fair Prospect and (7) Steel Sky make the most sense, but have struggled closing the deal. (11) Butterfly Strike for Malcolm Pierce and Sam-son Farm attract Javier Castellano for this one. He should run a career best in his second start as a four-year old. He will be our final boxcar selection of the day. We also give a long look to (10) Uptown Joe who makes his second start fro trainer Jeremiah Englehart.



GOOD LUCK TODAY!

Rick Needham

RACE #3 - AQUEDUCT

#7 HIDDEN WARRIOR
#2 HARD FAST CASH
#5 NO NUKES
#3 PRIME TIME CITY

#7 HIDDEN WARRIOR qualifies as a TrackMaster PLUS "PowerPony," and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in four of his last five outiongs, including a "POWER RUN WIN" to break his maiden in his 3rd race back. #2 HARD FAST CASH is the overall speed and pace profile leader in this claiming field racing at, or about, today's distance of a mile and seventy yards on the dirt, and comes off a "POWER RUN WIN" to break his respective maiden in his last start.

Turf Club

Fair Grounds - Race #8

#4 SAINT OF SAINTS (ML=4/1)
#5 INDYCOTT (ML=9/5)
#2 DAD ARE WE HERE (ML=6/1)


SAINT OF SAINTS - Don't look any further. This pony has my money. Way too much pace. INDYCOTT - Jock hops back aloft after getting to know the race horse by riding in the last race. That's always a good tip. Have to make this gelding a serious competitor; he comes off a solid race on February 14th. This horse is in great demand coming off two claims in his last two starts. Don't overlook this gelding in your speculating today. This gelding notched a nice speed fig of 108 in his last event. That speed rating should be strong enough to win today. DAD ARE WE HERE - You always have to be on the lookout for profit making rider/trainer teams; we have an instance right here. I like that recent race on Feb 5th at Fair Grounds where he finished third.

Vulnerable Contenders: #7 TENIENTE CORONEL (ML=5/1), #6 SEA VIEW CHICO (ML=6/1), #3 GEOTHERMAL (ML=8/1),

TENIENTE CORONEL - Will be hard for this racer to beat this field off of that last speed rating. Unlikely to improve enough to run a figure anywhere near today's Equibase class figure, so put him on the vulnerable contenders list. SEA VIEW CHICO - This colt finished out of the money on August 19th and wasn't close to victory last time out either. Doubtful that the speed rating he recorded on Feb 5th will be good enough in this event. GEOTHERMAL - 8/1 odds isn't enough for this horse when looking at the most recent outings.

Matt Carothers - TVG

Aqueduct Pick 5 .50 ticket cost $36

1: 3-5-6
2: 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8
3: 2-5-7
4: 1
5: 2

Rich Perloff - TVG

Tampa Bay Pick 4 .50 ticket cost $45

3: 4
4: 1-4-8
5: 1-6-7
6: All