Horses to Watch at BookMaker Racebook

AQUEDUCT

Double Down Vinman: Bumped after break, raced seventh early, advanced to fourth more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied inside to make up more than 4 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface Jan. 11; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

Kat’s Mystery: Bumped after break, trailed early, advanced from ninth to sixth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came wide into stretch losing ground, closed well to make up 7 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten a neck and three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Jan. 6.

Borrowing Base: Raced 3 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, gained second in stretch, but weakened and finished third at 1 ¼ miles on Dec. 15. (Bumped after break, raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than 3 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground entering stretch and finished third at a mile and 70 yards on Jan. 9.)

FAIR GROUNDS

Rose Medallion: Broke last, trailed in eighth by 9 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came inside around far turn, closed determinedly from sixth outside to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at about 1 1/16 miles on the turf Jan. 6.

Hallway: Raced eighth more than 3 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied before drive, lost ground, awaited room in stretch, closed determinedly from seventh to make up more than 1 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at about a mile on the turf Jan. 5.

Artistic Escape: Broke next to last from outside post, raced more than 9 ½ lengths behind in ninth after a half-mile, rallied wide to fifth in stretch, made up nearly five lengths and finished second beaten a nose at about a mile on the turf Dec. 14.

Kindling: Raced ninth early, dropped to 10th and last more than 12 lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, rallied late from ninth to make up more than 7 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on the turf Dec. 6. (Raced inside 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, moved outside for drive, closed gamely to make up 2 ½ lengths in stretch and finished third at about 5 ½ furlongs on the turf Jan. 12.)

GULFSTREAM PARK

Colorful Judgement: Checked in tight quarters breaking last in tight quarters at start, raced 10th more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, closed well from fourth in stretch to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Jan. 10.

Universe: Stalked pace three wide two lengths behind in third after a half-mile, lost ground to fourth in stretch, rallied wide to make up two lengths and finished third beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Jan. 9.

Lady Byar: Trailed in eighth more than 11 lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out in stretch from fifth, finished full of run to make up 5 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a nose at seven furlongs on Jan. 9; ran final three furlongs in 36 3/8.

Identical: Raced fifth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, eased outside leaders leaving turn, lost ground, rallied later to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at a mile on Jan. 3.

Straight Blues: Raced seven lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, dropped back to eighth in traffic midway on far turn, circled five wide for drive, rallied belatedly to make up more than three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on a good turf course Dec. 6; ran final quarter in 22 4/5 at Calder. (Raced fifth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, raced three wide around far turn, finished willing to make up nearly 1 ½ lengths and lost second by a neck at a mile on the turf Jan. 3.)

HAWTHORNE

Fandemonium: Raced six lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, advanced to third in stretch, closed with a rush to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nosed at six furlongs on Jan. 4; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

One Perfect Day: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than 3 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, looked for room on turn, angled out for drive, rallied to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface Dec. 22. (Chased pace inside more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out to take lead in stretch, drifted a bit, lost lead briefly and came again to prevail by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on a sealed muddy surface Jan. 6.)

LAUREL PARK

Imperturbable: Broke last, advanced to ninth more than 12 lengths behind after a half-mile, swung very wide in mid-stretch, rallied from seventh to up more than 5 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at seven furlongs on Jan. 10; ran final eighth in 12 4/5.

Preminger: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung to five path in upper stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than two lengths and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on Jan. 5.

Casual: Raced four lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, steadied, blocked entering stretch, angled out, rallied from fourth to second, but couldn’t close gap at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 11 at Philadelphia Park. (Raced four lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, angled out five wide advancing to third in stretch and won by a half-length at six furlongs on Jan. 1.)

Helen Says: Raced fifth more than 5 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed willingly in stretch to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten 1 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 7. (Grabbed lead by a half-length after a half-mile, moved clear leaving the fife-sixteenths pole and drew off by 10 ¾ lengths under a tight right-handed drive at seven furlongs on a sealed muddy track in the rain on Dec. 26; returned $12.60 to win and $8 to place.)

Baseball Diamond: Dueled early, led by a head after a half-mile, battled in upper stretch and weakened to third at seven furlongs on Dec. 15. (Raced third early, dropped to fourth three lengths behind after a half-mile and rallied inside to gain second by a neck at seven furlongs on Jan. 3.)

PHILADELPHIA PARK

Frenchburg: Broke from outside post, raced more than six lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, advanced to fourth along rail in stretch, closed to make up nearly 4 ½ length and finished third beaten a head and a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Jan. 8.

Premium Saltine: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths in stretch and gained second by a nose at six furlongs on a good surface Dec. 24.

Graded by Results: Raced fourth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed fast to make up more than 4 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten a nose and a neck at six furlongs on Dec. 4.

Secret Time: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, angled out into stretch, made up nearly two lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 24. (Pressed pace in second after a half-mile, challenged winner in stretch and was beaten a head at six furlongs on Dec. 3)

SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK

Nasheet: Jostled with third-place finisher at start, raced three wide into first turn, was more than three lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, closed well to make up three lengths and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on the turf Jan. 6.

Susies Cameo Girl: Jostled at start, raced third early, dropped to fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, shifted three wide midway through far turn, rallied to make up 3 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a length at a mile on Jan. 5.

Honor Jones: Raced 8 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, went four wide on far turn, closed well to fourth in stretch, made up 3 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at a mile and 70 yards on Dec. 16.

Tejas Cat: Broke seventh and last, raced five lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung six wide for drive, advanced to fourth in stretch, closed willingly to make up nearly three lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on a good surface Nov. 24. (Stalked pace in third early, dropped to fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came out three wide in upper stretch to gain lead by a length and finished second beaten a neck at a mile and 70 yards on Dec. 16.)

SANTA ANITA

Mostacolli Mort: Stalked pace inside four lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, came out in upper stretch to make up more than 1 ½ lengths and finished willingly to run second beaten a nose at 1 1/8 miles on the turf Jan. 11.

Adarlyn Cat: Broke from outside 12 post, raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in ninth after three-eighth of a mile, steadied in tight entering turn, came three deep to eighth in stretch, angled out, closed gamely to make up 4 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at 5 ½ furlongs Jan. 10.

Unbidable: Raced outside between rivals early in eighth, moved closer to rail in fifth six lengths behind after a half-mile, forced out some into turn, came three deep into stretch, rallied to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten a neck and a nose at six furlongs on Jan. 4; ran final quarter in 24 1/5.

Your Quote: Broke next to last, in tight early in sixth, dropped to seventh more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, raced four wide leaving backstretch, came three deep into stretch losing ground, rallied to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten two lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 28.

Dirty Dish Mitch: Steadied into the first turn, raced fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to second after six furlongs, took lead in stretch and kicked clear under a steady hand ride to win by 8 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 mile on Dec. 6 at Hollywood Park. (Stalked pace in third more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to second in stretch and held place by three-quarters of a length at seven furlongs on Dec. 26; returned $7.80 for second.)

TURFWAY PARK

Clearly Best: Raced sixth early, dropped to seventh more than 10 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced from fifth three wide on far turn to third in stretch, made up 4 ½ lengths and closed willingly to finish second beaten two lengths at a mile on Jan. 10.

Budge Man: Broke last, raced eighth more than 10 lengths behind after a half-mile, split rivals late on far turn to reach sixth, angled out for drive, closed fast from fourth to make up seven lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at a mile on Jan. 5.

Billybob Bly: Broke last, trailed early, moved from 11th to 10th more than eight lengths behind after a half-mile, swung widest to fifth in stretch, finished fast to make up four lengths and ran third beaten two necks at six furlongs on Nov. 29; ran final quarter in 23 4/5. (Trailed by 15 lengths after a half-mile, closed well from sixth outside, made up 2 ¼ lengths and gained second by a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 31; returned $5.40 for place.)

Dixie Decision: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, moved between horses around far turn to reach contention, rallied clear in stretch to gain lead by a half-length and won by three-quarters of a length at a mile on Dec. 8; returned $10 on front end. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, bounced around between rivals midway through far turn losing ground to fifth, closed willingly from fourth in stretch and prevailed by a half-length at a mile on Jan. 9.)

TURF PARADISE

Moody Rythum: Broke next to last, raced 10th more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came wide into the lane, made up more than 2 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished well to gain second by four lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 27. (Jostled repeatedly at start, raced seventh more than 5 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came six wide into stretch and rallied from fifth to gain second by 1 ¾ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Jan. 12.)

Skycloud: Broke outward, bumped at start, gained late in stretch and finished dead-heated for second beaten 1 ½ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 15.

Danceafunnymile: Raced eight lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, eased out in stretch while racing greenly, finished well making up more than 3 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Dec. 7.

Mo Jo Annie: Raced third early, dropped to fourth after three-eighths of a mile, advanced to third in stretch and finished a willing second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 14. (Broke out, bumped, raced fifth more than 9 ½ lengths after a half-mile, advanced to fourth in stretch and finished gamely to gain second by a nose at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface Jan. 7.)

Crazy Girl: Raced fourth early, moved to lead three wide on bend, responded to urging gradually edging away through the final furlong and won by 5 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 8. (Raced 3 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, moved out on turn, but lacked needed response and finished in same spot at six furlongs on Dec. 23.)

By Online Gambling

Gulfstream Park: Something Old, Something New

Gulfstream Park: Something Old, Something New

There’s an old adage dating back centuries that describes Gulfstream Park: Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.

The fifth line of the saying relating to the wedding custom is often left out: And a silver sixpence in her shoe.

A sixpence minted in Britain from 1551 to 1967 was made of silver and worth six pennies. In 1530, racing in England took place at York and 10 years later Chester had its first racecourse

That was the era when two-horse match races for a private wager became popular among nobility. That’s why horse racing is still known as the Sport of Kings.

Something old reminds me of the Florida Derby that debuted in 1952 when Sky Ship defeated Handsome Teddy by a head when the purse was worth $24,750.

Five years later, I saw my first Florida Derby a year after graduating from the University of Miami accompanied by several classmates when the purse was valued at $123,600 on a beautiful, memorable March 30, 1957.

Only five horses ran, the smallest field along with ’69, and that included two coupled horses, Calumet Farm’s Gen. Duke and Iron Liege.

The late, great Bill Hartack guided Gen. Duke to victory from off the pace, wearing down Bold Ruler to prevail by 1 ½ lengths. The runner-up, ridden by equally famous Eddie Arcaro, edged Iron Liege by a head.

Fifty-one years later, Gen. Duke’s winning time of 1:46 4/5 for the 1 1/8 miles remains the stakes record. The 57th running of Gulfstream’s showcase event worth $1 million will be staged March 29.

Something new applies to the latest wrinkles at the South Florida complex from a revised racing schedule and more indoor seating to a huge, ultra-comfortable simulcast room and added dining facilities that include the relocated South Beach landmark restaurant Christine Lee’s.

In a departure from recent years, racing will be held six days a week Wednesday through Mondays until mid-March during the 89-day meeting.

In addition, the takeout on straight bets has been raised from 15 percent to 17 percent. However, the Pick 6 rate was lowered by 5 percent to 15 percent while all other exotic wagers remain at 20 percent.

Outdoor saddling returns, which should please fans, except for inclement weather. More cameras were added throughout the facility to allow on-track viewers and patrons at simulcast centers a better look at the action.

Something borrowed applies to newcomers in key racing posts that face several challenges, which include increasing field size and maintaining purse structure.

“Maximizing field sizes is going to be our top priority this winter,” said new racing secretary Bill Couch, who holds the same job at Thistledown in Ohio.

Last year, Gulfstream averaged 8.6 horses per race. Couch is hoping for 9.2 to 9.5 per race this meeting. The year the track is trying to attract more Calder-based horses by offering one race each afternoon restricted to Florida-breds.

“If field size is strong and business is good,” Gulfstream President-General Manager Bill Murphy said, there is no reason why purses couldn’t increase before the meeting ends April 20.

Something blue relates to the disappointing revenue produced by casino games. When business failed to approach original projections, purses ended up being overpaid by several million dollars.

New racing manager Bernie Hettel and Couch had to deal with that overpayment from the 2007 meeting when overnight purses were increased 17 percent. So the stakes program was trimmed and some races were moved around.

Gulfstream altered its stakes schedule, spacing out graded stakes rather than featuring four or more on Saturdays except on Jan. 26 — Sunshine Millions Day.

Florida Derby Day features three events while there are five two-stakes days.

By Online Gambling

Horses to Watch at BookMaker Racebook

AQUEDUCT

Kat’s Mystery: Bumped after break, trailed early, advanced from ninth to sixth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came wide into stretch losing ground, closed well to make up 7 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten a neck and three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Jan. 6.

Borrowing Base: Broke awkwardly, bumped, trailed by more than 10 lengths after a half-mile, advanced from ninth to fifth in stretch, altered course, made up more than 3 ¾ lengths and finished a game third beaten two necks at 1 1/8 miles on Nov. 25. (Raced 3 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, gained second in stretch, but weakened and finished third at 1 ¼ miles on Dec. 15.)

Court Vision: Settled two wide in hand more than 4 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, fanned more than six wide for the drive, closed determinedly in stretch from fifth to make up 4 ½ lengths and won by a half-length at a mile on Oct. 27 at Churchill Downs. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, dropped to fourth after six furlongs, came out for room in stretch bumping with two different rivals down the lane and won by a neck at 1 1/8 miles on Nov. 24.)

CALDER

Flight to Eden: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than four lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, advanced between horses to fourth in stretch and gained third at five furlongs on Dec. 15. (Raced five lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, angled out for drive, advanced to third in stretch and gained second by a nose at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 24.)

FAIR GROUNDS

Hallway: Raced eighth more than 3 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied before drive, lost ground, awaited room in stretch, closed determinedly from seventh to make up more than 1 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at about a mile on the turf Jan. 5.

Artistic Escape: Broke next to last from outside post, raced more than 9 ½ lengths behind in ninth after a half-mile, rallied wide to fifth in stretch, made up nearly five lengths and finished second beaten a nose at about a mile on the turf Dec. 14.

Kindling: Raced ninth early, dropped to 10th and last more than 12 lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, rallied late from ninth to make up more than 7 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on the turf Dec. 6.

GOLDEN GATE FIELDS

Designer Breed: Trailed by more than a dozen lengths after a half-mile, came out mid-stretch in 10th, closed well to make up more than six lengths and finished second beaten a length at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 27 at Oak Tree. (Trailed by more than 7 ½ lengths after a half-mile, eased out in upper stretch to find a clear path, closed fast from fifth and gained second by 2 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 1,)

GULFSTREAM PARK

Identical: Raced fifth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, eased outside leaders leaving turn, lost ground, rallied later to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at a mile on Jan. 3.

Straight Blues: Raced seven lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, dropped back to eighth in traffic midway on far turn, circled five wide for drive, rallied belatedly to make up more than three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on a good turf course Dec. 6; ran final quarter in 22 4/5 at Calder. (Raced fifth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, raced three wide around far turn, finished willing to make up nearly 1 ½ lengths and lost second by a neck at a mile on the turf Jan. 23)

HAWTHORNE

Fandermonium: Raced six lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, advanced to third in stretch, closed with a rush to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nosed at six furlongs on Jan. 4; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

Convairman: Raced seventh more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to fifth in stretch, rallied late to make up 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Nov. 24; ran final quarter in 24 4/5. (Broke next to last, raced ninth more than 13 lengths after a half-mile, advanced to seventh in stretch, rallied through to make up more than five lengths and gained second by a half-length at six furlongs on Dec. 29.)

One Perfect Day: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than 3 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, looked for room on turn, angled out for drive, rallied to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface Dec. 22. (Chased pace inside more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out to take lead in stretch, drifted a bit, lost lead briefly and came again to prevail by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on a sealed muddy surface Jan. 6.)

HOLLYWOOD PARK

Too Phar: Broke slowly, advanced from eighth to six more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, split rivals in a bit tight in fourth in mid-stretch, rallied in deep stretch to make up 3 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Nov. 28. (Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, came out in stretch and rallied from fifth to win by a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 21.)

Grace and Power: Steadied entering first turn, raced fifth more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out for drive, advanced to third in stretch, made up 1 ¾ lengths and finished second by 1 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Nov. 24 at Laurel Park. (Broke last, trailed by more than 5 ½ lengths after six furlongs, came out five wide from ninth entering stretch, rallied from fourth to gain second by two lengths at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 15; returned $9.20 for place.)

Banner Lodge: Raced ninth more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, came out leaving turn, forced five wide by runner-up into stretch, rallied from seventh making up more than 4 ½ lengths, finished third beaten a neck and a nose, but was moved up to second on an interference disqualification Nov. 23; ran final quarter in 23 2/5. (Raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, moved to third in stretch and rallied along rail to win by 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 16.)

LAUREL PARK

Preminger: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung to five path in upper stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than two lengths and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on Jan. 5.

Brokerage House: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out in mid-stretch and closed with a rush to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Nov. 3.

Casual: Raced four lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, steadied, blocked entering stretch, angled out, rallied from fourth to second, but couldn’t close gap at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 11 at Philadelphia Park. (Raced four lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, angled out five wide advancing to third in stretch and won by a half-length at six furlongs on Jan. 1)

Helen Says: Raced fifth more than 5 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed willingly in stretch to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten 1 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 7. (Grabbed lead by a half-length after a half-mile, moved clear leaving the fife-sixteenths pole and drew off by 10 ¾ lengths under a tight right-handed drive at seven furlongs on a sealed muddy track in the rain on Dec. 26; returned $12.60 to win and $8 to place.)

Baseball Diamond: Dueled early, led by a head after a half-mile, battled in upper stretch and weakened to third at seven furlongs on Dec. 15. (Raced third early, dropped to fourth three lengths behind after a half-mile and rallied inside to gain second by a neck at seven furlongs on Jan. 3.)

PHILADELPHIA PARK

Premium Saltine: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths in stretch and gained second by a nose at six furlongs on a good surface Dec. 24.

Graded by Results: Raced fourth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed fast to make up more than 4 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten a nose and a neck at six furlongs on Dec. 4.

Secret Time: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, angled out into stretch, made up nearly two lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 24. (Pressed pace in second after a half-mile, challenged winner in stretch and was beaten a head at six furlongs on Dec. 3)

Lover Nekia: Raced three lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, weaved between rivals on far turn to fifth while losing ground, advanced to third in stretch, finished well making up five lengths and ran second beaten a length at a mile and 70 yards on Nov. 23. (Raced eighth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out for drive and rallied from fifth in stretch to lose second by a head at a mile on a sealed muddy track Dec. 10.)

SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK

Susies Cameo Girl: Jostled at start, raced third early, dropped to fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, shifted three wide midway through far turn, rallied to make up 3 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a length at a mile on Jan. 5.

Honor Jones: Raced 8 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, went four wide on far turn, closed well to fourth in stretch, made up 3 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at a mile and 70 yards on Dec. 16.

Aledo Monarch: Raced in sixth more than fourth lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied strongly three wide on far turn into stretch, closed fast from fifth and won by three-quarters of a length at a mile on Dec. 7. (Raced 5 ½ lengths behind in seventh and last after a half-mile, rallied to third in stretch and finished second by a half-length at a mile and 70 yards on Dec. 16.)

Tejas Cat: Broke seventh and last, raced five lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung six wide for drive, advanced to fourth in stretch, closed willingly to make up nearly three lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on a good surface Nov. 24. (Stalked pace in third early, dropped to fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came out three wide in upper stretch to gain lead by a length and finished second beaten a neck at a mile and 70 yards on Dec. 16.)

SANTA ANITA

Unbidable: Raced outside between rivals early in eighth, moved closer to rail in fifth six lengths behind after a half-mile, forced out some into turn, came three deep into stretch, rallied to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten a neck and a nose at six furlongs on Jan. 4; ran final quarter in 24 1/5.

Your Quote: Broke next to last, in tight early in sixth, dropped to seventh more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, raced four wide leaving backstretch, came three deep into stretch losing ground, rallied to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten two lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 28.

Dirty Dish Mitch: Steadied into the first turn, raced fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to second after six furlongs, took lead in stretch and kicked clear under a steady hand ride to win by 8 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 mile on Dec. 6 at Hollywood Park. (Stalked pace in third more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to second in stretch and held place by three-quarters of a length at seven furlongs on Dec. 26; returned $7.80 to place.

TURFWAY PARK

Budge Man: Broke last, raced eighth more than 10 lengths behind after a half-mile, split rivals late on far turn to reach sixth, angled out for drive, closed fast from fourth to make up seven lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at a mile on Jan. 5.

Allegiance: Raced seventh more than 9 ½ lengths behind in seventh after three-eighths of a mile, altered course to outside in mid-stretch, and closed fast late to make up 6 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths and a head at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 26.

Billybob Bly: Broke last, trailed early, moved from 11th to 10th more than eight lengths behind after a half-mile, swung widest to fifth in stretch, finished fast to make up four lengths and ran third beaten two necks at six furlongs on Nov. 29; ran final quarter in 23 4/5. (Trailed by 15 lengths after a half-mile, closed well from sixth outside, made up 2 ¼ lengths and gained second by a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 31; returned $5.40 for place.)

Dixie Decision: Raced more than 9 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, advanced between horses more than three wide to fifth in stretch and rallied to gain second by a nose at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course on Oct. 28 at Churchill Downs. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, moved between horses around far turn to reach contention, rallied clear in stretch to gain lead by a half-length and won by three-quarters of a length at a mile on Dec. 8; returned $10 on front end.)

TURF PARADISE

Moody Rythum: Broke next to last, raced 10th more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came wide into the lane, made up more than 2 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished well to gain second by four lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 27.

Skycloud: Broke outward, bumped at start, gained late in stretch and finished dead-heated for second beaten 1 ½ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 15.

Danceafunnymile: Raced eight lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, eased out in stretch while racing greenly, finished well making up more than 3 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Dec. 7.

Mo Jo Annie: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, swung four wide for drive, rallied to third in stretch, made up 2 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten a head and three-quarters of a length at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 27. (Raced third early, dropped to fourth after three-eighths of a mile, advanced to third in stretch and finished a willing second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 14.)

Crazy Girl: Raced fourth early, moved to lead three wide on bend, responded to urging gradually edging away through the final furlong and won by 5 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 8. (Raced 3 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, moved out on turn, but lacked needed response and finished in same spot at six furlongs on Dec. 23.)

By Online Gambling

Early to Research, Early to Handicap the Derby Pays Off

Early to Research, Early to Handicap the Derby Pays Off

In the fall an old horseplayer’s fancy turns to thoughts of winning the Kentucky Derby in the spring. At least I do.

I’ve paid more attention to 2-year-olds during the 21st Century for several reasons. Let’s face it — you can never do too much research on prospects for America’s Race.

If you have the time I do, it pays in the long run.

Back on Jan. 18, 2003, I saw Funny Cide run a game race in the Holy Bull Stakes at Gulfstream Park. I was captivated after he hit the gate breaking from post 13, encountered trouble and traveled wide the entire 1 1/16 miles, but covered the distance in a respectable 1:44 2/5.

In early March, the son of Distorted Humor stayed close to the pace in the Louisiana Derby, rallied in the stretch, dropped back, came again along the rail and finished third to Peace Rules. It was another troubled trip. The gelding was placed second when Kafwain was disqualified.

Later in mid-month I decided to take a shot on Funny Cide with a Derby futures wager at 59-1 because the odds were so high.

On Derby Day, I viewed the simulcast from Retama Park in Greater San Antonio where I was having a good Saturday afternoon, hitting several exactas at Churchill Downs.

I played a $1 trifecta for $23 keying Funny Cide, Empire Maker and Ten Most Wanted on top of all three and Offlee Wild in the middle, leaving Empire Maker out underneath, but including Funny Cide, Offlee Wild, Ten Most Wanted and Peace Rules. I also bet $2 on Funny Cide’s nose.

Funny Cide didn’t disappointment – returning $27.60 on the front end. The trifecta paid $332.40. And the futures bet rewarded me with $120.80.

On Sept. 7 this year, a 2-year-old son of Gulch attracted my attention when he came from way off the pace in his six-furlong debut at Turfway Park.

The colt broke sluggishly, moved from last to sixth more than 5 ½ lengths behind the leader after a half-mile, made up more than five lengths in the stretch and finished second beaten only a half-length. He ran the final quarter in 24 2/5.

I kept tabs on Court Vision the remainder of this racing year. He was greeeaaat! He ran at three different tracks and three distances, on conventional dirt, Polytrack, during the daytime and at night.

On Oct. 6 at Keeneland, he was three lengths back in fourth after a half-mile, advanced to third in the stretch and drew clear by 1 ¾ lengths at 1 1/16 miles. Three weeks later at Churchill Downs, Court Vision fanned more than six wide in eighth for the drive, closed determinedly in the stretch to make up 4 ½ lengths and won the $150,000 Iroquois Stakes at a mile by a half-length.

On Nov. 24 at Aqueduct in the $200,000 Remsen Stakes, the dark bay raced 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, dropped to fourth in tight after six furlongs, came out for room in stretch, bumped with two rivals down the lane and scored by a neck at 1 1/8 miles.

The last Remsen winner to win the Kentucky Derby was Thunder Gulch in ’94 – also sired by Gulch. Hall of Famer Bill Mott, looking for his first victory on the first Saturday in May, trains Court Vision.

Mott’s best showing came in ’98 when Favorite Trick, the ’97 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile champ and Horse of the Year, finished eighth to Real Quiet.

Another Mott prospect, Majestic Warrior, missed this year’s Juvenile because of a hoof injury suffered running sixth in the $400,000 Champagne Stakes.

Belmont’s Champagne at a mile went to undefeated War Pass, trained by Nick Zito, who later captured the Juvenile leading at every call like in all his five victories. The last Champagne winner to smell the roses was Sea Hero in ’92.

Zito, who won the Champagne five times, saddled two Kentucky Derby winners: Strike the Gold in ’91 and Go for Gin in ’94.

Future 3-year-olds worth watching are:

Pyro, trained by Steve Asmussen, who was runner-up to War Pass in the Champagne and Juvenile.

Mott’s Z Humor, third in the Champagne and fifth in the Juvenile, who dead-heated for first in this month’s $1 million Delta Jackpot Stakes.

Asmussen’s Kodiak Cowboy, second in the Belmont Futurity, who finished third in the Juvenile.

Barclay Tagg’s Tale of Ekati, winner of the Futurity, who ran fourth in the Juvenile.

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Horses to Watch at BookMaker Racebook

AQUEDUCT

Press Only: Raced fifth inside more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out in stretch losing ground, finished gamely to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and ran third beaten 1 ¼ lengths at a mile and 70 yards on Dec. 7.

In for a Dime: Trailed by more than seven lengths after a half-mile, rallied three wide on far turn to third in stretch, made up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on Nov. 28; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

Borrowing Base: Broke awkwardly, bumped, trailed by more than 10 lengths after a half-mile, advanced from ninth to fifth in stretch, altered course, made up more than 3 ¾ lengths and finished a game third beaten two necks at 1 1/8 miles on Nov. 25.

Court Vision: Settled two wide in hand more than 4 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, fanned more than six wide for the drive, closed determinedly in stretch from fifth to make up 4 ½ lengths and won by a half-length at a mile on Oct. 27 at Churchill Downs. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, dropped to fourth after six furlongs, came out for room in stretch bumping with two different rivals down the lane and won by a neck at 1 1/8 miles on Nov. 24.)

CALDER

Straight Blues: Raced seven lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, dropped back to eighth in traffic midway on far turn, circled five wide for drive, rallied belatedly to make up more than three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on a good turf course Dec. 6; ran final quarter in 22 4/5.

Flight to Eden: Trailed by more than 5 ½ lengths after three-eighths of a mile, swung out for stretch run, advanced from seventh to fifth, made up more than 4 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 29.

Teddy Ballgame: Steadied on first turn, raced eighth after a half-mile, swung out for stretch run, closed well from fifth to make up 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on Nov. 25.

Lady Lori: Bumped by winner at break, raced fourth more than a length behind after a half-mile, steadied behind rivals on far turn, angled out for room in stretch and finished willingly in second by three-quarters of a length at a mile and 70 yards on Nov. 16. (Chased pace 1 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, eased out for stretch run, rallied to gain lead nearing sixteenth pole and drew clear by two lengths at seven furlongs on Nov. 26.)

FAIR GROUNDS

Kindling: Raced ninth early, dropped to 10th and last more than 12 lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, rallied late from ninth to make up more than 7 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on the turf Dec. 6.

Corrine: Raced seventh more than 12 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, advanced to sixth in stretch, made up 5 ¼ lengths and gained second by three-quarters of a length at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 29.

GOLDEN GATE FIELDS

Designer Breed: Trailed by more than a dozen lengths after a half-mile, came out mid-stretch in 10th, closed well to make up more than six lengths and finished second beaten a length at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 27 at Oak Tree. (Trailed by more than 7 ½ lengths after a half-mile, eased out in upper stretch to find a clear path, closed fast from fifth and gained second by 2 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 1,)

HAWTHORNE

One Perfect Day: Pressed pace in fourth after a half-mile, waited for room on turn and upper stretch, altered course, rallied when clear and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Dec. 5.

Flyabovetherest: Raced ninth more than 14 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, circled field to fifth in stretch, closed fast to make up 8 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Nov. 25; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

Convairman: Raced seventh more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to fifth in stretch, rallied late to make up 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Nov. 24; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

Rally Catcher: Steadied inside early, trailed by seven lengths after a half-mile, advance wide to seventh in stretch, made up more than 3 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and two lengths at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Nov. 14.

HOLLYWOOD PARK

Too Phar: Broke slowly, advanced from eighth to six more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, split rivals in a bit tight in fourth in mid-stretch, rallied in deep stretch to make up 3 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Nov. 28.

Banner Lodge: Raced ninth more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, came out leaving turn, forced five wide by runner-up into stretch, rallied from seventh making up more than 4 ½ lengths, finished third beaten a neck and a nose, but was moved up to second on an interference disqualification Nov. 23; ran final quarter in 23 2/5.

Dr Zaentz: Chased pace between rivals in eighth more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, moved outside leaving turn, swung five wide into stretch, rallied from sixth to make by three lengths and finished second by two lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 11; ran final quarter in 24 1/5. (Raced sixth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, waited inside leaving turn, split horses in mid-stretch and rallied to gain second by 3 ½ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 30.)

Dirty Dish Mitch: Squeezed at start, raced ninth more than nine lengths behind after a half-mile, moved up four wide to third in stretch, drifted in but made up two lengths and finished second beaten a length at seven furlongs on Nov. 10. (Steadied into the first turn, raced fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to second after six furlongs, took lead in stretch and kicked clear under a stead hand ride to win by 8 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 mile on Dec. 6.)

HOOSIER PARK

Dixie Obsession: Stumbled at start, raced eighth early, moved to seventh more than four lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to fourth in stretch, made up three lengths and finished third beaten a length at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface on Nov. 21.

Men’s Club: Raced six lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, allowed to fall back to eighth, came out 10 wide for drive, advanced to third in stretch, made up 3 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Nov. 16 at Churchill Downs. (Broke outward at break, trailed by more than 14 ½ lengths after a half-mile, advanced to fourth in stretch, rallied through traffic late and gained second by a head at a mile on Nov. 23.)

LAUREL PARK

Helen Says: Raced fifth more than 5 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed willingly in stretch to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten 1 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 7.

Grace and Power: Steadied entering first turn, raced fifth more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out for drive, advanced to third in stretch, made up 1 ¾ lengths and finished second by 1 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Nov. 24.

Double or Quits: Raced inside more than 6 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung four wide leaving turn, rallied from fourth to make up more than 4 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a nose at seven furlongs on Nov. 17. (Raced fifth early, advanced along rail entering far turn, took lead turning for home, pulled away under urging and won easily by 8 ½ lengths at a mile on Dec. 5.)

Brokerage House: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out in mid-stretch and closed with a rush to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Nov. 3.

Baseball Diamond: Broke next to last from outside, moved to ninth more than seven lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced seven wide to seventh in stretch, rallied to make up 3 ¾ lengths and gained second by a nose at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface Oct. 24.

PHILADELPHIA PARK

Graded by Results: Raced fourth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed fast to make up more than 4 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten a nose and a neck at six furlongs on Dec. 4.

Secret Time: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, angled out into stretch, made up nearly two lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 24. (Pressed pace in second after a half-mile, challenged winner in stretch and was beaten a head at six furlongs on Dec. 3)

Lover Nekia: Raced three lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, weaved between rivals on far turn to fifth while losing ground, advanced to third in stretch, finished well making up five lengths and finished second beaten a length at a mile and 70 yards on Nov. 23.

Casual: Caught in traffic early, raced seventh more than 4 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, swung to five path advancing to fourth in upper stretch, rallied to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 23 at Laurel.

Showerstosunshine: Bumped leaving gate, saved ground racing ninth more than 9 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, split foes in stretch, rallied from eighth to make up more than 4 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at seven furlongs Nov. 17.

White Russian: Raced more than five lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, launched drive leaving turn from fourth, made up more than 2 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Oct. 9.

SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK

Aledo Monarch: Raced fourth early, steadied on first turn, shuffled back to eighth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, dropped to ninth after six furlongs, swung seven wide for drive, closed fastest of all to make up three lengths in stretch and finished third beaten a head and a neck at a mile and 70 yards on Nov. 30. Raced in sixth more than fourth lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied strongly three wide on far turn into stretch, closed fast from fifth and won by three-quarters of a length at a mile on Dec. 7.)

Tejas Cat: Broke seventh and last, raced five lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung six wide for drive, advanced to fourth in stretch, closed willingly to make up nearly three lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on a good surface Nov. 24.

Distorted Cat: Broke eighth and last, raced seventh more than 7 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, swung out five wide to sixth in upper stretch, closed fast to make up more than 5 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at five furlongs on a good surface Nov. 24.

TURFWAY PARK

Bricks Princess: Raced fourth early, dropped to sixth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, looked for room behind a wall of rivals at the three-sixteenths pole, rallied when clear late and finished second beaten a half-length at a mile on Dec. 7.

Billybob Bly: Broke last, trailed early, moved from 11th to 10th more than eight lengths behind after a half-mile, swung widest to fifth in stretch, finished fast to make up four lengths and ran third beaten two necks at six furlongs on Nov. 29; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

Our Dancing Babe: Trailed early, advanced to 11th more than 10 lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied midway on far turn when bothered and dropped to 12th and last, rallied in traffic to seventh in stretch, angled out to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at about a mile on the turf on Nov. 24 at Fair Grounds; ran final quarter in 24 flat.

Dixie Decision: Raced more than 9 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, advanced between horses more than three wide to fifth in stretch and rallied to gain second by a nose at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course on Oct. 28 at Churchill Downs. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, moved between horses around far turn to reach contention, rallied clear in stretch to gain lead by a half-length and won by three-quarters of a length at a mile on Dec. 8; returned $10 on front end.)

TURF PARADISE

Danceafunnymile: Raced eight lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, eased out in stretch while racing greenly, finished well making up more than 3 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Dec. 7.

Mo Jo Annie: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, swung four wide for drive, rallied to third in stretch, made up 2 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten a head and three-quarters of a length at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 27.

Crazy Girl: Bobbled in tight leaving gate, raced eighth and last more than 12 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced to seventh in stretch, closed fast outside to make up more than 4 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at six furlongs on Nov. 19; ran final quarter in 23 1/5. (Raced fourth early, moved to lead three wide on bend, responded to urging gradually edging away through the final furlong and won by 5 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 8.)

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