California Dreamin’

by Ed Meyer

posted on February 28, 2009 in Free Picks and Tips | 2 Comments >>

This weekend is one that kicks off some real quality racing. If you have the urge to play races from the West coast, today is your lucky day. WinningPonies.com is dealing out a couple of runners to build around for a monster day at the windows.

Let us begin with a runner in Race #8 at Santa Anita. Glance at #5 Bold Chieftain. This race is chock full of exotics, and best of all kicks off the Pick-3.

Bold Chieftain has the dropping down in class icon, and sports a 120 days layoff notice. I think coming back from a vacation is a good thing, and runners usually have fresh legs when others are tired.

This race is a mile on the weeds, and he sports a 30.2 turf rating. He is in the top tier, and is 8/10 in the money over the greensward. At 2-1, this may be a nice piece of action for exotics.

The tasty waves then roll into Race #9. Be sure to pay attention to The Pamplemousse. I know, this name just doesn’t look like one to be etched in history. But, one step at a time… This 3-year -old son of Kafwain is 3/4 in the money lifetime. He has been stamped with the “Monster” workout icon, and 35.3 for 3f handily is proof that good things are to come.

Alex Solis in the irons for Julio Canani is a plus, and he has a speed rating of 57+ which is solid, and one that should show improvement. He is the top tier runner for many good reasons..

I like this guy, and the synthetic seems to fit him well. Going on the dirt may be a bit different, but until then, we will cash in big time. The trainer is 70 years young, and this looks to be his best chance for Derby fever. Who knows? This may be the one…..