While many of your friends and relatives will be hitting the shopping malls on the Friday after Thanksgiving, you should know that racing will be in full swing with many tracks open coast to coast.  From Thanksgiving Day till Sunday you can find large and small stakes races on almost every circuit, as well as competitive allowance and maiden special weight events. Be sure to check out the full menu of wagering opportunities by using the Winning Ponies tote board so you don’t miss out on the action.

One of the more competitive races to shape up over the holiday weekend is the Grade 2 Go for Wand Handicap at Aqueduct on Friday, November 25^th.  This race is a one-turn mile on the main track for fillies and mares 3-years-old and up.  The morning-line favorite Arena Elvira will be looking to extend her 4 race (all stakes) win streak since she’s exited the allowance ranks.  The Go for Wand Handicap will be run as the 9^th race on a 10 race card.

1. Lovely Lil               15-1

Didn’t manage to get the job done last time out as the favorite in the seven-furlong Friendly Island Iroquois against NY state-breads at Belmont Park on Oct 22 and is now taking a big step up in class to face open company.  While her best distance is at six-furlongs if Lovely Lil can get a clean break from the one hole she could be dangerous on the front end without looking back.  Over the past week 17% of one mile races at Aqueduct have been won from the rail post position or by a horse going wire to wire.

2. Risky Rachel           12-1

Was able to beat Lovely Lil after a tough duel at the top of the stretch in the Friendly Island Iroquois at Belmont and looks to be in great form coming off a sharp 5 furlong workout on Nov 18 in 1:00³.  As a four-year-old who has run 80% of her races at six furlongs is looking to stretch out and last month’s win at seven furlongs seems to be the proof that Risky Rachel can handle more.

3. All Due Respect     3-1

Back in the hands of everyone’s favorite banned yet still active trainer Rick Dutrow after switching hands 3 times in her last three races.  All Due Respect is getting plenty of respect from the crew at NYRA appearing as the 3-1 morning line 2^nd choice and second high-weight carrying an impost of 118 pounds.  But should any horse coming off of a six month layoff, even if they have the most back class of the field?  While this horse could certainly handle this group with ease in her best of days – we would have liked to see prep in an easier spot for a comeback race.  All Due Respect has hit the board in 5 graded stakes appearances with a lifetime record of 15-4-4-4.  She is also a proven winner at a mile over the main track at Gulfstream and Santa Anita.

4. Katy Now               4-1

This classy 4-year-old daughter of Tiznow is coming back to graded stakes company for the first time in 2011 after having a great season going 5-2-0-2 so far this year in overnight stakes and pricy optional claiming events.  Katy Now’s last race at Belmont was a nice showing winning at one mile after running though honest early fractions of 22.3 and 45.3.  Jockey Corey Nakatani is going through a cold spell and has only won on 3% of his mounts (34-1-3-7) for the meet at Aqueduct this race meet.

5. Indian Legend                   20-1

A nice sprinter in the allowance ranks at Parx, but seems to be out of her comfort zone in this race.  Indian Legend looks to be fairly one dimensional and a win here would be truly unexpected.

6. Arena Elvira          5-2

Seeking her fourth consecutive stakes win, this 4-year-old daughter of Ghostzapper will be carrying the top weight of 120 pounds.  Her last three races were contested at 1 1/8 miles over two turns – so her connections are looking to cut her back in what will likely be her last start of the season.  Her last win in the Turnback the Alarm over this same track only 3 weeks ago was impressive when she romped home by over 6 lengths over her rivals.  Arena Elvira has never finished out of the money in 11 lifetime starts so don’t leave her out of any exotics.  Look out for a minus pool on this one in the show betting as well.  The morning line price of 5-2 to win is fair if you can get it at post time.

7. Spa City Princess  20-1

Last win was all the way back in April, but that was over a muddy surface going a mile on the main track at Aqueduct.  So if it rains look you may want to leave Spa City Princess on your ticket.  However, if the track is fast you would be well advised to ignore.

8. Persuading             8-1

Has shown some versatility in her running style over her last few appearances changing from a need the lead type to more of a stalker or off the pace horse.  The only problem is that she seems to be less effective off the pace and really does need to be on the front end all the way to win.  Most of her starts have been on the turf but she hasn’t shied away from the main track when the grass gets rained out.  Persuading doesn’t look likely to make an impact in this race.

9. C C’s Pal                6-1

Switches to the barn or Rick Dutrow, who is leading the trainer standings at Aqueduct so far this race meet.  Her last outing at Belmont was a successful one where he covered seven furlongs to win an overnight stake at odds of 13-1.  While C C’s Pal won’t be as long of a price here, she may very well find her way to filling out the bottom of the exotics.

Post position statistics become a more important component of handicapping when races are staged at certain distances. Naturally, the most significant aspect of the data is the ratio of victories.

The general bias against outside posts is particularly strong at foremost North American ovals, especially in routes such as a mile on Aqueduct’s inner track and Santa Anita, 1 1/16 miles at Hollywood Park and 1 1/8 miles at Aqueduct.

These tracks commonly card routes that start near the beginning of the clubhouse turn. Consequently, stats at most meetings show that horses breaking from the inside four posts on the dirt or synthetic surfaces win more than their fair share of starts while runners starting from post 8 and outward capture far fewer races.

For example, horses that drew post seven and outward Nov. 4-20 for Aqueduct routes on the dirt were 3 for 20, with the three winners coming out of No. 8, while sprinters breaking from 8 and outward were 7 for 24.

Runners breaking from post 7 and outward Nov. 10-20 over Hollywood Park’s Cushion surface at a mile or longer were zero for 9 while sprinters were 10 for 24.

Some tracks such as Gulfstream Park tailor their races to limit the short run to the first turn, giving outside horses an even chance to make the winner’s circle.

Gulfstream, which opens a month earlier this year on Dec. 3, lengthened its main track to 1 1/8 miles in 2005, with the backstretch chute allowing sprints up to 7 ½ furlongs.

If you want to benefit from the post position bias, get acquainted with the layout of the tracks you play. Pay attention to the distance of two-turn races that begin near the clubhouse turn – an inherent disadvantage for outside runners.

Posts usually are less of a factor in sprints because there’s sufficient distance along the backstretch to get in stride and racing position.

In six-horse fields, however, the bias disappears because any thoroughbred coming out of the gate should find position with ease.

In addition, post position bias is less important when the runners are classier, the stakes are bigger and the contest is on the grass.

Look for these ideal-betting angles when a horse moves from the outside to an inside post:

• A runner showing improvement and hitting the board tosses in a dull effort breaking from an impossible post last time out. The switch to the inside might put the horse back in the winner’s circle.
• A thoroughbred normally does well pressing the pace, but started poorly in his last race from the outside and finished out of the money. A favorable draw will dramatically affect the horse’s racing position early and improve the chances to score.
• A horse that was competitive in similar races that routed from an outside post near the clubhouse turn and failed to hit the board will improve with a better draw. The shorter the two-turn race, the more it favors the inside.

Extra emphasis should be given to horses customarily racing on or near the lead. Less emphasis should be given to stretch runners that figure to be outrun early no matter their post.

If you think that November is too early to check out prospective horses for the Kentucky Derby, look no further than this Saturday’s $1 million Delta Jackpot.  As one of the richest graded stake races for 2-year-olds in North America the winner of the Delta Jackpot will earn $590,000 thus guaranteeing a spot in the Derby – if they stay healthy and sound.

A major key to handicapping this competitive race featuring 10 runners from all over the US and Canada will be figuring out which horses will run well over the sandy surface and tight turns at Delta Downs.  As with any race for 2-year-olds distance is also key with many of the starters here never running or winning a race at a mile or more.

The 2-1 morning line favorite is Drill, who had a disappointing 10^th place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile.  From a class standpoint Drill is by far the most accomplished horse in the field after winning the Grade 1 Del Mar Futurity and finishing as runner up in the Grade 1 Norfolk.  Trained by Bob Baffert, Drill is sure to take plenty of money and could be an even shorter price by post time.

Another one to look out for will be My Adonis, who broke his maiden at Delta Downs and subsequently won going away by 5 1/4 lengths in the Jean Lafitte Stakes there on October 22.  My Adonis has been training well at Delta Downs and seems to relish the track.

Jake Mo is another horse exiting a Breeders’ Cup race after finishing fifth in the inaugural running of the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Sprint.  This son of Kentucky Derby winner Giacomo got his start winning sprints at Prairie Meadows and will be stretching out for the first time from six furlongs.

Lastly there is Dougs Buddy, who has become a star at his home base of Northlands Park in Alberta, Canada is undefeated over four starts including several stakes.  Two weeks ago he shipped over 2,000 miles by van from the frigid north just for this race.  In addition to being undefeated over four starts, Dougs Buddy has the advantage of winning over a tight five furlong track at Northlands Park.  The track at Delta Downs is a six furlong oval with similarly tight turns.  Though he could have gone to the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile his connections have been saving him for this race with an eye on the purse money as his ticket to the derby trail. While the horses here are vastly superior to the competition he faced in Canada, 2-year-olds are hard to predict due to their developmental state.  If we learned anything from this year’s 2-year-old racing season it’s that talent and ability are the two most important factors in this division.  Just like many people didn’t believe Hansen, a horse from Turfway Park, could beat Union Rags a flashy graded stakes winner from the New York circuit – Dougs Buddy could be a real contender at a generous price.

The $1 million Delta Jackpot run at 1 1/16 miles will go off as the 7^th of 11 races.  For the rest of the card at Delta Downs and other great stakes action on Saturday be sure to log-in or sign up for a Winning Ponies account.

Horses worth watching, a list of runners compiled by handicapper/turf writer Greg Melikov, should do well next time out. These thoroughbreds won six times, finished second five times and ran third three times. They’re worth considering when developing your wagering strategy for online betting or at your favorite track.

AQUEDUCT

Gambling Geraldine: Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, guided four wide for clearance entering stretch and gained third, beaten a nose and a half-length at six furlongs on Nov. 9; ran final quarter in 24 2/5.

CALDER

Justanother Babe: Steadied early, dropped to fifth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied in stretch to make up 2 ½ lengths and finished third by a half-length at a mile on the turf Nov. 10.

Blue Samurai: Broke eighth and last, trailed by more than six lengths after a half-mile, eased out for stretch run, rallied from fourth to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 27. (Raced 5 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung out for stretch run and rallied from fourth to gain second by 2 ¾ lengths at a mile on the turf Nov. 11.)

Extra Brew: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth 10 lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied in stretch when rival drifted out, recovered at eighth pole, closed fast late to make up more than 2 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Oct. 24.

Saratoga Matt: Raced eighth and last more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, swung out for stretch run, rallied from fifth to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths and gained second by a neck at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Sept. 23. (Shuffled back at break, raced 10th and last more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied outside from sixth in stretch and won going away by two lengths at a mile on a good turf course Nov. 5.)

Stage Deli: Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, waited behind wall of rivals on far turn, angled out in stretch and closed to finish second, beaten a nose at a mile on Oct. 20; returned $6.10 for place. (Broke slowly, raced sixth and last more than 13 lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied in stretch to make up 2 ½ lengths at a mile on Nov. 10.)

CHURCHILL DOWNS

Sir Jock: Raced more than 6 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, split rivals on the turn, rallied in stretch to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 10.

Timely Tally: Raced seventh and last early, advanced to sixth 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied inside from fourth to make up two lengths in stretch and gained second by a neck at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 30.

GOLDEN GATE FIELDS

Famous Dottie: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth after three-eighths of a mile, rallied from fifth to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths in stretch and gained second by 1 ¾ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 6.

Awesome Jared: Raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, dropped to sixth after six furlongs, rallied four wide in stretch, bumped with winner nearing sixteenth pole, closed late from fifth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a head at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 23.

Bits and Bobs: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, closed steadily in stretch and finished second by 3 ¼ lengths at five furlongs on Oct. 23. (Raced two lengths behind in third after a half-mile, rallied a bit in stretch and gained second by a half-length at six furlongs on Nov. 12.)

HAWTHORNE

Riverside Rascal: Broke eighth and last in tight quarters, trailed by more than 13 ½ lengths after a half-mile, shifted outside, then inside in stretch, rallied from sixth to make up more than 6 ½ lengths and gained second by head at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface on Nov. 9.

Diva’s Diamond: Raced 5 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, rallied from fourth in stretch to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 27.

Dixie Shoes: Raced 7 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, angled out near mid-stretch, rallied to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a length at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Oct. 26.

HOLLYWOOD PARK

Hakuchi: Raced seventh early, dropped to eighth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide into stretch, made up more than 3 ¼ lengths and finished third, beaten a nose for place at six furlongs on the turf Nov. 10.

LAUREL PARK

Muscadine: Bumped at break, raced ninth more than 18 lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied wide from fifth in stretch to make up seven lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Nov. 8; ran final quarter in 22 4/5.

Mystical Terp: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, swung out behind rivals in upper stretch, rallied to make up three lengths and finished second, beaten a neck at seven furlongs on Oct. 25. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, cruised up behind rivals near quarter pole and rallied in stretch from second to win by length at six furlongs on Nov. 9.)

Unbridled Pride: Broke through the gate and ran off about a sixteenth of a mile before start, raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied in stretch to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a nose at six furlongs on Oct. 10; ran final quarter in 24 4/5. (Raced more than four lengths behind in third after a half-mile, dropped to fourth after six furlongs and rallied in stretch to finish second by 3 ¾ lengths at a mile on a sealed muddy surface Oct. 27.)

Bridey’s Frolic: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied outside in stretch to make up two lengths and finished second, beaten a neck in a mile race taken off the turf at 7 ½ furlongs on Sept. 26 at Delaware Park. (Dueled early, took lead by a half-length after a half-mile, gave way in upper stretch and finished third at a mile on a sloppy surface instead of 1 1/16 miles taken off the turf Oct. 18.)

PARX (PHILADELPHIA PARK)

Believe in West: Raced third early, dropped to fifth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out in stretch and closed fast to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at a mile on Nov. 7.

Padre Ed: Raced six lengths behind in third after a half-mile, took lead in upper stretch and cruised to a 9 ½-length victory at a mile and 70 yards on Oct. 24. (Raced four lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, took lead in mid-stretch and drew off to win by 3 ½ lengths at a mile on Nov. 14.)

Heroic Pursuit: Broke in a tangle seventh and last, advanced to fifth early, dropped to sixth more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, came again inside to make up more than 2 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second, beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Oct. 10. (Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile and came back to gain third by a length at six furlongs on a muddy surface Oct. 30.)

Reason to Drink: Raced sixth and last 5 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, lost ground going very wide on turn, rallied in stretch to make up 4 ¾ lengths and finished second by 2 ½ lengths on a sealed muddy surface Sept. 24. (Pressed pace early, led by a head after a half-mile, increased margin to 1 ½ lengths while drifting out in mid-stretch and won by three-quarters of a length under steady urging at six furlongs on Oct. 15; returned $18.20 on front end.)

TURF PARADISE

Wolgan Valley: Raced 8 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide in stretch to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at about five furlongs on the turf Nov. 6.

Steel Blue: Raced more than four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, angled out on turn, rallied through traffic in stretch and finished third, beaten three-quarters of a length and a head at 7 ½ furlongs on the turf Oct. 11. (Set a pressured pace from the start, led by a head after a half-mile, held lead by same margin in stretch, weakened, but held on for third by three-quarters of a length at as mile on the turf Oct. 30.)

WOODBINE

U Get the Picture: Raced 12th and last early, advanced to 11th more than eight lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied belatedly from fifth in stretch to make up more than 3 ½ lengths and gained second by 1 ¼ lengths at seven furlongs on Nov. 9.

Maverick Man: Raced third early, dropped to sixth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied along rail from fourth in stretch to make up 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a head at six furlongs on Oct. 28. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied in stretch from second and won by a half-length at six furlongs on Nov. 13; returned $22.10 on front end.)

Jenna’s Wabbit: Sprinted clear quickly, led by two lengths after a half-mile, widened margin to 4 ½ lengths in stretch and won by 7 ¼ lengths in a hand ride covering the six furlongs in 1:09 4/5 on Oct. 10. (Went right to the front, led by a length after a half-mile, increased margin in stretch and won by 2 ½ lengths under restraint at seven furlongs on Nov. 2.)

Kings Parade: Raced seventh and last more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground into stretch, rallied late to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third, beaten a neck for place at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 25. (Raced three lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile and rallied turning for home to gain second by a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on Nov. 6; returned $6.60 for place.)

This year’s Breeders’ Cup had plenty of action and surprises in store for horse racing fans. However, if you were in the majority of bettors who put money on the line, odds are that you didn’t cash too many tickets.

The main card on Saturday contained a parade of upsets with only a single favorite winning a race.  Ironically the one favorite that did prevail was Regally Ready in the Turf Sprint.  As it happens a five furlong race on the turf is the closest thing to a Roulette wheel you can find in American racing.

Out of a total $3.6 million wagered on Saturday’s Pick-6 not one player had the correct combination.  Here at Winning Ponies we’re not ones to be modest so we were quite happy to brag that we hit 5 out of 6 winners from our top three selections for the Pick-6 sequence.  The only horse left out of our ticket, and also everyone else’s apparently was Court Vision who shocked the crowd at Churchill Downs with his win in the Breeders’ Cup Mile at odds of 64-1.  The exacta in that race produced a payoff of $1,979.60 – a sum rarely seen for that type of bet. To our credit, however, we did have Court Vision as our sixth overall pick in that race out of 12 runners.  The final consolation payoff for the Pick-6 was an astronomical $95,070 meaning only 14 lucky bettors had the right combination on their $2 ticket at the end of the day.

We were also proud to have Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Drosselmeyer as our #2 overall pick in that race.  More importantly, our top four picks in the Classic  finished in the top five.  So if you keyed any of those selections in the Super High Five you could have been able to take down some of the huge pool that bet generated at almost $200,000.  In fact there was only one winning ticket that took down the entire pool for a huge payday.

If you were fortunate (or smart) enough to hit any of the exotic wagers on offer for Saturday’s card you are probably reading this blog from your new home in the Virgin Islands. If you didn’t have the best Breeders Cup this year, remember there’s a new race coming to post every few minutes – and you can make just as much money betting on nickel claimers as Grade 1 winners.

To check out the Winning Ponies 2011 Breeders’ Cup Selection results and compare with how you did, or just to view the eye popping payouts click here:

http://www.winningponies.com/results/2011-11-05/Churchill-Results/6-11.html

With Uncle Mo installed as the 5-2 morning line favorite for Saturday’s Breeders’ Cup Classic, there is a lot of pressure on this horse to run the race of his life.  Never mind that as a 3-year-old he’ll be running against older and more experienced horses – Uncle Mo has also had to overcome a series of hardships this year.  After a disastrous run in the Wood Memorial, Uncle Mo never made it to any of the Triple Crown races after being diagnosed with a mysterious liver ailment that had his veterinarians and connections baffled for weeks.  Then in storybook style he came back to have a strong showing at Saratoga and Belmont winning the Kelso and running second place in the Kings Bishop.

Adding to the confusion surrounding Uncle Mo’s readiness for the big day on Saturday was his lackluster workout on October 30^th over the main track at Churchill Downs.  Uncle Mo covered five furlongs in 1:01 2/5, hardly a time that transmits confidence in the minds of horseplayers.  After running the first quarter in 24.48 and three-eights in 36.58 he didn’t gain much speed and needed slight urging from regular jockey John Velazquez to finish his final quarter in 24.60.

According to trainer Todd Pletchter the work went just the way he wanted.  Of course trainers always say that as long as their horse doesn’t collapse during a work.  Yesterday on November 2^nd, Uncle Mo was back on the track for an early morning gallop.  According to spectators and clockers who were there to watch his form and presence looked to be much improved from his un-spectacular workout a few days earlier.

Whatever you’re thoughts on Uncle Mo’s chances in the Classic; you’ve got to hand it to his connections for not backing away from a challenge.  As a young horse who has never won beyond 1 1/16 miles and who’s optimal distance is much shorter than the classic distance, if he pulls off a victory here he will definitely be a serious contender for Horse of the Year.

Fifteen Breeders’ Cup contests, one more than last year, is just too many to wager on even if they’re spread over two days. Like 2010, I will concentrate on classy horses with good recent form and wager on seven races.

The weather could be a factor, at least on Friday, but the forecasters have been hedging their bets. What had been a 30 percent chance of rain for Louisville dropped to 10 percent on Tuesday.

The last time Churchill Downs had an off track for BC races was when it played host for the first of seven times back in ’88 when there were only seven contests. That Nov. 5 it was drizzling while the main track ranged from muddy to sloppy. The turf course was rated good.

Two of the five female BC races on Friday caught my eye as well as the first running of the Juvenile Sprint, the first BC race added since ’08.

The standout in the six-furlong race is undefeated Secret Code, who won both his sprints “in hand.” The son of Eddington is the only sophomore boasting a triple-digit speed figure average. My trifecta key will have three horses underneath: Seeker, Sum Of The Parts and Vexor.

The Juvenile Fillies at 1 1/16 miles is an All-American race as foreign invaders have never visited the winner’s circle. I’m using a trio of 2-year-olds in an exacta:

Grace Hall, impressive winner of two stakes, is bred to go long; My Miss Aurellia, who sports the best dirt speed figure, took Belmont’s Frizette in a hand ride; and Weemissfrankie, victorious in Santa Anita’s Oakleaf.

The Ladies’ Classic under the lights is a wide-open Grade 1 at 1 1/8 miles. So I’m using four distaffers in exotic wagers, including three that have knocked heads since the summer: It’s Tricky, Plum Pretty and Royal Delta, all with at least a victory against each other. I’m adding Ask The Moon, who can shake loose on the lead and has triumphed four times on an off track.

On Saturday’s card, I’m trying my luck in four of nine contests starting with the six-furlong Sprint. I’m using in an exacta defending champ Big Drama, lightly raced this year; front-running Giant Ryan, who led by the stretch in five of his last six straight wins; and fast-closing longshot Aikenite.

My exacta in the Juvenile at 1 1/16 miles will include three 2-year-olds. All have run well in routes, led by Creative Cause, who captured the Grade 1 Norfolk at Santa Anita; Drill, the Norfolk runner-up; and undefeated Union Rags, who triumphed three times as he stretched out.

The Dirt Mile is the most competitive on the card. My exotic bets will include front-running Preakness champ Shackleford, who has been training nicely; speedster The Factor, who could get loose on the rail; fast-closing Caleb’s Posse, who nosed out Classic starter Uncle Mo in the King’s Bishop at Saratoga; and Wilburn, going for his fourth straight since August.

In the 1 ¼-mile Classic I’m going to use a quartet of starters in exotic wagers:

Flat Out, a multi-stakes winner with tactical speed that has been working extremely well at Churchill Downs; Stay Thirsty, the Travers champ; Havre de Grace, the top filly that whipped males in the Woodward at Belmont; and To Honor and Serve, the improving Pennsylvania Derby victor.

Horses worth watching, a list of runners compiled by handicapper/turf writer Greg Melikov, should do well next time out. These thoroughbreds won five times, finished second three times and ran third five times. They’re worth considering when developing your wagering strategy for online betting or at your favorite track.

BELMONT

Sunshine Rambler: Raced sixth early, dropped to seventh more than four lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out for the drive, steadied in sixth behind a rival in stretch, lost momentum, altered course and closed late to finish second, beaten three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Sept. 27. (Raced 14 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, dropped to seventh after six furlongs and rallied in stretch to finish third, beaten a neck for place at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Oct. 16; returned $6.10 for show.)

CALDER

Blue Samurai: Broke eighth and last, trailed by more than six lengths after a half-mile, eased out for stretch run, rallied from fourth to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 27.

Extra Brew: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth 10 lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied in stretch when rival drifted out, recovered at eighth pole, closed fast late to make up more than 2 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Oct. 24.

Saratoga Matt: Raced eighth and last more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, swung out for stretch run, rallied from fifth to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths and gained second by a neck at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Sept. 23.

Stage Deli: Raced more than nine lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, advanced four wide to second in stretch, but flattened out and finished third, beaten a half-length for place at 1 1/16 miles on a sealed sloppy surface Sept. 25. (Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, waited behind wall of rivals on far turn, angled out in stretch and closed to finish second, beaten a nose at a mile on Oct. 20; returned $6.10 for place.)

CHURCHILL DOWNS 

Timely Tally: Raced seventh and last early, advanced to sixth 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied inside from fourth to make up two lengths in stretch and gained second by a neck at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 30.

DELAWARE PARK

Miss Bernstein: Raced 10 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, closed four wide from fourth in stretch to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished third, beaten a nose and a neck at six furlongs on Oct. 25.

GOLDEN GATE FIELDS

Awesome Jared: Raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, dropped to sixth after six furlongs, rallied four wide in stretch, bumped with winner nearing sixteenth pole, closed late from fifth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a head at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 23.

Sports Edition: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed between horses in stretch to make up nearly two lengths and finished second, beaten a nose at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 23.

Bits and Bobs: Raced more than 1 ½ lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, eased outside nearing stretch, forced to steady sharply off heels of rival, lost ground, recovered, made up 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Sept. 10. (Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, closed steadily in stretch and finished second by 3 ¼ lengths at five furlongs on Oct. 23.)

HAWTHORNE

Diva’s Diamond: Raced 5 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, rallied from fourth in stretch to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 27.

Dixie Shoes: Raced 7 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, angled out near mid-stretch, rallied to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a length at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Oct. 26.

Gambler Five: Broke slowly ninth and last, advanced to eighth more than 5 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied to make up almost 3 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second, beaten a nose at six furlongs on Oct. 12.

HOOSIER PARK

Yeardley: Broke slowly stumbling at start of rough trip, advanced to fifth early, taken up when stablemate bore out entering turn, dropped to eighth and rallied in stretch to finish second by two lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on a sealed muddy surface Sept. 10. (Went to front early, led by a head after a half-mile, took command in stretch and drew off under brisk handling to win by 7 ½ lengths at six furlongs on a muddy surface Oct. 1.)

LAUREL PARK

Mystical Terp: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, swung out behind rivals in upper stretch, rallied to make up three lengths and finished second, beaten a neck at seven furlongs on Oct. 25.

Unbridled Pride: Broke through the gate and ran off about a sixteenth of a mile before start, raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied in stretch to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a nose at six furlongs on Oct. 10; ran final quarter in 24 4/5. (Raced more than four lengths behind in third after a half-mile, dropped to fourth after six furlongs and rallied in stretch to finish second by 3 ¾ lengths at a mile on a sealed muddy surface Oct. 27.)

Bridey’s Frolic: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied outside in stretch to make up two lengths and finished second, beaten a neck in a mile race taken off the turf at 7 ½ furlongs on Sept. 26 at Delaware Park. (Dueled early, took lead by a half-length after a half-mile, gave way in upper stretch and finished third at a mile on a sloppy surface instead of 1 1/16 miles taken off the turf Oct. 18.)

LOUISIANA DOWNS

Tricky Suspect: Broke on top, led by a length after a half-mile, given a breather on turn, increased margin to 4 ½ lengths in stretch and won by 7 ½ lengths ridden out at six furlongs on Aug. 26. (Led by a length after a half-mile, shook clear turning for home, led by 5 ½ lengths in stretch and won by 9 ½ lengths ridden out, covering the six furlongs in 1:10 3/5, on Sept. 24.)

MONMOUTH PARK

Roman Invasion: Raced fourth a length and a head behind after a half-mile, lost ground to sixth more than 3 ½ lengths back after six furlongs, angled out in mid-stretch, rallied gamely between rivals to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths and finished second, beaten a head at a mile on Oct. 10. (Raced two lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied four wide to gain lead in stretch, bumped with rival and won by a neck at a mile on Oct. 21.)

Nacho Business: Stalked pace a length and a head behind in third after a half-mile, took command in stretch by three lengths and won in hand by 7 ¾ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 25.

Valentine Daisy: Broke seventh and last, trailed by 8 ½ lengths after a half-mile, rallied outside from sixth in stretch to make up 2 ¾ lengths and gained second by a neck at six furlongs on Sept. 10. (Raced more than seven lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, angled out for stretch run and surged late to win by a length at six furlongs on Oct. 10.)

PARX (PHILADELPHIA PARK)

Padre Ed: Raced six lengths behind in third after a half-mile, took lead in upper stretch and cruised to a 9 ½-length victory at a mile and 70 yards on Oct. 24.

Knocked Out: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile and closed well in stretch to gain second by a nose at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 11 at Delaware Park.

Heroic Pursuit: Broke in a tangle seventh and last, advanced to fifth early, dropped to sixth more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, came again inside to make up more than 2 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second, beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Oct. 10. (Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile and came back to gain third by a length at six furlongs on a muddy surface Oct. 30.)

Reason to Drink: Raced sixth and last 5 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, lost ground going very wide on turn, rallied in stretch to make up 4 ¾ lengths and finished second by 2 ½ lengths on a sealed muddy surface Sept. 24. (Pressed pace early, led by a head after a half-mile, increased margin to 1 ½ lengths while drifting out in mid-stretch and won by three-quarters of a length under steady urging at six furlongs on Oct. 15; returned $18.20 on front end.)

SANTA ANITA

Dr. Smarty Jack: Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, closed willingly from third in stretch to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at a mile on the turf Oct. 23.

Rauschenberg: Raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in ninth after a half-mile, lost ground looking for room going wide in stretch, rallied from 10th making up more than 7 ¾ lengths and finished second, beaten three-quarters of a length at 6 ½ furlongs on the turf Oct. 8.

Givine: Raced sixth and last 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide in stretch to make up more than 3 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on the turf Sept. 30.

SUFFOLK DOWNS

Superlook: Raced six lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, angled out four wide for stretch run, rallied to make up three lengths and finished second by 2 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on Oct. 10; ran final; quarter in 24 4/5. (Raced eighth early, dropped to ninth more than 11 lengths behind after a half-mile and rallied from sixth in stretch to gain third by a head at a mile and 70 yards on Oct. 24; returned $10.20 for show.)

TURF PARADISE

Dark Vader: Broke a bit slowly seventh and last, raced fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, bumped turning for home and closed willingly to finish second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Oct. 23.

Steel Blue: Raced more than four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, angled out on turn, rallied through traffic in stretch and finished third, beaten three-quarters of a length and a head at 7 ½ furlongs on the turf Oct. 11. (Set a pressured pace from the start, led by a head after a half-mile, held lead by same margin in stretch, weakened, but held on for third by three-quarters of a length at as mile on the turf Oct. 30.)

WOODBINE

Maverick Man: Raced third early, dropped to sixth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied along rail from fourth in stretch to make up 2 ½ lengths and finished second, beaten a head at six furlongs on Oct. 28.

Jenna’s Wabbit: Sprinted clear quickly, led by two lengths after a half-mile, widened margin to 4 ½ lengths in stretch and won by 7 ¼ lengths in a hand ride covering the six furlongs in 1:09 4/5 on Oct. 10.

Kings Parade: Raced seventh and last more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground into stretch, rallied late to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third, beaten a neck for place at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 25.

With so many great races and big name horses it is often hard to decide how to best spend your bankroll during the two-day Breeders’ Cup event.  The good news is that this year horseplayers have more choices than ever before in terms of multi race and exotic wagers with low minimums.

For those who want a lot of action with a small bankrolls the rolling pick-3’s with a 50-cent minimum base bet offer the greatest opportunity.  Pick 4’s have also been reduced to a 50-cent base bet, and every race will feature a dime superfecta option as well.  This year the Pick 4 pools will have guaranteed minimums between $750,000 and $1.5 million depending on the day and sequence of races.

Another new bet is the Breeders’ Cup Pick 5 with a 50-cent minimum base bet.  This bet features a mandatory payout for each day of the Breeders’ Cup with no carryover.  It is a good option for players who don’t have the bankroll to play the Pick Six with a decent sized ticket.

If you are a big budget player who wants to take a swing at the big pools each day the Breeders’ Cup will be offering an “Ultra Pick Six” wager with a guaranteed pool of $750,000 on Friday and $2 million on Saturday.  If no one hits the Pick Six on Friday’s card the pool will carryover to the Saturday’s card.  Last year the Pick Six returned $800,160 with a carry over from the previous day.  In 2009 there was a sole Pick Six winner who scored $1.8 million dollars on a thin ticket that only cost $48 – sometimes you just need to get lucky to win in this game.

Bettors can play the Super-Hi 5 on both the Ladies’ Classic and Breeders’ Cup Classic which means they need to pick the first five finishers in order.  Though this is a tall order it is a great bet for those with a strong opinion about one or two key horses they feel will finish in the top three spots.

The popular Ladies’ Classic – Breeders’ Cup Classic double will also be offered again this year.  Last year’s choice of Unrivaled Belle and Blame paid out an astounding $89, a longshot payout for a logical combination.

No matter which type of exotic or multi race bet you choose remember to always play the minimum amount and hit the ‘repeat’ button if you’d like to bet more.  This will help keep the taxman away if your ticket generates enough winnings to trigger a filing with the IRS. Of course if you hit the Pick Six you probably won’t be too worried about whatever share Uncle Sam wants from you.

Don’t forget that most online wagering sites like TwinSpires will be offering advance wagering on Saturday’s card starting on Friday so you can place your bets a day before if you can’t be around during the action for the Breeders’ Cup Classic.

The main track at Churchill Downs, which hosts a record eighth Breeders’ Cup Nov. 4-5, is different from any dirt surface in the nation.

Most tracks are comprised of limestone with dirt on top. The Louisville venue has no such base while the track is mixed with a deep layer of soil, clay and organic materials several feet underneath.

However, even the composition of dirt surfaces vary. Calder Race Course’s main track is a 12-inch base of sand and clay with a 4 ½-inch cushion comprised of sand and clay. The track becomes a bit cuppy while drying out from rain.

At Monmouth Park, where the 24th Breeders’ Cup was staged, a good rain results in a dead rail for a day or so.

Churchill Downs is much different up to 24 hours following a rainstorm. However, it arguably becomes the best strip in racing because the main track turns faster compared to its dry, unusually deep surface that many horses plainly don’t like.

Rainfall in Louisville is evenly distributed throughout the year, but the wettest month is May when the first leg of the Triple Crown is staged.

In 2009, the winner of the 136th Kentucky Derby wasn’t that far back when the track came up sloppy and was sealed. Super Saver was fourth within easy striking distance of the pacesetting Conveyance after six furlongs of the 1 ¼ miles while saving ground on the inside.

The son of Maria’s Mon advanced to second with a quarter-mile left, took command in the stretch and drew away to score by 2 ½ lengths.

Closers didn’t have many good afternoons during the past spring-summer meeting at Churchill Downs while speed did well in sprints.

During the 2011 meeting from April 30 to July 3, according to Brisnet.com, 33 percent of the 78 winners at six furlongs led at every call. In 59 races at 1 1/16 miles, 15 percent of the winners went wire to wire.

Going back to last year’s BC event, Big Drama sprinted clear from the start of the Sprint, led by a length after a half-mile and won by 1 ½ lengths under steady urging. The son of Montbrook, who covered the six furlongs on a fast track in 1:09, will defend his title on Nov. 5.

The challengers include runner-up Hamazing Destiny, whose recent form hasn’t been good, failing to win in four outings this year. The son of Salt Lake ran second and fourth to Jackson Bend, a likely starter.

Winners of last year’s Juvenile and Juvenile Fillies were no farther back than 1 ½ lengths after a half-mile.

Uncle Mo disposed of two runners as he entered the stretch and drew off under steady urging to win by 4 ¼ lengths covering the 8 ½ furlongs in 1:42 3/5.

Awesome Feather, only a head back in the stretch, scored by 2 ¼ lengths in a hand ride covering the 1 1/16 miles in 1:45.

The unbeaten daughter of Awesome of Course will skip the Ladies’ Classic because she has only raced once this year. Meanwhile, Uncle Mo has been pre-entered in the Dirt Mile and Classic.