The first day of summers ushers the long run of top-notch turf racing, and the 2-year-old babies who are out to strut their stuff. So, find some shade, grab a cool drink, and get your hands on your E-Z Win Forms as the “Runners of Summer” are back in full stride!

 

Belmont Park

The weatherman calls for a high of 86 degrees, and a 10% chance of rain.

 

Race #7 – Mdn Claiming $25,000 – 6f on the turf – 4:13 p.m.

#9 – Chessrate (7-2) = Rajiv Maragh in the irons for trainer Chris Englehardt. Last out she ran a game effort and held the lead for a couple of strides. I think she’ll show much better, and 7-2 is a kind price.

Race #10 – The (G-1) Mother Goose – 1 1/16 – 5:49 p.m. ET

#1 -Marathon Lady (5-1) = Robby Albarado up for Steve Hobby. She drew off by three down in the Black Eyed Susan, and was gunned down late in the lane by fast closing Fiftyshadesofhay. This Florida-bred is looking better, and her lightly raced resume may be her best asset. I like her last effort, and cutting back to 1 1/16 may be what the doctor ordered.

 

Colonial Downs

The weather in Virginia calls for 81 degrees, and partly cloudy.

 

Race #6 – The (G-3) All Along Stakes – 1 1/8 on the turf – 7:10 p.m. ET

#5 – Appealing Cat (3-1) = Edgar Prado aboard for Graham Motion. A very solid run in the (G-3) at Gallorette at Pimlico. This is her third off the layoff, and Motion knows how to get runners to peak. 7/9 ITM on the green, and her chances look solid. Be sure to box her with the chalk #2 – Channel Lady.

 

Race #7 – The (G-2) – Colonial Turf Cup – 1 3/16 on the turf – 7:46 p.m. ET

#6 – Air Support (5-2) = J.J. Castellano in the saddle for Shug McGaughey. This runner loves the New Kent turf, and is 2/2 ITM. Comes in fresh with solid works.

 

Be sure to keep your E-Z Win Forms close as they have a proven record over the Virginia oval. Oh, and don’t forget to pay attention to all of the tier levels. WP digs out nuggets of gold that can make your day a winner! Best of luck this weekend, as things are just starting to heat up…