Litfin's review: Fast track despite late rain

Track condition change

The heavy rain that was predicted for Friday afternoon did not arrive until much later, so the main track was fast for all but race 7, when it was sealed and “good” under showery conditions.

The turf was labeled firm throughout, although “wet firm” for races 8 and 9.

Bruce Brown stays hot

While Chad Brown tops the trainer standings with eight wins, Bruce Brown is off to a torrid start at the spring meet as well. He sent out first-time starter Giantinthemoonlite (race 4, $9.40) to score by better than seven lengths and saddled the one-two finishers in the $85,000 optional claiming feature, Strong Impact (race 8, $12.00) and Spring to the Sky, who linked for a $33 exacta.

Horse to watch

COTTON PICKIN
Trainer: Karl Grusmark
Last race: May 16, 6th
Finish: 4th by 1 1/2
Beyer: 74

Raised in price first time off a claim, she was off slowly, made a big middle move, gaining better than eight lengths to the pace call while racing wide, and continued on gamely to the finish.