BELMONT PARK
Saturday 06/11/2011
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Forecast High
69 F
Low
65 F
T-Showers
Precip: 70%
THE WIZARD'S CRYSTAL BALL
# 4 CRUSHING (Race 2)
3yo son of Kentucky Derby winner Giacomo broke dead last of 12 in his Feb 19 debut and was unwisely rushed up to set the
pace before understandably tiring from the early exertion. He broke better second time out, stalked the pace patiently, and
put in a resolute bid thru the final furlong to miss by just a neck, finishing nearly 5 lengths clear of the 3rd place finisher. Off
that performance Crushing was favored in his April 16 stretch to a mile, but he clearly didn't handle the sloppy track that day
in a race that should probably just be tossed out. Since then he's transferred to trainer Chad Brown, one of the rising stars
in this business who's had some great success over the last two years with horses that were transferred to him from other
barns. Brown has taken his time with Crushing and has given him five works since the last race, including two 5F bullet drills
over this main track. With a potential speed duel brewing between Not Now Ashley and August Osage, Crushing projects
to sit the right stalking trip, taking over when the leaders start to tire in the lane. Reunites with hot jockey Javier Castellano,
who was aboard for the defeat by a neck on March 24.
# 7 RATTLESNAKE BRIDGE (Race 4)
Caught my eye in his very first start at Gulfstream Park on February 12, when the son of Tapit was bet down to the 9-5
favorite in a full field of twelve. Trainer Kiaran McLaughlin's firsters are typically not bet like that, so when this colt lived up to
that support with an incredible late finish against the grain of a speed favoring track, Rattlesnake Bridge served notice to the
"Wizard" that he was a sophomore runner to watch out for. Unfortunately in his next start, his first against winners, he was
presented with an impossible task. The pace was pedestrian (25.2, 49.2) and the loose leader was none other than Uncle
Mo, who was last year's champion two year old and the early favorite for the Kentucky Derby. Rattlesnake did his best in vain
to finish a clear second to the 1-10 favorite. The Mill House owned runner was ambitiously placed in the Grade 2 Jerome
Stakes at Aqueduct on April 23 for his next start, indicating how highly his connections thought of this colt. Facing a sloppy
track for the first time and a very good field for this stakes, Rattlesnake again ran well, this time finishing a sneaky good fourth,
beaten only three lengths. Having been asked to do a lot in a short two-month window, he was wisely given a freshening.
On Saturday, Rattlesnake Bridge returns with some class relief, dropping into an entry level allowance race. The pace will
be honest, and given this colt's tactical speed and strong finishing kick, he figures to get an ideal pace setup from a perfect
outside post going a one-turn mile. Shows three good workouts, including a sharp 59.4 breeze coming into this. Regular rider
Jose Lezcano, who is having a super Belmont meet, gets the return call.
# 3 TRAPPE SHOT (Race 7)
$850,000 2yo purchase was a stakes winner last year and also finished 2nd in the G1 Haskell. Both of those races were in
routes, but the belief has always been that this colt is best around one turn. He's won 4 of 5 career starts in such races, with
the only loss coming nearly 2 years ago in his career debut when he lost all chance stumbling badly out of the gate. Since
then he's been unbeatable in sprints, and I expect a superb performance today as he makes his second start off of the 8-
month layoff. He got a perfect prep over this course and distance in a minor stakes race on May 11 when he stalked the pace
patiently in 3rd and then got up comfortably for the victory without being asked to run all that hard. Today's field appears to
have plenty of speed to allow him to sit a similar trip over a track where he's 2 for 2 lifetime, and new jockey John Velazquez
rode him perfectly in the prep race last time out. If there's any moisture in the track, all the better, as Trappe Shot's stakes
win last year came in his only career start over a wet surface.
# 2 AVIATE (GB) (Race 9)
Hall Of Fame trainer Bill Mott won this race last year with Proviso, who, like this filly, is a Juddmonte Farms homebred. Aviate
is not yet ready to be compared to Proviso, who won 4 straight G1 turf races last year, but she does appear to be on the
brink of a break-out performance today as she makes her third start in this country and third start off the 4+ month layoff. She
rallied strongly to miss by just over one length in her U.S. debut on March 5 behind next-out repeater Never Retreat in a 1-
mile race at Gulfstream Park. Mott then shipped her to Churchill Downs for a tougher assignment in the G2 Distaff Turf Mile,
and Aviate came thru with flying colors. She was farther back than usual that day, 10 lengths after a half-mile, and was forced
to lose ground while going very wide into the stretch. However, when she straigtened out in the stretch, she rocketed home
and got up late, a running style that Proviso perfected last year. It looks like Mott has her ready to peak today just in time to
gain her first Grade 1 victory, and regular jockey Kent Desormeaux comes to town specifically for this mount.
EVERY EFFORT WAS MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY OF PROGRAM NUMBERS. PLEASE VERIFY BEFORE WAGERING
RACE 1 Post Time 11:35 1 1/16 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Allowance | Purse: $63,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Race (1-3), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
5 SEAL COVE 6-1 CASTELLANO J MCGAUGHEY III C
Hall Of Fame trainer Shug McGaughey almost never wins with first time starters, so when one does come thru with a victory, as
this colt did at nearly 20-1 on March 9, you know it's a horse to keep close tabs on. Seal Cove was far back in 11th down the
backstretch of that race but exploded thru the stretch to pass 10 rivals and win by nearly 2 lengths, with an exceptionally fast
final 5/16 of a mile. Two horses returned from that race to win their next starts, and with any kind of luck. Seal Cove would have
made it three. Unfortunately, he was stuck behind a very slow pace over Polytrack on April 22, lacked racing room on the rail,
and when he finally found the room he needed, he again kicked home in furious fashion, but fell 1/2 length short. His final furlong
in :11-1/5 that day was again exceptional. He's been freshened up a bit since then and now returns to turf in a field where the
pace should be honest enough to set up his strong closing kick. He's a half to one G3 turf winner and another who placed in
multiple graded stakes on grass. Reunites with winning jock Castellano.
9 BATTER UP 3-1 LEPAROUX J BROWN C
Won his first two career starts on turf before trying stakes company and finishing an even 3rd here on May 22. My impression
of his effort that day was that he was not nearly as effective over the yielding turf as he had been on firm ground, where he's 2
for 2. If he gets the firm footing today that he prefers then he appears to be the one to beat for hot trainer Chad Brown, who's
winning 32% at this meet. Lightly-raced and improving 3yo gelding loses regular jock Castellano to Seal Cove but gets a top turf
rider in Leparoux today. Can stalk or rally from off the pace.
3 BRUCE ALLEY 4-1 CASTRO E BENZEL S
Has been a much-improved gelding since moving to turf, winning both tries over the sod in impressive fashion. Both have been at
this distance, and he's won pressing the pace and rallying from 9 lengths back. He's also won on firm and good footing. Steps up in
class today, but not a lot, and can get at least a share if he runs a race similar to his last. Winning jock Eddie Castro stays aboard.
10 ROYAL STRAIGHT 8-1 DOMINGUEZ R JERKENS J
Finished a clear and close 2nd in a good dirt race last time out, and a repeat of that effort makes him the top choice in this race
IF it's moved to the main track. If it stays on turf, then he's still a likely factor. His lone turf try was 13 months ago and was a solid
effort, and he's a better runner now. Lures top jock Dominguez for the first time today.
OFF THE TURF SELECTIONS: #10 Royal Straight # 1 Lubango # 4 Pretty Boy Freud #11 Crepe Au Sucre
RACE 2 Post Time 12:07 6 1/2 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And
Up | Maiden Special Weight | Purse: $60,000
Exacta, Quinella, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (2-4) Pick 4 (.50) Races (2-5), Daily Double
Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
4 CRUSHING (Best Bet) 7-2 CASTELLANO J BROWN C
Gaze into the "Wizard's Crystal Ball" (BEST BET) at the top of the sheet
3 AUGUST OSAGE 5-2 LEZCANO J HENNIG M
3yo colt is the first foal out of a dam who's a half-sister to three stakes-winning sprinters, including G1 winner Caller One. August
Osage ran great in his May 21 debut over this track, setting a pressured pace and holding well to finish 2nd to the 2-5 winner,
who races today in the G2 Woody Stephens. A repeat of that effort makes him the one to beat, but there's a chance that he
will be hooked in a duel with #2, and trainer Mark Hennig's record with second start maidens in 2010-11 (2 for 36, 6%) is also
not that impressive.
5 BOLD CHOICE 4-1 DOMINGUEZ R BROWN C
Debuts for Chad Brown, who's won at a strong 16% rate with first timers in 2010-11. However, Bold Choice is really bred to be
better running long, so this may be a 'prep' for a longer race next time out. His dam was a stakes-winning router and his sire is
a top-class producer, especially with route horses. Four works over this track including a best-of-27 5F drill on May 21. Lures
top jock Dominguez to ride.
2 NOT NOW ASHLEY 6-1 COHEN D PARISELLA J
Speedy colt has finished a clear 2nd in his last two sprints and figures to appreciate today's cutback in distance after he tired to
finish 3rd when asked to go a route of ground for the first time on April 15. He's been freshend for nearly 2 months since then,
with a string of 6 good works, and blinkers go back on today after being removed for the last race. However, he must avoid a
potential speed duel to have his best chance.
RACE 3 Post Time 12:39 6 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Claiming($10,000) | Purse: $31,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (3-5), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
13 IN JUST WE TRUST 5-2 GARCIA A ENGLEHART C
Seems to finish 2nd and 3rd a lot more than he wins, but he's also raced against much tougher company than this in the 15
months since breaking his maiden. He finished 2nd twice in a row for a $25,000 tag early this year, then came off a freshening
on May 20 to finish a better-than-looks 5th, also for a $25k tag. In that race he was stuck rating behind a slow pace and could
not gain thru the lane in a race where the top three ran 1-2-3 all the way around the track. The pace should be more honest
today and the class drop gives this 4yo colt an excellent shot at win number three. He comes off a best-of-20 work on June 3
and projects for the right stalking trip in a field with a good amount of cheap speed.
4 EASY GALLOP 4-1 CURATOLO R RODRIGUEZ R
Gets a very big drop in class for a high-percentage trainer in Rudy Rodriguez and should improve second start off the 3-1/2
month layoff. Versatile gelding can lead, stalk, or even come from off the pace and has won 4 of 14 lifetime on dirt, including 3
of 10 at this distance. Switches to top apprentice Ryan Curatolo, who's won 5 of 10 starts for Rodriguez this year.
10 FORTY PRAYERS 6-1 COHEN D JACOBSON D
Rallies from far back and has used that finishing kick to hit the board in three straight, all in a 15-day span. He won on May 14, lost
by less than one length at this level on May 21, and then rallied from last to finish 2nd for a higher tag on May 28. He's probably
better at distances longer than 6F but should get pace to rally into and is one of the few in this field who's in good current form.
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9 PHILOTIMO 9-2 NAKATANI C ASMUSSEN S
Returns from an 8-month layoff with a class rise for solid (12%) layoff trainer Steve Asmussen. Lightly-raced 5yo gelding has
won his last two dirt races, but also has not been at his best when fresh in the past, so he may need this outing. Should get an
honest pace to stalk and rally into. Minor award possible.
RACE 4 Post Time 1:11 1 Mile | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Allowance | Purse: $63,000
Exacta, Quinella, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (4-6), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
7 RATTLESNAKE BRIDGE (Best Bet) 5-2 LEZCANO J MCLAUGHLIN K
Gaze into the "Wizard's Crystal Ball" (BEST BET) at the top of the sheet
11 JOHANNESBURG SMILE 6-1 CASTELLANO J GALLUSCIO D
Comes off two solid efforts returning 7 1/2 month layoff. Succumbed late to pressured paces both times. Cuts back to today's one
turn mile which he appears best at. Draws the perfect outside post to zip right to the front or stalk with red hot rider Castellano
aboard. Trainer Galluscio is having an outstanding Belmont meet, winning at 22 %.
5 RIPPLES N' WAVES 7-2 PRADO E JERKENS J
Victimized by a very rough trip in his debut at 6 furlongs. Showed vast improvement second time out when stretched out to
today's one turn mile. Dueled early, then easily disposed of his pace rivals to win by six lengths under a hand ride. He proved his
maiden win was no fluke when was beaten a nose May 13 forcing a lively pace while pinned to the rail. Cuts back to a mile today
which should help. Has a tendency to break a tad slow, which might force jockey Edgar Prado to stalk and attack Johannesburg
Smile and Glickman on the far turn.
1 GLICKMAN 4-1 CASTRO E RYERSON J
Ran very well in a non graded stake over this course May 12. Drops down to an entry level allowance race while stretching out
in distance. May have to be hard used from a tough rail post going a mile around one turn. Glickman showed in his impressive
debut win that he can rate, tactics which may have to be employed today with a couple of speed horses breaking outside.
RACE 5 Post Time 1:52 1 1/16 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Allowance | Purse: $53,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (5-7), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
4 DUAL CITIZEN 12-1 MARAGH R DUGGAN D
I like this 3yo gelding's chances at expected big odds in a very competitive race. Trainer David Duggan is not known for winning
with first time starters, so when this one nearly wired his field in a turf route at Saratoga on August 19 of last year, it got my
attention. Sure enough, he came back on Sept 16, and despite breaking from tough post 10, he romped in impressive fashion
under a hand ride. The pace that day was extremely fast, yet Dual Citizen actually widened his margin thru the lane. That prompted
a try against graded stakes company on Oct 3. Dual Citizen again set the pace, but in the final furlong weakened over yielding
turf that he didn't care for as much as firm. He capped off his 2yo campaign with a strong 2nd place finish against open company.
No one else in this field has placed in a stakes race, and I think this gelding is just classier than the rest. He got a useful prep off
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the layoff in a 6F turf sprint on May 5, but that was also over non-firm ground. On firm turf, he has a win and two 2nds from three
starts, and if he does get firm ground today, then he could lead them all the way at a price while stretching out to a better distance.
He also reunites with Rajiv Maragh, who rode him in his two best races to date, including the big maiden win over this turf course.
11 POWER DREAMS 3-1 COHEN D BADGETT, JR. W
Has a strong closing kick and could mow them down late if the pace is on the fast side today. He won his career turf and route
debut on Sept 1 last year, an impressive achievement for a 2-year-old, but then didn't race again for 8 months. He rallied from
far back to finish 2nd in his April 29 return, but then was stuck behind a drawling pace on May 21 and had no chance to rally.
Both of those races were also over yielding ground, which he may not have liked as much as he likes firm. Could be set for a top
effort third start off the layoff while reuniting with David Cohen, who was aboard for the maiden victory.
7 HANGOVER KID 6-1 LEZCANO J SERVIS J
Son of excellent turf sire Lemon Drop Kid moved to turf for the first time on May 21 and promptly won, rallying from off the pace
with a strong closing kick. He's expected to love this longer trip, and if the pace in this race is on the quick side, then he may
benefit most of all with his strong late run. Keeps winning jock Jose Lezcano aboard.
13 BOAT 5-2 CASTRO E BUSH T
Will have a tough post if he gets in from the AE list, but his last three races all are good enough to compete for the win today if
repeated. He rallied to win his last start on firm turf back on Feb 24, and has finished a close 3rd in both starts at this class level
since shipping up to NY. Those were both on yielding ground, and he could benefit from firmer footing today.
OFF THE TURF SELECTIONS: #15 Socialsaul # 7 Hangover Kid # 2 Dream Drop Kid #14 Rightuplynn'salley
RACE 6 Post Time 2:34 1 Mile | Fillies | 3 Year Olds | G1 Tvg Acorn
S. | Purse: $300,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Pick 3 Races (6-8), Pick 6 Races (6-11), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
2 TURBULENT DESCENT 3-5 FLORES D PUYPE M
Ships in from Southern California by trainer Mike Puype who is having a tremendous year. Puype has had success in the past
shipping out of town for stakes events when he has "the goods". He appears to be holding a very strong hand with the very
talented Turbulent Descent who will be odds on in the Grade 1 Acorn. In her six career races, five in stakes, she has faced
the best of her generation, scoring five times with one second place finish in a Grade 1 stake. Running third behind Turbulent
Descent in the Grade 1 Las Virgenes was Plum Pretty who came back to win a stake at Sunland Park by 25 lengths, and then
repeated in the Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks. Even with her stellar resume, rider Flores must work out a trouble free trip from an inside
post and make a perfectly timed move to the lead. This is a track which can prove an obstacle at times for horses shipping in
without a workout over the track they refer to as "big sandy".
4 IT'S TRICKY 6-1 CASTRO E MCLAUGHLIN K
Her 22 length debacle in the Grade 2 Gulfstream Park Oaks in early April was too bad too be true. She had shipped down
from New York undefeated in three starts, two which were blow outs against decent opposition. Whatever the reason, a new
surface, the heat, or just a bad day at the office, It's Tricky has every right to improve. She has been given time to regroup off
the freshening. Shows a series of sharp and steady workouts for top trainer McLaughlin. It's Tricky has never gone off higher
than 5-2 and twice was odds on. Expect very generous odds today.
3 SAVVY SUPREME 5-1 VELAZQUEZ J PLETCHER T
Spots her five rivals experience over a distance of ground as well as being the most lightly raced filly in the field. Stretches out to
a mile after running all three of her races at 6 furlongs. Figures to be the one to catch on the stretch out. This $520,000 yearling
from the always dangerous Pletcher barn, has the pedigree to continue to improve. The key to Savvy Supreme's success today
is if Velazquez can get her to relax and save something left when facing a stiff challenge in the stretch drive.
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RACE 7 Post Time 3:15 6 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
G2 True North H. | Purse: $250,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Pick 3 Races (7-9), Grand Slam Races (7-10) Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
3 TRAPPE SHOT (Best Bet) 5-2 VELAZQUEZ J MCLAUGHLIN K
Gaze into the "Wizard's Crystal Ball" (BEST BET) at the top of the sheet
1 D' FUNNYBONE 2-1 PRADO E DUTROW, JR. R
A 5-time G2 sprint winner, including the 7F Woody Stephens over this track a year ago, this 4yo colt finished a solid 2nd to Trappe
Shot on May 11 while making his second start off a 7+ month layoff. Despite the defeat, it was one of his better performances,
and should set him up well for a good effort third start back. He's always loved this track (3-2-1-0), but has finished 2nd in all
three prior starts at this 6F distance, and may be at his best going 7 panels.
1A THIS ONES FOR PHIL 2-1 CASTELLANO J DUTROW A
Returned from a 14-month layoff with an impressive win over Wildcat Brief in a stakes race at this distance on May 14. Although
previously inconsistent, this 5yo gelding has been brilliant at times, and if able to repeat the May 14 effort, then he's a threat to
Trappe Shot today. He's won 5 of 6 lifetime at this distance and is expected to sit right behind the speed, perhaps making his
move ahead of Trappe Shot. Hot jock Javier Castellano takes the mount for the first time.
2 WILDCAT BRIEF 8-1 LOPEZ P PERKINS, JR. B
Late-runner got an excellent prep on May 14 following the 6+ month layoff, rallying from 9 lengths back to finish just over a length
behind This Ones For Phil. This Ben Perkins trainee has always been better second start off the layoff, and although he hasn't
won in two prior efforts over this track, he did finish 3rd in last year's G1 Vosburgh, one of the better efforts of his career. There
should be enough pace in today's race to allow him to rally effectively, with a shot for at least a minor award.
RACE 8 Post Time 3:59 7 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds | G2 Woody
Stephens S. | Purse: $250,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (8-10), Pick 4 (.50) Races (8-11) Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
7 J J'S LUCKY TRAIN 6-1 LOPEZ P ANDERSON W
Has been a gem of consistency throughout his nine race career. Victimized by a very tough trip April 30 in the Grade 3 Derby Trial
at Churchill. In tight and rank at the start, then bumped several times on the backstretch and turn while making multiple moves
at the leaders. Cuts back to 7 furlongs today, a distance where he is 2 for 2. His win two starts back in the Bay Shore was "better
than it looks". The final 3 furlongs was run faster than the Grade 1 Carter for older males one race later. Draws a perfect outside
post for his running style. Reunited with top rider Paco Lopez who has ridden him twice to victory. Solid works at Philly for this.
5 ARCH TRAVELER 5-2 LEZCANO J JERKENS J
His only poor effort was in the Grade 1 Florida Derby, a race he should have never run in at that point in his career. Rebounded
in a big way with an easy score May 12 over this course and distance. Has excellant tactical speed and a hot rider in Lezcano.
Trainer Jimmy Jerkens is light years better than his recent Belmont record indicates.
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6 LITTLE DRAMA 5-1 CASTELLANO J FAWKES D
Only beaten two lengths by Travelin Man when they met in the Swale. Little Drama had the tougher trip that day. He was making
a bold move on the turn, then forced to take up and lose all his momentum. Recovered to make another run, but the winner
was gone at that point. Returned with a game win next time out. This half brother to last year's Breeders' Cup Sprint winner Big
Drama, who is also trained by David Fawkes, has been pointed for this race. Two of his three wins have been at this 7 furlong
distance. Generous odds are expected.
1 TRAVELIN MAN 2-1 VELAZQUEZ J PLETCHER T
Appears a vulnerable favorite breaking from a tough rail post going 7 furlongs. Has clearly demonstrated that he prefers to stalk
outside of horses and have a target to run at. May not have the opportunity to sit this type of favorable trip. Travelin Man has
won twice in four starts. When he has been defeated, he was faced with a similar scenario like today's. In addition, he must spot
weight to all but my top selection. Shows three solid works at Belmont since his poor effort at Churchill. If he is defeated at short
odds again, it will once again be a result of a wrong set up.
RACE 9 Post Time 4:43 1 Mile | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And
Up | G1 Foxwoods Just A Game S. | Purse: $400,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10) Pick 3 Races (9-11), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
2 AVIATE (GB) (Best Bet) 5-2 DESORMEAUX K MOTT W
Gaze into the "Wizard's Crystal Ball" (BEST BET) at the top of the sheet
1 GYPSY'S WARNING (SAF) 5-1 LEPAROUX J MOTION H
The only Grade 1 winner in this field scored in last year's G1 Matriarch at this 1-mile distance, and was also a Group 1 winner
twice earlier in her career in South Africa. She came off a layoff of nearly 5 months with a dull perforance on April 16, but that
race was over yielding ground. She clearly prefers firm footing, and is expected to improve quite a bit second start back, as long
as the turf isn't on the soft side. She can stalk or rally from off the pace and has won 3 of 5 lifetime a this distance, including
two Grade 1/Group 1 races.
8 MUCH REJOICING 12-1 GARCIA A TONER J
It took 8 starts before this filly finally got to race on turf, but when she did, she showed an immediate love for it, winning in a
sprint here on May 13. Her dam was a turf champion, which is why it's so strange that Much Rejoicing didn't run on grass sooner.
Trainer Jimmy Toner, who's won with 5 of 12 starters at this meet, all on turf, obviously has high hopes for her, as he immediately
jumps her way up in class into G1 company. In a field without a lot of early speed, she can either set an expected mild pace or
sit close and get first run. She's bred to get a mile and longer, and in fact, her last route race was an 8-length romp, albeit on dirt.
6 FANTASIA (GB) 7-2 ROSARIO J SHEPPARD J
Late-runner is probably better at longer distances, but she did win by a nose going a mile in her final start of 2010. She's finished
strongly in both starts this year, losing two G2 races by less than 2 lengths each, and should make her presence felt late today.
If the ground is less than firm, she may benefit more than most in here, having displayed an affinity for non-firm turf throughout
her career.
RACE 10 Post Time 5:39 1 1/4 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up | G1
Woodford Reserve Manhattan H. | Purse: $400,000
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Exacta, Trifecta, Pick 3 Races (10-12), Pick 4 (.50) Races (10-13) Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
4 GIO PONTI 6-5 DOMINGUEZ R CLEMENT C
Horses who ship back to the US after a gruelling journey to Dubai and back, usually need a race or two to recover. Happens
all the time but in Gio Ponti's case, nothing seems to prevent him to run a world class race against stellar compeition. Just go
through his past performances and you can see the quality performers he has faced at all distances and tracks. When Gio Ponti
is defeated, it is always a matter of circumstances. No discrace running second to the great Goldikova last year in the Breeders'
Cup Mile. World class performers like Debussy, Gloria de Campeao, Karelian and Zenyatta have defeated Gio Ponti in the past,
but each time he ran huge in defeat. Any one of those horses would be odds on here, and so will Gio Ponti, and deservingly
so, against one of the weakest renditions of the Grade 1 Manhatten I have ever seen. Superb horseman Christophe Clement,
who trains Gio Ponti to perfection, said this week that he is coming into the race much better than he did last year when his trip
back from Dubai and training up to this race was not nearly as smooth this time around. If that is the case, then the rest of the
field will be running for second money.
7 PRINCE WILL I AM 5-1 VELAZQUEZ J NIHEI M
If you throw out his last race in the Grade 1 Turf Classic at Churchill on the Kentucky Derby undercard, he has run races good
enough to make him a threat to upset Gio Ponti if that one stubs his toe. In the Turf Classic, Prince Will I Am was victimized by
trouble early in the race and forced to close into a very slow pace. Prior to race, he strung together many solid races in stakes
company scoring three times since October in a Grade 1 stake over this course and two Grade 2 events. There is enough speed
in here to set up his late run. Trainer Michelle Nihei does not have much stock, but the work she has done developing this son
of Victory Gallop, has been nothing short of outstanding.
5 AL KHALI 10-1 GARCIA A MOTT W
On first glance it may not appear that this five year old is in good enough form to run big in this spot, but on close inspection, I
anticipate a much improved performance at big odds. Like Prince Will I Am, Al Khali was hurt by a slow pace and buried deep
in traffic towards the rear of the pack in the Grade 1 Turf Classic. If you go back to his performances in several Grade 1 and
Grade 2 races last summer and fall, Al Khali had run well enough to make an impact here. Like I mentioned, with the exception
of Gio Ponti, the rest of the field has holes in the them, which is the perfect scenario for a horse to make their presence felt at
huge odds. Al Khali could be that horse.
6 VISCOUNT NELSON 4-1 GOMEZ G O'BRIEN A
Certainly would be no shock if this impeccably bred four year old runs well in here, but there are some major concerns that
make me not confident to select him higher than fourth. Viscount Nelson ships in from Ireland after racing just eight days ago.
He came in on the same flight as Master of Hounds. The eight day turnaround does not concern me as much as the fact that
Aidan O'Brien, who is clearly one of the best trainers in the world, has a record that is hard to ignore with his Euro invaders.
O'Brien has won only one race from thirty attempts with horses shipping to the US since 2006. He has won only one other race,
the Canadian International, making him a miserable 2-31. The amazing part of this stat, is that many of these horses, most who
ran on grass, have been heavily bet and have come up empty. There is always the chance that a horse like this one, who is
receiving lasix for the first time, can run out of their skin, but I just have to let Viscount Nelson beat me at a price that will be
much shorther that what I feel he is worth.
RACE 11 Post Time 6:35 1 1/2 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds | G1
Belmont S. | Purse: $1,000,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (11-13) Daily Double Wagers 2nd Half of BROOKLYN/
BELMONT Daily Double
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
9 ANIMAL KINGDOM 2-1 VELAZQUEZ J MOTION H
As the Kentucky Derby "prep" races were being run this year, I said to myself, this is the worst crop of three year olds I had ever
seen. My opinion has changed after the first two legs of the Triple Crown have been run. Shackleford obviously showed talent
Page 9 of 11
winning the Preakness in game fashion and could have a bright future if properly managed. But it is Animal Kingdom who I feel
has moved to the top of my list off his "eye opening" victory at 20-1 in the Kentucky Derby and a near win in the Preakness.
Who was the better horse that day in the second leg of the Triple Crown? Was it the winner Shackleford, or Animal Kingdom
who was a fast closing second but simply ran out of ground? No doubt in my mind that it was Animal Kingdom. The fact he had
to overcome a bad start, racing in another zip code early, and having to sustain a rally from the far turn to the finish, it was a
remarkable effort in defeat. Just to add something else to to the obstacles he had to overcome, Animal Kingdom had to close
tons of ground against a strong speed bias which developed midway through the card. In the Belmont, I expect him to turn the
tables on his rival and several others in the Belmont field who are "pretenders, not contenders". Animal Kingdom has by far the
strongest pedigree in the field to relish the 1 1/2 mile distance. He comes into the race fresh, fit and ready to stamp himself not
only the clear cut leader of the three year old division heading into the second half of the year, but a potential Breeders' Cup
Classic winner if he can take care of business today. I expect him to continue to develop for connections who know how to be
patient and pick out the perfect spots to get to their ultimate goal, which is "Horse of the Year". Animal Kingdom will be the public
choice today. I feel their money is down on the right horse.
6 NEHRO 4-1 NAKATANI C ASMUSSEN S
The connections of this talented son of Mineshaft appears to be the colt who poses the biggest threat to Animal Kingdom. It
was a very wise move on their part to skip the Preakness and await a rematch with the Derby winner. Nehro is expected to
benefit from the thirty five day freshening after running five hard races during a five month span which is a lot to ask from a
young developing three year old. Nehro ran very well when second in the Derby when he made a strong wide move on the turn
and continued to fight hard to hold second. Solid races in both the Louisiana Derby and Arkansas Derby, showing a contrast
in styles. In the La. Derby Nehro showed good tactical speed and a solid finish. In Arkansas, he rallied from far back to just
miss. With an honest pace expected in the Belmont, I expect Nehro to be in striking position on the far turn and get first run on
Animal Kingdom. The question is when the favorite fires a big shot down the stretch can Nehro hold him off. Based on strong
gallop outs based the wire in several starts, the distance should pose no problem, but he just may not be good enough when
all is said and done. Trainer Steve Asmussen who has always had strong meets wherever he runs, is mired down in a horrific
slump at Bemont, losing several races with short priced horses. This bad "karma" is not want you want hanging over you when
on a big stage like the Belmont Stakes.
10 MUCHO MACHO MAN 10-1 DOMINGUEZ R RITVO K
I cannot recall too many horses who have lost their shoes early in the race like this colt has in both the Louisiana Derby and
the Preakness. Mucho Macho Man is one of those horses who gives you 100 % everytime he runs, but has problems sealing
the deal when it counts in the stretch. In both his wins, Macho has had the lead turning for home. In eight of his defeats, he has
been unable to pass horses for the win. Mucho Macho Man ran "better than it looks" in the Preakness. He received a poor and
indecisive ride. Rightfully so, his connections are switching riders to Ramon Dominguez, who is in a zone right now. Just having
Dominguez aboard moves Macho up a couple of lengths. He is a big strong colt who gives me the impression that he will handle
1 1/2 miles very well, unlike many in here who will gasping for air in the stretch. I do not feel he will win the Belmont Stakes, but
Mucho Macho Man is very reliable to hang around for a large piece of the pie.
12 SHACKLEFORD 9-2 CASTANON J ROMANS D
With the exception of his debut on a synthetic surface he did not like, and an awful performance in the Fountain of Youth at
Gulfstream this February, Shackleford has established himself as a top three year old. He has shown he can lead a field gate
to wire or sit right up close to the lead, attack on the turn, and prevail in game fashion like he did in the Preakness. Obviously
if Shackleford gets a clear lead in the Belmont and lays down very slow fractions without a challenge for half the race, he could
be very tough to run down. Personally, I do not feel the other riders are going to allow Castanon to "steal the race". Now the
question is if he can handle the 1 1/2 mile distance when horses attack him at different points in the race and have enough left
in the tank to fight on to the wire. The Wizard feels that Shackleford will run well, but when it is all said and done, I do not expect
him to repeat his gritty Preakness victory.
RACE 12 Post Time 7:20 6 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Claiming($20,000) | Purse: $35,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Daily Double Wagers
Page 10 of 11
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
7 MITIGATION 9-2 CURATOLO R GULLO G
Climbs down the ladder looking for a level he can regain his form from last summer and fall and seems to have found it. Has
only won once in thirteen grass attempts, but has several races that were quite good against much tougher rivals. Versatile six
year old can stalk or take back and make one run. Trainer Gary Gullo is having a strong meet with a limited number of starters.
In light with a switch to good bug boy Curatolo.
9 RUSSIAN SAGE 5-1 ESPINOZA J RITVO K
Solid effort May 21 off a long layoff. Forced the pace from the start over very soft turf only to fall short by a neck. Figures to face
some pressure once again, but relishes a heated battle. Two of his three wins have come over Belmont grass. He is also two for
two at today's 6 furlong distance. Same trainer saddled Mucho Macho Man in the Belmont.
12 KEECHI BULLET 5-1 DOMINGUEZ R IMPERIO J
Draws a tough outside post, but with top rider Dominguez aboard, I have faith he can work out a decent trip. After twenty five
starts on dirt and one on synthetic, he was tried on grass two starts back and he liked it. Rallied bodly for second that day and
then came right back fifteen days later to run a solid fourth, both races at this level.
2 EVER A FRIEND 4-1 COHEN D JACOBSON D
Improvement expected dropping in against softer foes that what he has been meeting, back on grass and returning from a
freshening. Another who draws a tough outside post, but he has a versatile running style to overcome it with a heady ride. From
the red hot Jacobson barn.
OFF THE TURF SELECTIONS: #14 Ricoriatoa # 1AHalf Metal Jacket # 2BMasala #12 Keechi Bullet
RACE 13 Post Time 7:50 6 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Maiden Special Weight | Purse: $50,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10) Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
3 RUDY RUDY RUDY 4-1 CURATOLO R RODRIGUEZ R
Speed is always dangerous and this three year old has a load of it. Cuts back in distance after succumbing late in decent NY
bred maiden fields. Gets a positive rider change to good bug boy Curatolo for weight off. There is not much other front runners
here, which makes him that more dangerous. Rudy should also be much fitter in his second start off the layoff. From the hot
Rodriguez barn.
11 PACI DI NOTTE 7-2 CASTELLANO J SCIACCA G
Throw out his last start on a very soft turf course he could not handle. Strong second two starts back in his grass debut over this
course and diatance. Has the speed to overcome his outside post and a rider switch to the red hot Castellano.
6 A ROD 9-2 LEZCANO J CAMPO, JR. J
Showed vast improvement last time out cutting back to today's 6 furlong distance over this course. Has tactical speed to sit a
good stalking trip behind Rudy. Gets a rider change to the hot Lezcano.
9 RUSSIAN ALLY 8-1 DOMINGUEZ R RICE L
Improvement expected after running two races which were better than they look. Victimized by a troubled start in debut. Chased
on a very soft turf he had some trouble taking hold of May 21. Reunited with the red hot Dominguez for top trainer Linda Rice
who does great work with turf sprinters.
OFF THE TURF SELECTIONS: # 1 Turn Up the Music #13 Master Splash #15 Rocky Fortune # 4 Molly's Ship
Saturday 06/11/2011
Page 1 of 11
Forecast High
69 F
Low
65 F
T-Showers
Precip: 70%
THE WIZARD'S CRYSTAL BALL
# 4 CRUSHING (Race 2)
3yo son of Kentucky Derby winner Giacomo broke dead last of 12 in his Feb 19 debut and was unwisely rushed up to set the
pace before understandably tiring from the early exertion. He broke better second time out, stalked the pace patiently, and
put in a resolute bid thru the final furlong to miss by just a neck, finishing nearly 5 lengths clear of the 3rd place finisher. Off
that performance Crushing was favored in his April 16 stretch to a mile, but he clearly didn't handle the sloppy track that day
in a race that should probably just be tossed out. Since then he's transferred to trainer Chad Brown, one of the rising stars
in this business who's had some great success over the last two years with horses that were transferred to him from other
barns. Brown has taken his time with Crushing and has given him five works since the last race, including two 5F bullet drills
over this main track. With a potential speed duel brewing between Not Now Ashley and August Osage, Crushing projects
to sit the right stalking trip, taking over when the leaders start to tire in the lane. Reunites with hot jockey Javier Castellano,
who was aboard for the defeat by a neck on March 24.
# 7 RATTLESNAKE BRIDGE (Race 4)
Caught my eye in his very first start at Gulfstream Park on February 12, when the son of Tapit was bet down to the 9-5
favorite in a full field of twelve. Trainer Kiaran McLaughlin's firsters are typically not bet like that, so when this colt lived up to
that support with an incredible late finish against the grain of a speed favoring track, Rattlesnake Bridge served notice to the
"Wizard" that he was a sophomore runner to watch out for. Unfortunately in his next start, his first against winners, he was
presented with an impossible task. The pace was pedestrian (25.2, 49.2) and the loose leader was none other than Uncle
Mo, who was last year's champion two year old and the early favorite for the Kentucky Derby. Rattlesnake did his best in vain
to finish a clear second to the 1-10 favorite. The Mill House owned runner was ambitiously placed in the Grade 2 Jerome
Stakes at Aqueduct on April 23 for his next start, indicating how highly his connections thought of this colt. Facing a sloppy
track for the first time and a very good field for this stakes, Rattlesnake again ran well, this time finishing a sneaky good fourth,
beaten only three lengths. Having been asked to do a lot in a short two-month window, he was wisely given a freshening.
On Saturday, Rattlesnake Bridge returns with some class relief, dropping into an entry level allowance race. The pace will
be honest, and given this colt's tactical speed and strong finishing kick, he figures to get an ideal pace setup from a perfect
outside post going a one-turn mile. Shows three good workouts, including a sharp 59.4 breeze coming into this. Regular rider
Jose Lezcano, who is having a super Belmont meet, gets the return call.
# 3 TRAPPE SHOT (Race 7)
$850,000 2yo purchase was a stakes winner last year and also finished 2nd in the G1 Haskell. Both of those races were in
routes, but the belief has always been that this colt is best around one turn. He's won 4 of 5 career starts in such races, with
the only loss coming nearly 2 years ago in his career debut when he lost all chance stumbling badly out of the gate. Since
then he's been unbeatable in sprints, and I expect a superb performance today as he makes his second start off of the 8-
month layoff. He got a perfect prep over this course and distance in a minor stakes race on May 11 when he stalked the pace
patiently in 3rd and then got up comfortably for the victory without being asked to run all that hard. Today's field appears to
have plenty of speed to allow him to sit a similar trip over a track where he's 2 for 2 lifetime, and new jockey John Velazquez
rode him perfectly in the prep race last time out. If there's any moisture in the track, all the better, as Trappe Shot's stakes
win last year came in his only career start over a wet surface.
# 2 AVIATE (GB) (Race 9)
Hall Of Fame trainer Bill Mott won this race last year with Proviso, who, like this filly, is a Juddmonte Farms homebred. Aviate
is not yet ready to be compared to Proviso, who won 4 straight G1 turf races last year, but she does appear to be on the
brink of a break-out performance today as she makes her third start in this country and third start off the 4+ month layoff. She
rallied strongly to miss by just over one length in her U.S. debut on March 5 behind next-out repeater Never Retreat in a 1-
mile race at Gulfstream Park. Mott then shipped her to Churchill Downs for a tougher assignment in the G2 Distaff Turf Mile,
and Aviate came thru with flying colors. She was farther back than usual that day, 10 lengths after a half-mile, and was forced
to lose ground while going very wide into the stretch. However, when she straigtened out in the stretch, she rocketed home
and got up late, a running style that Proviso perfected last year. It looks like Mott has her ready to peak today just in time to
gain her first Grade 1 victory, and regular jockey Kent Desormeaux comes to town specifically for this mount.
EVERY EFFORT WAS MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY OF PROGRAM NUMBERS. PLEASE VERIFY BEFORE WAGERING
RACE 1 Post Time 11:35 1 1/16 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Allowance | Purse: $63,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Race (1-3), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
5 SEAL COVE 6-1 CASTELLANO J MCGAUGHEY III C
Hall Of Fame trainer Shug McGaughey almost never wins with first time starters, so when one does come thru with a victory, as
this colt did at nearly 20-1 on March 9, you know it's a horse to keep close tabs on. Seal Cove was far back in 11th down the
backstretch of that race but exploded thru the stretch to pass 10 rivals and win by nearly 2 lengths, with an exceptionally fast
final 5/16 of a mile. Two horses returned from that race to win their next starts, and with any kind of luck. Seal Cove would have
made it three. Unfortunately, he was stuck behind a very slow pace over Polytrack on April 22, lacked racing room on the rail,
and when he finally found the room he needed, he again kicked home in furious fashion, but fell 1/2 length short. His final furlong
in :11-1/5 that day was again exceptional. He's been freshened up a bit since then and now returns to turf in a field where the
pace should be honest enough to set up his strong closing kick. He's a half to one G3 turf winner and another who placed in
multiple graded stakes on grass. Reunites with winning jock Castellano.
9 BATTER UP 3-1 LEPAROUX J BROWN C
Won his first two career starts on turf before trying stakes company and finishing an even 3rd here on May 22. My impression
of his effort that day was that he was not nearly as effective over the yielding turf as he had been on firm ground, where he's 2
for 2. If he gets the firm footing today that he prefers then he appears to be the one to beat for hot trainer Chad Brown, who's
winning 32% at this meet. Lightly-raced and improving 3yo gelding loses regular jock Castellano to Seal Cove but gets a top turf
rider in Leparoux today. Can stalk or rally from off the pace.
3 BRUCE ALLEY 4-1 CASTRO E BENZEL S
Has been a much-improved gelding since moving to turf, winning both tries over the sod in impressive fashion. Both have been at
this distance, and he's won pressing the pace and rallying from 9 lengths back. He's also won on firm and good footing. Steps up in
class today, but not a lot, and can get at least a share if he runs a race similar to his last. Winning jock Eddie Castro stays aboard.
10 ROYAL STRAIGHT 8-1 DOMINGUEZ R JERKENS J
Finished a clear and close 2nd in a good dirt race last time out, and a repeat of that effort makes him the top choice in this race
IF it's moved to the main track. If it stays on turf, then he's still a likely factor. His lone turf try was 13 months ago and was a solid
effort, and he's a better runner now. Lures top jock Dominguez for the first time today.
OFF THE TURF SELECTIONS: #10 Royal Straight # 1 Lubango # 4 Pretty Boy Freud #11 Crepe Au Sucre
RACE 2 Post Time 12:07 6 1/2 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And
Up | Maiden Special Weight | Purse: $60,000
Exacta, Quinella, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (2-4) Pick 4 (.50) Races (2-5), Daily Double
Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
4 CRUSHING (Best Bet) 7-2 CASTELLANO J BROWN C
Gaze into the "Wizard's Crystal Ball" (BEST BET) at the top of the sheet
3 AUGUST OSAGE 5-2 LEZCANO J HENNIG M
3yo colt is the first foal out of a dam who's a half-sister to three stakes-winning sprinters, including G1 winner Caller One. August
Osage ran great in his May 21 debut over this track, setting a pressured pace and holding well to finish 2nd to the 2-5 winner,
who races today in the G2 Woody Stephens. A repeat of that effort makes him the one to beat, but there's a chance that he
will be hooked in a duel with #2, and trainer Mark Hennig's record with second start maidens in 2010-11 (2 for 36, 6%) is also
not that impressive.
5 BOLD CHOICE 4-1 DOMINGUEZ R BROWN C
Debuts for Chad Brown, who's won at a strong 16% rate with first timers in 2010-11. However, Bold Choice is really bred to be
better running long, so this may be a 'prep' for a longer race next time out. His dam was a stakes-winning router and his sire is
a top-class producer, especially with route horses. Four works over this track including a best-of-27 5F drill on May 21. Lures
top jock Dominguez to ride.
2 NOT NOW ASHLEY 6-1 COHEN D PARISELLA J
Speedy colt has finished a clear 2nd in his last two sprints and figures to appreciate today's cutback in distance after he tired to
finish 3rd when asked to go a route of ground for the first time on April 15. He's been freshend for nearly 2 months since then,
with a string of 6 good works, and blinkers go back on today after being removed for the last race. However, he must avoid a
potential speed duel to have his best chance.
RACE 3 Post Time 12:39 6 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Claiming($10,000) | Purse: $31,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (3-5), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
13 IN JUST WE TRUST 5-2 GARCIA A ENGLEHART C
Seems to finish 2nd and 3rd a lot more than he wins, but he's also raced against much tougher company than this in the 15
months since breaking his maiden. He finished 2nd twice in a row for a $25,000 tag early this year, then came off a freshening
on May 20 to finish a better-than-looks 5th, also for a $25k tag. In that race he was stuck rating behind a slow pace and could
not gain thru the lane in a race where the top three ran 1-2-3 all the way around the track. The pace should be more honest
today and the class drop gives this 4yo colt an excellent shot at win number three. He comes off a best-of-20 work on June 3
and projects for the right stalking trip in a field with a good amount of cheap speed.
4 EASY GALLOP 4-1 CURATOLO R RODRIGUEZ R
Gets a very big drop in class for a high-percentage trainer in Rudy Rodriguez and should improve second start off the 3-1/2
month layoff. Versatile gelding can lead, stalk, or even come from off the pace and has won 4 of 14 lifetime on dirt, including 3
of 10 at this distance. Switches to top apprentice Ryan Curatolo, who's won 5 of 10 starts for Rodriguez this year.
10 FORTY PRAYERS 6-1 COHEN D JACOBSON D
Rallies from far back and has used that finishing kick to hit the board in three straight, all in a 15-day span. He won on May 14, lost
by less than one length at this level on May 21, and then rallied from last to finish 2nd for a higher tag on May 28. He's probably
better at distances longer than 6F but should get pace to rally into and is one of the few in this field who's in good current form.
Page 4 of 11
9 PHILOTIMO 9-2 NAKATANI C ASMUSSEN S
Returns from an 8-month layoff with a class rise for solid (12%) layoff trainer Steve Asmussen. Lightly-raced 5yo gelding has
won his last two dirt races, but also has not been at his best when fresh in the past, so he may need this outing. Should get an
honest pace to stalk and rally into. Minor award possible.
RACE 4 Post Time 1:11 1 Mile | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Allowance | Purse: $63,000
Exacta, Quinella, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (4-6), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
7 RATTLESNAKE BRIDGE (Best Bet) 5-2 LEZCANO J MCLAUGHLIN K
Gaze into the "Wizard's Crystal Ball" (BEST BET) at the top of the sheet
11 JOHANNESBURG SMILE 6-1 CASTELLANO J GALLUSCIO D
Comes off two solid efforts returning 7 1/2 month layoff. Succumbed late to pressured paces both times. Cuts back to today's one
turn mile which he appears best at. Draws the perfect outside post to zip right to the front or stalk with red hot rider Castellano
aboard. Trainer Galluscio is having an outstanding Belmont meet, winning at 22 %.
5 RIPPLES N' WAVES 7-2 PRADO E JERKENS J
Victimized by a very rough trip in his debut at 6 furlongs. Showed vast improvement second time out when stretched out to
today's one turn mile. Dueled early, then easily disposed of his pace rivals to win by six lengths under a hand ride. He proved his
maiden win was no fluke when was beaten a nose May 13 forcing a lively pace while pinned to the rail. Cuts back to a mile today
which should help. Has a tendency to break a tad slow, which might force jockey Edgar Prado to stalk and attack Johannesburg
Smile and Glickman on the far turn.
1 GLICKMAN 4-1 CASTRO E RYERSON J
Ran very well in a non graded stake over this course May 12. Drops down to an entry level allowance race while stretching out
in distance. May have to be hard used from a tough rail post going a mile around one turn. Glickman showed in his impressive
debut win that he can rate, tactics which may have to be employed today with a couple of speed horses breaking outside.
RACE 5 Post Time 1:52 1 1/16 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Allowance | Purse: $53,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (5-7), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
4 DUAL CITIZEN 12-1 MARAGH R DUGGAN D
I like this 3yo gelding's chances at expected big odds in a very competitive race. Trainer David Duggan is not known for winning
with first time starters, so when this one nearly wired his field in a turf route at Saratoga on August 19 of last year, it got my
attention. Sure enough, he came back on Sept 16, and despite breaking from tough post 10, he romped in impressive fashion
under a hand ride. The pace that day was extremely fast, yet Dual Citizen actually widened his margin thru the lane. That prompted
a try against graded stakes company on Oct 3. Dual Citizen again set the pace, but in the final furlong weakened over yielding
turf that he didn't care for as much as firm. He capped off his 2yo campaign with a strong 2nd place finish against open company.
No one else in this field has placed in a stakes race, and I think this gelding is just classier than the rest. He got a useful prep off
Page 5 of 11
the layoff in a 6F turf sprint on May 5, but that was also over non-firm ground. On firm turf, he has a win and two 2nds from three
starts, and if he does get firm ground today, then he could lead them all the way at a price while stretching out to a better distance.
He also reunites with Rajiv Maragh, who rode him in his two best races to date, including the big maiden win over this turf course.
11 POWER DREAMS 3-1 COHEN D BADGETT, JR. W
Has a strong closing kick and could mow them down late if the pace is on the fast side today. He won his career turf and route
debut on Sept 1 last year, an impressive achievement for a 2-year-old, but then didn't race again for 8 months. He rallied from
far back to finish 2nd in his April 29 return, but then was stuck behind a drawling pace on May 21 and had no chance to rally.
Both of those races were also over yielding ground, which he may not have liked as much as he likes firm. Could be set for a top
effort third start off the layoff while reuniting with David Cohen, who was aboard for the maiden victory.
7 HANGOVER KID 6-1 LEZCANO J SERVIS J
Son of excellent turf sire Lemon Drop Kid moved to turf for the first time on May 21 and promptly won, rallying from off the pace
with a strong closing kick. He's expected to love this longer trip, and if the pace in this race is on the quick side, then he may
benefit most of all with his strong late run. Keeps winning jock Jose Lezcano aboard.
13 BOAT 5-2 CASTRO E BUSH T
Will have a tough post if he gets in from the AE list, but his last three races all are good enough to compete for the win today if
repeated. He rallied to win his last start on firm turf back on Feb 24, and has finished a close 3rd in both starts at this class level
since shipping up to NY. Those were both on yielding ground, and he could benefit from firmer footing today.
OFF THE TURF SELECTIONS: #15 Socialsaul # 7 Hangover Kid # 2 Dream Drop Kid #14 Rightuplynn'salley
RACE 6 Post Time 2:34 1 Mile | Fillies | 3 Year Olds | G1 Tvg Acorn
S. | Purse: $300,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Pick 3 Races (6-8), Pick 6 Races (6-11), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
2 TURBULENT DESCENT 3-5 FLORES D PUYPE M
Ships in from Southern California by trainer Mike Puype who is having a tremendous year. Puype has had success in the past
shipping out of town for stakes events when he has "the goods". He appears to be holding a very strong hand with the very
talented Turbulent Descent who will be odds on in the Grade 1 Acorn. In her six career races, five in stakes, she has faced
the best of her generation, scoring five times with one second place finish in a Grade 1 stake. Running third behind Turbulent
Descent in the Grade 1 Las Virgenes was Plum Pretty who came back to win a stake at Sunland Park by 25 lengths, and then
repeated in the Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks. Even with her stellar resume, rider Flores must work out a trouble free trip from an inside
post and make a perfectly timed move to the lead. This is a track which can prove an obstacle at times for horses shipping in
without a workout over the track they refer to as "big sandy".
4 IT'S TRICKY 6-1 CASTRO E MCLAUGHLIN K
Her 22 length debacle in the Grade 2 Gulfstream Park Oaks in early April was too bad too be true. She had shipped down
from New York undefeated in three starts, two which were blow outs against decent opposition. Whatever the reason, a new
surface, the heat, or just a bad day at the office, It's Tricky has every right to improve. She has been given time to regroup off
the freshening. Shows a series of sharp and steady workouts for top trainer McLaughlin. It's Tricky has never gone off higher
than 5-2 and twice was odds on. Expect very generous odds today.
3 SAVVY SUPREME 5-1 VELAZQUEZ J PLETCHER T
Spots her five rivals experience over a distance of ground as well as being the most lightly raced filly in the field. Stretches out to
a mile after running all three of her races at 6 furlongs. Figures to be the one to catch on the stretch out. This $520,000 yearling
from the always dangerous Pletcher barn, has the pedigree to continue to improve. The key to Savvy Supreme's success today
is if Velazquez can get her to relax and save something left when facing a stiff challenge in the stretch drive.
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RACE 7 Post Time 3:15 6 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
G2 True North H. | Purse: $250,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Pick 3 Races (7-9), Grand Slam Races (7-10) Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
3 TRAPPE SHOT (Best Bet) 5-2 VELAZQUEZ J MCLAUGHLIN K
Gaze into the "Wizard's Crystal Ball" (BEST BET) at the top of the sheet
1 D' FUNNYBONE 2-1 PRADO E DUTROW, JR. R
A 5-time G2 sprint winner, including the 7F Woody Stephens over this track a year ago, this 4yo colt finished a solid 2nd to Trappe
Shot on May 11 while making his second start off a 7+ month layoff. Despite the defeat, it was one of his better performances,
and should set him up well for a good effort third start back. He's always loved this track (3-2-1-0), but has finished 2nd in all
three prior starts at this 6F distance, and may be at his best going 7 panels.
1A THIS ONES FOR PHIL 2-1 CASTELLANO J DUTROW A
Returned from a 14-month layoff with an impressive win over Wildcat Brief in a stakes race at this distance on May 14. Although
previously inconsistent, this 5yo gelding has been brilliant at times, and if able to repeat the May 14 effort, then he's a threat to
Trappe Shot today. He's won 5 of 6 lifetime at this distance and is expected to sit right behind the speed, perhaps making his
move ahead of Trappe Shot. Hot jock Javier Castellano takes the mount for the first time.
2 WILDCAT BRIEF 8-1 LOPEZ P PERKINS, JR. B
Late-runner got an excellent prep on May 14 following the 6+ month layoff, rallying from 9 lengths back to finish just over a length
behind This Ones For Phil. This Ben Perkins trainee has always been better second start off the layoff, and although he hasn't
won in two prior efforts over this track, he did finish 3rd in last year's G1 Vosburgh, one of the better efforts of his career. There
should be enough pace in today's race to allow him to rally effectively, with a shot for at least a minor award.
RACE 8 Post Time 3:59 7 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds | G2 Woody
Stephens S. | Purse: $250,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (8-10), Pick 4 (.50) Races (8-11) Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
7 J J'S LUCKY TRAIN 6-1 LOPEZ P ANDERSON W
Has been a gem of consistency throughout his nine race career. Victimized by a very tough trip April 30 in the Grade 3 Derby Trial
at Churchill. In tight and rank at the start, then bumped several times on the backstretch and turn while making multiple moves
at the leaders. Cuts back to 7 furlongs today, a distance where he is 2 for 2. His win two starts back in the Bay Shore was "better
than it looks". The final 3 furlongs was run faster than the Grade 1 Carter for older males one race later. Draws a perfect outside
post for his running style. Reunited with top rider Paco Lopez who has ridden him twice to victory. Solid works at Philly for this.
5 ARCH TRAVELER 5-2 LEZCANO J JERKENS J
His only poor effort was in the Grade 1 Florida Derby, a race he should have never run in at that point in his career. Rebounded
in a big way with an easy score May 12 over this course and distance. Has excellant tactical speed and a hot rider in Lezcano.
Trainer Jimmy Jerkens is light years better than his recent Belmont record indicates.
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6 LITTLE DRAMA 5-1 CASTELLANO J FAWKES D
Only beaten two lengths by Travelin Man when they met in the Swale. Little Drama had the tougher trip that day. He was making
a bold move on the turn, then forced to take up and lose all his momentum. Recovered to make another run, but the winner
was gone at that point. Returned with a game win next time out. This half brother to last year's Breeders' Cup Sprint winner Big
Drama, who is also trained by David Fawkes, has been pointed for this race. Two of his three wins have been at this 7 furlong
distance. Generous odds are expected.
1 TRAVELIN MAN 2-1 VELAZQUEZ J PLETCHER T
Appears a vulnerable favorite breaking from a tough rail post going 7 furlongs. Has clearly demonstrated that he prefers to stalk
outside of horses and have a target to run at. May not have the opportunity to sit this type of favorable trip. Travelin Man has
won twice in four starts. When he has been defeated, he was faced with a similar scenario like today's. In addition, he must spot
weight to all but my top selection. Shows three solid works at Belmont since his poor effort at Churchill. If he is defeated at short
odds again, it will once again be a result of a wrong set up.
RACE 9 Post Time 4:43 1 Mile | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And
Up | G1 Foxwoods Just A Game S. | Purse: $400,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10) Pick 3 Races (9-11), Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
2 AVIATE (GB) (Best Bet) 5-2 DESORMEAUX K MOTT W
Gaze into the "Wizard's Crystal Ball" (BEST BET) at the top of the sheet
1 GYPSY'S WARNING (SAF) 5-1 LEPAROUX J MOTION H
The only Grade 1 winner in this field scored in last year's G1 Matriarch at this 1-mile distance, and was also a Group 1 winner
twice earlier in her career in South Africa. She came off a layoff of nearly 5 months with a dull perforance on April 16, but that
race was over yielding ground. She clearly prefers firm footing, and is expected to improve quite a bit second start back, as long
as the turf isn't on the soft side. She can stalk or rally from off the pace and has won 3 of 5 lifetime a this distance, including
two Grade 1/Group 1 races.
8 MUCH REJOICING 12-1 GARCIA A TONER J
It took 8 starts before this filly finally got to race on turf, but when she did, she showed an immediate love for it, winning in a
sprint here on May 13. Her dam was a turf champion, which is why it's so strange that Much Rejoicing didn't run on grass sooner.
Trainer Jimmy Toner, who's won with 5 of 12 starters at this meet, all on turf, obviously has high hopes for her, as he immediately
jumps her way up in class into G1 company. In a field without a lot of early speed, she can either set an expected mild pace or
sit close and get first run. She's bred to get a mile and longer, and in fact, her last route race was an 8-length romp, albeit on dirt.
6 FANTASIA (GB) 7-2 ROSARIO J SHEPPARD J
Late-runner is probably better at longer distances, but she did win by a nose going a mile in her final start of 2010. She's finished
strongly in both starts this year, losing two G2 races by less than 2 lengths each, and should make her presence felt late today.
If the ground is less than firm, she may benefit more than most in here, having displayed an affinity for non-firm turf throughout
her career.
RACE 10 Post Time 5:39 1 1/4 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up | G1
Woodford Reserve Manhattan H. | Purse: $400,000
Page 8 of 11
Exacta, Trifecta, Pick 3 Races (10-12), Pick 4 (.50) Races (10-13) Daily Double Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
4 GIO PONTI 6-5 DOMINGUEZ R CLEMENT C
Horses who ship back to the US after a gruelling journey to Dubai and back, usually need a race or two to recover. Happens
all the time but in Gio Ponti's case, nothing seems to prevent him to run a world class race against stellar compeition. Just go
through his past performances and you can see the quality performers he has faced at all distances and tracks. When Gio Ponti
is defeated, it is always a matter of circumstances. No discrace running second to the great Goldikova last year in the Breeders'
Cup Mile. World class performers like Debussy, Gloria de Campeao, Karelian and Zenyatta have defeated Gio Ponti in the past,
but each time he ran huge in defeat. Any one of those horses would be odds on here, and so will Gio Ponti, and deservingly
so, against one of the weakest renditions of the Grade 1 Manhatten I have ever seen. Superb horseman Christophe Clement,
who trains Gio Ponti to perfection, said this week that he is coming into the race much better than he did last year when his trip
back from Dubai and training up to this race was not nearly as smooth this time around. If that is the case, then the rest of the
field will be running for second money.
7 PRINCE WILL I AM 5-1 VELAZQUEZ J NIHEI M
If you throw out his last race in the Grade 1 Turf Classic at Churchill on the Kentucky Derby undercard, he has run races good
enough to make him a threat to upset Gio Ponti if that one stubs his toe. In the Turf Classic, Prince Will I Am was victimized by
trouble early in the race and forced to close into a very slow pace. Prior to race, he strung together many solid races in stakes
company scoring three times since October in a Grade 1 stake over this course and two Grade 2 events. There is enough speed
in here to set up his late run. Trainer Michelle Nihei does not have much stock, but the work she has done developing this son
of Victory Gallop, has been nothing short of outstanding.
5 AL KHALI 10-1 GARCIA A MOTT W
On first glance it may not appear that this five year old is in good enough form to run big in this spot, but on close inspection, I
anticipate a much improved performance at big odds. Like Prince Will I Am, Al Khali was hurt by a slow pace and buried deep
in traffic towards the rear of the pack in the Grade 1 Turf Classic. If you go back to his performances in several Grade 1 and
Grade 2 races last summer and fall, Al Khali had run well enough to make an impact here. Like I mentioned, with the exception
of Gio Ponti, the rest of the field has holes in the them, which is the perfect scenario for a horse to make their presence felt at
huge odds. Al Khali could be that horse.
6 VISCOUNT NELSON 4-1 GOMEZ G O'BRIEN A
Certainly would be no shock if this impeccably bred four year old runs well in here, but there are some major concerns that
make me not confident to select him higher than fourth. Viscount Nelson ships in from Ireland after racing just eight days ago.
He came in on the same flight as Master of Hounds. The eight day turnaround does not concern me as much as the fact that
Aidan O'Brien, who is clearly one of the best trainers in the world, has a record that is hard to ignore with his Euro invaders.
O'Brien has won only one race from thirty attempts with horses shipping to the US since 2006. He has won only one other race,
the Canadian International, making him a miserable 2-31. The amazing part of this stat, is that many of these horses, most who
ran on grass, have been heavily bet and have come up empty. There is always the chance that a horse like this one, who is
receiving lasix for the first time, can run out of their skin, but I just have to let Viscount Nelson beat me at a price that will be
much shorther that what I feel he is worth.
RACE 11 Post Time 6:35 1 1/2 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds | G1
Belmont S. | Purse: $1,000,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (11-13) Daily Double Wagers 2nd Half of BROOKLYN/
BELMONT Daily Double
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
9 ANIMAL KINGDOM 2-1 VELAZQUEZ J MOTION H
As the Kentucky Derby "prep" races were being run this year, I said to myself, this is the worst crop of three year olds I had ever
seen. My opinion has changed after the first two legs of the Triple Crown have been run. Shackleford obviously showed talent
Page 9 of 11
winning the Preakness in game fashion and could have a bright future if properly managed. But it is Animal Kingdom who I feel
has moved to the top of my list off his "eye opening" victory at 20-1 in the Kentucky Derby and a near win in the Preakness.
Who was the better horse that day in the second leg of the Triple Crown? Was it the winner Shackleford, or Animal Kingdom
who was a fast closing second but simply ran out of ground? No doubt in my mind that it was Animal Kingdom. The fact he had
to overcome a bad start, racing in another zip code early, and having to sustain a rally from the far turn to the finish, it was a
remarkable effort in defeat. Just to add something else to to the obstacles he had to overcome, Animal Kingdom had to close
tons of ground against a strong speed bias which developed midway through the card. In the Belmont, I expect him to turn the
tables on his rival and several others in the Belmont field who are "pretenders, not contenders". Animal Kingdom has by far the
strongest pedigree in the field to relish the 1 1/2 mile distance. He comes into the race fresh, fit and ready to stamp himself not
only the clear cut leader of the three year old division heading into the second half of the year, but a potential Breeders' Cup
Classic winner if he can take care of business today. I expect him to continue to develop for connections who know how to be
patient and pick out the perfect spots to get to their ultimate goal, which is "Horse of the Year". Animal Kingdom will be the public
choice today. I feel their money is down on the right horse.
6 NEHRO 4-1 NAKATANI C ASMUSSEN S
The connections of this talented son of Mineshaft appears to be the colt who poses the biggest threat to Animal Kingdom. It
was a very wise move on their part to skip the Preakness and await a rematch with the Derby winner. Nehro is expected to
benefit from the thirty five day freshening after running five hard races during a five month span which is a lot to ask from a
young developing three year old. Nehro ran very well when second in the Derby when he made a strong wide move on the turn
and continued to fight hard to hold second. Solid races in both the Louisiana Derby and Arkansas Derby, showing a contrast
in styles. In the La. Derby Nehro showed good tactical speed and a solid finish. In Arkansas, he rallied from far back to just
miss. With an honest pace expected in the Belmont, I expect Nehro to be in striking position on the far turn and get first run on
Animal Kingdom. The question is when the favorite fires a big shot down the stretch can Nehro hold him off. Based on strong
gallop outs based the wire in several starts, the distance should pose no problem, but he just may not be good enough when
all is said and done. Trainer Steve Asmussen who has always had strong meets wherever he runs, is mired down in a horrific
slump at Bemont, losing several races with short priced horses. This bad "karma" is not want you want hanging over you when
on a big stage like the Belmont Stakes.
10 MUCHO MACHO MAN 10-1 DOMINGUEZ R RITVO K
I cannot recall too many horses who have lost their shoes early in the race like this colt has in both the Louisiana Derby and
the Preakness. Mucho Macho Man is one of those horses who gives you 100 % everytime he runs, but has problems sealing
the deal when it counts in the stretch. In both his wins, Macho has had the lead turning for home. In eight of his defeats, he has
been unable to pass horses for the win. Mucho Macho Man ran "better than it looks" in the Preakness. He received a poor and
indecisive ride. Rightfully so, his connections are switching riders to Ramon Dominguez, who is in a zone right now. Just having
Dominguez aboard moves Macho up a couple of lengths. He is a big strong colt who gives me the impression that he will handle
1 1/2 miles very well, unlike many in here who will gasping for air in the stretch. I do not feel he will win the Belmont Stakes, but
Mucho Macho Man is very reliable to hang around for a large piece of the pie.
12 SHACKLEFORD 9-2 CASTANON J ROMANS D
With the exception of his debut on a synthetic surface he did not like, and an awful performance in the Fountain of Youth at
Gulfstream this February, Shackleford has established himself as a top three year old. He has shown he can lead a field gate
to wire or sit right up close to the lead, attack on the turn, and prevail in game fashion like he did in the Preakness. Obviously
if Shackleford gets a clear lead in the Belmont and lays down very slow fractions without a challenge for half the race, he could
be very tough to run down. Personally, I do not feel the other riders are going to allow Castanon to "steal the race". Now the
question is if he can handle the 1 1/2 mile distance when horses attack him at different points in the race and have enough left
in the tank to fight on to the wire. The Wizard feels that Shackleford will run well, but when it is all said and done, I do not expect
him to repeat his gritty Preakness victory.
RACE 12 Post Time 7:20 6 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Claiming($20,000) | Purse: $35,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10), Daily Double Wagers
Page 10 of 11
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
7 MITIGATION 9-2 CURATOLO R GULLO G
Climbs down the ladder looking for a level he can regain his form from last summer and fall and seems to have found it. Has
only won once in thirteen grass attempts, but has several races that were quite good against much tougher rivals. Versatile six
year old can stalk or take back and make one run. Trainer Gary Gullo is having a strong meet with a limited number of starters.
In light with a switch to good bug boy Curatolo.
9 RUSSIAN SAGE 5-1 ESPINOZA J RITVO K
Solid effort May 21 off a long layoff. Forced the pace from the start over very soft turf only to fall short by a neck. Figures to face
some pressure once again, but relishes a heated battle. Two of his three wins have come over Belmont grass. He is also two for
two at today's 6 furlong distance. Same trainer saddled Mucho Macho Man in the Belmont.
12 KEECHI BULLET 5-1 DOMINGUEZ R IMPERIO J
Draws a tough outside post, but with top rider Dominguez aboard, I have faith he can work out a decent trip. After twenty five
starts on dirt and one on synthetic, he was tried on grass two starts back and he liked it. Rallied bodly for second that day and
then came right back fifteen days later to run a solid fourth, both races at this level.
2 EVER A FRIEND 4-1 COHEN D JACOBSON D
Improvement expected dropping in against softer foes that what he has been meeting, back on grass and returning from a
freshening. Another who draws a tough outside post, but he has a versatile running style to overcome it with a heady ride. From
the red hot Jacobson barn.
OFF THE TURF SELECTIONS: #14 Ricoriatoa # 1AHalf Metal Jacket # 2BMasala #12 Keechi Bullet
RACE 13 Post Time 7:50 6 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up |
Maiden Special Weight | Purse: $50,000
Exacta, Trifecta, Super (.10) Wagers
PGM # Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer
3 RUDY RUDY RUDY 4-1 CURATOLO R RODRIGUEZ R
Speed is always dangerous and this three year old has a load of it. Cuts back in distance after succumbing late in decent NY
bred maiden fields. Gets a positive rider change to good bug boy Curatolo for weight off. There is not much other front runners
here, which makes him that more dangerous. Rudy should also be much fitter in his second start off the layoff. From the hot
Rodriguez barn.
11 PACI DI NOTTE 7-2 CASTELLANO J SCIACCA G
Throw out his last start on a very soft turf course he could not handle. Strong second two starts back in his grass debut over this
course and diatance. Has the speed to overcome his outside post and a rider switch to the red hot Castellano.
6 A ROD 9-2 LEZCANO J CAMPO, JR. J
Showed vast improvement last time out cutting back to today's 6 furlong distance over this course. Has tactical speed to sit a
good stalking trip behind Rudy. Gets a rider change to the hot Lezcano.
9 RUSSIAN ALLY 8-1 DOMINGUEZ R RICE L
Improvement expected after running two races which were better than they look. Victimized by a troubled start in debut. Chased
on a very soft turf he had some trouble taking hold of May 21. Reunited with the red hot Dominguez for top trainer Linda Rice
who does great work with turf sprinters.
OFF THE TURF SELECTIONS: # 1 Turn Up the Music #13 Master Splash #15 Rocky Fortune # 4 Molly's Ship
