Servis filly likely favorite in Friday allowance feature

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – Jason Servis had a strike rate of 30 for 67 (44.8 percent) at the Gulfstream Park championship meet as another five-day race week got under way here Wednesday, and chances are good the veteran trainer will improve on that gaudy record by the time Friday action is finished.

Servis was scheduled to send out one starter Wednesday and Thursday – each of them favored – and he’s likely to have two favorites from as many starters here Friday in Bronzed (race 6) and Richie’s Sister (race 8).

Richie’s Sister, claimed in late January by Servis on behalf of retired Major League Baseball catcher Mike Napoli, could prove an elusive catch in a $44,000 allowance that serves as the nominal Friday feature. Restricted to Florida-breds, the five-furlong turf race drew a field of seven fillies and mares eligible for a first-level condition, with a $16,000 claiming option also being a way in.

A gate-to-wire winner in her last start for prior connections, the 5-year-old mare shows just one interim work at Palm Meadows since being haltered for $16,000 – but that apparent dearth of activity is unlikely to deter the many bettors who back Servis with blind faith. Luis Saez will be aboard from post 4.

Logical alternatives to the Servis newcomer include All About Stella, Magic Two, and Salt Pond, the respective 2-3-4 finishers in a similar spot here Feb. 20.

First post for a 10-race card is 1:15 p.m. Eastern.