Carryover chasers face big challenge

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - A challenging pick-six sequence is filled with traps Wednesday at Hollywood Park, where bettors will chase a $128,073 carryover, rain or shine.

An 80 percent chance of rain Wednesday muddles the pick six in which races 5 and 8 are scheduled for grass, while the ambiguous form of several logical contenders further muddles the sequence.

Of course, trainer Cliff Sise can make the pick six a lot easier by winning races 3 and 8.

In race 3, a $20,000 claimer at 5 1/2 furlongs, Primary Notice returns from a one-year layoff.

"He's live, but it's not an easy spot," Sise said, identifying Gray Black N White and speedster Moves Like a Cat as threats.

Primary Notice runs well fresh and has an up-front style essential for the distance. He resembles Sise-trained Superfecta, another Philadelphia Park shipper who won a Hollywood claiming race in his May 3 comeback.

In race 4, an $8,000 claimer for filly and mare sprinters, Ann's Plan is the shaky choice. After repeatedly dropping in class, she was scratched by the vet from a similar spot Nov 2. If she clears Red Lollipop, Ann's Plan could get loose. Her rivals include Early Anna and Blushing Bear Cat.

Race 5 contender Ashton Girl also was scratched Nov. 2; her setback was temporary. Trainer Paddy Gallagher said she was treated for colic the night before.

"She only missed two days," Gallagher said, and he expects a big effort in the turf sprint for first-condition fillies and mares.

Ashton Girl's recent starts include successive runner-up finishes behind a pair of next-start winners (Royal Taat and Peppermint Lounge). But race 5 is not easy. Carmel Coffee finished third in a sharp comeback; European import Your Pleasure is well-meant.

Race 6 is a $50,000 claimer for 2-year-olds, none more honest than 3-for-9 Turbo Call. Up in class after a big win, he faces tough-trip The Bat Signal and Delaware Doe.

In race 7, a second-level allowance route for fillies and mares, Eclatante has a chance to steal it. Her only pace rival in the 1 1/16-mile race, Forest Melody, appears off form. Double Dip, Wine and Dyne, and Vanguarda are the logical closers.

In race 8, Sise-trained Candy Arches can race wire to wire in the mile turf race for 2-year-old maidens. Last out, he finished third in his first start around two turns. El Chubasco and Joking Sam are his rivals.