Hot Talk has found right spot

EDMONTON, Alberta - Avoiding a rematch with Sixthirtyjoe in the Spangled Jimmy on Saturday, the Robert Kingston-trained Hot Talk seems to have found a softer spot in a $40,000 optional claiming sprint Sunday at Northlands Park.

Owned by J & G Murphy Holdings, Hot Talk raced forwardly last out in the Journal Handicap and gained the lead entering the stretch only to yield to the charging Sixthirtyjoe right at the wire. The 4-year-old Hot Talk retains the services of jockey Perry Winters in Sunday's 6 1/2-furlong race.

Hot Talk, who drew post 5 in a field of six, could face stern opposition in consistent sprinter Fussy's Kid from Janet Wig's barn. Fussy's Kid, who has the outside post position, has hit the board in all four of his starts this year, including a pair of victories. He is coming off a fourth in a one-mile test in the slop.

Also trying for his third victory of the season is Dixieland Beat, trained by Rick Hedge. Dixieland Beat opened his campaign with a victory against $25,000 claimers, then won right back in an allowance. He was beaten two lengths in his last start. Rojidan Ramirez will be aboard.

Catalone, owned by Joyce Heaver, is coming off a victory in an optional claimer. Trainer Tom Dewey has awarded the mount to Chris McGregor, who takes over from the suspended Quincy Welch.