RT’s Spot Plays
06.02.22
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Gulfstream Park Race 2 - $65K Maiden Special
2yo fillies going five furlongs
I am not going with the chalk, 6-Morgan’s Bull (7/5), a Saffie Joseph first time starter. I am going to put my money on Ralph Nicks’ 4- Free To Roam, a second time starter by black type sire Uncaptured, a 24% winning sire for second starting 2yo fillies. As two maxims for Pittsburg Phil goes, “There are few trainers who can send a horse to the post the first time out in perfect condition,” and “One race for a horse is equal to two or three private trials.”
Churchill Downs Race 2 - $120K Maiden Special
2yo’s going 5.5 furlongs
Interesting race as 5-Cigarette Boat (3/1), a $100K, 2021 Keeneland September Yearling sale colt by Kantharos, returns after debuting at 13/1 here and getting off a step slow out the gate, before finding his footing and getting up for 2nd. Trainer Norm Casse a crazy 40% with 2yo males in their second start. 2-Boxster (12/1), so I am partial to the name because my first Porsche was a Boxster before graduating to a 911.That said, this colt has been kicking ass in his morning workouts, including a May 30, 3 furlong work of :34.4. Several experts have taught me to be dismissive of a three furlong work, but a :34? He will get the lead if he gets out of the gate well and possibly could take it to the house. His dam, Sweet Beat is 40% with firsters. 7-Mo’s Treasure (6/1) a Mo Town colt by Uncle Mo, gets his third start today and first time for “The Coach’s” barn. Since his last race, he has put up two :48 works in the morning and this colt should hit the board. On a personal note, I have had the privilege to meet D. Wayne Lukas and you should too. He is a fabulous, unassuming and approachable man. How many people can you say that about? 6-Mabuhay (5/1) is making his second start today for Eric Reed. The jockey switch to Sonny Leon is a hmmmm moment. I suppose his agent has been busy since his expert riding of Rich Strike in the Derby. I remain skeptical. Usually interested in all Practical Joke first timers, making 4-Perfect Prink (4/1) hit the dashboard. However, Steve Asmussen sucks in this situation and I will pass.
My choice? 5-Cigarette Boat. Hitting an 80 Equibase number on debut and coming back to a morning work in :47.8 does it for me
Happy Hunting!