Bernier: How I'd play Aqueduct on Sunday, Dec. 14

There are a few interesting runners slated to start Sunday at Aqueduct, and I’ll hopefully be able to make a few dollars off them.

RACE 1

I can’t argue with anyone who says OH POGGIBONSI (5) is the most likely winner in Sunday’s opener – not only is he the fastest horse on paper, but he also looms as the controlling speed in the race. That being said, I was quite impressed by the debut performance put forth by LEVERAGE (3) over the main track Nov. 15. This Chris Englehart trainee got a very heads-up ride from Fernando Jara that day, and based on the way he finished, I see no reason why he can’t come right back and be competitive here.

There’s also a very encouraging Formulator Fact that goes along with this runner: Over the past five years, Englehart is 6 for 9 (7 in the money, $4.75 return on investment) with horses making their second career starts after breaking their maiden in their debut efforts. I’ll look to play Leverage to win at odds of 6-1 or greater.

RACES 2 & 3

The runner I’m most intrigued with in the second race is the Kiaran McLaughlin-owned and -trained FIERY CAT (6). McLaughlin does extremely well with these types of runners, and although GABBY’S BROWN (3) looms as the runner to catch and beat in this spot off the stretch-out, I’m hopeful that the addition of blinkers will keep McLaughlin’s runner a bit closer throughout. As much as I like this runner, I don’t think I’m going to get much of a price – therefore, I’ll be hooking him up in a daily double.

Even though FREUDIE ANNE (4) beat her quite easily last time out, I think Chad Brown’s runner BUILDING PERMIT (6) is a standout in the East View Stakes. Her gallop-out was tremendous in her latest effort, and I think she’ll take to the two turns like a duck takes to water. Look for her to turn the tables against Freudie Anne. I’m going to play a cold double of 6/6 for races 2 and 3.

RACE 8

The Damon Runyon is a very interesting race – you’ve got plenty of horses trying two turns for the first time, a few high-profile outfits, as well as some legitimate speed entered. I’m looking to take a shot with the horse making his first start on dirt in this spot, J C’s NOT BROWN (5). On paper, it appears as though this horse will be among the pacesetters, but I don’t think he’s fast enough to run with the likes of POSSILICIOUS (6) and REGAL MINISTER (2) early on. Although he does possess a turfy sort of action, I’m hopeful the pedigree of J C’s Not Brown comes through and he takes to the dirt. If he can sit and rate under Jeremy Rose, I think he can make some noise at a big price. I’ll play him to win at odds of 12-1 or greater.