Anthony has checked in from his spot in paradise out in the Atlantic Ocean to provide us with his well thought out selections for all the races on the Keeneland Blue Grass card.
Race One: Selections 2-4-5-7
#2Town Branch was not happy on the inside first time out. Gets to stretch out to a distance ideally bred for. #4 Scotland Yard was brave in defeat and may improve off that effort. #5 Creative Minister gets first time Lasix and should be rolling late so one to seriously consider.
Race Two: Selections 8-10-6-5
#8 Raisedaroofcharlie debuts for very capable trainer with some nice works and a sire I love to play first out. #10 Jeeper comes off a short break after two decent if not spectacular events. Trainer is very patient and charges tend to improve and mature with age. #6 Bourbon Heist is looking like a lifetime maiden that always clunks into the minor awards. May do so again in this spot.
Race Three: Selections 3-5-12-8
#3Longpants Required has trouble lines like Eddie Mush however there is talent there and if rider can work out a trip this one can surprise. #5 Nievisian Sunrise comes off an extended break for a conditioner that brings them back ready, expect a solid performance. #12 Final Belle has a horrific post to overcome on this course however rider is good and if able to save ground and workout a trip should be formidable.
Race Four: Selections 9-10-5-11
#9 Macallan (full disclosure my favorite scotch) remained at Tampa and never ran at Gulfstream with the more highly thought of Pletcher prospects, however in both efforts showed good energy and improvement. No reason this one can’t take another step forward. #10 Iron Works, work partner of the 9 horse has also shown ability in two outings. Expect a good effort today. #5 Naval Aviator has shown an affinity for this surface and has to be given serious consideration in this spot.
Race Five: Selections 5-7-10-11
#5 Nashville appears to tower over this field and almost looks too good to be true….#7 South Bend runs well fresh and can pick up a big piece in this field behind the prohibitive favorite. #10 Prevalence has displayed flashes of brilliance and trainer is one of the best. If this one builds off the last race may emerge as a serious handicap horse later.
Race Six: Selections 5-3-4-1 up front.
#5 Skims is working lights out for this event and looks formidable at a nice number. #3 Spenderella has been flawless in two outings. Not sure how she will react to pressure on the lead. #4 Dolce Zel will be the main danger as this one comes off a nice albeit slow victory. Expect improvement here today.
Race Seven: Selections 6-5-3-1
#6 Kimari loves this course and distance and is in fine form. The one to beat. #5 Bell’s the One is as honest as the day is long. Hard trying mare must be included for all slots. #3 Lady Rocket ran out of her skin in December then promptly went to the bench. Not sure what to expect today.
Race Eight: Selections 10-3-4-9
#10 Golden Pal begins his campaign in this spot no doubt a warmup for Ascot. Formidable horse is strictly the one to beat. #3 Barraza makes the cross-country trek for a very capable conditioner. This one has been in good form and expect to be highly competitive today. #4 Diamond Oops has tons of back class and gets back on his preferred surface today. The one to spice up the exotics.
Race Nine: Selections 10-6-4-1
#10 Smile Happy looks well spotted today in a very underwhelming Bluegrass field. #6 Emmanuel did not appreciate the wide trip last out and can improve on that performance with a better trip today against moderate competition. #4 Zandon is the main danger and should be considered for all slots. The break and trip are the keys to victory for this charge.
Race Ten: Selections 4-7-9-11
#4 Illiogami has ran well fresh in the past and looks spotted for action here today. #7 Reina de Mollendo makes the North American debut for a very capable trainer with imports. #9 Tabor Hall is a speedy sort who may forget to stop if able to get comfortable.
I hope you all enjoy the races, and get the head bobs! Thank you, Anthony
