Free's review: Heat flashes takes advantage of turf change
The surfaces are changing at Santa Anita – turf and dirt.
Brad FreeMay 17, 2014
The surfaces are changing at Santa Anita – turf and dirt.
Odds-on favorites are useful for horizontal wagers. Although skeptical bettors are taught to avoid short prices, sometimes the only thing you are looking for is a winner – at any price.
Robby Albarado scored three wins Friday on Churchill’s 10-race card, taking the third on Oh Wise One, the fifth on Poppy’s Dream, and the ninth on Sassy Kiss.
Although the high temperature in Louisville is only forecasted to be 64 degrees Saturday – normal at this time of year is around 80 – partly cloudy skies are expected, meaning we are looking at a fast track and a firm turf course.
The $150,000 Queenston Stakes, a seven-furlong stakes for Canadian-bred 3-year-olds, is an early prep for the $1 million Queen’s Plate, but reigning Canadian champion 2-year-old Go Greeley isn’t under consideration for that 10-furlong tilt.
Speed was effective on the nine-race card, during which only three closers found the mark.
California Chrome was the early 1-2 favorite for the 139th Preakness at Pimlico on Saturday after in-state advance-wagering handle was reported Friday.
DRF Plus handicapping analysis for Santa Anita on Saturday, May 17.
DRF Plus handicapping analysis for Churchill Downs on Saturday, March 17.
DRF Plus closer looks for Santa Anita on Saturday, May 17.