Problem Ponies – Horses to Watch – 8/15/16

This past weekend has me waiting for the first leaf to drop and temperatures to cool down. I love the summer racing season, but the heat, rain, and humidity has me ready for the next season. Oh, I’ll relish every time the bugle sounds as they come onto the track for Saratoga. But the foliage of Keeneland is already starting to call this handicapper’s name. – In the meantime, I’ll find any cool spot to watch and wager. Speaking of a good wager, here are some runners who deserve a good hard look before pulling the trigger.

 

Del Mar

 

8/13/16

 

Race #2 – #3 – Tiz Seeking a Win – 5 1/2f on the dirt

First time starter squeezed back at the start, and forced to steady. This will only help in the experience department next out.

 

Race #3 – #3 – Buymeabond – 1 1/16 on the turf

Closed five-wide in the stretch and was a DH payoff. – You can bet dollars to donuts you’ll see a big effort next out.

 

Race #7 – #2 – Big Gray Rocket – 5 1/2f on the dirt

Hesitated at the start and was off slowly as the beaten favorite who only lost by a 1 1/4.

 

Race #8 – #3 – Drafted – 6 1/2f (G-2) Best Pal Stakes

Stumbled at the start and was four wide on the turn trying to make up some ground. – Ascot visitor didn’t have the best of days for Eoin Harty. – Maybe a drop in class will make more sense.

 

 

Belterra Park

 

8/13/16

 

Race #4 – #7 – Gypsy Angel Row – 5f on the turf

Blazed to the lead and gave it up in the final strides. – These kind of runners are dangerous every time. I would love to see added distance to slow the pace down a few notches.

 

Race #5 – #3 – Altissimo – 6f on the dirt

Three-year-old facing older, and when he drops back in against his own age he’ll dominate the pack again where he was a perfect 4/4 at BtP.

 

Race #7 – #4 – Zephyrine – 5 1/2f on the dirt

Tracked perfectly and was given the slip at the top of the lane. – Rider stood up two jumps before the wire to get bested for 2nd money. – You can bet he’ll ride the hide off next out.

 

Race #8 – #7 – Star of Aspen – 6f on the dirt

Runner was coming off a small injury and showed speed versus her usual tracking style. – She’ll be loaded next out.

 

 

Ellis Park

 

8/13/16

 

Race #2 – #1 – Awesome Lily – 6f on the dirt

Came out of the gate slowly and was rushed very hard to get into contention. – This 2-yr-old will do better next up.

 

Race #7 – #3 – Sweeping Paddy – 6 1/2f on the dirt

Two-year-old first timer steadied down the stretch and still gained good ground.

 

Race #8 – #9 – Shadow Rock – 5 1/2f on the turf

Squeezed back at the start and overcame a poor start to get up in the shadow of the wire. – Play this guy right back for the Mike Maker barn.

 

Follow these runner right back and be sure to check them against the E-Z Win Forms to see where they fit in the field. – Horses like people have a bad day or a compromised trip. Keeping your eyes peeled may make a nice score and larger bankroll. – Best of luck from your friends at Winning Ponies !