Golden Gate Fields Handicap analysis
Golden Gate Fields Handicap - Grade 3
1 1/8 Miles (Turf)
Purse $150,000
Four-Year-Olds and Upward
| NO. | HORSE | JOCKEY | TRAINER | WT. | DRF LINE |
| 1. | Ace Blue | C. Schvaneveldt | J. Hollendorfer | 114 | 3-1 |
| 2. | Cheroot | R. Gonzalez | D. Vienna | 112 | 7-2 |
| 3. | Capitano | J. Court | T. Bell III | 116 | 9-2 |
| 4. | Symphony Sid | C. Rollins | J. Hollendorfer | 114 | 6-1 |
| 5. | Cosmonaut | T. Farina | P. Biancone | 112 | 8-1 |
| 6. | Adreamisborn | R. Baze | J. Hollendorfer | 122 | 2-1 |
Odds by Michael Hammersly
So, which Hollendorfer runner do we take in the GGF 'Cap on Saturday? He does have half of the six entrants so one would rationally think he has more than a fighting chance to reach the winner's circle in this Grade 3 event.
Ace Blue has never proven his mettle on the main track, however. His only turf start to date was inconclusive as he finished 15th in a Group 1 race in his native Brazil. A Grade 2 winner on dirt, Ace Blue becomes very dangerous if this race is rained to the main track.
Symphony Sid has blazing early speed, but his stamina has been suspect in recent races, and he may battle early with Cheroot.
Adreamisborn is Hollendorfer's best chance at winning this if it stays on the turf. He owns very competitive Beyer Speed Figures, and should get the race flow, but may not offer enough wagering value.
What about Cheroot? He couldn't have been handed an easier pace scenario in winning his most recent start, and things are likely to be different today with the presence of Symphony Sid to his outside. Still, he galloped out beautifully after that win at Santa Anita, and acts like he's really coming to hand for Darrell Vienna. Bobby Gonzalez is one of the most underrated gate riders in the country, and he should have Cheroot either on, or just off Symphony Sid for the backstretch run. He may be worth a play at 5-2 odds or better.
Top 3 selections:
Cheroot
Adreamisborn
Capitano (closer that should get a nice setup)
Analysis by Dan Illman