Showing posts with label Fraser Downs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fraser Downs. Show all posts

  • Meadowlands Features Fast Ones; Overnights Overflowing

    POSTED Mar 5, 2014 By Frank Cotolo

    This weekend hopes for weather less violent as March digs into its place for 2014. At the Meadowlands this Saturday, March 8, we will see the first wave of sophomore pacers in the William Gilmour Memorial Final for $60,500 and three- and four-year-old trotters in the Charles Singer for $53,200. That’s as high as it is getting so far in the features department.

    We continue to pick and choose a few specific races from common cards where we hope to keep up with our success of presenting some strongly priced winners. We love the Meadows and we are there again this Friday, March 7, to discuss a few races at length for optimum value wagering.


    More horses to watch (H2W) at the Meadows and for overnight events throughout the TwinSpires harness menu are presented exclusively below. This list provides wins, places, shows and exactas every week, featuring contenders that, for the most part, the public dismisses. We have added harness racing’s newest track, Miami Valley, in Ohio and have already resulted in successful plays. Saratoga opens again and is also added. Please note that horses from our featured overnight events the week before appear on the H2W list as second-time members if they did not win when we highlighted their previous race.

    ’Gilmour’ presents

    Sophomore pacers that we may not see again down the stakes road are led by the obvious Dinner At The Met in the William Gilmour Memorial Final. Jimmy Takter trains three here, which could upset the betting configuration (program unavailable at press time) but we have to watch for value from National Debt. He is looking for his second win in as many tries and could be the speed of the speed, certainly if he commands his inside post and rates the quarters. Let the price be worth it by your judgment but he could be a strong third choice with “Met” and Capital Account leading the support bank.

    ’Singer’ On Stage

    With Time To Quit perfect with five wins in this Charles Singer series, coming into the final from the inside is going to make you think twice about playing at all. Just behind him, Perfect Alliance is four for four this year and then you have most of the horses they have beaten between them to fill out the field. So, a very light endorsement is handed to Clementine Dream, who is the most competitive past the top two and is bound to be a price from post 8. Trainer Mark Harder also has Ray Hall from post 4 and if they are coupled (no programs available at press time) you need not worry about making a decision.

    This week’s overnight offerings:

    Meadows
    March 7, Race 6

    A horse (Goggles Paisano) we chose second in a would-be giant exacta last week, in which we nabbed the 15-1 winner (Pop Cop), surfaces the morning-line (ML) choice stepping down into this conditioned pace. However, another horse, Brown Titan, is here with an unreasonable 12-1 ML and stands the best chance to blow this field away. Hanged for three calls dropping to this level last week, Brown Titan hails from Northfield, where he collected checks in Open company. Those foes were better than these, further strengthening our support for him here. For exotic plays, be sure to use Incredible Dragon, who has shown spark at this level and is sitting on a big mile in his fourth start after a brief rest.

    Meadows
    March 7, Race 11

    This conditioned trot is no conundrum, considering obvious choices are marked with short ML odds and have inside posts that fans love to count on when betting. But on the outside, post 9 (scored on the far outside at the Meadows), RT USS Chilton steps up a slight notch and may overcome a trip scorned by his post and win at a big price. As a legitimate contender, “Chilton” has won two of three, the middle loss of the trio due to breaking stride, mostly. He has a dual style, so if he manages to have to go with the outer flow due to his post, he should be flying in the stretch. Consider, also, that the ML choice is also a stepper-upper with two of three wins but Connie Keeper has post 2, so the inequality is based upon post as well as raw speed data, which is fine to ignore. Use her in exotics, though.

    H2W Legend

    Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track. These are possible contenders we have judged from reviewing races. The horses’ names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date they will be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means it is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared. An “AE” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list. Types of wagering on any of the H2W listed horses are based on your judgment. If you have any questions, email us at TwinSpires.

    H2W

    Cal Expo
    3/7/14, +My Roberto R7; +Fox Valley Dylan R7; +Pip’s Jenny G R12; Blessingfromabove R13

    Dover
    3/9/14, +Devvils Embrance N R9; JRs Midnight Cry R13

    Flamboro
    3/6/14,; +Northern Triumph R4; +Justabiteveil R9; Strong Hope R11
    3/8/14, +Justabiteveil R1; +Lightning Charger R5

    Fraser
    3/7/14, +Terra True R2; Jack Junior R6; +Last Luck R7; +Yanotherhos R11

    Freehold
    3/7/14, +Stand Guard R5; +All On My Own R10

    Meadows
    3/7/14, +Perfect Change R2; +Yosemite Camn R3; +Mccedes R6; D Mac R7; Dew N Doughnuts R10; +Bergerac R10; +Dojea Nodoze R13; +Four Starz Elder R14

    Miami Valley
    3/7/14, +TM Valley Storm R3
    3/8/14, +Woop D Do Bazzle—AE—R1 

    Monticello
    310/14, Garbarino R8

    Saratoga
    3/7/14, Real Yankee Fan R3; +Cash Poor R9; +The Northern Dude R10
    3/8/14, Sand Summerfield R9

    Yonkers
    3/7/14; Blacktuxwhitesox R7; Likeabatouttahell R8; Yo Cheyenne Rocky R9


    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.      

  • In Like A Lion …

    POSTED Feb 26, 2014 By Frank Cotolo
    The weekend ends the short month of February and starts the long month of March. It could feel far longer than its 31 days if the brutal winter continues. Still, March bridges winter with spring and that brings us closer to awaited stakes action and the launching of top-class divisional play.

    As well, many other tracks are poised to begin their seasons, some starting before the end of predicted winter weather through March. Our Harness Update blog that appears Monday mornings will keep you up to date on which track schedules could be added to your menu of TwinSpires harness-action possibilities. Don’t forget to read the News And Notes column in that blog, as we offer the exclusive players’ version of the industry news.

    But we are crossing that bridge as we come to it, continuing this week with specific overnight events and our highly successful horses-to-watch (H2W) list. Wins, places, shows and exactas abound. We have added harness racing’s newest track, Miami Valley, in Ohio. Please note that horses from our featured overnight events the week before appear on the H2W list as second-time members if they did not win when we highlighted their previous race.

    This week’s overnight offerings:

    Meadows
    Feb. 28, Race 3

    A horse has to be an extraordinary performer for the morning-line (ML) maker at this track to give it a good shot when leaving from post 8, which carries a stigma anyway. That just makes other viable contenders from the outside worth better win money and enables us to disregard the post (which by the way gets far more disregard than necessary). In the case of this race we totally endorse Bergerac, a contender that may suffer more in support than performance. His recent trio of attempts were all on “off” tracks and in each, from different posts, he excelled. There is little reason he will not be in this mix, where the favorite may be a horse stepping up. You may swing for a giant exacta using Mccedes, who will go untouched by the crowd from post 3 and could pick up a place spot based on his back class, which includes racing with better and winning at Philadelphia last December.

    Meadows
    Feb. 28, Race 5

    Pop Cop’s Feb. 21 raced should simply be excused, which leaves us with a gelding that was on the improve all of January. His Feb. 14 race included a brave trip with a sharp gain that cost him late. His last January race from post 8 was terrific at this level, stepping up from a lower level without winning. Before that he earned a rise by winning two levels down. We wouldn’t be surprised to see him go off less than his 10-1 ML but not so much as to under lay him. Plus, fan-favorite Dave Palone on Artist Night will suck in a lot of money that could be spread more evenly in this field if common players were less impressed by drivers. Using Goggles Paisano (what a great name) in the place spot would make for a monster exacta.

    Flamboro
    March 1, Race 2

    What looks like strong competition may just be a few strugglers if Justabitevil returns to how she performed two back. She stepped up far too high after that and was beaten by the obvious choice, Abs To Envy. She was second to that one by a mere length three back and deserves a far better chance than the ML maker has her at 6-1.

    Flamboro
    March 1, Race

    Dewer Kash is our type of contender, hiding many of his assets, while checking in with an important angle that is to his favor in this simple claimer. Claimed for $5Gs in his first race here after a London campaign, Dewer Kash strolled from post 9 at 24-1, a tour no one will be happy about as a precursor to this race. But he was scratched at London while entered to return there next and he stays here to step up off the claim for the new connections. At London he was competitive and steered by four different drivers, each holding back for one big brush, which was only successful with a second in December. But the trainer/owner has a great post here to use the trotter and get the claiming money back, especially with the obvious two choices, First Notable Chip and Saulsbrook Fidget on his outside. That could be a great trifecta if you key Dewer Kash and try to take down this number (but don’t forget the win bet). Also looming to upset is Northern Triumph. If he is in the trifecta it becomes an even larger bag o’cash.


    H2W Legend

    Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track. These are possible contenders we have judged from reviewing races. The horses’ names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date they will be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means it is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared. An “AE” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list. Types of wagering on any of the H2W listed horses are based on your judgment. If you have any questions, email us at TwinSpires.

    H2W

    Buffalo
    2/26/14, +Infrontigo Hanover R7
    2/27/14, Bagel Man R5; +Gilla Dream R12; +Bluebird Corvette R12
    2/28/14, RA Shakenbake R2; +Eagle Yankee R5
    3/1/14, +Sand Savage R6


    Cal Expo
    2/28/14, Pips Jenny G R1; Northern Fling R1; +Poorlittlerichgirl R9; +Girls Lie Too R14
    3/1/14, Gold Device R1; +Only In Lodi R1; Fox Valley Dylan R10; +Indescribable R12

    Dover
    3/2/14, +Suits R8; +Occasionally Bad R12; RD Elegant Yankee—AE—R14; +The Quite Village R14

    Flamboro
    3/1/14, Lightning Charger R3; Mibestkeptsecret R4; Charmbo Willie R6; Massmanian Devil R7

    Fraser
    2/28/14, +Rollin Deep R2; +Nazko Tribute R3; +Real Vintage R5 
    3/2/14, Red Star Tyson R11

    Freehold
    2/27/14, +Look Siera R1

    Meadows
    2/28/14, Dojea Nodoze R4; Perfect Change R6; +Hickory Big Red R8; Four Starz Elder R9; Honeyinthepine R12; Yosemite Camn R13

    Miami Valley
    2/27/14, +Juntique R2; +Luna Hanover R2; +Pink E Bank R6; +Late For Work R11
    2/28/14, +B Good Lexi R2; Action-broadway R10; TM Valley Storm R11
    3/1/14, +Bad Angel R3

    Monticello
    3/3/14, Garbarino R6
    |
    Pompano
    3/1/14; +PC Moonshine R7; +Market Force R9

    Yonkers
    2/28/14; Likeabatouttahell R7; +Cash Poor—AE—R11


    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.      

  • Cotolo’s Harness Review, News And Notes

    POSTED Feb 23, 2014 By Frank Cotolo

    First there was too much snow and then there was too much water, which was the snow before it melted. Mother Nature is certainly more consistent than a lot of racehorses. So it was this week as higher temperatures dissolved mountains of snow and ice in many U.S. states, provoking bad conditions on the tracks that were, a week before, frozen.

    Cancellations before and during race programs nixed a few schedules. Buffalo Raceway’s TwinSpires bonus Pick 4 was cancelled on Feb. 19 when the surface became unsafe. Every Wednesday night, weather permitting of course, TwinSpires’ 10-percent-bonus Buffalo Raceway 50-cent Pick 4 wagers continue. We assist with suggestions for your ticket via Twitter -- @FrankCotolo, @TwinSpires and @BuffaloRaceway.

    Other schedules affected included the Meadows and Yonkers. All horses we are watching that were to participate in the various programs cancelled, will appear in next week’s watch (H2W) list. Check below for the wins, places and shows that did materialize last week.

    Our overnight features’ choices included two winners but not on top, as the huge favorite (our second betting choice) Keep The Dream ($3.10, $2.20, $2.10) won the Miss Valentine Final at Fraser over our upset choice, Yanotherhos. Our other Fraser choice, Red Star Tyson raced horribly, finishing ninth of nine at 11-1.

    Feb. 23 at Dover on Race 3 our second choice, Steady Pulse, won ($4, $2.40, $2.10), and our first choice, JR’s Midnight Cry, scratched, leaving us with the favorite. Our first choice in Race 2, Occasionally Bad, was never a threat, finishing eighth at 13-1. The second contender for us in that race finished second—RD Elegant Yankee ($3.60, $2.60).

    H2W RESULTS

    The H2W results list across-the-board prices. Also, exactas are included when a H2W horse finishing first or second completes the result with a race favorite or another H2W horse listed in the same race (an asterisk appears when both horses were listed to complete the exacta). Failed choices from our previous week’s overnight features appear for the second time in the H2W list. 

    Winners

    That’s My Girl, $24.60, $6.40, $4.40 (Exacta $56.20), Miami Valley
    Ringside Winner, $13.20, $6.20, $4.80, Freehold
    Ideal In Vegas, $6.90, $4, $3.10, Yonkers
    Dora Des Rivieres, $5.80, $3.20, $2.60, Miami Valley
    Rare Beauty, $5, $4.20, $3, Cal Expo
    Itsabouttonight, $3.40, $2.80, $2.40, Cal Expo
    All Star Dragon, $3, $2.40, $2.10, Yonkers

    Seconds

    Late For Work, $11.80, $9.40, Miami Valley
    Screen Saver, $11.10, $6.60, Meadows
    Eddie Sweat, $7.80, $4, Meadows
    Bad Angel, $7.40, $4.30, Miami Valley
    Cash Poor, $7, $3.90 (Exacta $26.20)
    Last Luck, $6.90, $7.80 (ok), Fraser
    All On My Own, $6.80, $5.40, Freehold
    Luna Hanover, $3.60, $2.40, Miami Valley

    Thirds

    Stiletosilverheels, $4.80, Cal Expo
    Sparticus Jim, $4.60, Flamboro
    Juntique, $4.40, Miami Valley
    B Good Lexi, $3.60, Miami Valley
    Mr Salming, $3.20, Freehold
    TT Tucker, $2.60, Meadows

    News And Notes

    As we go to press, the United States Harness Writers Association (USHWA) held its annual awards dinner at Dover Downs. Most of the divisional winners have already been announced and a few categories were held for the evening’s ceremony. These were not, however, surprises. We congratulate the connections to all of the winners, including Horse of the Year, Bee A Magician, and our choice for the top horse in 2013, Captaintreacherous, who won Pacer of the Year. Both of these horses have a history with this blog that goes deeper than public opinion. Bee A Magician is a filly trotter we supported before anyone in the business or sport gave her the respect she deserved, going back to her frosh year. Captaintreacherous was heralded here early this year when he began his soph campaign and we stuck with him as many journalists knocked him regardless of his stunning performances.

    World Champion trotter Guccio, a winner of $1,021,809, has been retired to stud in Indiana. Trained by Jimmy Takter, Guccio became one of the top contenders of his generation as a three-year-old and missed winning the $1.5 million Hambletonian by a neck. At 4 he trotted to his personal best of 1:51.1f, a World Record for four-year-old trotters.

    Takter said, “It was our plan to race in Europe in 2014 had this opportunity for him to enter the stud not developed. Indiana clearly has one of the most attractive regional programs and we do plan to breed to Guccio as I believe he has every quality to become an outstanding trotting sire.”

    Horse racing in British Columbia has been saved for at least five years now that a new deal has been negotiated. “The major component of this for us is the five-year deal. We’ve been told we have government backing for five years. We have race dates for five years,” said Jackson Whittup of Harness Racing BC. The new deal assures racing at the two tracks in the province, Fraser Downs (harness) and Hastings Park (runners). Both tracks are owned by Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, which also owns Flamboro and Georgian Downs in Ontario. The agreement will see 71 race dates at Fraser this year but that number will be reduced throughout the life of the deal. To read the full story in the Cloverdale Reporter, please click here.

    Extraordinary Extras

    Indulge in many standardbred topics at my Hoof Beats blog titled Vast Performances.

    Ray Cotolo contributed to this blog

    Cartoons by Thom Pye

  • Signs Of The Season

    POSTED Feb 19, 2014 By Frank Cotolo


    Hopes across North America are similar—that the winter thaw is closer than spring, which begins in 30 days as of this writing. If hopes develop into meteorological realities, harness racing features are just around the calendar’s corner.

    Meanwhile, we have been thriving regardless of the frigid foes, with enough harness racing across the continent to keep our TwinSpires accounts locked and loaded. With the cancellation of the first feature series, the Presidential at the Meadowlands, we continue to focus on the most competitive overnight races at many tracks.

    One of our features, however, is the $25,000 Miss Valentine Final from Fraser, featuring British Columbia-bred four-year-old mare pacers, arguably the best in the provice.

    Again this week we analyze specific overnight events with great profit-producing probabilities and we swing at similar common events with less explanation in our highly successful horses-to-watch (H2W) list. Wins, places, shows and exactas abound. We have added harness racing’s newest track, Miama Valley, in Ohio. Please note that horses from our featured overnight events the week before appear on the H2W list as second-time members if they did not win when we highlighted their previous race.

    This week’s overnight offerings:

    Fraser
    Feb. 21, Race 6

    While Stonebridge Lyric tries for his third straight and an entry of Keith Clark pacers return from scrathes, Red Star Tyson sits cold and perhaps able to allow the aforementioned to beat themselves and finally get a winning trip. “Red” draws the inside and has shown his speed at this level two back, though he was hampered by an early duel. Here he can find a ground-saving spot and use a single brush to wreak some havoc as the undisputed outside contender.

    Fraser
    Feb. 21, Race 

    Keep The Dream is the morning-line (ML) choice of mares in the Miss Valentine Final, armed with top Canadian breeding (Mach Three) and local favorite trainer-driver Bill Davis. But does she deserve the status, coming off of two Open losses and unable to topple Call Me Up in this and better company? There is no doubt a challenge will be presented from Yanotherhos, who, in contrast to Call Me Up, has done near as well as Keep The Dream. Her race coming into this affair is a very sharp show finish at an under-rated 11-1; she dueled to the lead before getting caught late by two tough gals. As a key she will work in exactas with the top choice and a trifecta could explode by adding Nazko Tribute, who can be forgiven for last week’s failure and be as hot as she raced the pair before that—at quite a price.


    Dover
    Feb. 23, Race 2

    Occasionally Bad can be a spoiler in this group, meeting each of these foes for the first time. The elder Badlands Hanover mare has finished well in two of her last three and will be dismissed by the crowd for the obvious trio with shorter MLs. One of them, RD Elegant Yankee, may also be an overlay here and stands a chance of robbing the pace from Shaving Mug, the one that may be bet to smithereens.

    Dover
    Feb. 23, Race 3

    JR’s Midnight Cry screams for support after a bum trip from post 8. His Feb. 9 mile was strong and challenging as he finished second while wide for two calls. Just before the year turned over, the pacer was strong at this level and being bet far more than we expect the crowd to support him here. Certainly Suits from the inside is going to be hammered in the win pool but the sophomore may be facing too much experience to be trusted at low odds, while the other ML choice, Steady Pulse, has excuses but remains vulnerable enough to go against.


    H2W Legend

    Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track. These are possible contenders we have judged from reviewing races. The horses’ names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date they will be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means it is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared. An “AE” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list. Types of wagering on any of the H2W listed horses are based on your judgment. If you have any questions, email us at TwinSpires.

    H2W

    Buffalo
    2/21/14, RA Shakenbake R4
    2/22/14, +Sand Savage R5; +Windy City Ron R10


    Cal Expo
    2/21/14, Rare Beauty R4
    2/22/14, +Stiletosilverheels R1; Poorlittlerichgirl R5; +Curvacious R7; Itsabouttonight R7; Only In Lodi R8; +KD Nicol R8; My Roberto R10; Indescribable R13 

    Dover
    2/20/14, +Big Valley R1
    2/23/14, +Rock My Life R1

    Flamboro
    2/20/14, +Nothing But Trouble R6;
    2/23/14, +Designer R7; +Spartacus Jim R8

    Fraser
    2/21/14, Real Vintage R1; Rollin Deep R2; Terra True R4; Jack Junior R10; Last Luck R12

    Freehold
    2/20/14, +Our Girls Chance N R4; +Mr Salming R7, All On My Own R10; Look Siera R11
    2/21/14, +Ringside Winner R8; +Princess Mcardle N R11

    Meadows
    2/21/14, +Eddie Sweat R1; +TT Tucker R9; Screen Saver R15

    Miami Valley
    2/20/14, Juntique R3; Pink E Bank R3; Luna Hanover R3; B Quite Marvelous R5; Dora Des Rivieres R7; That’s My Girl R10; Late For Work R11
    2/21/14, B Good Lexi R1 
    2/22/14, Woop D Do Bazzle R1; Bad Angel R3
    |
    Pompano
    2/22/14; Market Force R6

    Yonkers
    2/21/14; +All Star Dragon R1; +Ideal In Vegas R6; +Handsoffmycookie—AE—R10; Cash Poor R11
    2/22/14; Safe Harbor R4

    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.      

  • Opus Overnight

    POSTED Jan 22, 2014 By Frank Cotolo

    News reports about sagging jet streams and frigid weather ensue as we head for the penultimate weekend in January. Even if the climate was tepid, however, there would still be the seasonal lack of feature races in the standardbred community. However, from coast to coast raceways are brewing up a slew of overnight events to keep us harness bettors investing.

    Once again, then, we concentrate on overnight events with a few specially chosen races (this week we venture to different tracks than the last few weeks because value is present throughout the pari-mutuel world) and our horses-to-watch (H2W) list, both which have been productive as 2014 heads for its second month.

    This week’s overnight offerings:

    Charlottetown
    Jan. 25, Race 3

    Honeymoonisover returns to this conditioned trot after two failed Open appearances. She has faired well at this level and once was the dead-on choice. The program choice, the mare leaving to her right, has won at this level but may be sorely over-bet, giving Honeymoonisover a clear shot at winning as an overlay. Incredible Her Bee has every right to race well from the inside and should play a big role in the exotics’ results.

    Charlottetown
    Jan. 25, Race 6

    The crowd may be mistaken if they buy into the morning-line (ML) chances of Scotian Lass in this conditioned pace. Two excuses accompany her recent efforts at a higher level while three back and four back she was competitive after winning as a big choice while dropping into a lower class. She hovers at this range, though, and could very well present an outsider’s victory if she can out-step Hornswoggle, the second ML choice that drops after disappointing with big chances to win. Lexis Mandy could be the element that inflates exotic prices.

    Dover
    Jan. 26, Race 6

    You can go out on a limb for this one with a possible longshot contender for a few reasons. First, the ML choices, all three, are not glowing prospects for a win. Next, they are spread out from the inside to the outside and third, they all look like they will battle for control of the pace. This leaves us with Kenzie’s Beach Boy. We have no doubt he will offer a price, considering his 59-1 failure after qualifying upon his arrival from Philadelphia. But while there, he raced some good miles, even if they ended poorly. He also steps down into this condition and has nothing to do but improve. These are the kinds of big-priced horses we adore because they are poised to wake up and when we get them in a situation where few to none address them as contenders, they are super scores.

    Dover
    Jan. 26, Race 11

    Stubbs Hanover has a fine shot at the two horses inside of him that should get all the win money. He was in a crowd, only 4 lengths off of the winner in this company last week, leaving slowly from the outside. Before that he was on the move big time when he was bothered enough to break and lose all chance of competing past three-quarters. He won a $20G claimer as the 2-1 choice three back and that group was arguably as good, if not better, than this one. As a key overlay, also, a trifecta with SB Mikes Hot Beach and Polaris N could come back big balloons, as they used to say.


    H2W Legend

    Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track. These are possible contenders we have judged from reviewing races. The horses’ names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date they will be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means it is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared. An “AE” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list. Types of wagering on any of the H2W listed horses are based on your judgment. If you have any questions, email us at TwinSpires.

    H2W

    Cal Expo
    1/24/14, +Twentyone Guns R4; +Plum Crazy Baby R10; +Dragons Wall R11
    1/25/14, Hi Ho Hi Ho R6; Tiger Bait R7; +All Is Lost R10; Melboy R11; Big Guy Two Win R11; +Energy Angle R13

    Charlottetown
    1/25/14, Trustmeonemoretime R1; Flag Of Honor R2; McMaverick R7; Artners In Crime R8; Capitalism R10; Bakardi Arti R13

    Dover
    1/26/14, DVC Jazzy Jolt R5; Arpeggio Hanover R7; Lord Terror R10; Devils Embrace N R12

    Flamboro
    1/26/14, +Modern Image R10

    Frasier
    1/24/14; +Runaway Disirae R4; +Pureform Sydthekid R4
    1/26/14, +I Hear Voices R4; +Branding Party R5; +Mmmmmh R7; Jolt Of Whiskey R9; +One Last Shot R11;

    Freehold
    1/23/14, Mr Salming R4; +Hagi R4; +Ala Carte Bill R8; +Kaya’s Sweetheart R9
    1/25/14, Tulfra R1; Travvers Hall R2; Cyclone Cully R2; +No Tears Here—AE—R3; +Major Bet R4; Youth Uprising R11

    Northlands
    1/24/14; +Too Young Man R7; Cinderella Smiles R8
    1/26/14; +Smooth Criminal R10; +Man Alive R11; Little Bit Faster R11

     Meadows
    1/24/14, +PL Dragon R3; +Bootswiththefur R4; +Mattachardle R6; +Trend Spotter R6; Hall Of Memories R12

    Monticello
    1/23/14, Flower Girl Charis R4
    1/27/14, +Day To Fay R2; Eng-amer Davanti R2; +Lightning Madison R4

    Pompano
    1/18/14; +Ding Dong Boy R1; +Mai Tai Guy—AE—R1; +Just Fred R2; Flight Exec R3; +Oh My Joepa R4; Red Hot Yankee R5; Mc Kelvie R6; +Odd Man Out—AE—R10

    Western Fair
    1/24/14, +Flip Top R8 

    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.      

  • Conquering The Climate

    POSTED Jan 8, 2014 By Frank Cotolo
    The Meadowlands attempts another launch of its Super Bowl series for trotters. Last week the four divisions were carded on a program cancelled due to bad weather. Hopefully, this Jan. 9, Mother Nature will accommodate the beginning of the tough series.

    The deep freeze is closing tracks even as I write. On Tuesday, Jan. 7 the only harness track open is Dover Downs (and it’s early yet). However, the forecast for Friday promises a virtual heat wave, with temperatures in the 30s. Is it time for short sleeves?

    Buffalo Raceway delayed its opening of a new meet due to weather and launches this week. Cash a winning ticket in the $5K guaranteed Pick 4 on Wednesday at Buffalo and you'll earn a bonus equal to 10% of your gross winnings!
    Complete details - https://www.twinspires.com/buffalo-10-pick-4-bonus-every-wednesday-night

    We ensue with the hope that all things being equal we’ll have a healthy menu of racing this weekend. We target four overnight events that may be profitable, using as many raceways, which we have chosen while monitoring our horses-to-watch (H2W) list. That exclusive feature offers hot contenders, all candidates for win, place, show and exotics, and offers its latest edition below.

    Trotters In Flight

    The Super Bowl series at the Meadowlandsbrings together three- and four-year-olds to begin the 2014 season highlighted events as the 2014 season goes into week two. The conditioned trotting event has four divisions in its first preliminary on Thursday, Jan. 9.

    Team (Ron) Burke’s new acquisition of Time To Quit will have the bettor’s support in division one, showing massive improvement after moving to the barn from Illinois. With the public caught in a trance of speed, it may ignore classy Deacons Valley. Shipping in from Dover, he has been competing against the company of non-winners of five races lifetime. He has won four of his last six starts and should get a nice trip to upset the favorite.

    Division two highlights the Burke’s other acquisition, Cocotier, attained from Illinois-based Homer Hochstetler. Cocotier is dropping in class after racing against non-winners of three, where he faltered against that group last week. Just because it is a new starter from the Burke barn, we will not be fooled by a lack of alue. This is a mile where we can see a monumental upset, as well as the right preliminary.

    Making his first start on a mile track, as well as for trainer Scott DiDomenico, The Manipulator has an opportunity to stun the crowd. He has raced a majority of his life on a half-mile oval, being a victim of the draw as well as going an extra 16th of a mile at Yonkers. The gelding is adding Lasix for the first time and should be positioned well in the mile to pull off a perfect-storm toteboard explosion.

    The third division features a possible contender for the Hambletonian Oaks, Donatella Hanover, a Jimmy Takter trainee that hadn’t seen the races until November of last year. She is coming off of an eye-catching 1:53.3 second-place effort to Time To Quit, so she’ll take the money of the speed lovers.

    Meanwhile, coming from post four is Kentucky-bred Clementine Dream. Two starts back she went her first mile after a two-month absence and finished third from post 10. In her second outing a week later she had no opportunity to get into the race, being interfered and going off-stride as the public choice. She deserves another opportunity and may be the only threat in this mile to Donatella Hanover.

    Ray Hall will be an overwhelming choice in the final division, recovering from a bad break to finish second against non-winners of three at the Meadowlands two weeks ago. To his inside comes a Canadian invader JCs Jake. While racing in the Great White North, JCs Jake was competing against the higher level of non-winners of two, at Woodbine, where he parked badly to Fork, a horse that has been racing well on the WEG circuit, then raced well the next week on a night where more than cats and dogs were falling from the sky. He received a few weeks off after his mucky mile last time and draws the rail in his Meadowlands debut, which can never hurt. 

    Meadows
    Jan. 10, Race 4

    Here is a typically predictable field at the Pittsburgh-area track, where star-driver Dave Palone picks up the horse with the seemingly best past performances, gets a morning line of 2-1 and will probably be sent off far less than that from a crowd that applies much of its handicapping weight on the driver. Granted, Artist Night (Palone) has won two straight at this track but being a proverbial underlay, we look at what the crowd may ignore considering its uneven appraisal of Palone.

    What we find is the shipper from Northfield, Machal Angel. The speedy son of Mach Three comes to town having been supported well due to a flashy style among winners. The smaller purses are not due to class as much as to circumstance (Ohio is just starting to get aid from casino plays which will increase their purses to levels much like the Meadows enjoys). His speed can be regulated to sit behind a rushing Artist Night or he could park the little devil and ruin his mile without suffering from a duel. Either way, the price should be right with chances greater than the odds the public will provide.

    The other outside contender who should be considered in exotic plays is Mattacardle. In the ranks of this class, which he drops back into here, his route from post 1 may be the key to a second or third. If Palone is squeezed out of the exacta with our two choices, look for a huge exacta.

    Yonkers
    Jan. 10, Race 9

    An octet will line up for this $20,000 Claiming Pace, a race that looks to be anyone’s mile. From the rail comes Mcstraight, dropping down in class after flying around the Yonkers’ oval against non-winners of $12,000 last six. He can be exempted from his start before that, although his post 8 effort was rather valiant, riding cover and rushing up to the leader three wide. The rail should benefit this gelding as long as he can ration his speed. Underneath, his neighbor Big Unit ships in after an unsuccessful outing at the Meadowlands. Throwing out that mile, he has been very consistent against similar company and finally draws towards the inside. He should leave and if given a pocket trip, will hit the board. Goose Creek has the opportunity to hit the trifecta, making his first drop in class at Yonkers. He had been burdened with bad posts against $25,000 Claimers and the one time he did draw well, he parked. He’ll be a great price and could even sneak up for second, so keying him with Big Unit is a must.

    Meadowlands
    Jam. 11, Race 7

    Since holding their grand opening, the New Meadowlands has proven to be one of the toughest venues to wager, even harder than when the ABC-system was first implemented. This B-2 Pace proves the conundrum that handicappers endure, with every horse having a shot to enter the winners’ circle. Digging deep between the lines, this race sets up for a closer, with Silent Swing being an obstinate leader; not wanting to relinquish the lead regardless of his remaining stamina. Mattador D, who races on the lead frequently, will have to gun from post 10. Then there are Cam B Zipper and Cole Heat, who generally make their moves towards the front during the backstretch journey. Now, with a closing scenario likely, one horse who stunned the Big M audience almost a month ago at 92-1 has a shot to win again, maybe not at that price, sadly, in his drop from B-1 company. Bolder has been a foe to some real classy horses in his last two outings, including comeback-kid Hypnotic Blue Chip and current A-2 pacer Road Untraveled. He has showed some effort from off the pace but the class drop and post 5 will definitely benefit him.

    Monticello
    Jan. 13, Race 4

    Last week we endorsed Hold Her Tight in this group and the program was cancelled. We find her in a similar situation this Monday and support her again. Hold Her Tight’s first race at Monticello after competing regularly at Saratoga can be tossed out due to an early misstep that eliminated her. The Kadabra mare comes from “winners-of” affairs and reeks of excuses racing against better trotters. She was a sold dead-heated fourth at 26-1 before coming to Monticello; she was buried the race before that at 16-1; and the two before that include a poor showing from post 8 and a break at the start from post 8. On Nov. 17, in a class better than this race, she was sterling, dueling from the outside, taking the lead and just missing at 4-1. She should be a fine price today and if she trots smoothly to her best she should result in victory.

    H2W Legend

    Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track. These are possible contenders we have judged from reviewing races. The horses’ names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date they will be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means it is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared. An “AE” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list. Types of wagering on any of the H2W listed horses are based on your judgment. If you have any questions, email us at TwinSpires.

    H2W

    Cal Expo
    1/10/14, Donna Letsgo R7; Plum Crazy Baby R9;+High Bet Hanover R13; Tour Guide R14;  Hillcrest Romeo R14
    1/11/14, +Shax R3; +Indesribable R5

    Flamboro
    1/11/14, +New York Colossus R2; +Frilly Throng R5; +Shiny Mach R11

    Fraser
    1/10/14, Westridge Warrior R2; Panic At The Disco R4; Nazko Tribute R5; Regal Heir R5; Kthanxbai R5; +Dontmakemebeg R7; Pureform Dreamer R7; Latino Hall R7; Rock Allstar R8; Pinepitch Cam R9; Pureform Sydthekid R9; Pureform Athena R10
    1/12/14, Jolt Of Whiskey R2; Somethinsgoingon R3; +Cenalta Wizard R3;Westerm Nitro R4; Taylor Special R4; Branding Party R4; Mmmmmh R5; Stiletto Hall R6

    Freehold
    1/11/14, Hagi R1; Youth Uprising R2; Tulfra R3; Kaya’s Sweetheart R4; Cyclone Cully R4; No Tears Here R4; Travers Hall R10; Ala Carte Bill R10; Mr Salming R12
    This week’s overnight offerings:

    Northfield
    1/9/14, +Theta Blue Chip R4; +Mcardle Direct R8; +Milano Grande R11

    Northlands
    1/10/14, Merlins Rocket R1; Real Pretty R2; Shyster Hanover R3; Big Otts Party R3; +Tatsu R4; Skirmish R7; AE Too Young Man—AE—R7; +Armbro Dublin R10; Kg Cody R10
    1/11/14, Rascal Shark R1; Little Bit Faster R1; Va Va Varoom R3; Kg Explorer R6; Loneridge Shannon R9

    Meadows
    1/10/14, Trend Spotter R2; MM’s Copper Touch R3; Karets R7; Bootswiththefur R9; Dellie’s Jewel R13

    Monticello
    1/13/14, +Cardine Hanover R6; Now It Begins R8; Wheelchair Wendy R9; Day To Day R10; +Rocknroll Princess R11; +Artemis Blue Chip R12; +Lightning Madison R12

    Pompano
    1/11/14; +Hillbilly R3; Mai Tai Guy R5; Odd Man Out R6; Just Fred R6; Oh My Joepa R8; Ding Dong Boy R10 
    1/12/14, Dreamnwillie R5; Sabriana Lane R9; Oceans Motion R10; Asset Management R10

    Western Fair
    1/10/14, Wattafine Rythem R7; Cheyenne Ford R10


    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.      

  • Cotolo’s Harness Review, News And Notes

    POSTED Jan 5, 2014 By Frank Cotolo

    Mother Nature continues to stifle action in the East, affecting some of our focused events for wagering. Last Thursday’s Super Bowl series did not launch at the Meadowlands due to inclement weather causing the program’s cancellation (we will cover it in our Thursday blog). Also, on Friday, Monticello closed due to severe winter conditions in upstate New York, nixing one of our overnight choices. We will keep that horse on the watch list and include new overnight features on Thursday.
    |
    The one overnight feature race highlighted and raced, this one at the Meadows, provided the two exacta elements. Though we chose them in the wrong spots, they finished first and second. Object Of Art won Race 7, paying $8.80, $4.20 and $3.60, while Looking For Adventure was second, paying $2.60 and $2.60 (ok). That exacta came back $18, still a profit if you boxed the selections and lost a win bet on “Adventure.”

    We continue to offer prime plays from overnight races as the season ensues. Remember to keep your TwinSpires account healthy and try not to miss some great wagers in the overnights we feature.

    Our exclusive horses-to-watch (H2W) list again produced some strong plays and across-the-board returns. Results from Monticello on last week’s list will be included in our next H2W results grid, as all of the horse are set to race on the day after our deadline here.

    H2W RESULTS

    The H2W results list across-the-board prices. Also, exactas are included when a H2W horse finishing first or second completes the result with a race favorite or another H2W horse listed as the winner in the same race (*asterisks note the particular races along with track name). This holds true, also, for trifectas if three H2W horses finish win, place and show.

    Winners

    Rays Edge, $38.40, $10.90, $7.60, Fraser
    Highland Bogart, $23.40, $7.60, $4.20 (Exacta $67.80), Pompano
    Metajka Road, $16.60, $5, $2.20, Northlands
    Burn The House, $7, $3.80, $2.80, Northlands
    Theregoesmyheart, $4.50, $2.40, $2.20, Fraser
    Leather Betty, $4.20, $2.40, $2.20, Sports Creek

    Seconds

    Cyndralianne DVC, $12.60, $6.50, Flamboro
    Garden Gate Storm, $8.90, $6.50, Fraser
    Va Va Varoom, $7.40, $3.10, Northlands
    Watch And Pray, $5.50, $3.70, Northlands
    Thieving Magpie, $4.80, $3.70, Fraser
    In Mint Condition, $4.40, $3.80, Pompano
    Dudes Bonnie, $4, $4.30 (ok), Northlands
    High Bet Hanover, $3.40, $2.20
    Bar’s Gold Medal, $3.20, $3, Pompano
    Dontmakemebeg, $2.50, $2.40, Fraser
    Modern Image, $2.50, $2.20, Flamboro
    Theta Blue Chip, $2.80, $2.10, Northfield

    Thirds

    Frilly Throng, $4.70, Flamboro
    Northern Fling, $3.20, Northfield
    KG Explorer, $3, Northlands
    Hammers Wild Rose, $2.30, Fraser
    Sealedwithapromise, $2.30, Northlands
    Future Life, $2.20, Flamboro

    News And Notes

    The Canadian Sportsman, a century-old publication which was dedicated to features on harness racing throughout the Great White North, published its final issue in December of 2013. The depressed standardbred atmosphere, especially in the Ontario breeding area, was sited as the main reason for the magazine’s demise. Standardbred breeders’ advertisements supported the slick pages of the bi-weekly until their coffers weakened. This is just another “little death” in the history of harness racing in the east of the country, where casino gaming appropriations were cut dramatically, affecting the many Ontario raceways sprinkled across the vast province.

    Meanwhile, Friday, Jan. 3, Ontario’s Western Fair remained open while some other tracks closed due to weather. The program produced a handle of $536,725 – the highest single night total in more than a decade. It was a big start to the 2014 season for the oval and marks the fourth time in the last five programs it topped the $400,000 mark in handle. Western Fair has become one of this blog’s H2W tracks.

    The Meadows is another track in the east rearranging its schedule due to predicted frigid temperatures. The Meadows has cancelled its card for Tuesday, Jan. 7. Live racing will be added on Thursday, Jan. 9, originally a dark day. The modified schedule for next week is as follows: Monday, July 6 — Live racing, first post 12:55 p.m.; Tuesday, July 7 — Live racing canceled; Wednesday, July 8 — Live racing, first post 12:55 p.m. The card will be the program originally drawn for Tuesday. Also: Thursday, July 9 — Live racing, first post 12:55 p.m.; Monday; and  Friday, July 10 — Live racing, first post 12:55 p.m.

    On a bitter-cold day at Freehold’s fresh meet, 80-year-old James Porter drove the winner of the third race with a horse owned by 80-year-old Eugene Landy. It was the first win for five-year-old Buenos Aires Lady, who paid $17 to win. Porter, who turned 80 on Nov. 12, reportedly drove the mare himself because he never had problems with her breaking stride during training sessions. In their first start together, they finished second. Jan. 2’s victory was their second race together.

     Western New York’s rugged Buffalo Raceway opens amid the iced atmosphere Wednesday, Jan. 8 for a 99-day racing season. Buffalo has reaped the benefits of early-season racing in recent years. COO Jim Mango said the track needs to take advantage of an early season opening, despite the weather due to “success the past few seasons racing in January, February and March. We are one of the few tracks still willing to race then; it gives us great exposure and brings in some good drivers and horses.” Buffalo will race on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights in January. Post time is 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and 6:40 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings. In February and March, Thursdays will be added with 5 p.m. start time.

    Extraordinary Extras

    Indulge in many standardbred topics at my Hoof Beats blog titled Vast Performances.

    Ray Cotolo contributed to this blog. 

    Cartoons by Thom Pye 

  • Year Of The Harness Horse Launches

    POSTED Jan 1, 2014 By Frank Cotolo


    This year’s Chinese New Year offers the Year of the Horse and includes all breeds. But here we are in the TwinSpires exclusive harness horse department, so we celebrate the year of the standardbred and look forward to working with all of our readers to surpass the great season we had in 2013.

    And, of course, happy birthday to all equines as they move into their new divisions.

    The first winter series coverage begins this blog, as the Meadowlands presents its Super Bowl series for trotters. We will also feature some overnight events that we feel could be profitable, as they have been so far (last week we crushed a race at Balmoral).

    Our horses-to-watch (H2W) list rolls on with hot contenders, all candidates for win, place, show and exotics.

    ’Super’ Men

    The Super Bowl series at the Meadowlands is a small overture to the 2014 stakes season. The conditioned trotting event has three divisions set to go in its first preliminary on Thursday, Jan. 2. 

    Team (Ron) Burke’s new acquisition of Time To Quit will have the bettor’s support in division one, showing massive improvement after moving to the barn from Illinois. With the public caught in a trance of speed, it may ignore classy Deacons Valley. Shipping in from Dover, he has been competing against the company of non-winners of five races lifetime. He has won four of his last six starts and should get a nice trip to upset the favorite.

    Division two highlights the Burke’s other acquisition, Cocotier, attained from Illinois-based Homer Hochstetler. Cocotier is dropping in class after racing against non-winners of three, where he faltered against that group last week. Just because it is a new starter from the Burke barn, we will not be fooled by a lack of alue. This is a mile where we can see a monumental upset, as well as the right preliminary.

    Making his first start on a mile track, as well as for trainer Scott DiDomenico, The Manipulator has an opportunity to stun the crowd. He has raced a majority of his life on a half-mile oval, being a victim of the draw as well as going an extra 16th of a mile at Yonkers. The gelding is adding Lasix for the first time and should be positioned well in the mile to pull off a perfect-storm toteboard explosion.
     
    The final division features a possible contender for the Hambletonian Oaks, Donatella Hanover, a Jimmy Takter trainee that hadn’t seen the races until November of last year. She is coming off of an eye-catching 1:53.3 second-place effort to Time To Quit, so she’ll take the money of the speed lovers.

    Meanwhile, coming from post four is Kentucky-bred Clementine Dream. Two starts back she went her first mile after a two-month absence and finished third from post 10. In her second outing a week later she had no opportunity to get into the race, being interfered and going off-stride as the public choice. She deserves another opportunity and may be the only threat in this mile to Donatella Hanover.

    This week’s overnight offerings:

    Monticello
    Jan. 3, Race 8

    Three sets of conditions bring together this group, none of which display recently successful campaigns. Among them, however, is Hold Her Tight, whose first race at Monticello after competing regularly at Saratoga can be tossed out due to an early misstep that eliminated her. This Kadabra mare can be considered the class of the class here, coming from “winners-of” affairs, and wreaks of excuses racing against better trotters. She was a sold dead-heated fourth at 26-1 before coming to Monticello; she was buried the race before that at 16-1; and the two before that include a poor showing from post 8 and a break at the start from post 8. On Nov. 17, in a class better than this race, she was sterling, dueling from the outside, taking the lead and just missing at 4-1. She should be a fine price today and if she trots smoothly to her best she should find victory a cinch.

    Meadows
    Jan. 3, Race 7

    A former stakes contender—we had him at decent prices three seasons back—Looking For Adventure finds a spot to topple his incessant place finishes. Finding decent employment at the Meadows, “Adventure” comes off of four fine races in which bettors withheld respect. Racing better than his odds, he should offer a solid win price here as the morning-line (ML) choice, Flying Instructor, seems the traditional public choice and track-hero driver Dave Palone gets a good mount but must have to deal with a step up and the 8 hole. Aaron Merriman’s mount, Object Of Art, should be more trouble than the two aforementioned and need be included in exotics.

    H2W Legend

    Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track. These are possible contenders we have judged from reviewing races. The horses’ names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date they will be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means it is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared. An “ae” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list. Types of wagering on any of the H2W listed horses are based on your judgment. If you have any questions, email us at TwinSpires.

    H2W
    Cal Expo
    1/3/14, High Bet Hanover R5; +Pips Jenny G R15
    1/4/14, Shax R6; Indesribable R7; Ohnoyoudidnt R10; +Dancing Barry R15

    Flamboro
    1/4/14, New York Colossus R3; +Cyndalianne DVC R8; Frilly Throng R7; Shiny Mach R9; Future Life R10; Modern Image R10 

    Frasier
    1/3/14, +Garden State Storm R1; +Nazko Tribute R3; Rays Edge R8; Lo Tengo R9

    Northfield
    1/2/14, +Milano Grande R5; Theta Blue Chip R14; Caribbean Girl R14; +Northern Fling R15

    Northlands
    1/3/14, +Sunny Bee R3; +American Passion R8.
    1/4/14, +Sealedwithapromise R2; +Outlaw Star Maker R2; Kg Explorer R4; Watch And Pray R4; Wish I Was R5; +Western Chrome R9

    Monticello
    1/3/14, Flower Girl Charis R4
    1/6/14; Cardine Hanover R4; Rocknroll Princess R5; Chop Chop Suey R6; Bathing Beauty R7; Artemis Blue Chip R11; Lightning Madison R13; Diaz Blue Chip R13

    Pompano
    1/4/14, Bar’s Gold Medal R2; In Mint Condition R8; + Highland Bogart R10

    Western Fair
    1/3/14, Hesurbuddy R2

    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.     

  • Harness-Betting Attack For Final Weekend Of The Year

    POSTED Dec 25, 2013 By Frank Cotolo

    Two dark days in the middle of the week, due to the Christmas holiday, leaves a lot of harness players just itching for action. We understand and empathize, which is why we are sitting here on Christmas Eve stuffing the blog with possible profitable participants across the board and in exotics for the last weekend of 2013.

    Our horses-to-watch (H2W) list continues to suggest contenders, all viable elements for win, place, show and exotics. As well, we feature analysis of overnight races we feel strongly about wagering regardless of class or gait.
    Though it is possible we will hit a larger paying horse than the one we suggested over the past year up to this weekend, we feel our Player’s Horse of the Year has already earned the title. But we won’t announce the horse unless it remains the best pari-mutuel win price of this year. However it turns out, as is our own tradition in this blog, we will announce the winner in our Monday, Dec. 30 blog. As well, we will list the top win-mutuel horses that this blog presented during the season in descending order, by the amount each paid to win, starting with 10-1 shots.
    This week’s offerings:

    Cal Expo
    Dec. 27, Race 6

    In this claiming handicap it is difficult to understand why the morning-line (ML) maker has Articulate as the third choice (5-1). Shipping in from Pocono, once may develop a great argument that he has raced as well as his lines support against better horses than this California-oriented field offers. Even with the drop of Mobil Big John into a tag race, his best condition efforts were at Colonial, also less impressive than the Pennsylvania bunch Articulate controlled. The ML choice was a beaten favorite in this group sans the presence of Articulate, though Majorley won before that at this level. The fans will more than likely support Majorley due to Luke Plano’s steering but Tyler Smith, aboard Articulate, is no stranger to the winner’s circle and is bound to make a strong mark in Sacramento.

    Balmoral
    Dec. 28, Race 9

    Firstclassallthway is finding a comfortable spot at this level and due to drawing the 8 hole in this affair may go off a bit better than he deserves. Dismiss his Dec. 7 effort; he had no chance to beat the Invitational group he battled. If he races how he won at Maywood in a group similar to this, he will make it. Justa Cowboy will probably be more of an outsider for the crowd but is a legitimate contender, as well as he should not be left out of exotics. He was swift early at 24-1 last out, trying to compensate for post 9. His races at this level are competitive, with excuses for losing. If you have a hankering for the Superfecta here, you may want to use the obvious favorite, Best Man Hanover and Raging Cam, one that could up the payoff by sneaking into the top four at a price. It’s a 10-cent “Super,” so boxing it more than once with these would offer a healthy-percentage profit.

    H2W Legend

    Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track. These are possible contenders we have judged from reviewing races. The horses’ names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date they will be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means it is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared. An “ae” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list. Types of wagering on any of the H2W listed horses are based on your judgment. If you have any questions, email us at TwinSpires.

    H2W

    Cal Expo
    12/27/13, Ohnoyoudidnt R1; Hillcrest Romeo R9; High Bet Hanover R11; +Curvacious R12; +Blissful Kassie R14
    12/28/13, +Hi Ho Disguise R2; +Republic Of Panama R2; +Giant Sculpture R7

    Flamboro
    12/26/13, Future Life R4; American Fly R9; Libertys Best Star R12
    12/27/13, Cyndalianne DVC R1; New York Colossus R2; Theablityofreason R3

    Frasier
    12/26/13, Pureform Chicklet R1; Iza Bin Freezin R2; Outlawishfulthinkn R2; Nazko Tribute R3; Hammers Wild Rose R3; Cenalta Wizard R5; Dontmakemebeg—AE—R5;  Thieving Magpie R6; Garden Gate Storm R7; Runaway Desirae R10; Theregoesmyheart R10
    12/27/13, Rays Edge R8

    Maywood
    12/26/13, +Pippi R9; +Our Miss Kristi R12; +Itzalassi R13; 
    12/27/13, +Powerful Pilot R11;+Winordietrying R13

    Northfield
    12/27/13, Milano Grande R3; Strawberry On Top R3; +Foof R3; Caribbean Girl R5; Mcardle Direct R9; +Classic Sakuri R10; Northern Fling R12
    12/28/13, Careless Love R3; Friskie Pants R6; Thomas John N –AE—R10;
    +The Classic Z Tam R12

    Northlands
    12/27/13; Sunny Bee R2; Outlawpocketrocket R2; Burn The House R6; Metajka Road R6; Dudes Bonnie R7; Ink Blink R7; Alcars Britefriday R8; Tatsu R9; Brave Rustler R10; Crimson Promise R10; American Passion R11
    12/28/13; Western Chrome R1; Sealedwithapromise R2; Kg Explorer R3; Watch And Pray R3; Outlaw Star Maker R6; Armbro Dublin R7; AE Va Va Varoom—AE—R9
     
    Pompano
    12/28/13, Hillbilly R4; Highland Bogart R9; Pip’s Quatro R10

    Sports Creek
    12/27/13, Leather Betty R2; French Art R9; He’s A Dreamer R9; Mystery Ringer R11; Illini Jack R12; Nocturnal Rose—AE—R13; Dreamy Amanda R13; Jay Dean Dew R14

    Western Fair
    12/27/13, +Victoryrun Killean R2; Ny Friend Diaz R9;+Kerrona R10; Beach Hero R12


    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.     

  • Last ‘Levy’ Stand; Courageous Lady Calls Seven

    POSTED Apr 24, 2013 By Frank Cotolo

    The George Morton Levy Series Final for stalwart older pacers becomes the focus this Saturday, April 27, with the older mares co-starring in the final of the Blue Chip Matchmaker, both at the events’ home track, Yonkers Raceway.

    After five weeks of divisions that produced less-than-startling results, it is obvious that there are a few top contenders in both series finals that can be their own worst enemies in the contests’ conclusions. Below we analyze the only possible ways to make money on the series’ finales by focusing on the obvious contenders’ problems, which can open the doors for some weaker competition to upset the proverbial pacing applecart.

    There’s also a “Levy” consolation worth $100,000 and a $50,000 Levy-eligible spinoff mile, all of which we will dig into with pleasure.

    The earliest contest with a major purse for soph-filly pacers takes place at Northfield Park this Friday, April 26. Seven dainty femmes get nasty for $84,000 in this tough-as-nails four-turn mile in an attempt to take down the biggest share of the prize and make the harness headlines before any in their division has a chance.

    TwinSpires’ exclusive harness horses to watch (H2W) list goes deeper this season than it has ever gone due to popular demand. This season we have handed readers lists of winning horses that have peaked at $100 for a simple $2 bet, offered from tracks across the continent. This week we add horses from Hoosier and Pompano.

    As well, the TwinSpires’ 10-percent bonuses for winning the Pick 4 at Woodbine on Saturday nights continue. And now, get the same deal with Pick 4s at Hoosier Park throughout the harness meet, and double points plus (click here).

    Check out the details for Woodbine here.

    Check out the Hoosier details here.

    And check into the Hambletonian Trail blog, our exclusive information center where through April you can get acquainted with the eligibles to the classic Hambletonian and “Oaks,” each raring to start in spring stakes battles to get spots in the August 2013 classics. Bookmark the blog and check in often as the season ensues for great betting information on the stakes leading to the first weekend in August. It’s an exclusive series spinning off from this blog, brought to you by TwinSpires and the Hambletonian Society.

    ‘Levy’ Leftovers

    Saturday three Levy-related miles highlight the Yonkers program. The Levy-eligible mile features eight, with one, we feel, that is peaking just at the right time. That is Eighteen. Last week he was full of himself and almost got to the big favorite while ignored at 28-1. This could be his night in the limelight.   

    The six-digit Levy Consolation may be a showcase for Electrofire. We have no way to predict the public’s betting behavior here (last week he was 33-1) but we see Electrofire and EZ Noah in the forefront for prices. “EZ” was our choice for an upset in a chapter of the final leg but had trouble negotiating a second-over trip in the Razzle Dazzle division and finished last after a strong move that sent him too wide to make ground on the short Yonkers stretch. He raced far better than Atochia and Classic Rock Nroll, both which finished in front of him respectively.   

    That Razzle Dazzle-won division was a fine race and could turn out to be a sort of key race, producing winners in the next few weeks. We hope to see one tonight at a price in the consolation.   

    The final, worth a whopping $450,000, is so filled with speed that the best of this lot could find themselves clouded in smoke for the sake of wanting the cherished top spot on the half-mile. Razzle Dazzle gets the wood and the best shot at being best solely on commanding the pace. However, Foiled Again and Something For Doc are not going to sleep early in the mile; they don’t want to dream about losing.   

    The top three posts, featuring Razzle Dazzle, Versado and Annieswesterncard in that order, will launch boldly to secure the lead or at the least a good pocket. By the half there could be dangerous dueling at Foiled Again and “Doc” begin to challenge. The only scenario worth wagering here, we feel, is the one where Dancin Yankee is kept at bay by driver Tim Tetrick and he is raring to go with speed and space just as the others are struggling to stay alive. This would be a fine upset with a fine price.   

    ‘Blue-Chip’ Mares

     
    The Blue Chip Matchmaker final and a $75,000 consolation are also on the card April 27 at Yonkers. The consolation is a tough call but we like Handsoffmycookie to do what she has almost done in her two if five of her outings this season—win and win firmly against a group where she is apt to be under rated, though it is a very well-matched bunch.  

    The $285,000 final, on the other hand, seems to belong to Ramona Disomma. She is fit and on a roll now and could take control of this mile and win at a decent price. Certainly Camille will get played, as will Rocklamation and Anndrovette but with those two on the outside, the coveted 5 hole where “Ramona” lanches, should add strength to her trip.  

    Brave Babes


    The Courageous Lady field includes seven soph-filly pacers that are searching for their identities at three; not one of them has raced this season more than thrice and they are all bidding on the national stage, having had frosh experience in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Ontario and Ohio.

    The Meadows-Mohawk entry, Charisma Hanover, is the morning-line favorite and bound to be a big favorite, especially since driver Dave Palone has taken the short trip west for the filly’s second soph race. Palone must have a commitment on “Charisma,” since the other horse he guided to victory this year, Carols Desire, was not his choice. The hot-reins man Ronnie Wrenn, Jr. gets the ride we assume Palone turned away.   

    Champagne Tonight has the best record and the most class at two. This is her debut at three and the Clair Umholtz filly looks ready after three qualifiers in Cleveland. She may return with a powder keg performance, proving she has potential to be with the division’s best this season.  

    And then there is Cams Macharena, a Mach Three filly that has won four for 10 and has excuses for losing her first two as a sophomore, both at Woodbine. She is bred for speed and in her recent two jaunts in hometown Ontario she did not wither to tough challenges, finishing third both times as a dead-on choice. Here she will not get that kind of respect and yet she is as classy as “Champagne” and more gutsy than Palone or Wrenn’s mounts.   

    Chances are that we may never see this price on “Macharena” again because if she is as good as we assess she will win having no problem with the outside post and drawing the attention of all chalk players the next few times out (which will probably be stakes). Having Tyler Smith aboard is a big plus; he drives far better than the odds of some of his winners, which have stunned more than a few players.

    H2W Legend


    As we publish weekly, here is the H2W legend, Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track to decide how you will use the information.

    The horses names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date theywill be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means that horse is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared.   

    An “ae” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list (so it might not get into the race). Multi-horses may be listed in the same race.   

    Horses from previous lists that are not racing have a NR after the name on a separate line from dated entries.   

    Wagering on any of the H2W listed horses is based on your own judgment. Your handicapping skills should include decisions to wager to win, place, show or in exotics. If you have any questions about the H2W list, send them to us through the TwinSpires blog channel.    

    H2W


    Buffalo
    4/26/13 Native Roots R1; Jk Abigezunt R1; MS Heather M R2; +Cry For Cash R3; Pacific Prince R3; Windsong Ingenius R5; Fifty Two Finn R8; Upandover Hanover R10; Bailys Magic ae R10
    4/27/13, Pw Tootsie R10; Quick Change Artist R13
    Naked News NR

    Cal Expo
    4/26/13, Mousseline Hanover R7; Loco For Cocoa R9; Ra Ra Steven R12; Eggwhite Inmy Beer R14
    4/27/13, Stiletosilverheels R2; KD Amazin Spirit R3; Amazin Dot R6; +Aj’s Little One R7; +Bullet Tooth Tony R13; Flash’s Camilla R14
    Paul The Powerful NR; Haggin Oaks NR 

    Fraser
    4/26/13, +Westridge Warrior R5
    Red Star Scammer NR; Fast Lane Wealth NR

    Freehold
    4/27/13,  +Mastermaker R3; Fleeting Desire R3; Newsam R4; Magnum Mike R5; Best Magic R10
    Pacey Deucey NR

    Hoosier
    4/25/13, Bullwinkle R14
    4/26/13, Regil Millionaire R4; Richerthanrayno ae R4; Holy Chip R5; ER Sister R6; Lordy Gordy R7; Keep On Flirtin R7; Velocity Vespa R10; Maddy’s Fantasy R10; Flashy R11; Shabalabadingdong R13 

    Lebanon
    4/26/13, Black Blitz R4; Swimsuit Model R4; Racy Betty R5; Cagney Munster R6; Dollys Joy R8
    4/27/13, +Fort Ord R3; Rain Dance Maggy R5; +Bell Valley Indian R11 

    Maywood
    4/25/13, Rock N Jam R7; +Nightinthebox R8
    4/26/13, Catch The Rapids R2; +Le-sirenus R6; Stryker R10; Pin Stripes R12; Prime Escape ae R12
    Silky Salt Shaker NR

    Northfield
    4/26/13, Towner’s Great Lady R2; Attack Of The Town R2; Some Little Star R4; Pair Of Eyes R4; Blissfull Jessie R6; +Queens Or Better R7; Blue Time Ice Lady R7; Hurricane Hanna R7; Arion R9; Erikadikete R9; +Survivalism R10; Artie’s Gift R12; Just Got Lucky R13

    Pocono
    4/27/13, Automatic Teller R3; +Hurricane Scotty J R5; +Mississippi Hippy R8; +Fool To Cry R9; Foreign Officer R15
    Delco Rocknroll NR

    Pompano
    4/27/13, Avantage R3; Joltin Duel R4; Wingull ae R4; T’s Electric R6; Kennairnmachmagic R9   

    Vernon
    4/26/13, Southwest R7; Delano R10
    4/27/13, Stettin Hanover R5; +Maxnifizent R7; +Our Ella R8 ; Tiger Would Too R8; Worldly Domination R13; Fish Tales R13   
     

    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.

  • Cotolo’s Harness Review, News And Notes

    POSTED Apr 21, 2013 By Frank Cotolo

    Two seconds in the Matchmaker series (Handsoffmycookie [5-1] and Keepers Destiny [5-2]) were as close as we came to getting upset winners in the mares’ series, which goes to a final next week at Yonkers, along with the George Morton Levy final for the older males.  

    The “Levy” offered nothing but chalk, with all of our chancy choices falling hard to the obvious public choices. We will try to make sense of an upset in the final when we return with our Thursday blog.   

    Here are the results of all the wins this past week from the extraordinary H2W list, exclusive to TwinSpires. It was not our greatest week for winners but the weeks that have passed for the list have been so spectacular that it is tough to maintain the great winning and price ranges we have been attaining. Still, the list members have mostly been competitive; check out the seconds and thirds and come back on Thursday for more great contenders.   

    H2W


    $24.20 CCs Lover N, Pocono
    $12.80 Rock Man, Vernon
    $5.80 Bubbler, Maywood
    $3.00 Frost Bites K, Meadows
    $3.00 Where’s Waldo, Vernon  


    The following are the horses that finished second or third along with their post-time odds. Special notes on those finishes follow (where two sets of odds appear it reflects two races in as many weeks). Be aware that some of them were second-timers on the list and will not return next week (you may continue following them on your own, using them as you see fit).    

    Seconds:
    Melodie Hotspur (49-1), Maywood; Exquisite Gen (7-2), Cal Expo; Every Girls Desire (7-1), Buffalo; Beechwood Wayne (1-1), Buffalo; KD Rowdy One (22-1), Cal Expo

    Thirds
    Fort Ord (3-1), Lebanon; Mastermaker (7-2), Freehold; Tahuya Speed (31-1), Fraser; Just Ryan (4-1), Fraser; Sassy L Lynn (7-2), Northfield; So Reserved (4-1), Maywood; Save My Dragon (3-5), Meadows; Hurricane Scotty J (10-1), Pocono; Cry For Cash (2`-`), Buffalo; Delco Rocknroll (12-1), Pocono  

    All adjustments for returnees to the list and additions will be in the Thursday blog.

     

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


    News And Notes

    Googoo Gaagaa (pictured), last year’s sensational soph-colt trotter that could not race in the Hambletonian because his sire is a pacer, is carefully preparing for his four-year-old season. The world champion finished fifth in an April 16 qualifier at Philadelphia with regular driver Corey Callahan.  

    “We’re not going to do anything fancy,” Callahan said, aiming to qualify with a time of 1:57 or so. But “Googoo” was 11 lengths behind the winner in 1:58.3. Trainer Richard Hans hopes to come back next week and go around 1:55. Googoo’s first 2013 test is expected to be the $100,000 Meadowlands Maturity for four-year-old trotters on May 4 at the Meadowlands (see story of race below).  

    Last year, Googoo Gaagaa won nine of 14 races and earned $624,700, getting major attention for his record-setting performances and unusual breeding. His sire, Cam’s Rocket, was a pacer and his mother, Kora’s Trotter, a trotter. Googoo won last year’s $500,000 Earl Beal Jr. Memorial at Pocono in 1:50.4, which is the fastest mile ever trotted on a five-eighths-mile oval. A week earlier, he won his “Beal” elim in a then-world-record 1:51.3. He also won the $500,000 Colonial Trot at Philadelphia in a stakes- and-track-record 1:52.1 and the Maryland Sire Stakes championship at Rosecroft in a stakes-and-track-record 1:54.1.   

    In 2011, Googoo trotted the fastest mile ever (at the time) by a two-year-old on a half-mile track when he won the Maryland Sire Stakes championship by 41 lengths in 1:56 at Ocean Downs. Hans said Googoo is “even bigger than last year and has trained back really well.”   

    The Meadowlands Racetrack will offer two brand new $100,000 races to four-year-olds when the Championship Meet begins in May.  The Meadowlands Maturity provides four-year-olds to compete against their own age group (as opposed to racing with all-aged foes) for a significant purse in the early part of the season. The race is on Saturday, May 4. The Maturity pace comes two weeks later. The purse will be composed of $75,000 in added money. There are no conditions other than being a foal of 2009. The race will be limited to the top-10 lifetime money winners as of the date of declaration.  

    Walter Case, Jr., one of the most successful harness drivers of all time, his career thwarted by a slew of personal problems, continues his fight to return to racing, according to Bill Finley. Case’s initial signals from the racing authorities and track managements that will determine his fate have been positive. He applied for a Pennsylvania racing license and is awaiting word on whether or not he will be accepted.

    Case’s attorney, Howard Taylor said the veteran horseman is “as optimistic as [he] can get.” Taylor said that getting Case back in the sulky is a twofold process. Not only must he be granted a license but also one of the three Pennsylvania harness tracks must be willing to allow him to drive. He said the two are intertwined.  

    Taylor presents a good argument about a track allowing Case to race. He said that any track “should be banging the door down to welcome him. The handle goes up everywhere [Case races].” The Pennsylvania racing commission said they look very favorably upon the request if a track would let Case be a member of their driver community. “Mr. Case could be back within thenext couple of weeks,” said Taylor.  

    Extraordinary Extras

    Indulge in many standardbred topics at my Hoof Beats blog titled Vast Performances.    

    Every weekend as part of that blog we offer Balmoral Pick-4-and-win picks at the USTA’s Strategic Wagering Program page which includes suggested win bets.    

    Connect to Twitter and follow Frank and Ray Cotolo for up-to-the-minute suggestions on wagers at many harness raceways. Then, wager from your TwinSpires accounts.   

    Ray Cotolo contributed to this blog.

     

    Cartoons by Thom Pye

  • Penultimate ‘Levy’ Splits; Winners’ Watch Ensues

    POSTED Apr 17, 2013 By Frank Cotolo

    The George Morton Levy Series goes its final round this Saturday, April 20. This could present the most aggressive groups yet as the series’ characters engage in battles for berths in the final.

    This fifth week could offer some great prices in the only-the-strong-survive divisions. There should be no holds barred in these battles and we aim to take a chance on the best prices no matter the size of the field (a few seasons back we nailed Tarver Hanover at 25-1 in a six-horse “Levy” division and have had other well-paying desperados since then).

    The pacing mares also go their last rounds of the Blue Chip Matchmaker Series, featured on Friday. We will take the same approach with the mares as we do with the men, looking for the upsets that may mean nothing in the final.

    The surplus of harness information that you cannot get on any other ADW includes TwinSpires’ exclusive harness horses to watch (H2W) list. This season alone we have handed readers lists of winning horses that have peaked at $100 for a simple $2 bet. These are offered from tracks across the continent. This week we add horses from Pocono Downs and Vernon Downs.

    As well, the TwinSpires’ 10-percent bonuses for winning the Pick 4 at Woodbine on Saturday nights continue. And now, get the same deal with Pick 4s at Hoosier Park throughout the harness meet, and double points plus (click here).

    Check out the details for Woodbine here.

    Check out the Hoosier details here.

    And check into the Hambletonian Trail blog, our exclusive information center where through April you can get acquainted with the eligibles to the classic Hambletonian and “Oaks,” each raring to start in spring stakes battles to get spots in the August 2013 classics. Bookmark the blog and check in often as the season ensues for great betting information on the stakes leading to the first weekend in August. It’s an exclusive series spinning off from this blog, brought to you by TwinSpires and the Hambletonian Society.

    ‘Levy’ Strugglers

    Saturday’s last preliminary rounds of the Levy holds four divisions at Yonkers.   

    With Annieswesterncard on the rail, coupled with a Ron Burke stable mate, you must go for the George Brennan-driven Shoobee’s Place to upset. The Burke duo will eat up so much money that getting Nifty Norman’s pacer with Brennan aboard could offer quite a bargain among six betting properties.

    Something For Doc was beaten last week and can be beaten again, though not by the same horse (Razzle Dazzle is in division three). Jimmy Takter’s Great Vintage could do the trick unless he is the spoiler with challenging speed, in which case the outsider to back is Nob Hill High. “Rocknroll” trainer Bruce Sanders could have gone elsewhere with this guy but keeps him in the pacing for the final. It has longshot written all over it if you buy into the speed-duel scenario (maybe even without it).    

    Race 7 is the third chapter of the Levy divisions and the wagers should be spread out, making it difficult to predict a solid public choice. Even the drivers have doubled up on possible mounts at the draw, giving them some latitude to choose in this $50G contest. Lightly raced EZ Noah is unproven with only four starts and every bit as ready as Atochia, a series’ champ, so let’s give “EZ” a shot for a big mile here.   

    In the last episode the crowd will favor Foiled Again and give Silent Swing a slight chance to upset. But the third contender gets our vote. Casimir Jitterbug can come back and pay a big price, as he did when we gave him out two legs back. Coming from the outside will not please the bettors but that should give us odds higher than his chances.    

    ‘Blue-Chip’ Mares


    On Friday, only three divisions of the Blue Chip Matchmaker series go at Yonkers.    

    Team Burke has three in the first division, so all you can do is hope that Eighthundrdolarbill gives driver Brian Sears a rare longshot win.   

    In the middle division, Handsoffmycookie may be ready to truly start this season, taking this group gate to wire from the rail, which would not be a surprise since she is bound to start racing with more verve sooner or later.   

    Then the last division offers another shot at a horse that may be getting started after a light schedule this year so far. Keepers Destiny is in a great spot to pick up a trip that could get her stakes season in gear and deliver a good price.  

    H2W Legend


    As we publish weekly, here is the H2W legend, Review our choices and follow the wagering at the prescribed track to decide how you will use the information.

    The horses names are listed beneath the name of the track after the date theywill be racing. The race in which they are entered (R and race number) follows. If a + is in front of a horse’s name it means that horse is appearing on the list for the second (and last time) because it failed to win the first time it appeared.   

    An “ae” signals the horse is entered but on the also-eligible list (so it might not get into the race). Multi-horses may be listed in the same race.   

    Horses from previous lists that are not racing have a NR after the name on a separate line from dated entries.   

    Wagering on any of the H2W listed horses is based on your own judgment. Your handicapping skills should include decisions to wager to win, place, show or in exotics. If you have any questions about the H2W list, send them to us through the TwinSpires blog channel.  

    H2W


    Buffalo
    4/19/13 Cry For Cash R9
    4/20/13, +Every Girl’s Desire R7; +Beechwood Wayne R9; R8
    Naked News NR

    Cal Expo
    4/19/13, +Exquisite Gem R1; +Hi Tech Tony R3;+Paul The Powerful R7;
    4/20/13, +Devin Hall R7; +KD Nicol R8; +Kablooie R11; +Yankee My Way R12; +Bullet Tooth Tony R13; +Dancing Barry R13; +KD Rowdy One R14
    Aj’s Little One NR; Haggin Oaks NR    

    Fraser
    4/19/13, +Mamajons Bluegrass R2; +Pureform Pandora R3; +RNR Express R4; +Tahuya Speed R11; +Just Ryan R13
    Red Star Scammer NR; Fast Lane Wealth NR; Westridge Warrior NR 

    Freehold
    4/18/13, Mastermaker R4
    4/20/13, Fleeting Desire ae R12
    Pacey Deucey NR  

    Lebanon
    4/19/13, Jenny The Genie R4
    4/20/13, Fort Ord R1; Don’t Need A Halo R2; American Friskie R7  

    Maywood
    4/19/13, Silky Salt Shaker R3; Bubbler R4; +Joanies Irish Luck R7; +So Reserved R9; +Three Town Hero R12; + Melodie Hotspur R13; Le-sirenus R15
    Nightinthebox NR
     
    Meadows
    4/19/13, Save My Dragon R7
    4/20/13, Frost Bites K R6
    Dragon Spike NR; Zinzinnati Zeke NR 

    Northfield
    4/19/13, Queens Or Better R1; +Carmelita’s Girl R6; +Hula Lu R7; +Sun Rei R15; +Sporty Callie R7; Survivalism R10;  +Sassy L Lynn R13; +Campside Angel R14

    Pocono
    4/20/13, +Ccs Lover R1; Hurricane Scotty J R7; Mississippi Hippy R11; Fool To Cry R13; Delco Rocknroll R14    

    Vernon
    4/19/13, Delano R9
    4/20/13, Maxnifizent R7; Rock Man R8; Our Ella R10; Where’s Waldo R13  

    Ray Cotolo contributed to this edition.