Crystallo short price on long day

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Local fans can come out for lunch and stay for dinner as Hastings Entertainment Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodbine Entertainment Group begins its experiment with marathon cards this Saturday. Post time for the first of 13 races is 2:23 p.m.

The 13th race goes off at 8:05 pm.

In the best race of the day, a $15,000 claiming race for older horses going 1 1/16 miles, Crystallo is poised for his first win this year. Crystallo, a closer, should have a fast and contested pace to close into. He has been sharp in his two sprints this year, finishing third for $20,000 April 28 and making a nice move to get up for second in a quickly run race for $15,000 May 19.

Both of his wins last year were at 1 1/16 miles, and with his good sprint form he figures to be tough stretching out to his best distance. Toni Cloutier trains and she's named Chris Loseth to ride.

Tavolino should also benefit going a longer distance and will likely appreciate moving down in price after facing a tough group of sprinters in a $25,000 claiming race May 19. His best races have been when he's been on or near the lead, and while he couldn't keep up with the likes of Mister Cy, he figures to be the one they'll be chasing here, especially since he drew the rail. He's making his first start for trainer Jim Brown. Pedro Alvarado has the call.

Pendolino, Cherryhill Champ, and Aldergroovy all like to be up front, and at least one of them figures to put some pressure on Tavolino.

Tital Steel is another one that should appreciate a lively pace.

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