I have read nothing but glowing things about Meydan. It is the jewel of the desert, and can be the oasis of huge purse payouts that can make a runner’s career.  My only feelings are that you should focus on stalkers and closers. The turf plays the same, and if it were that easy, they wouldn’t have to run the races… But, here are a few that catch my eye, and may be worth a play or two….

Meydan

Race #3 – #11- Desert Party (2-1).

This son of Street Cry is 1/1 at Meydan. Frankie Dettori is in the saddle for Saeed bin Suroor. This is the second start since running poorly in the Kentucky Derby. He is stretching out to a mile, and this should be no problem. He was a $2.1 million sales purchase, and I think they will get every penny out of him. Frankie always comes ready, and you should see the flying dismount more than once on this day.

Race #4 – #5 – Mendip (5-2).

This son of Harlan’s Holiday is 3/3 and looks the real deal. Once again, the same rider and trainer team again. I would look for some outside runners in your tiers to complete your multi-tier exotics. The trainer is winning at 27% this year, and that is not too bad…. The race is for a cool $2 million, and I see Godolphin getting the candy in most of the races they enter.  Still Derby entered, and this pot could seal the deal to get him in the gate for the first Saturday in May.

7th Race – #13 – Spanish Moon (6-1).

This guy likes to keep the races tight, and if you look back at his pp’s, you will see a couple of narrow victories and slight losses. They are traveling 1 1/2 on the turf, and he is bred to relish the weeds. Sir Michael Stoute is well know for targeting this day, and after getting beat a dirty nose in Hong Kong, I am looking for some payback at a square price.

8th Race – #2 – Gitano Hernado (9-2).

This colt is 7/8 ITM lifetime, and I see that getting a little better today. 2/2 at the distance, and 4/4 with wins on the synthetic side of life. You will be hard pressed to find anything you don’t like about him, and Kieran Fallon was popped in the eye by an angry owner this past week. I don’t see any fist fight after this race, and you may even see some hugging and celebration.  After all, $10 million is nothing to sneeze at……