Cinema Breeders' Cup preview
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Hollywood Park - Race 8
1 1/8 Miles (Turf)
Cinema Breeders' Cup Handicap (Grade 3)
3-year-olds
Purse $100,000.
GOLDEN BALLS was very impressive in his North American debut. Not only did the Irish-bred son of Danehill Dancer earn a 101 Beyer for his win in the La Puente Stakes, but he was flying down the center of the track to nip Desert Code (returned from that race to finish third by a neck with a 100 Beyer in the Grade 3 Laz Barrera before winning the Grade 3 Affirmed last weekend). Golden Balls seems to have some tactical speed, and should be racing in midpack behind the expected moderate pace. WORLDLY hasn't tasted defeat since being imported from Great Britain, and he didn't have the easiest of trips when winning the Grade 3 Will Rogers over this course last time out. He raced wide off a slow pace, but still gamely wore down the leaders in the stretch. He did change back to his wrong lead in the waning stages of that race, and may be facing a tad tougher here. STAR INSIDE was no match for the top selection in his U. S. debut, and he disappointed greatly as the chalk in the Alcatraz at Golden Gate last time. He had the rail run on the final turn, but had no pop when the money was on the line. He'll make the third start of the form cycle here, and may improve at a price.
GWEEBARRA was bet to favoritism for his stateside debut, and he didn't disappoint for Neil Drysdale. That was sprinting, however, and he still has some distance questions to address. LEVEL RED kept top company on conventional dirt and cushion track, and he is bred to handle the grass. His dam is a half-sister to Grade 1 turf winner Northern Emerald (28-8-4-6, $435,755 on turf). Level Red has good early speed, and should be among the leaders when they turn for home. MR EDDIE BOY and TYCOON DOBY are both undefeated on turf. The former upset Star Inside at Golden Gate while Tycoon Doby overcame traffic trouble to beat 'n1x' allowance runners over this course. Both are taking big jumps in class.
Selections:
1. Golden Balls
2. Worldly
3. Star Inside