Free Picks: Breeders Cup Service Plays for Saturday, November 7,2009

Wizard's Saturday BC

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 2 - BREEDERS' CUP JUVENILE TURF

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 2 - BREEDERS' CUP JUVENILE TURF 1m (Turf) Grade II 2yo Colts and/or Geldings, Purse: $1,000,000. 1:45/12:45/11:45/(10:45) Post Time: 1:45 ET

Race Synopsis
There are several speed types in the Juvenile Turf, but the pace is not expected to be a fast one. Saving ground and avoiding trouble are the "key" to success at the mile distance. My top 2 selections who are both European invaders, draw great posts, and have excellant tactical speed. Interactif, my 3rd selection, certainly has all the credentials to win, but he must overcome a tough outside post and avoid a very wide trip.

First Selection: (4) POUNCED (Gosden John H M/Dettori Lanfranco)

Trainer John Gosden hit the jackpot in last year’s Breeders Cup, winning the BC Classic with Raven’s Pass at 13-1 and Donativum at 5-1 in the Juvenile Turf. History could repeat itself this year when Pounced takes his place in the starting gate for that very same race. Gosden has been emphatic that Pounced is just as good as Donativum and possibly better. This Kentucky bred son of Rahy out of a Storm Cat mare, was bred to be a good one and Pounced has not disappointed.

Pounced made his debut in July at Ascot when he was beaten a neck after spotting the field several lengths following a tardy start. 3 weeks later, he broke his maiden easily at Newbury. Gosden knew at that point that he had something special and took his shot running in the Group 1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere off a 51 day layoff. His opinion was confirmed when Pounced ran a strong 2nd after setting a pressured pace until being overtaken in the final 1/8th of a mile. The winner Siyouni is well regarded 2 year old bred by the Aga Khan. In addition, the 6th place finisher Beethovan, came back to upset the field 13 days later in the Group 1 Dewhurst at Newmarket!

Pounced continues to train forwardly toward the BC Juvenile Turf. He draws a perfect post, breaking from post 4. He has superb tactical speed which will allow world class rider Dettori, who is aboard for the 1st time, to place Pounced in perfect striking position from the outset. It must be noted that Gosden made a rider change to Dettori on Donativum last year. He makes the same move for this year’s Juvenile Turf.

Pounced will be adding lasix for the 1st time in his career Saturday, which I always feel is a big positive with Euro imports making their 1st start in the US. He has toted 129 Lbs twice in 3 appearances, and that was in his first 2 starts. In his last outing at Longchamp, Pounced carried 126 Lbs. On Saturday he will compete at equal weights with 122 lbs. This weight shift cannot be ignored and is just another feather in his cap.

Second Selection: (2) VISCOUNT NELSON (O'brien Aidan P/Murtagh John P)

Viscount Nelson is a regally bred colt from the deadly Aidan O’Brien stable. He is a half to the multiple Group 1 winner Horatio Nelson. Viscount Nelson did not care for the very soft turf in his debut at the Curragh. He would rebound with 2 straight victories at Leopardstown and Tippery capped off with huge effort in the Group 2 Champagne Stakes at Doncaster when Viscount Nelson was overtaken in deep stretch to Poet’s Voice, a highly regarded Godolphin trained 2 year old.

O’Brien used the Champagne for Westphalia’s final prep for this race last year and the result was a ½ length defeat when he ran 2nd, being outfinished in the late stages by Donativum, who like Pounced, was trained by John Gosden. Viscount Nelson has excellent tactical speed and draws a cozy inside post. He will not be adding laisx.

Third Selection: (11) INTERACTIF (Pletcher Todd A/Desormeaux K J)

It always takes a special American juvenile to defeat their overseas counterparts. This year the US may hold the edge with Interactif who ships into Santa Anita having won both his grass starts in impressive manner. Interactif made his first 2 starts on dirt, both in sprints. His maiden win was neither flashy nor quick.

He was trounced in his 2nd start in the Gr 2 Sanford at Saratoga. Trainer Todd Pletcher decided to give Interactif a chance to redeem himself on grass. Late in the Saratoga meet, he made his turf debut going 2 turns in a Grade 3 stake over firm ground. Breaking from a tough outside post, Interactif showed good speed from the outset. When new rider Kent Desormeaux called on him to make his run, Interactif made a devastating move to open up an insurmountable lead in mid stretch and was in hand to the wire. Left in his wake was the very talented Jung Man Scott who was coming off a devastating maiden win. No one, including his connections, thought Interactif would put forth such an effort which was confirmed when he paid $33.60.

After the race, anyone who witnessed Interactif’s coming out party, were anxiously waiting for the next race Pletcher would choose as the stepping stone to the Juvenile Turf. 37 days later Interactif was entered in the Gr 3 Bourbon at Keeneland. As a result of heavy rains, the course was very soft. The big question was whether or not Interactif could run as well over these adverse conditions. The money came pouring in on him and at post time, he was sent off the even money favorite in a field of 12. As soon as the gates opened, Interactif was taken back to 11th and far off the pace. He had never found himself so far back in his 1st 3 races, but when Desormeaux called upon him to launch his rally, Interactif made an “eye opening” wide move to sweep by the entire field, opening up nearly 2 lengths at the top of the stretch. Despite making what appeared to be a premature move and having to run much further than anyone else because of how wide he was, Interactif was still able to score by a length without really being threatened late.

His victory clearly stamped him as a horse of world class ability. There is no doubt that it will take a special horse to defeat him in the Juvenile. All 3 of his victories have been at different tracks, distances and surfaces. For a 2 year old to accomplish this in such a short period of time is a rarity. I feel he should be right at home over the firm turf at Santa Anita. With his versatile running style and the ability to race wide or inside of horses effectively, Interactif will be able to adapt to any pace scenario he is confronted with. The only concern I have is if the cut back to a mile can hamper him. There is a short run to the first turn which is tight. If he is forced wide early on and encounters some traffic problems, he will be behind the 8 ball. But his quality and turn of foot could help him overcome the adversity. He is the favorite in Europe over several of his overseas opposition which tells you how much the book makers respect his chances in the BC Juvenile Turf.

There is no doubt Interactif could be the most talented horse in the field, but as the expected favorite, cutting back in distance, and breaking from post 11, he could be vulnerable to the top Euro shippers. Nevertheless, Interactif will be included in all my wagers.

Fourth Selection: (7) BRIDGETOWN (Mcpeek Kenneth G/Landry R C)

Bridgetown has done little wrong in his 3 career starts, all on the grass. In August at Saratoga, he blew away the field, setting a fast pace and coming home in blazing time returning from a 48 day layoff.

Trainer Ken McPeek thought so much of Bridgetown’s maiden victory that he shipped him to Woodbine for the Gr 3 Summers Stakes stretching out to 2 turns. After breaking outward at the start from a tough outside post, Bridgetown rushed up to stalk a lively pace, took the lead at the top of stretch, going on to a 1 ½ length win. Bridgetown’s margin of victory was not indicative of how easy he actually won. In the final 1/8th of a mile, rider Landry just hand rode him. Any urging would have left his opposition further in the dust.

Fifth Selection: (10) BECKY'S KITTEN (Ward Wesley A/Leparoux Julien R)

If you are looking for a “live” longshot, Becky’s Kitten fits the bill. He did not run a step in his 1st 3 starts on dirt, but once top trainer Wesley Ward switched him to the grass, Becky’s Kitten improved big time. On August 27 at Saratoga, he overcame a tough outside post, with a strong sustained wide rally, to get up by a neck. Off that maiden win, Ward took a leap of faith, shipping Kitten to Woodbine for the Grade 3 Summer Stakes. Once again he was forced to overcome an outside post and a very wide trip, flying home to be a fast closing 2nd.

In the Juvenile Turf, Becky’s Kitten will once again be forced to overcome post 10. Since he has already shown he loves running outside of horses, and taking back to make 1 late run, I feel at the price, he can land in the gimmicks. Great rider Leparoux fit’s him to the tee, as he is at his best getting a horse to relax, and make that perfectly timed run from well off the pace, tactics which no doubt will be employed Saturday.

Wagering Strategy
The first Pick Four begins with this race. For those interested, there is a play below that 'keys' (5)Gayego in the Sprint.

* A Win and Place bet on (4)POUNCE

* $4 exacta box 2-4-11 = $24

* $6 exactas 4-2, 4-11

* $4 exactas 2-4, 11-4 * $4 exacta partwheel 4 over 5-7-9-10, Reverse for $2 (Total wager = $24) . * $1 PICK FOUR PLAY: 2-4-11 with 2-3-4-6-7-9 with 5 with 5-9-11 = $54

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 3 - BREEDERS' CUP TURF SPRINT

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 3 - BREEDERS' CUP TURF SPRINT About 6 1/2f (Turf) Non-graded 3yo and up, Purse: $1,000,000. 2:23/ 1:23/12:23/(11:23) Post Time: 2:23 ET

Race Synopsis
For a sprint, this race came up a little short on early speed, unlike last year, when there was an absolute crush of horses going for the lead. The downhill turf course has played fairly to all running types this year, so a good trip could be the most important factor in determining the outcome of this race. I also believe that it's a sizeable advantage for horses that have run down this unique hillside course, which curves both right, then left, then goes over the main track, a transition that can cause inexperienced horses to lose their footing or hesitate, losing momentum.

First Selection: (3) CALIFORNIA FLAG (Koriner Brian/Talamo Joseph)

Over the last 16 months this 5yo gelding has raced in 7 turf sprints and won 6 of them, all on the lead, while showing plenty of heart to win despite having to duel from the start in most of them. The only one he lost? Last year's Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint, so there are amends to be made this time around.

The problem in last year's Turf Sprint is that there was a ton of speed, and in order for California Flag to hold is accustomed position on the lead, he had to set the fastest half-mile fraction that I've ever seen 'down the hill', :41-4/5. Yes, they are running down a hill, but even so, :41-4/5 is just insanely fast. Jockey Joe Talamo has acknowledged the mistake that he made in that race, and is back to correct it this year, having worked on getting Flag to relax more now than he has in the past. It will also help that there's actually not much other early speed in this full field, with the filly Canadian Ballet appearing to be the only probable threat on the front end.

As good as California Flag got last year by Breeders' Cup time, when he was coming off of a dominant G3 win down the hill, I feel he's better now at age 5. He comes into this year's Turf Sprint fresh, fit, and fast, with just 2 races in 2009, and in each of those races he missed the course record by just 2/5 of a second while holding his ground very gamely on the lead. He won the G3 Morvich for the second year in a row as a 'prep' for this race, but this time around he's primed for a peak effort in his third start off the layoff of nearly 9 months. And then there's the home field advantage, which is probably bigger in this race than in any other, because the configuration that they race over is different than most of these horses have ever experienced. It includes both left and right hand turns and a short area entering the stretch where they run over part of the main track before re-entering the turf course.

If Talamo really can get California Flag to slow down a bit up front, and I think he can, then he has the speed and stamina to lead them all the way over a course and distance that he loves.

Second Selection: (9) DIAMONDRELLA (Penna Angel Jr/Maragh Rajiv)

This mare has just gotten better and better over the last year and a half while under the expert guidance of trainer Angel Penna Jr. She lost by just a head in her first start after the trainer change to Penna in May of 2008, but has won 7 straight turf races since. She's gotten good enough to win back-to-back Grade 1 races at a mile, each time beating last year's champion turf female Forever Together. Now Diamondrella will return to sprinting, but will face the toughest field of her career while also taking on males for the first time.

In stark contrast to front-running California Flag, Diamondrella usually rates far off the pace and then roars home with visually stunning late runs that take no prisoners. She's been able to transfer her winning sprint form to two G1 route races at a mile, and winning milers who cut back in distance to run down this hillside course at about 6.5 furlongs often do very well.

I initially selected Diamondrella on top in this race, but the potential tepid pace is a concern, as is the fact that Diamondrella has never raced or even trained over this turf course, which gives California Flag a valuable familiarity advantage. The same is true for her jockey, New York based Rajiv Maragh, who is unaccustomed to the subtleties of riding this course as efficiently as possible.

Third Selection: (6) CANNONBALL (Ward Wesley A/Dominguez R A)

Trainer Wesley Ward has done an outstanding job with this NY bred gelding, and brings him up to this race 'better than ever', according to Ward. If that's true, then Cannonball certainly must be considered a threat for the win. He ran the race of his life on June 20 in a Group 1 race, losing by just a neck while 2-1/2 lengths clear of the rest of his 13 rivals. Not only was it a tremendous effort against G1 European horses, but it also came just 4 days after he had unsuccessfully tried another Group 1 event. He ran extremely well again when returning to NY to face much 'lesser' stakes company in a state-bred event on Sept 6 following a short layoff. Although he was getting a sizeable class drop that day, he still did have to defeat Silver Timber, who is among the top challengers today.

Cannonball has tactical speed to sit about mid-pack, and then a strong closing kick that should have him finishing strongly. He's proven to fire fresh and will keep Ramon Dominguez, who was up for the win last time out.

Fourth Selection: (2) SILVER TIMBER (Brown Chad C/Leparoux Julien R)

If you like Cannonball, then you also have to like Silver Timber, who battled with him throughout the final furlong Sept 6 when losing by just a neck. That was Silver Timber's only loss in five starts this year, all turf sprints. Seemingly 'past his prime' when racing for a $25,000 claiming tag to begin his 2009 campaign, Silver Timber was promptly claimed by excellent turf trainer Chad Brown, who won last year's Juvenile Filly Turf with Maram.

Including the day that he was claimed, Timber has won 4 of 5 races this year, losing by just a neck in the other while fighting back resolutely to the wire. He likes his turf on the firmer side, which seems to be to his advantage here in California, and as mentioned, Chad Brown knows how to get a horse ready for a win in the Breeders' Cup.

Fifth Selection: (4) LORD SHANAKILL (Mandella Richard E/Crowley Jim)

Enigmatic horse has some sensational races on his resume, but also has some that are not so good. He concluded his 2yo season in 2008 with a Group 2 win and then a loss by just a nose in the prestigious G1 Dewhurst, stamping himself as a top 3yo prospect of 2009. However, he ran poorly to begin his year on May 2 before rebounding with a strong 3rd in a Group 1 race on June 16. His career-best came with a win by a head in a Group 1 race on July 5, but he then changed trainers and came back with a clunker on July 29, a race from which he was reported to have returned 'lame'.

He's now been in the U.S. for a while and in the barn of Hall Of Fame trainer Richard Mandella, who has the potential to improve this colt over his former form. All 4 races this year have been at a mile, but Lord Shanakill showed his prowess in sprinting last year, and milers have a history of doing very well at this 6.5F distance down the hill. If Mandella has Lord Shanakill at his best off the layoff, then he's classy enough to win this from off the pace. His two most recent works are outstanding and suggest that he is, in fact, ready for a big effort. Regular rider Crowly comes in from Europe to retain the mount, an interesting move and one that Mandella doesn't usually employ.

Wagering Strategy

* A Win and place bet (3)CALIFORNIA FLAG

* $4 Exacta box 3-6-9 = $24 * $4 Exacta box 3-9 = $8 * $4 Exactas 3-6, 9-6 = $8 * $2 Exacta part-wheel 3-9 over 2-4 = $8 * $2 Exacta part-wheel 2-4 over 3-9 = $8

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 4 - SENTIENT JET BREEDERS' CUP SPRINT

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 4 - SENTIENT JET BREEDERS' CUP SPRINT 6f Grade I 3yo and up, Purse: $2,000,000. 3:10/ 2:10/ 1:10/(12:10) Post Time: 3:10 ET

Race Synopsis
As luck would have it, the three speed horses in this field drew the three inside posts, which could translate to a two or three horse duel from the break. That would potentially compromise the chances of all three of them and set the race up for a stalker or closer. The main track has played fairly in 6F sprints most days in recent weeks, and middle or outside posts are generally preferred by trainers.

First Selection: (5) GAYEGO (Suroor Saeed Bin/Gomez G K)

Regarded by some in his camp as the best chance at a win by any of the many top class Godolphin horses entered in this year's Breeders' Cup races, Gayego may also benefit from the expected fast and contested pace. He's always been a quality runner, having won the G2 Arkansas Derby last year at age 3, as well as a sprint stakes race over this track.

Gayego concluded his 3yo campaign with a fast win in a sprint race on Nov 30, and was subsequently purchased by Godolphin and moved to their home base in Dubai. Over the winter Gayego continued to mature, and he won a Group 3 race at 6F in his 4yo debut off a 3-month layoff on March 5. He returned 3 weeks later with a strong 2nd in a $1 million Group 2 race, which is currently his only defeat in his five most recent starts.

Returning to the U.S., Gayego overcame a rough start and a mild pace to rally from last and win fairly easily in a 'prep' on August 17. That win propelled him into the G1 Ancient Title over this track and distance, a race in which he was favored over 9 rivals. Switching to jockey Garrett Gomez for the first time, Gayego rated far back in 9th to the quarter pole, then circled the field in the stretch with an exceptional late turn of foot that was reminiscent of Midnight Lure, the winner of the 2007 and 2008 Breeders' Cup Sprints. By the way, Midnight Lure was also ridden by Gomez, who is perhaps the best in the business with horses coming from off the pace.

Gayego's final furlong in :11-1/5 in the Ancient Title was impressive in and of itself, but when you consider that he did it 'geared down' in the final 1/16 of a mile, then it's all the more impressive. If the pace scenario plays out as expected, then Gayego and the patient Gomez can bide their time near the back of the field, then find a clear outside path and rocket home, as they did in the Ancient Title.

Second Selection: (3) FATAL BULLET (Baker Reade/Da Silva Eurico)

Although he likes the lead, this gelding can also press or stalk the pace, and he benefits from the post draw today while breaking outside of the other main speed in this field, Zensational. Fatal Bullet has been nearly unbeatable throughout his career on synthetic tracks, winning 9 of 11 and finishing 2nd in the other two, including last year's BC Sprint. In that race he dueled early, opened up a clear lead on the turn and for most of the stretch, and wasn't caught until very late by repeat winner Midnight Lute from the Bob Baffert barn.

If you look only at the synthetic track races throughout his career, ignoring the 3 starts on 'real dirt' or turf, then Fatal Bullet has been a top-class sprinter for a year and a half now. He romped in blazing time in the Ky Cup Sprint last year before his big run in the BC Sprint, and he comes into this year's event with a similar 'prep' win in the G3 Phoenix in Kentucky. He would not let the classy Capt Candyman Can by in the final furlong, and I think that if they went around again he still would have finished in front of that rival.

Fatal Bullet comes into the 2009 Sprint with less 'mileage' on him than he had in 2008, and a fresher horse is often a faster horse. If Zensational does not break cleanly from the gate then Fatal Bullet may take the lead. If Zensational does break alertly then Fatal Bullet can sit at his flank and apply the pressure. Either way, the pace will probably be quite fast, but note that it was extremely fast in last year's Sprint and Fatal Bullet still held on for 2nd. If Gayego fails to run his best race from off the pace, then there's a realistic chance that Fatal Bullet could win at a square price.

Third Selection: (1) ZENSATIONAL (Baffert Bob/Espinoza V)

After this 3yo colt's win in the G1 Triple Bend on July 5, I wanted to find somewhere to make a Future Book wager on him in the BC Sprint. I was sure that I was looking at the winner, particularly since he's trained by Bob Baffert, who won the last two renewals of this race with Midnight Lute. I never did find a place to make that wager, which may or may not come back to haunt me. We'll know soon enough.

Two more G1 wins at Del Mar did nothing to lessen my opinion of Zensational, who seems to be getting stronger and winning more easily with each race. And, given his 3-race win streak in Grade 1 sprints, I can understand why he's been made the 7-5 morning line favorite in a fairly light renewal of the BC Sprint. However, there are a couple of things that kept me from selecting him on top. First, the horses that he's been beating up on are not really G1 horses, with maybe one or two exceptions. Some of his rivals today would also have been beating those fields relatively easily.

Second, despite being a speed horse, Zensational has not been breaking all that well from the gate, but has been able to recover and make the lead because of the fact that he's been facing mostly inferior rivals. That isn't the case today. If he does not break very sharply, then he will be rushed up into the expected fast pace against Fatal Bullet, who was good enough to finish 2nd to Midnight Lute in this race last year. The potential speed duel while being stuck down on the rail will be tough enough, but if Zensational isn't on top right out of the gate, then his chances will be further compromised. All in all, I think that he will be overbet given his true chances of winning this race, when you consider both the pace scenario and the fact that he is, in reality, stepping up in class.

Fourth Selection: (4) CROWN OF THORNS (Mandella Richard E/Bejarano R)

Lightly-raced 4yo colt was a G2 winner over this track last year in just his third career start, but then didn't race for 19 months. His Sept 9 return was a close 3rd in a very fast race, and he improved when finishing 2nd in the G1 Ancient Title on Oct 11, just over a length behind Gayego. In that race Crown of Thorns rallied up the rail, having to deal with traffic while Gayego rolled by unhindered on the outside. He now has two wins and a close 2nd from three starts over this track, and with a fast pace expected his stalking style should benefit.

Wagering Strategy
The PICK SIX begins with this race. For those interested, I've included three suggested tickets, each for a different budget level. IF you choose to play, then please play within your own comfort zone. This is a very difficult wager to hit, and smaller players would probably do better to stay with smaller wagers.

* A Win bet on (5)GAYEGO
.
* $6 Exacta box 1-3-5 = $36
* $4 Exacta boxes 1-5, 3-5 = $16
.
* $2 PICK SIX WAGER
LARGE Budget: 1-3-5 / 4-5-9-11 / 4-11 / 1-3 / 2-7 / 4-8-10 = $576

MEDIUM Budget: 1-3-5 / 5-9-11 / 11 / 1-3 / 2-7 / 4-8-10 = $216

SMALL Budget: 1-3-5 / 5-9-11 / 11 / 1-3 / 7 / 8-10 = $72

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 5 - GREY GOOSE BREEDERS' CUP JUVENILE

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 5 - GREY GOOSE BREEDERS' CUP JUVENILE 1 1/16m Grade I 2yo Colts and/or Geldings, Purse: $2,000,000. 3:49/ 2:49/ 1:49/(12:49) Post Time: 3:49 ET

Race Synopsis
It won't be unexpected if D'Funnybone is sent right to the front off the stretch out in distance with Noble's Promise in close tow or even on the lead himself. I feel the pace will be no worse than honest. The puzzle handicappers are confronted with in the Juvenile, is to predict who will handle the Pro Ride and the distance. With 2 year olds shipping in from everywhere, the puzzle offers some clues, but when you factor in post, trip and running styles, the results become difficult to figure out. For that reason you can make a case for many in here, and hope the ones you settle on, are ready to fire their best shot, over a surface and distance they can handle.

First Selection: (11) RADIOHEAD (Meehan Brian/Dwyer Martin)

RADIOHEAD

There are a lot of things to like about this colt, not the least of which are his morning line odds of 15-1. He's a son of Johannesburg, who was a juvenile champion both here and in Europe after he came over and won the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. Similar to Radiohead, Johannesburg was also stretching out to a route for the first time when he won the BC Juvenile, so I don't see the lack of route experience being a big negative in this case, particularly in light of the fact that Radiohead has shown a tremendous late turn of foot in some of his races, including his close 2nd last time out in the G1 Middle Park Stakes. That race was won by Awzaan, who is currently the early betting favorite in England with Bookmakers for next year's 2000 Guineas.

Radiohead has been steadily improving with just about every start and has been rating well and finishing fast. He won the G2 Norfolk Stakes in just his third career start despite a good amount of trouble, and since then he's finished 2nd and 3rd in Group 1 races. Note also that the G1 Nunthorpe Stakes on Aug 21 was a 16-horse field comprised of mostly horses that are 3 years old and older, a rare racing condition for juvenile horses.

With a good amount of speed in this full field, a pedigree to run long, and an outstanding late turn of foot, things project to set up well for Radiohead to have an honest shot of mowing them all down late. His big run in the Middle Park Stakes last time out attracted the attention of high-profile owner IEAH Stable (majority owner of Big Brown last year). Radiohead has always been expected to be better with more ground, and today he'll have the chance to test that theory. His lack of experience on a synthetic track may be a negative, but for all we know he just might be better on such tracks. At 10-1 or better I'm willing to find out.

Second Selection: (9) AIKENITE (Pletcher Todd A/Garcia A)

Trainer Todd Pletcher did not have a stellar meet at Saratoga this year, considering the amount of starters he had, but there were a few horses 1st time starters who were extremely impressive. Aikenite was one of them.

In his debut, Aikenite showed good speed from the start and won handily from post 10. Pletcher felt that off that effort, he deserved a shot in the Gr 1 Hopeful. Despite a slow start, Aikenite closed boldly from well off the pace to run 3rd despite having to race very wide throughout.

With his eyes towards the BC Juvenile, Pletcher wisely shipped Aikenite to Keeneland to get 2 turn experience and a race over a synthetic surface. Despite finishing 2nd, I felt he clearly ran the best race. In a large field of 14, and drawing an outside post, rider Alan Garcia had no choice but to be hung out wide when many horses inside of him were jockeying for position. Aikenite dug in gamely from start to finish, and was gaining on the winner Noble’s Promise, who sat a much better trip.

There is little doubt that Aikenite is improving with each start. He has shown he can overcome a slow start and a wide post, but still be able to kick in strong late. He ships into Santa Anita off 2 sparkling workouts at Belmont, and appears set to run his best career race to date in the Juvenile.

Third Selection: (5) D' FUNNYBONE (Dutrow Richard E/Prado E S)

Owner Paul Pompa and trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. have had great success together purchasing horses privately and shipping them into New York. Two purchases were made this summer, and both have come back to win major stakes races at Belmont and Saratoga. D’Funnybone has proven to be the best of the 2 with powerful wins in the Saratoga Special and again in the Futurity. In each race he rated beautifully under rider Edgar Prado, stalking the pace and then surging to the lead with complete authority.

In all 4 races, D’Funny Bone has been stretching out further in distance, and will face his toughest test in the Juvenile. He will be asked to go 2 turns for the 1st time over a synthetic surface he has never run over. His pedigree says that 1 1/16 miles may be a bit further than what he really wants, but steadily improving horses in the master hands of Dutrow are capable of overcoming anything. One trait D’Funny Bone has shown is that he changes leads on queue which is very important for any horse, let alone one who is a 2 year old. D’Funnybone breaks from a good post and will be forwardly placed throughout.

He has been working brilliantly at Aqueduct for the Juvenile. If he handles his new surroundings, and does not get caught up in a quick pace, D’Funnybone will be very tough to run down.

Fourth Selection: (4) NOBLE'S PROMISE (Mcpeek Kenneth G/Martinez W)

Noble’s Promise is the type of improving 2 year old that will always make his presence felt. He has an advantage over many others in the field of having run 3 times over synthetic surfaces with 2 wins and a 2nd. Noble’s promise was able to “gut it out” in his victory in the Gr 1 Futurity at Keeneland in his 1st start around 2 turns. Right from the outset, Noble’s Promise was forwardly placed until surging to the lead on the far turn. He was hounded the length of the stretch, but still managed to dig down deep to hold off the fast closing Aikenite in a bulky 14 horse field.

With Noble’s Promise’s running style, a good inside post, and already battle tested, he will not go down without a fight. Rider Willie Martinez is 2 for 2 aboard him which is very important. He is acutely aware of how to ration out his speed. If D’Funnybone take back to sit off the pace, Noble’s Promise will be on a clear lead and he might forget to stop.

Fifth Selection: (13) LOOKIN AT LUCKY (Baffert Bob/Gomez G K)

There are a couple of horses on both Friday and Saturday’s card who are extremely vulnerable as morning line favorites. Lookin At Lucky is the one I feel will be most overbet. His morning line is 8-5, which to me is much too short for what his chances actually are breaking from post 13.

If Lookin At Lucky had drawn inside, he would have been selected no worse than 3rd. The main question is how does rider Gomez overcome this awful draw? He is undefeated in 4 starts at various distances, including a decisive win in the Gr 1 Norfolk in his 1st start around 2 turns. Lookin At Lucky has shown the ability to rate up close or close from behind. He is battle hardened and in the expert hands of Bob Baffert who knows how to win these big races with juveniles. I just don’t see how Gomez can avoid a tough trip. More than likely, Lookin At Lucky will be forced very wide from the start and if not able to work his way inside a bit, it is unlikely he will have enough left in the tank to be a factor in deep stretch. If he overcomes these huge obstacles, Lookin At Lucky will prove she has a very bright future ahead of him.

Wagering Strategy

* A Win, Place, and Show wager on (11)RADIOHEAD

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 6 - TVG BREEDERS' CUP MILE

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 6 - TVG BREEDERS' CUP MILE 1m (Turf) Grade I 3yo and up, Purse: $2,000,000. 4:28/ 3:28/ 2:28/( 1:28) Post Time: 4:28 ET

Race Synopsis
As usual, running a mile around 2 turns on grass, both horses and riders jostle for position early and trouble is always lurking. If Gladiatorus wants the lead, he can get it. If not, Cowboy Cal will assume command and if allowed to relax early on, he can wire the field. The pace figures to be a lively one and the winner will be the horse who can avoid the most trouble and save his best race for today. This year's mile is very deep. The most probable winner will be Goldikova, but that is totally dependent if jockey Peslier can work out the right kind of trip. If she does not get the job done, there are several horses in here who are capable of upsetting.

First Selection: (11) GOLDIKOVA (Head Freddie/Peslier O)

The finest turf miler I have ever seen in watching races for more than 40 years was no doubt the great Miesque who made a habit of blowing away her opposition whether it was against own sex or her male counterparts. Miesque could not have been any more impressive winning the 1987 and 1988 BC Miles. A victory by Goldikova in this year’s Mile, would place her on the same level as Miesque. The irony of it all is that Freddie Head rode Miesque, and is the trainer of Goldikova. In 14 career starts, Goldikova has won 9 races. 6 of those came as a 3 year old, capped off by a blockbuster victory in the BC Mile run over this same course. Goldikova was given 7 months off, returning in May at Longchamp in the Group 1 Prix d’Ispahan. She was sent off as the overwhelming favorite.

After stalking the pace for a good part of the trip, Goldikova tired badly in the final 1/8th of a mile to finish a well beaten seventh. This was by far her worst career performance and baffling to the racing world. Soon after the race, trainer Freddie Head pointed out that there was an explanation for her very disappointing performance. It was discovered that a virus had spread throughout his barn, and several horses got sick. When this occurs, the signs of illness are easy to detect with some horses, but in Goldikova’s case, it did not appear to affect her. In essence her immune system may have been affected, and for that reason the race could be excused.

If Head was correct, then a vastly improved performance could be expected 52 days later when Goldikova was entered in the Group 1 Falmouth Stakes. Head was proven correct as she rebounded in a big way to score a half length victory toting 131 Lbs. What followed was a sharp win in the Group 1 Prix Rothchild and then a monstrous performance in her 6 length win in the Group 1 Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville. There was little doubt that Goldikova was approaching the BC Mile in as a good form as she was last year and possibly better. On Oct 3, Goldikova would have her final race before the BC in the Group 1 Prix de la Foret at Longchamp. She was sent off the overwhelming 1-5 favorite and was not expected to lose. Unfortunately, backers of Goldikova had to rip up their tickets, as she could do no better than 3rd, beaten a ½ length. On closer inspection her performance was far better than it appears on paper. From the start she was closer to the pace than in many of her previous races. The fractions she was stalking were extremely fast, actually too quick for her, but despite this, Goldikova fought tooth and nail right to the wire.

Despite the defeat, I expect Goldikova to put forth another strong performance Saturday. Because of her tough outside draw, you will more than likely get a tick or two higher odds. It’s a tall task to overcome Goldikova’s slot, but she just might be that good to get the job done. Lasix will be given to her for the 1st time in Goldikova’s career. To be honest with you, I don’t know what to make of it. We will all find out after the Mile.

Second Selection: (4) DELEGATOR (Suroor Saeed Bin/Dettori Lanfranco)

The Godolphin stable has had a remarkable year in the US, winning many stakes race with horses that have shipped in from Europe or Dubai. Once settled in, they are nearly unbeatable in their 1st start here. Most have run in the states before, others have not, like Delagator who ships in to contest the BC Mile.

Godolphin purchased Delagator after his close 2nd place finish in the Group 2 St. James Palace Stakes. His form had been a bit spotty prior to the race and as a 2 year old, but his 2nd place finish to Sea Of Stars in the Group 1 2000 Guineas, beaten 1 ½ lengths indicated that Delagator had a world of talent. He ran poorly in his next start, in the Group 1 Irish 2000 Guineas and then rebounded with a neck defeat to the top class Mastercraftsman, in the St. James, who is the 6-5 favorite in the Dirt Mile.

2 starts back in the Group 2 Celebration Mile, Delagator was ridden for the 1st time by Dettori and the result was a gritty victory over Zacinto who meets again in the Mile. There was no apparent reason that I could dig up why Delagator ran below par in the Queen Elizabeth Sept 26 at Ascot, but since that race, trainer Saeed bin Suroor has indicated that Delagator is working fantastic and he looks forward to running him over the Santa Anita grass course which he feels Delagator will love. He has a quick turn of foot and is versatile enough to sit in mid pack or further back before making his run. Delagator draws a good post and will receive lasix for the 1st time which is a strong angle for me.

Third Selection: (3) COWBOY CAL (Pletcher Todd A/Velazquez J R)

Inside speed is always dangerous, and Cowboy Cal has that sewn up. His chances to wire the field greatly improve if rider Velazquez can give him a breather at some point before the ¼ pole. Cowboy Cal might be a tad below in ability than some of the horses he meets in the mile, but when these types of runners get into the right spot, they overachieve and win at nice odds. The Cowboy fit’s this profile to the tee.

Cowboy Cal has been a gem of consistency throughout his career. I felt that he was in position to win a few of the races that he was defeated in this year, but at this point in his career, Cowboy might be at his best going a mile around 2 turns. Actually, when reviewing his record, he is undefeated in 3 starts at the distance.

Trainer Todd Pletcher shipped Cowboy Cal to Santa Anita for the Oak Tree Mile Oct 10, and the result was a very game victory. He finished very fast. With that race under his belt, and 2 solid works over the course since then, Cowboy Cal is expected to run the race of his life. Whether or not that is good enough against this very strong field of milers, we will have to wait until deep stretch, when several converge on him, to see if he has the quality of some of the others to hold them at bay to the wire.

Fourth Selection: (8) ZACINTO (Stoute M R/Moore Ryan L)

Trainer Michael Stoute is loaded for bear in the year’s Breeders’ Cup. He appears to have a “live one” with the lightly raced and improving 3 year old Zacinto. He has been highly regarded from the beginning. In his debut as a 2 year old, Zacinto crushed the field. Off his debut, Stoute felt he was worthy of stepping up in class right into the Group 2 Champagne. Zacinto was beaten just a neck to Westphalia who just missed when 2nd in last year’s Juvenile Turf. He wintered in England, but suffered an injury which would sideline him until August.

Zacinto made his 3 year old debut in a listed stake stretching out to a mile for the 1st time Aug 1. Rider Moore allowed him to drop well off the pace, but through the stretch, he rallied boldly to win by a head. Stoute felt he was fit enough to make a good showing in the Group 2 Celebration and Zacinto did not disappoint, running a strong 2nd to Delagator, who he again knocks heads with in the Turf Mile. Zacinto would face his sternest test to date when he faced the mighty Rip Van Winkle in the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. Zacinto made a bold move too loom just a length of the front in deep stretch, but had to settle for 2nd to Rip. His connections have always felt that Zacinto would be at his best over a distance of ground, so they pointed him for the Champion Stakes 3 weeks later at 1 ¼ miles. Due to a slight set back, Zacinto did not make the race and instead Stoute decided to have a go in this year’s BC Mile.

Zacinto is a very talented horse who can win the Mile, but he must get the right kind of trip and ride. This race was not on the agenda, but this was also the case with Conduit last year. Stoute decided to switch gears late in the game, and entered him in the BC Turf. As everyone knows, his decision proved the right one, as Conduit was a very impressive winner. Sometimes lightening strikes twice and it could happen again with Zacinto this year.

Fifth Selection: (1) COURT VISION (Dutrow Richard E/Albarado R J)

I have known trainer Richard Dutrow Jr. personally for many years and the care and love he gives to all his horses, whether they are $10,000 claimers, or Grade 1 horses in 2nd to none. Being from New York City, as I am, we speak a strange language that is sometimes misunderstood. Dutrow is just an outspoken guy that has proven himself to be amongst the finest horseman in America and anywhere else for that matter.

Provide him a new horse, and you can expect vast improvement. Case in point is Court Vision who always held tremendous promise but underachieved. Former trainer Billy Mott tried his best to get Court Vision to reach his full potential, but to no avail. When he was switched to Dutrow after The United Nations, Dutrow discovered an ascended testicle. Surgery was performed to correct the problem. Court Vision resurfaced more than 3 months later in the Grade 1 Shadwell Mile. This was a very difficult spot to return in because the race was run over a very soft turf course which he had shown in the past to not handle very well. He was also entered at a mile, a distance Court Vision had never attempted. Despite the adversity, he rallied from off the pace to score a nose victory. It was obvious that what was bothering Court Vision was now a thing of the past.

I expect him to further improve off that effort. If Court Vision does move forward and rider Albarado can work out a trip from post 1, I have no doubt that he will make his presence felt at a big price. Dutrow has been more confident than I have ever heard him about how good Court Vision is doing. That’s enough for me.

Wagering Strategy
No individual wagers on this race. However, the second Pick Four begins with this race, and we'll take a shot at that potentially very lucrative wager.

$1 PICK FOUR TICKETS:
Ticket 1: 1-3-4-8-10-11 with 1-3 with 2-7 with 4-8-10 = $72 for a $1 wager
Ticket 2: 11 with 1 with 2-7 with ALL = $26 for a $1 wager
TOTAL Wager above = $98

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 7 - BREEDERS' CUP DIRT MILE

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 7 - BREEDERS' CUP DIRT MILE 1m Grade I 3yo and up, Purse: $1,000,000. 5:12/ 4:12/ 3:12/( 2:12) Post Time: 5:12 ET

Race Synopsis
Numerous defections from the long list of pre-entries have left this field very light on early speed. That could help Midshipman quite a bit, as he now appears to be the potential lone and controlling speed while breaking from a good inside post. Horses like Furthest Land, Mastercraftsman, and Mambo Meister have tactical speed to sit close to the expected mild pace, while the closers may be at a disadvantage.

First Selection: (1) MASTERCRAFTSMAN (O'brien Aidan P/Murtagh John P)

With four Group 1 wins to his credit, two each in 2008 and 2009, this colt has been among the top runners in Europe for two full seasons now, and he's still just a 3-year-old. He likes to stalk the pace, and has gotten progressively better as the distances of his races have gotten progressively longer. His two G1 wins last year were in sprints, but this year he proved to be even more effective going longer when he won two major Group 1 races at a mile on turf in the spring.

After the two Group 1 wins at a mile, top trainer Aidan O'Brien stretched Mastercraftsman out further for two more top-class Group 1 races at 1-1/4 mile and 1-5/16 mile. He responded with a close 2nd and a 3rd, and the winner of both races was none other than Sea The Stars, who is soon to be named Horse Of The Year in Europe. In his past 5 races, 4 of them G1 events, Mastercraftsman has been outfinished only 3 times, and in 2 of the 3 instances the horse that did it was Sea The Starts. In any other year, Mastercraftsman would be a candidate for championship honors in Europe, but he unfortunately has thus far had his accomplishments overshadowed overseas. I believe he'll get his due today as the classiest horse in this field. His tactical speed will allow him to be in good position fairly close to the expected tepid pace, and in his final start in Europe he was tested on a synthetic track to see if he handled it. The result was a 5-length win in a G3 race, done in hand while never asked for much run. It sure seems like he'll transfer his form to the main track, while back at the distance of his last two Group 1 victories.

Second Selection: (3) MIDSHIPMAN (Suroor Saeed Bin/Gomez G K)

Last year's Juvenile Champion has only raced five times in his career, yet he's proven to be nearly unbeatable. With a favorable pace scenario today, he's one of the few in here that could win if Mastercraftsman is not ready for a top effort.

Midshipman was a versatile champion last year, winning his first G1 race from off the pace, then clinching his title with a front-running win over this track at 1-1/16 miles in the BC Juvenile. That win was even better than appears, as the main track that day seemed to be favoring horses from off the pace, but he dug in gamely to hold his lead through the stretch, never giving an inch.

It was nearly 11 months before Midshipman raced again, but when he did return in a sprint in a clear 'prep' on Sept 18, he seemed to have more early speed than he had in the past. He contested a blazing pace that day but was still able to put away his rival and draw clear to a 3-length win in very swift time. If he does get the lead today, and it's a fairly easy one, as expected, then Midshipman has an awfully good chance to take them gate-to-wire while reuniting with Eclipse Award winning jockey Garrett Gomez. He won the BC Juvenile last year in his only prior mount aboard Midshipman and clearly handles the colt well.

Third Selection: (5) NEKO BAY (Shirreffs John/Smith M E)

The 'local' horse has raced over this track 6 times in 10 career starts and has won 4 of those 6, finishing 2nd in the other two. He has a similar impressive record at this distance. He returned from a 10-month layoff on Oct 9 and didn't miss a beat, rallying strongly to win in stakes-caliber time. This race is certainly a step up in class, but Neko also may have a nice forward move in his second start off the 10-month layoff. He's hit the exacta in 9 of 10 lifetime starts, and I have the feeling that Mike Smith may have him a bit closer to the pace than he usually rates, especially if the pace is slow.

Fourth Selection: (4) BULLSBAY (Motion H Graham/Rose J)

5-year-old son of Horse of the Year Tiznow has quietly emerged as one of the better handicap horses in the country. He won his first graded stakes race in the G3 Alysheba on May 1, then lost by just over one length in the G1 Stephen Foster. The Hollywood Gold Cup at 1-1/4 miles was too far, but he rebounded from that race with a career-best performance to upset the presticious G1 Whitney at Saratoga on Aug 8. He ran very well again in the G1 Woodward 4 weeks later, rallying to finish 3rd, beaten just 1-1/2 lengths by champion-to-be Rachel Alexandra. Freshened for 2 months since that last race while being pointed to the Breeders' Cup, Bullsbay now cuts back to a mile. In two prior tries at this distance he won an allowance race and finished 2nd in a G3 race. He's clearly a better horse now than he was at the time of either of those races, and trainer Graham Motion wins 19% off similar short layoffs. The only knock on Bullsbay is that he's been coming from well off the pace in recent races, and if the pace today is on the slow side, as expected, then he will be disadvantaged.

Wagering Strategy

* Trifecta: 1 over 2-3-4-5 over ALL = $32 for a $1 wager
* Trifecta: 1 over 2-3-4-5 over 2-3-4-5 = $12 for a $1 wager
* Trifecta: 1 over 3-5 over ALL = $16 for a $1 wager
* Trifecta: 1 over ALL over 3-5 = $16 for a $1 wager

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 8 - EMIRATES AIRLINE BREEDERS' CUP TURF

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 8 - EMIRATES AIRLINE BREEDERS' CUP TURF 1 1/2m (Turf) Grade I 3yo and up, Purse: $3,000,000. 5:57/ 4:57/ 3:57/( 2:57) Post Time: 5:57 ET

Race Synopsis
It's a 100 % certain that Presious Passion will attempt to wire the field. I expect Spanish Moon to get 1st run on him with Dar Re Mi and then Conduit making the final rally. The pace is expected to be a lively one with Passion expected to flaunt her speed and open up a huge lead early on.

First Selection: (7) SPANISH MOON (Stoute M R/Fallon Kieren)

Year in and year old, the overseas shippers hold a huge edge over their American counterparts. Much of it has to do with the quality of horses who race in England, Ireland, and France, and they way they are trained and not over raced. Most enter the BC Turf fresh and in peak form. In essence, the Euro’s are simply better.

This year will be no different as my top 3 selections have raced all year in France or England. The defending champ and winner of the BC Turf Conduit will be the favorite, Dar Re Mi the 2nd choice and Spanish Moon 3rd in the betting. I feel all 3 are coming into the race in tip top form and there is little to separate them. Therefore I am taking a shot with the longest price of the 3 and that is Spanish Moon.

There is much to like of this 5 year old globetrotter. Spanish Moon has been injury prone throughout his career, but trainer Michael Stout has indicated that all those physical problems are behind him and that Spanish Moon is coming into the BC Turf in top form. His form this year is far better than what he showed 2-3 and 4 years of age. The Achilles heel for Spanish Moon is that he can sometimes be a bad actor in the gate. A matter of fact, he was banned for 6 months this year in Britain because of his reluctance to properly enter the stall at race time. This prevented Spanish Moon from running in the Group 1 Coronation Cup and the King George, both races his connections wanted to run in. Stoute has been adamant about the gate crew there that they do not take the time and care to help Spanish Moon in any way to get him to relax before entering the starting gate. Once he is in, Spanish Moon acts like a perfect gentleman. His gate antics are not nearly as bad in France, where the gate crew according to Stoute is much kinder and patient with fractious horses.

Spanish Moon made his 1st start as a 5 year old in the Group 1 Dubai Sheema Classic, a race in which he was beaten a nose. 2 months later Spanish Moon scored a decisive victory in the Group 1 Grand Prix de Saint Cloud, defeating the top class Youmzain who has run 2nd in the Arc 2 years in a row. In his last start in the Group 2 Prix Foy, Spanish Moon scored a game 3 /4 length victory off a 2 month layoff. Following the race, owner Juddmonte Farm and trainer Michael Stoute penciled in the Arc, but had 2nd thoughts as they thought best not to tackle the great Sea of Stars and instead wait for the BC Turf.

Spanish Moon has proven he can fire fresh and he relishes 1 ½ miles over firm ground. He has excellent tactical speed which will allow him to get first run on both Conduit and Dar Re Mi. The key to his success could come down to his ability to overtake the pacesetter Precious Passion with having to battle with that one tooth and nail for most of the stretch. Spanish Moon has been ridden by Moore in every start with the exception of his debut back in 2006. Moore has opted to ride Conduit in the Turf. This was not unexpected as he was aboard Conduit when he won here last year.

Spanish Moon will be united with Kieran Fallon for the 1st time. Fallon has long standing ties with Stoute. He has been aboard Spanish Moon in morning gallops leading up to the race. Even though Moore has ridden Spanish Moon to perfection, Fallon is such a great rider, that I am confident the ride will be an excellent one. History sometimes repeats itself. In the 1996 Breeders’ Cup Turf, trainer Michael Stoute ran 2 horses, Singspiel and Pilsudski. They ran 1-2 with Pilsudski scoring at 13-1 over his even money uncoupled stable mate. The price differential will be much closer this year, but clearly Spanish Moon will be the underdog to defeat Stoute’s other entrant Conduit. Spanish Moon will be adding lasix for the 1st time. In my opinion this makes me like Spanish Moon even more.

Second Selection: (2) CONDUIT (Stoute M R/Moore Ryan L)

The defending champion of the BC Turf in 2008 has been pointed to this year’s renewal from the beginning of the year. There has only been one minor setback and that was after the Arc when Conduit developed a slight case of colic. Trainer Michael Stoute indicated vehemently that it was nothing to worry about and he should be in top form for the Turf. I have mix feelings about Stoute’s remarks because the betting exchanges quickly raised his odds. Nevertheless, all indications are that Conduit has been working well since.

Conduit’s returned as a 4 year old with a nose defeat in a Group 3 stake. In the group 1 Eclipse he was beaten over 3 lengths to Sea of Star’s which was a race that was better than it looked. Conduit was spotting him 10 lbs in only his 2nd start off the bench. Conduit was stretched out to 1 ½ miles 3 weeks later and the result was a sharp score over Rip Van Winkle who is expected to be one of the choices in this year’s Classic.

Conduit’s entered the Arc in improving form. Sent off at 14-1, Conduit could only run 4th, beaten 2 ¼ lengths to Sea of Stars. Conduit made a well timed move from 10th position. His performance was a decent one, but I felt he benefitted by the right pace scenario that developed when 2 longshots who served as “rabbits” in the race to ensure a quick pace which would help runners rallying from off the pace. Since Conduit was returning from a 43 day layoff, he may have needed that effort to set him up for a peak performance in the BC Turf.

Regular rider Moore has chosen to ride him over Spanish Moon who had been aboard all but his debut back in 2006. This move came as no surprise as he rode the defending champ to victory last year. Conduit certainly can repeat on Saturday, but I feel he came into last year’s race a bit sharper than this time and will be overbet. What is interesting is that about a week ago, Conduit was sold to a Japanese stud farm. Because of this, Conduit stands a good shot to make his finally appearance in the Japan Cup before being sent to stud.

Third Selection: (6) PRESIOUS PASSION (Hartman Mary/Trujillo E)

When you look at the makeup of all 14 BC races, it is difficult to determine who will get a clear early lead without much pressure early on. The BC Turf is the lone exception because Presious Passion will open up a big lead as she enters the 1st turn. The question is how far in front she will be. It can be anywhere between 5 and 10 lengths and maybe more. Presious Passion knows no other way. It’s always “catch me if you can”, and in the Turf it will be no different. In order for Presious Passion to wire this stellar field at the 1 ½ mile distance, regular rider Trujillo must be able to harness his runaway speed at some point in the race so Presious Passion can have enough gas in the tank to hold off the Europeans.

Presious Passion has won 3 times in 5 starts at the distance, but those races were against much weaker opposition. But in this year’s Turf, that fact is basically irrelevant. Presious Passion will run over firm turf which he loves and he is as game as they come. Trainer Mary Hartman who is based at Monmouth Park has done a superb job managing this speedball, looking for spots that Presious Passion would fit best. Her lone mistake was running him on soft turf in the Arlington Million. Firm is all he wants to be at his best.

His final prep for the BC Turf came 4 weeks ago in the Gr 1 Clement Hirsh over this same course at 1 ¼ miles. As expected Presious Passion opened up a big lead early on and held off the closers as the 7-5 favorite. On Saturday, the jockey’s aboard the Euro contenders must make their moves at the perfect time to overtake Passion. The outcome all depends if at that point they can put him away. That could be a tall task which makes him very dangerous to wire the field.

Fourth Selection: (5) DAR RE MI (Gosden John H M/Dettori Lanfranco)

Dar Re Mi is a very classy filly who reeled off 3 straight Group 1 wins this year, defeating Stacelita in the Prix Vermille and Sariska in the Yorkshire Oaks. Da Re Mi comes off a 5th place finish in the Arc, beaten 3 ¼ lengths and was just a length behind Conduit. I felt Dar Re Mi may have run the better race of the 2 as she was up closer to a lively pace and still managed to stay on gamely.

Top fillies have always been able to hold their own against the opposite sex. Many have defeated their male counterparts in Gr 1 races both in the US, but especially in Europe. Dar Re Mi is capable of doing the same in the Turf, but what I do not like is that she has only faced top class male horses in the Arc. In her previous 13 starts Dar Re Mi raced with her own sex. Until she has proven she can defeat top class males, I feel she will have to improve a few lengths, which is possible, to win the BC Turf.

Wagering Strategy

* A Win bet on (7)SPANISH MOON
.

* $10 Exacta boxes 2-7 and 6-7 = $40 * $5 Exacta box 5-7 = $10 * $2 Exacta box 1-7 = $4

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 9 - BREEDERS' CUP CLASSIC

Oak Tree (Santa Anita) Race 9 - BREEDERS' CUP CLASSIC 1 1/4m Grade I 3yo and up, Purse: $5,000,000. 6:45/ 5:45/ 4:45/( 3:45) Post Time: 6:45 ET

Race Synopsis
There is a little of everything in terms of running styles in this year's Classic. The pace figures to be contested by Regal Ransom and Girolamo. Those sitting in the second flight, and ready to pounce, are expected to be Summer Bird, Einstein and Quality Road.And then you have your mid pack horses such as Colonel John and Twice Over. Those that will bide their time and launch their closing run from well off the pace will be Mine That Bird, Richard's Kid, Gio Ponti, Rip Van Winkle, Awesome Gem and Zenyatta. I would keep your eyes on those horses closing from the back of the pack, as it appears to me, that in the final 1/8th of a mile, the winner will be closing boldly on the outside part of the track. The pace figures to be no worse than honest. What makes this race so intriguing, is how good Rip Van Winkle is and if Zenatta can compete at this level. Certainly the race does not boil down to these 2, but they certainly spice up the soup so to speak. It's just unfortuate for the racing world that Rachel Alexandra will not be in the gate, because if she was, this would certainly be a Classic for the ages. Even without her, it is a very intriguing a good betting race.

First Selection: (10) RIP VAN WINKLE (O'brien Aidan P/Murtagh John P)

Aidan O'Brien recently said that Rip is the best horse he's ever trained. Given O'Brien's tendencies the past couple of years to overhype his top horses, you might have to take that with a grain of salt. But, for all of his boosting, I can't remember him saying anything as bold as that before.

Why should he feel this way? Very simple, O’Brien has been dealing with foot problems that Rip Van Winkle has struggled with since the beginning of his career. Nevertheless, that has not prevented him from winning 4 races, his last 2 in prestigious Group 1 stakes against older rivals. In the Sussex, Rip defeated Paco boy, who is the best older miler in England, as well as winning in stakes record time. 3 starts back in the Group 1 Eclipse Stakes, he fell a length short of defeating Sea of Stars, who is undoubtedly one of the finest grass horses in the history of the game. Rip left in his wake Conduit, who is the defending champ in this year’s BC Turf, as well as being the 7-5 morning line favorite.

In 2 prior starts against Sea of Stars, Rip ran 4th, but was beaten less than 3 lengths on both occasions. Regular rider Johnny Murtagh indicated that in both races he took Rip too far off the pace leaving him too much to do in the stretch. It must be noted, that despite dropping 3 straight races against Sea of Stars, in all 3, Rip galloped out way best him after the wire which suggested to me that he had plenty left in the tank.

In Rips last start in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes, he was coming off nearly a 2 month layoff as a result of those foot problems which cost him training time. Since that effort, O’Brien has stated that Rip has been training forwardly for the Classic.

This week, all you have read and heard is how bad Rips feet are and that he is likely not to be at his best for the Classic, if he even makes the race. This is the same kind of last-minute scare that nearly cost Rip his Sussex bid. Passed fit to run, he won in terrific style, and then exited the race with a sore hoof. Rip missed some training time afterward, but won the QEII next time out pretty convincingly. If Aidan O'Brien had the slightest worry about Rip's foot, Mastercraftsman would have been entered in the Classic for insurance, instead of opting for the Dirt Mile. The very fact that Rip's in here alone indicates real confidence. Also, he wouldn't still be favored in the betting in Europe either. Inside info gets magnified in the markets, and as of this writing on Wednesday, Rip is holding steady at 7-5 up to 8-5 in odds at many of the overseas books.

O'Brien has never won the Classic, although his Giant's Causeway went down fighting to Tiznow in a memorable battle in 2000, while Henrythenavigator found only Raven's Pass too good 12 months ago. Like Raven’s Pass, O’Brien used the QE 2 as his final race towards the Classic. If Rip Van Winkle enters the starting gate Saturday, there is no doubt in mind that O’Brien feels Rip is ready to put forth his usual effort, and that has proven in the past to be good enough to compete and win against the very best Europeans despite his foot problems. If Rip takes to the Pro Ride, and gets a clean trip, he will be awfully tough to deny, and finally give the world’s greatest trainer, the 2009 Breeders Cup Classic.

NOTE: Right before filing my BC Stakes package, I checked the Sporting Life (A highly repected publication which covers European racing) blog again to see if O'Brien had issued another update, and here it is:

"Rip is ready to roar....the great news is Rip Van Winkle is fine! Aidan O'Brien reports no problems with his foot, the horse was warm but that's exactly how the trainer wanted him to be. The master of Ballydoyle was almost bullish, definitely heading towards bullish."

Second Selection: (8) EINSTEIN (Pitts Helen/Leparoux Julien R)

When I think of a thoroughbred who I consider a true “gladiator”, the 7 year old Einstein quickly comes to mind. If you look at his past performances, what you see is a horse that runs his hardest facing the finest older competitors in graded stakes races every time he sets his hoofs on the track. Most of the time, Einstein takes care of business. When he fails to enter the winner’s enclosure, he hits the board. Occasionally, he will run out of the money, but when he does, Einstein either encounters trouble during the running of the race, or like all of us, it’s simply an “off day”. In 28 career starts, Einstein has 11 wins, 4 seconds and 3 thirds. I would call him nothing short of “hickory”, the one horse you can depend on to give you his best and puts you in position to cash a ticket.

Even though 7 of his 11 victories have been on grass, you would be mistaken to believe that Einstein is not the same horse on dirt or synthetic surface. You would be incorrect assuming this. Einstein was an impressive winner of this year’s Santa Anita Handicap over the Pro Ride. He was beaten a neck in the Pacific Classic at Del Mar, also on a synthetic surface. In both instances he invaded southern California from his home base at Churchill Downs.

Einstein has won at distances from a mile to 1 ¼ miles, which he will be negotiating in the Classic. In addition to his class and grit, he can adapt to any pace scenario. If Einstein has stalk, he will. If he has to race in mid pack, he will. Where he doesn’t want to be is racing towards the back of the pack, closing from well off the pace. That’s simply not his style. You don’t have to worry that will happen, because regular rider Leparoux just has to relax him early and Einstein will put himself into striking position.

Trainer Helen Pitts has done a marvelous job managing his career. She has given Einstein 2 months to recover from his very hard effort in the Pacific class. Since that race, he has worked very well, capped off by a strong 4f drill over the Pro Ride 6 days ago. Don’t underestimate him in the Classic. When everyone else is floundering, Einstein will keep coming, and that might be enough to get the job done, winning at big odds.

Third Selection: (4) ZENYATTA (Shirreffs John/Smith M E)

Having already sewn up year-end honors as champion older female, the connections of the undefeated winner of last year's Ladies' Classic are doing the 'sporting' thing by running her against a full field of males in the Breeders' Cup Classic. This makes for an intriguing race where we have many of the best U.S. males against the second best European male against the undefeated older female. Add in the expected champion turf horse (Gio Ponti) and the top 3yo male in America (Summer Bird) and we really do have a championship race in every sense.

Zenyatta's unblemished 13 for 13 record equals that of the great champion mare Personal Ensign, who retired undefeated when she miraculously got up to win the Breeders' Cup Distaff by a nose over Winning Colors back in 1988 (could it really be 21 years ago?). However, Zenyatta's steak almost came to a screeching halt when she was ridden overconfidently by Mike Smith in the G1 Hirsch on August 9 at Del Mar. Smith had her back in last place, as she often is, but this time they were walking up on the front end, and giving the leader a 13-length head start while she saunters along on such a slow pace almost spelled defeat. By the time Smith finally asked Zenyatta for her best run, it looked as if it might be too late. But, true to her championship class, Zenyatta somehow was able to pass the entire field in the stretch and get up by a head at the wire, even though she had to rocket home thru a final 5/16 of a mile in a surreal :28-2/5 to do so. I've never seen a horse finish that fast on any main track before or since.

After that serious scare, Mike Smith was a lot more mindful of the pace when Zenyatta returned in the G1 Ladies Secret over this track on Oct 10. Designed as an obvious 'prep' for the Breeders' Cup after a 2-month layoff, the pace was once again glacial, but this time Smith had Zenyatta in a much better position, only 6 lengths behind the leader. With a more relaxed and better-timed rally, Zenyatta circled her rivals with consummate ease for a measured win while under a hand ride. Smith never had to ask her for nearly her best, and she really only ran reasonably hard for about a furlong or less.

Now a 7-time Grade 1 winner and 4-time Grade 2 winner, some may feel that Zenyatta has shown us her best. I am not one who subscribes to that theory. In fact, I think Zenyatta is sitting on her best race yet. She's been training like the monster that she is, and this will be her first chance to race beyond 1-1/8 miles. Her breeding, powerful finishing kick, and relaxed demeanor in the early stages of her races all suggest to me that this 1-1/4 mile will be her best distance. She is usually just finding her best stride at the end of her 1-1/16 or 1-1/8 mile races, and now she'll get another furlong or furlong and a half to really show us 'what's under the hood'. Mike Smith said in a recent interview that he's never 'gotten to the bottom' of Zenyatta, and that, in fact, he doesn't even know if she has a bottom. I do think we'll find out today what her best race really is. Whether or not it's good enough to beat the likes of Rip Van Winkle, Einstein, or a few other top-class males remains to be seen. She just might have it in her. However, I do unfortunately believe that she'll be overbet, which played into my decision to not select her on top in this race and instead place her 3rd.

Fourth Selection: (7) GIO PONTI (Clement Christophe/Dominguez R A)

Gio Ponti has clearly established himself this year’s the best grass horse in America with 4 straight Grade 1 victories, The Kilroe Mile, Manhattan, Man O’War and the Arlington Million. He has won at distances ranging from 7 furlongs to 1 ¼ miles. With such quality and consistency, Gio Ponti and trainer Christophe Clement were caught between a rock and hard place, deciding what the best race was for him in the Breeders Cup. The BC Turf at 1 ½ miles was stretching the limit for him. The BC Mile is too short against the quality of competition Gio Ponti would have to face. Therefore, the only option was the BC Classic at 1 ¼ miles.

Gio Ponti has 9 victories, 8 on grass. His other win was over this course in the Gr 3 Sir Beauford at Santa Anita last December, but that was against far inferior competition than what he will be facing in the Classic. Gio Ponti enters this race off a 2nd place finish in the Gr 1 Turf Classic at Belmont. This race was a complete throw out as he was asked to go 1 ½ miles over a very “boggy” course. He tried gallantly to hold a slight edge when he took over from longshot winner Interpretation, but simply got tired in the final strides. I feel Gio Ponti has another strong race left in his arsenal in the Classic, but I am not sure that even if he fires his best shot, it may not be good enough to take down top honors.

Fifth Selection: (3) SUMMER BIRD (Ice Tim A/Desormeaux K J)

Summer Bird is the one horse on both Breeder Cup days that I don’t know what to expect. He trained miserably over the Pro Ride at Santa Anita last fall before he made his debut. Summer Bird actually showed 9 recorded works from 3f to 6f under the care of trainer John Sadler. Sadler indicated after several of those workouts that Summer Bird had returned to the barn with swelled up ankles. He insisted to the owners to take the high road with the Bird and ship to a conventional dirt surface. They agreed, and he was sent to trainer Tim Rice at Oaklawn for his debut in early March.

Immediately Summer Bird took to the dirt like a fish takes to water. Summer Bird found 6f too short for his liking 1st time out, but steadily improved as the distances increased, with racing experience and maturation. Summer Bird ran “sneaky” well when 3rd in the Arkansas Derby and 6th in the Kentucky Derby. He finally put it all together with tremendous wins in the Belmont Stakes, Travers and the Jockey Club Gold Cup. His lone defeat during this streak was when he was a well beaten 2nd to Rachel Alexandra in the Haskel over a sloppy track as well as returning off a 2 month layoff.

Summer Bird is clearly at the top of his class in the 3 year old male division. If this race was on dirt, he would land in my top 3 selections. The verdict is still out whether or not the Bird can handle the Pro Ride at this stage in his career. I am guessing he will adapt to it better, but not good enough to win. Trainer Tim Ice has proven that he is a top horseman, by the way he has managed Summer Bird’s 3 year old campaign.

Wagering Strategy

* A Win bet on (10)RIP VAN WINKLE

* $2 Exacta part-wheel 10 over ALL = $24 * $1 Exacta part-wheel ALL over 10 = $12 .

* $3 Exacta box 4-8-10 = $18 * $4 Exactas 10-4, 10-8 * $3 Exactas 4-10, 8-10 * $3 Exacta part-wheel 10 over 2-3-5-6-7-12 = $18 * $2 Exacta part-wheel 2-3-5-6-7-12 over 10 = $12

JON WHITE

$1 MILLION JUVENILE TURF (SATURDAY)

Selections: (1) Interactif, (2) Pounced, (3) Viscount Nelson.

Sleeper: Bridgetown.

Analysis: I’m going with Interactif (4-1). He’s two for two on the turf. Interactif won the Grade III With Anticipation on the grass at Saratoga, then was extremely impressive in taking the Grade III Bourbon Stakes at Keeneland despite a wide trip. But, honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised to see anybody win this race. Pounced (9-2) is a very good European shipper for trainer John Gosden. Pounced finished second in a Group I race in France on the Arc card. Viscount nelson (6-1) also is invading from Europe. He ran second in a Group II event in England on Sept. 12. Do not take Bridgetown (8-1) lightly. He’s coming off a victory in the Grade III Summer Stakes on the turf at Woodbine.

$1 MILLION TURF SPRINT (SATURDAY)

Selections: (1) California Flag, (2) Diamondrella, (3) Cannonball.

Sleeper: Lord Shanakill.

Analysis: California Flag (7-2) is the course record holder (1:11.10). How about this? The broodmare Ultrafleet has produced Cambriocorsa and California Flag. Between them, Cambriocorsa and California Flag have raced won Santa Anita’s hill 14 times, with 10 wins, two seconds and a third. California Flag is coming off a win in the Grade III Morvich Handicap down the hill at Santa Anita on opening day of the Oak Tree meet. Diamondrella has won seven of 11 starts in 2008 and 2009 combined. Cannonball (8-1), runner-up in a Group I sprint at Royal Ascot, comes off a win in Saratoga’s Commentator Stakes on Sept. 6. Lord Shanakill (8-1) had the class to win a Group I race in France on July 5. Hall of Famer Richard Mandella now is training Lord Shanakill, so beware.

$2 MILLION SPRINT (SATURDAY)

Selections: (1) Gayego, (2) Zensational, (3) Fatal Bullet.

Sleeper: Fleeting Spirit.

Analysis: This is a very tough call for me. But I’m going with Gayego (5-2), who looked so good winning the Grade I Ancient Title Stakes on Santa Anita’s main track. Zensational (7-5) is a terrific sprinter, though. He is just plain one fast dude. Fatal Bullet (9-2) has a praiseworthy record when running on synthetic tracks (11 starts, nine wins, two seconds). He was the runner-up to Midnight Lute in the 2008 Sprint. The talented European filly Fleeting Spirit (8-1) could be the upsetter.

$2 MILLION JUVENILE (SATURDAY)

Selections: (1) Lookin At Luicky, (2), D’ Funnybone, (3) Aikenite.

Sleeper: Pulsion.

Analysis: I can’t look past Lookin At Lucky (8-5), even though he drew the outside post in the field of 13. The son of Smart Strike (sire of 2007 Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Curlin) is four for four and took the Grade I Norfolk Stakes on Santa Anita’s main track for Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert. Last year, Midshipman finished second in the Norfok for Baffert before snagging the Juvenile. From what I understand, trainer Rick Dutrow is sky high on D’ Funnybone (5-2). Since joining the Dutrow barn, D’ Funnybone has won in a laugher twice. He took the Grade II Saratoga Special by 10 1/2 lengths and the Grade II Futurity at Belmont Park by nearly five lengths. Aikenite (8-1) is dangerous based on his late surge when second in the Grade I Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland. Pulsion (20-1) could be the dark horse. He ran a respectable second to Lookin At Lucky in the Norfolk despite starting from the outside post in a field of 11.

$2 MILLION MILE (SATURDAY)

Selections: (1) Goldikova, (2) Delegator, (3) Cowboy Cal.

Sleeper: Gladiatorus.

Analysis: Goldikova (8-5) won this race last year with a scintillating burst of speed in the stretch. Her trainer, Freddie Head, says she is better than two-time Breeders’ Cup Mile winner Miesque. Head rode Miesque to those Breeders’ Cup victories. Delegator (3-1) is a top-class colt who finished third in a Group I race in England on Sept. 26. Rip Van Winkle won that Sept. 26 race and is the second favorite on the morning line for the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Cowboy Cal (6-1) is coming off a win in the Grade II Oak Tree Mile on Santa Anita’s turf course. Looking for a “bomber” to win at a huge price? It could be Gladiatorus (20-1), winner of the Group I, $5 million Duby Duty Free in Dubai. After that win in Dubai, Gladiatorus went off form, but he perked up to win a Group I race in Italy on Oct. 11.

$1 MILLION DIRT MILE (SATURDAY)

Selections: (1) Mastercraftsman, (2) Bullsbay, (3) Midshipman.

Sleeper: Mr. Sidney.

Anaylsis: Mastercraftsman (6-5) looks like the most likely Breeders’ Cup winner. He would have been a contender in the Classic had his connections opted for that race. This is a much easier spot than the Classic. Mastercraftsman was 3-1 and finished second, only a length behind the sensational Sea the Stars, in a Group I race in England on Aug. 18. I would have made Sea the Stars the official morning line favorite in the Classic had he been in it. Mastercraftsman also proved he can handle a synthetic surface by winning by five facile lengths on Polytrack in Ireland. It’s all systems go for Mastercraftsman. Bullsbay (3-1) won the Grade I Whitney Handicap at Saratoga and didn’t disgrace himself when third in the Grade I Woodward Stakes at Saratoga. Bullsbay finished third in the Woodward, just 1 1/2 lengths behind the remarkable Rachel Alexandra. Midshipman (6-1) is coming off a 3 1/4-length win at Belmont Park in his 2009 debut and took the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile on Santa Anita’s main track in 2008. Mr. Sidney has had his share of bad trips in turf races this year. When he ran second on Keeneland’s synthetic track in 2008, he defeated Bullsbay.

$3 MILLION TURF (SATURDAY)

Selections: (1) Conduit, (2) Spanish Moon, (3) Dar Re Mi.

Sleeper: none.

Analysis: Conduit (7-5) won this race last year. A key with him, I believe, is going farther than 1 1/4 miles. He ran third at 1 1/4 miles in England on July 4 while facing the mighty Sea the Stars, then won going 1 1/2 miles in England on July 25. Conduit didn’t win the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at 1 1/2 miles on Oct. 4, but he ran well to be in the battle for the minor awards behind the victorious Sea the Stars. Conduit finished fourth in the Arc. Spanish Moon (5-2) is a class act. He finished second in the Group I, $5 million Dubai Sheema Classic last March, won a Group I race in France in June, then also won a tough Group II event in France in September. Dar Re Mi (3-1) is not a phantom contender. She was a Group I winner in England in August, also won a Group I race in France in September, then ran fifth in the Arc. I don’t really see a sleeper possibility in this race, though I certainly consider Prescious Passion (4-1) a threat to lead from start to finish, just as he did in the Group I Clement L. Hirsch Turf Championship on Santa Anita’s turf course on Oct. 11.

$5 MILLION CLASSIC (SATURDAY)

Selections: (1) Zenyatta, (2) Rip Van Winkle, (3) Einstein.

Sleeper: Twice Over.

Analysis: The feeling here is Zenyatta (5-2) will win the Classic to remain undefeated in 14 career starts. I think trainer John Shirreffs has Zenyatta peaking for the race of her life. She’s four for four on Santa Anita’s main track. While it’s true that Zenyatta has never gone farther than 1 1/8 miles, the big mare acts as if she will relish 1 1/4 miles. Rip Van Winkle (7-2) warrants the utmost respect. A two-time Group I winner in England, he gave the brilliant Sea the Stars a bit of a scare in a Group I race in England on July 4 while beating 2008 Breeders’ Cup Turf winner Conduit. Rip Van Winkle has raced exclusively on the turf prior to this. He’s competing on a synthetic surface for the first time in the Classic. Plus he has been battling foot problems. But Rip Van Winkle most certainly has the class and ability to potentially win the Classic. And don’t forget about Einstein (12-1). All he’s done this year is win the biggest pre-Breeders’ Cup race of the year on Santa Anita’s main track, the Grade I Santa Anita Handicap. Twice Over (20-1) is a European who has blossomed lately and no doubt will be a much bigger price in the wagering than Rip Van Winkle.

DESTROY THE BOOK SPORTS

OAKTREE @ SANTA ANITA

RACE 1
Damascus S.

#2- SMART BID

RACE 2
Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf (G2)

#11- INTERACTIF

RACE 4
Sentient Jet Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1)

#3- FATAL BULLET

RACE 5
Grey Goose Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1)

#9- AIKENITE

RACE 6
TVG Breeders' Cup Mile (G1)

#1- COURT VISION
#6- COURAGEOUS CAT

RACE 7
Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1)

#7- PYRO
#3- MIDSHIPMAN

RACE 8
Emirates Airline Breeders' Cup Turf (G1)

#2- CONDUIT
#7- SPANISH MOON

RACE 9
Breeders' Cup Classic (G1)

#3- SUMMER BIRD
#7- GIO PONTI
#12- QUALITY ROAD
#6- RICHARDS KID

ATS

Race 3: 9-8-6-4
Race 4: 8-3-11-14
Race 5: 10-12-3-8
Race 6: 6-4-2-3
Race 7: 9-6-7-2
Race 8: 5-8-6-7

Fantasy Sports Gametime

Juvenile Turf 1:45 PM EST

11 – Interactif
4 – Pounced
12 – Buzzword

Breeders Turf Sprint 2:23 PM EST

9 – Diamondrella
3 – California Flag
6 – Cannonball

Sentient Cup Sprint 3:10 PM EST

1 – Zensational
5 – Gayego
3 – Fatal Bullet

Grey Goose Juvenile 3:49 PM EST

13 – Lookin At Lucky
5 – D’Funnybone
4 – Noble’s Promise

TVG Mile 4:28 PM EST

4 – Delegator
11 – Goldikova
3 – Cowboy Cal

Dirt Mile 5:12 PM EST

1 – Mastercraftsman
4 – Bullsbay
3 – Midshipman

Emirates Airline Turf 5:57 PM EST

2 – Conduit
5 – Dar Re Mi
7 – Spanish Moon

Breeder’s Cup Classic 6:45 PM EST

4 – Zenyatta
3 – Summer Bird
10 – Rip Van Winkle

Mike Battaglia

Damascus S.

7 Furlongs (All Weather Track) | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $100,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Coronet of a Baron Leparoux J R Harty Eoin 118 L 6-1
2 2 Smart Bid Rose J Motion H Graham 118 L 9-2
3 3 M One Rifle (2) Smith M E Headley Bruce 123 L 8-5
4 4 All Saint Valdez F S Dahl Triphon B 123 L 20-1
5 5 Supreme Summit (TOP) Bejarano R O'Neill Doug 118 L 4-1
6 6 Major Rock Star Baze T C Mitchell Mike 116 L 6-1
7 7 Viscount (3) Gomez G K Baffert Bob 118 L 8-1
8 8 Dave's Pacemaker Berrio O A Avila A C 116 L 15-1

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta Pick 3 (Races 1-2-3) / Daily Double

Battagliaspicks 5-3-7

#5 Supreme Summit-Was beaten a half a length by M One Rifle in SEPT going 6 1/2f and carrying 119. He stretches out to 7f and he gets a 5 lbs shift in the weight. This one was gaining last out and at this distance we will take the price.

#3 M One Rifle- Very fast but 7f may be a bit longer then he wants to run.
2nd (10:45)

Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf (G2)

1 Mile (Turf) | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Zip Quik Smith M E Biancone Patrick L 122 L 50-1
2 2 Viscount Nelson Murtagh J P O'Brien Aidan P 122 6-1
3 3 Codoy (2) Gomez G K Hubley Mark 122 L 15-1
4 4 Pounced Dettori L Gosden John H M 122 FTL 9-2
5 5 Gallant Gent Rosario J Lewis Craig A 122 L 30-1
6 6 Awesome Act Moore R L Noseda Jeremy 122 FTL 20-1
7 7 Bridgetown (3) Landry R C McPeek Kenneth G 122 L 8-1
8 8 King Ledley Bejarano R Miller Darrin 122 L 20-1
9 9 Kera's Kitten Maragh R Maker Michael J 122 L 12-1
10 10 Becky's Kitten Leparoux J R Ward Wesley A 122 L 12-1
11 11 Interactif (TOP) Desormeaux K J Pletcher Todd A 122 L 4-1
12 12 Buzzword (GB) Ajtebi A bin Suroor Saeed 122 FTL 6-1
13 AE Dean's Kitten Dominguez R A Maker Michael J 122 L 12-1
14 AE Summer Movie Baze M C Sherman Art 122 L 50-1

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta Pick 3 (Races 2-3-4) / Daily Double / Pick 4 (Races 2-3-4-5)

Battagliaspicks 11-3-7

#11 Interactif- broken Vow colt has done nothing wrong since switched to the turf as his breeding demands. He rates kindly for Desormeaux who has won two grade III races in his two turf starts. He has speed to use if he needs to or can come from off the pace.
3rd (11:23)

Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint

About 6 1/2 Furlongs (Downhill turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Noble Court Rosario J Sadler John W 126 L 8-1
2 2 Silver Timber Leparoux J R Brown Chad C 126 L 8-1
3 3 California Flag (TOP) Talamo J Koriner Brian 126 L 7-2
4 4 Lord Shanakill Crowley J Mandella Richard 124 L 8-1
5 5 Get Funky (2) Bejarano R Sadler John W 126 L 20-1
6 6 Cannonball (3) Dominguez R A Ward Wesley A 126 L 8-1
7 7 Gotta Have Her Baze T C Sahadi Jenine 123 L 15-1
8 8 Square Eddie Dettori L O'Neill Doug 124 L 20-1
9 9 Diamondrella (GB) Maragh R Penna Angel Jr 123 L 4-1
10 10 Canadian Ballet Garcia Alan Rice Linda 123 L 20-1
11 11 El Gato Malo Flores D R Dollase Craig 126 L 30-1
12 12 Strike the Deal Fallon K Noseda Jeremy 126 L 15-1
13 13 Desert Code Migliore R Hofmans David 126 L 20-1
14 14 Delta Storm Gomez G K Mitchell Mike 126 L 10-1
15 AE Tenga Cat Smith M E Ellis Ronald W 126 Blk-Off L 30-1
16 AE Cherokee Heaven Blanc B Jones Martin F 126 L 30-1

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta Pick 3 (Races 3-4-5) / Daily Double

Battagliaspicks 3-5-6

#3 California Flag- ultra fast gelding was hampered by his outside post in this race last year. He did fight for the lead while racing wide, opened up in the stretch but tired late. He looks like the lone speed and will prove hard to catch with Talamo in the irons.
4th (12:10)

Sentient Jet Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1)

6 Furlongs (All Weather Track) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Zensational (3) Espinoza V Baffert Bob 124 L 7-5
2 2 Cost of Freedom Baze T C Sadler John W 126 L 20-1
3 3 Fatal Bullet (2) Da Silva E R Baker Reade 126 L 9-2
4 4 Crown of Thorns Bejarano R Mandella Richard 126 L 12-1
5 5 Gayego (TOP) Gomez G K bin Suroor Saeed 126 L 5-2
6 6 Dancing in Silks Rosario J Gaines Carla 126 L 12-1
7 7 Join in the Dance Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 124 L 30-1
8 8 Capt. Candyman Can Castellano J J Wilkes Ian R 124 L 15-1
9 9 Fleeting Spirit (IRE) Dettori L Noseda Jeremy 123 8-1

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta Pick 3 (Races 4-5-6) / Daily Double / Pick 6 (Races 4-9)

Battagliaspicks 5-3-1

#5 Gayego- since purchased by Godolphin stables he has turned from a router to a sprinter. He has won all 4 of his 6f sprints earning 1.2 million dollars. Gomez will have him rolling late and will prove hard to hold off.
5th (12:49)

Grey Goose Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1)

1 1/16 Miles (All Weather Track) | Open | 2 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Alfred Nobel (IRE) Murtagh J P O'Brien Aidan P 122 20-1
2 2 Piscitelli Desormeaux K J Sacco Gregory D 122 L 50-1
3 3 Beethoven (IRE) Moore R L O'Brien Aidan P 122 20-1
4 4 Noble's Promise (TOP) Martinez W McPeek Kenneth G 122 L 8-1
5 5 D' Funnybone Prado E S Dutrow, Jr. R E 122 L 5-2
6 6 Pulsion Smith M E Biancone Patrick L 122 L 20-1
7 7 Vale of York (IRE) Ajtebi A bin Suroor Saeed 122 FTL 20-1
8 8 Eskendereya Castellano J J Pletcher Todd A 122 L 10-1
9 9 Aikenite (3) Garcia Alan Pletcher Todd A 122 L 8-1
10 10 Aspire Leparoux J R Kenneally Eddie 122 L 20-1
11 11 Radiohead (GB) Dwyer M J Meehan Brian 122 FTL 15-1
12 12 William's Kitten Dominguez R A Maker Michael J 122 L 30-1
13 13 Lookin At Lucky (2) Gomez G K Baffert Bob 122 L 8-5

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta Pick 3 (Races 5-6-7) / Daily Double

Battagliaspicks 4-13-9

#4 Noble's Promise- McPeek trained colt loves the footing coming off three wins in a row on the artificial surface. He made a big move to win the 400k Grade I Breeders Fut at KEE. He will be a solid 8-1 and will run a big race.
6th (1:28)

TVG Breeders' Cup Mile (G1)

1 Mile (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $2,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Court Vision Albarado R J Dutrow, Jr. R E 126 L 12-1
2 2 Whatsthescript (IRE) (3) Desormeaux K J Sadler John W 126 L 15-1
3 3 Cowboy Cal (2) Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 126 L 6-1
4 4 Delegator (GB) Dettori L bin Suroor Saeed 123 FTL 3-1
5 5 Karelian Maragh R Arnold George R II 126 L 20-1
6 6 Courageous Cat Gomez G K Mott William I 123 L 20-1
7 7 Ferneley (IRE) Bejarano R Cecil B D A 126 L 20-1
8 8 Zacinto (GB) Moore R L Stoute Sir Michael 123 8-1
9 9 Gladiatorus Ajtebi A bin Suroor Saeed 126 FTL 20-1
10 10 Justenuffhumor Garcia Alan McLaughlin Kiaran P 126 L 10-1
11 11 Goldikova (IRE) (TOP) Peslier O Head Freddie 123 FTL 8-5

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta Pick 3 (Races 6-7-8) / Daily Double / Pick 4 (Races 6-7-8-9)

Battagliaspicks 11-3-2

#11 Goldikova (IRE)- Was much the best winning this race last year, she was stopped twice in the stretch while making her run and still won going away. She is very talented and is 3 for 3 at this distance and 9 out of 11 with 2 seconds overall. This field is not as tough as last year's and she should romp.
7th (2:12)

Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1)

1 Mile (All Weather Track) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Mastercraftsman (IRE) (TOP) Murtagh J P O'Brien Aidan P 123 6-5
2 2 Furthest Land Leparoux J R Maker Michael J 126 L 20-1
3 3 Midshipman (3) Gomez G K bin Suroor Saeed 123 L 6-1
4 4 Bullsbay Rose J Motion H Graham 126 L 3-1
5 5 Neko Bay Smith M E Shirreffs John 126 L 20-1
6 6 Mambo Meister Cruz M R Gleaves Philip A 126 L 30-1
7 7 Pyro Velazquez J R bin Suroor Saeed 126 L 10-1
8 8 Mr. Sidney Desormeaux K J Mott William I 126 L 12-1
9 9 Chocolate Candy (2) Rosario J Hollendorfer Jerry 123 L 15-1
10 10 Ready's Echo Borel C H Pletcher Todd A 126 L 20-1

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta Pick 3 (Races 7-8-9) / Daily Double / Pick 4 (Races 7-8-9-10)

Battagliaspicks 1-9-3
#1 Mastercraftsman (IRE)- colt has won 7 of 11 mostly grade I's and three of his beats came at the hands of the European champion See the Stars. He ran on the Poly last out and he won by 5 lengths while being in hand late at 1-5. He is another who looks much the best.
8th (2:57)

Emirates Airline Breeders' Cup Turf (G1)

1 1/2 Miles (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $3,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Telling Castellano J J Hobby Steve 126 L 20-1
2 2 Conduit (IRE) (TOP) Moore R L Stoute Sir Michael 126 FTL 7-5
3 3 Red Rocks (IRE) (3) Leparoux J R Meehan Brian 126 L 20-1
4 4 Allegre Velazquez J R Koriner Brian 126 L 50-1
5 5 Dar Re Mi (GB) (2) Dettori L Gosden John H M 123 FTL 3-1
6 6 Presious Passion Trujillo E Hartmann Mary 126 L 4-1
7 7 Spanish Moon Fallon K Stoute Sir Michael 126 FTL 5-2
8 8 Monzante Bejarano R Mitchell Mike 126 L 30-1

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta Pick 3 (Races 8-9-10) / Daily Double

Battagliaspicks 2-5-3
#2 Conduit (IRE) Won this race last year as a 3 year old beating his elders. He comes off a 2 length loss in the 6 million dollar Arc de Triomphe carrying 131 lbs to champion See the Stars. He is coming into this race in top form and should defend his crown.
9th (3:45)

Breeders' Cup Classic (G1)

1 1/4 Miles (All Weather Track) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $5,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Mine That Bird Borel C H Woolley, Jr. B L 122 L 12-1
2 2 Colonel John (4) Gomez G K Harty Eoin 126 L 12-1
3 3 Summer Bird (2) Desormeaux K J Ice Tim A 122 L 9-2
4 4 Zenyatta (3) Smith M E Shirreffs John 123 L 5-2
5 5 Twice Over (GB) Queally T P Cecil Henry 126 FTL 20-1
6 6 Richard's Kid Solis A Baffert Bob 126 L 12-1
7 7 Gio Ponti Dominguez R A Clement Christophe 126 L 12-1
8 8 Einstein (BRZ) (TOP) Leparoux J R Pitts Helen 126 L 12-1
9 9 Girolamo Garcia Alan bin Suroor Saeed 122 L 20-1
10 10 Rip Van Winkle (IRE) Murtagh J P O'Brien Aidan P 122 7-2
11 11 Regal Ransom Migliore R bin Suroor Saeed 122 L 20-1
12 12 Quality Road Velazquez J R Pletcher Todd A 122 L 12-1
13 13 Awesome Gem Flores D R Dollase Craig 126 L 30-1

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta SuperHi5 / Daily Double
Battagliaspicks 8-3-4-2
#8 Einstein (BRZ) the way the track was playing yesterday Zenyatta is really up against it. You have to be close to the pace and on the rail to win. The race should set up for this one with red hot Leparoux in the irons.
10th (4:25)

Oak Tree Derby (G2)

1 1/8 Miles (Turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $150,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Acclamation (TOP) Talamo J Warren Donald 118 L 15-1
2 2 Augustusthestrong Velazquez J R O'Brien Aidan P 118 9-2
3 3 Meteore Bejarano R Mandella Richard 122 L 8-1
4 4 No Inflation Leparoux J R Proctor Thomas F 123 L 8-1
5 5 Oil Man (IRE) Maragh R Sadler John W 123 L 15-1
6 6 Massone Dettori L McAnally Ronald 118 L 4-1
7 7 Rendezvous (3) Rosario J Hollendorfer Jerry 122 L 6-1
8 8 The Usual Q. T. Espinoza V Cassidy James 120 L 20-1
9 9 Battle of Hastings (GB) (2) Baze T C Mullins Jeff 122 L 3-1
10 10 Quindici Man Prado E S Lewis Craig A 118 L 30-1
11 11 Gretsky Fallon K Drysdale Neil 118 L 15-1
12 12 Tamborim Migliore R Hofmans David 118 L 30-1

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta

Battagliaspicks 1-9-7

#1 Acclamation- was beaten less then a length breaking from the #9 post by the favorite in here #9. He went off at 60-1 and led until the final 20 yards. He came back against older horses and on the dirt for the first time and missed by only a length. He draws the inside post and has the speed to take them wire to wire.

Globeform's Breeders' Cup Special

Race 2

B Cup Juvenile Turf: Euros even stronger

Santa Anita Saturday: Last year, the little known Donativum shipped across the Atlantic to
capture the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf. This year Team Euro comes with proven Group
performers.

North American turf juveniles had better be well above the usual norm, if this prize is to be
kept at home. Take a look at this trio; Donativum’s handler John Gosden saddles the fast
improving colt Pounced, runner-up in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere (G1) last time out, when
one place ahead of Buzzword, Godolphin’s runner in this contest. Aidan O’Brien, so
dominant in the juvenile division (as well) on the other side of the pond, relies on Viscount
Nelson, another colt bordering on top class at home and runner-up in the Champagne Stakes
(G2) on his most recent start.

Only Globeform provide ratings giving you a direct comparison of US and Euro form, and
you are also just one click away from the valuable rating profiles for all these youngsters.

GLOBEFORM RATINGS
BREEDERS’ CUP JUVENILE TURF

Santa Anita 7 November 2009 – 1 mile Turf

Purse: $1 million

Contenders presented with best
Globeform ratings, sires, trainers

109 – VISCOUNT NELSON (Giant’s Causeway) / A O’Brien / ?p – 100p – 109p / J Murtagh
109 – BUZZWORD (Pivotal) / S bin Suroor / 109 – 109 – 105 / A Ajtebi
108 – POUNCED (Rahy) / J Gosden / ?p – 90p – 108p / L Dettori
106 – INTERACTIF (Broken Vow) / ? – 100p – 106p / K Desormeaux
104 – GALLANT GENT (Yankee Gentleman) / ?p -?p – 104 / J Rosario
…? – BRIDGETOWN (Speigthstown) / K McPeek / ?p -?p -?p / R Landry
100 – KING LEDLEY (Stormin Fever) D Miller / 97 – 100 – 100 / R Bejarano
..98 – CODOY (Bernstein) / M Hubley / ?p -?p – 98p / G Gomez
…? – BECKY’S KITTEN (Kitten’s Joy) / W Ward / GF ?p / J Leparoux
..96 – AWESOME ACT (Awesome Again) / J Noseda / 83 – 91 – 96 / R Moore
..91 – ZIP QUICK (City Zip) / P Biancone / 80 – 91 / M Smith
…? – KERA’S KITTEN (Kitten’s Joy) GF ?P / R Maragh

Reserves

…? – DEAN’S KITTEN (Kitten’s Joy) / M Maker / GF ? / R Dominguez
…? – SUMMER MOVIE (Holy Bull) / A Sherman / GF ?p / M Baze

GLOBEFORM ANALYSIS

TWO HORSES stand out here, but not by much, as this appears to quite an open race.
Anyone of four or five can win the Juvenile Turf without creating a big shock. Aidan O’Brien’s
colt VISCOUNT NELSON, runner-up in a strong G2 event at Doncaster in England last time
he ran, and John Gosden’s contenteder POUNCED are the two we will take ‘against the field’.
Viscount Nelson is a son of Giant’s Causway, narrowly beaten by Tiznow in the Breeders’
Cup Classic (G1), while Pounced is by Rahy, an established sire of top class runners. Which
of these two is the best is impossible to say at this stage. Suffice to say that they have made
exactly the progress their connection had planned for them so far. Viscount Nelson split two
smart English trained colts, Poet’s Voice (a Godolophin trainee) and Silver Grecian (a
previous G2 winner), when second in the Champagne Stakes (G2) at Doncaster. He is a
prominent runner with plenty of stamina in the pedigree and looks sure to go close. Pounced
is coming off a second place finish in the Jean Luc Lagardere (G1) at Longchamp on ‘Arc’
day. That form was a nice step up on his previous form, as he battled on gamely to beat
BUZZWORD by half a length for second. The French colt Siyouni – one of the best juveniles
in Europe – won the race by 1 1/2 lengths.

INTERACTIF looks the best of the US based runners but is he really up to matching strides
with such a strong group of Europeans? A Euro trifecta is not at all unlikely. Unless Interactif’s
form is ‘for real’ or the Summer Stakes (G3) winner BRIDGETOWN is as classy as he has
been looking in his works at Santa Anita. He really looks the part and his 1 1/2-length win over
BECKY’S KITTEN at Woodbine was a highly promising performance.

BREEDERS’ CUP JUVENILE TURF

GLOBEFORM SELECTIONS

A: 2 VISCOUNT NELSON, 4 POUNCED
B: 7 BRIDGETOWN, 11 INTERACTIF, 12 BUZZWORD
RECOMMENDED BETS
WIN BETS 2 and 4
8 EXACTAS

A: 2 and 4 boxed / reversed
B: 2, 4 with 7, 11, 12
18 TRIFECTAS
A: 2, 4 with 2, 4 with 7, 11, 12
B: 2, 4 with 7, 11, 12 with 2, 4
C: 7, 11, 12 with 2, 4 with 2, 4
36 SUPERFECTAS
A: 2, 4 with 2, 4 with 7, 11, 12 with 7, 11, 12
B: 2, 4 with 7, 11, 12 with 2, 4 with 7, 11, 12
A: 2, 4 with 7, 11, 12 with 7, 11, 12 with 2, 4

Race 3

Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint:

Desert Code in tough spot

Last year’s upset winner Desert Code will again be in the mix, as a competitive and evenly
matched field goes to post for the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint. Six and a half furlongs over
the downhill turf course in Arcadia is a tricky task, and course specialists often have a clear
advantage over this trip.

BREEDERS’ CUP TURF SPRINT

Santa Anita 7 November 2009 – 6.5 furlongs Turf -Purse: $1 million

Runners presented with best Globeform rating, sire, trainer / jockey

118 – DIAMONDRELLA (Rock Of Gibraltar) m / A Penna Jr / R Maragh
118 – CANNONBALL (Catienus) / Wesley Ward / R Dominguez
117 – CALIFORNIA FLAG (Avenue of Flags) / Brian Koriner / J Talamo
116 – LORD SHANAKILL (Seightstown) / R Mandella / J Crowley
113 – GOTTA HAVE HER (Royal Academy) f / J Shahadi / T Baze
115 – STRIKE THE DEAL (Van Nisteelroy) / Jeremy Noseda / K Fallon
114 – SILVER TIMBER (Prime Timber) / Chad Brown / J Leparoux
114 – SQUARE EDDIE (Smart Strike) / D O’Neill / L Dettori
114 – DESERT CODE (E Dubai) / David Hofmans / R Migliore
114 – NOBLE COURT (Doneraile Court) / John Sadler / J Rosario
111 – CANADIAN BALLET (City Zip) / L Rice / A Garcia
108 – GET FUNKY (Straight Man) / J Sadler / R Bejarano
112 – EL GATO MALO (El Corredor) / C Dollase / D Flores
113 – DELTA STORM (Storm Boot) / M Mitchell / G Gomez

1st & 2nd Reserves:

105 – TENGA CAT (Storm Cat) / Ron Ellis / M Smith
…? – CHEROKEE HEAVEN (Cherokee Run) / M Jones / B Blanc

Fillies / mares receive a 3lb sex allowance – add
three pounds to ratings for direct comparison with males.

DIAMONDRELLA produced her career best Globeform rating when landing the First Lady
(G1) at Keeneland, her final prep for the Breeders’ Cup. Coming from just off the pace, after
having travelled really well throughout the contest, she won by almost a length from
Tizaqueena, with the Filly & Mare Turf favourite Forever Together closing from last to third.
The latter was clearly compromised by the slow pace scenario, something that helped
Diamondrella – as she is a runner with plenty of speed. Speed and stamina, that is the key
over 6.5 furlongs at Santa Anita's lawn. Diamondrella had alternative races at the Breeders’
Cup. She could also have run in the Mile or Filly & Mare Turf but goes for the Turf Sprint, and
has a great chance. Bookmakers have her listed as big at 6-1 for the dash over the tricky
downhill course, which really suits sprint / milers like this mare.

CALIFORNIA FLAG, a poweful course and distance specialist with two good wins as his
preparation (following a lengthy absence), also has a winning chance. Having won the
Morvich Handicap (G3) here in late September, he is sitting on a big race. California Flag
sticks out a bit from the rest of the pack, but many in that pack hold realistic chances of
winning or at least hitting the board. Luck in running will be so important and the Turf Sprint is
probably a race to bet lightly on when it comes to exotics. Back the class act in the race,
Diamondrella, to win, enjoy the spectacle, and wait for better trifecta opportunities.

GLOBEFORM SELECTIONS

A: 9 DIAMONDRELLA
B: 3 CALIFORNIA FLAG
C: 1–4–6–7–8–12– 13–14
RECOMMENDED BETS
WIN: 8 Diamondrella
EXACTA BOX: 3 and 9
16 TRIFECTAS

A: 9 with 3 with 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14
B: 9 with 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14 with 3
2008 BREEDERS’ CUP TURF SPRINT
1 – DESERT CODE (E Dubai) D Hofmans / R Migliore -Globeform 114

2 – Diabolical -GF 112p
3 – Storm Treasure -GF 109p

Won by 1/2 length, 1 length

Race 4

Breeders’ Cup Sprint: Clash of generations

Santa Anita Saturday: Top local sprinter Zensational, representing Bob Baffert, and the Ian
Wilkes trained star Capt. Candyman Can are running for the classic generation in the
Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1), where high class older horses like Gayego, the Ancient Title
winner, and last year's BC Sprint runner-up Fatal Bullet are ready to test them.

GLOBEFORM RATINGS
BREEDERS’ CUP SPRINT (G1)

Santa Anita 7 November 2009 – 6 furlongs Pro-Ride

Purse: $2 million

Contenders presented with best Globeform ratings,
sires, trainers, GF most recent starts (l-to-r), jockeys

121 – ZENSATIONAL (Unbridled’s Song) / B Baffert / 116p – 119p – 121p / V Espinoza
121 – FATAL BULLET (Red Bullet) / R Baker / 121 in 2008 / ?p – 0 – 117p / R Da Silva
119 – FLEETING SPIRIT (Invicible Spirit) f / J Noseda / 118p – 112 – 114p / J Murtagh
120 – GAYEGO (Gilded Time) / S bin Suroor / 120 – 114 -?p – 118p / G Gomez
120 – COST OF FREEDOM (Cee’s Tizzy) / J Sadler / GF 120p in 2008 / 98 – 111 / T Baze
119 – CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN (Candy Ride) / T Wilkes / 117p – 119p – 119p / J Castellano
114 – CROWN OF THORNS (Repent) / R Mandella / ?p – 114 / R Bejarano
112 – DANCING IN SILKS (Black Minnaloushe) / C Gaines / ?p – 112 – 112 / J Rosario
106 -JOIN IN THE DANCE (Sky Mesa) / T Pletcher / 106 -100 -? – 95 – 0 / J Velazquez

Fleeting Spirit receives 3lb sex allowance – add three pounds to rating for direct comparison
with the males.

ZENSATIONAL, with four straight wins coming into this race, will take a lot of betting action.
He is a fast improving three-year-old, that may well run the older horses off their feet here,
though he will be getting pressure from FATAL BULLET, who is drawn in stall three and has
a somewhat better starting point than the favorite. Drawn in one, Zensational’s jockey has to
send him to the lead, and this makes him vulnerable. Fatal Bullet is also likely to pay a price if
they hook up in a speed duel.

GAYEGO, strong and smooth in the Ancient Title (G1) over this course and distance last
month, and the poweful closer CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN are two that will love it of they go
too fast up front early on. Both can finish off realy well from off the pace, and why not take a
shot at this exacta. Capt. Candyman Can, overpriced at 15-1 on the morning line, was
giving 4lb to Fatal Bullet when they ran first and second in the Pheonix (G3) at Keeneland in
October. In all probabilty, the Candyman turns that fiorm around on Saturday.

FLEETING SPIRIT won the July Cup (G1) over a straight six-furlongs at Newmarket in the
summer and she ran another cracker to be second in the Prix de l’Abbaye (G1) over 5
furlongs at Longchamp in October. She is one of the best sprinters in Europe but hard to
fancy here, in a turning sprint against some true American speedballs. She has been tricky at
the gate and she has also been seen coming off a true line at the finish.

GLOBEFORM SELECTIONS

A: 5 GAYEGO
B: 8 CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN
C: 1 ZENSATIONAL, 3 FATAL BULLET
RECOMMENDED BETS
WIN BETS: 5 Gayego (70%) and 8 Capt. Candyman Can (30%)
EXACTA BOX; 5 and 8
4 TRIFECTAS

A: 5, 8 with 5, 8 with 1, 3
B: 5, 8 with 1, 3 with 5, 8
2008 BREEDERS’ CUP SPRINT (G1)
1 – MIDNIGHT LUTE (Real Quiet) B Baffert / G Gomez -Globeform 130

2 – Fatal Bullett -GF 121
3 – Street Boss -GF 119

Won by 1 3/4 lengths, 1 3/4 lengths

GLOBEFORM’S BEST SATURDAY LONGSHOTS

GLADIATORUS / MILE (20-1) World class form over a turning mile in Dubai in March, back
to form with facile win in Italy last out / powerful front-runner

CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN / SPRINT (15-1) Improving 3yo sprinter, right style, as he is a
seriously good closer in a race where the early speed may melt right down.

RADIOHEAD / JUVENILE (15-1) D’Funnybone is my Juvenile selections but this European
raider is simply way too big in the betting and must be backed / take it from me, he is the best
juvenile shipping in from across the pond. GS

GLOBEFORM’S PICK 4 PLAN

Race6 4–8–9–10-11
Race7 1-3
Race8 2–5-7
Race 9 4 Zenyatta 30 lines

GLOBEFORM’S PICK 3 PLANS

Race 3
Race 4
Race 5
9 Diamondrella
5 -8
5 -11 4 lines
Race 6
Race 7
Race 8
9 Gladiatorus
1 – 3 – 4 – 7
2 – 5 -7 12 lines
BEST DOUBLE WAGER
Race 5
Race 6
5 D’Funnybone
9 Gladiatorus

Race 5

Breeders’ Cup Juvenile: D’Funnybone tops ratings

by Geir Stabell

Californians may well be right when they say that Lookin At Lucky is the one to beat in the
Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1), but no fewer than four of his rivals take a higher Globeform
rating into the battle.

Home court advantage counts for a lot though, if our figures are anything to go by, Bob
Baffert’s Norfolk Stakes (G1) winner needs to improve to put pressure on D’Funnybone,
trained by Richard Dutrow and coming off a deeply impressive win in the Futurity Stakes (G2)
at Belmont Park. Lookin At Lucky can improve, of course he can, but then so can
D’Funnybone, and what about European raiders like Beethoven, winner of a Group One last
out, Radiohead, runner-up in a Group One last out, and Vale of York, also second best in
the highest grade on his most recent start. How do these and the rest of the Euros stack up
against the home team?

Only Globeform provide ratings giving you a direct comparison of US and Euro form, and
you are also just one click away from the valuable rating profiles for all these youngsters.

GLOBEFORM RATINGS
BREEDERS’ CUP JUVENILE (G1)

Santa Anita 7 November 2009 – 1 1/16 miles Pro-Ride

Purse: $2 million

Contenders presented with best Globeform ratings,
sires, trainers, best GF most recent starts (l-to-r), jockeys

114 – D’FUNNYBONE (D’wildcat) / R Dutrow / ?p – 110p – 114p / E Prado
113 – RADIOHEAD (Johannesburg) B Meehan / 100 – 113p / M Dwyer
110 – BEETHOVEN (Oratorio) / A O’Brien / 99 – 103 -110 / R Moore
110 – ALFRED NOBEL (Danehill Dancer) / A O’Brien / 110 – 105 – 95 / J Murtagh
109 – LOOKIN AT LUCKY (Smart Strike) / Baffert / 100p – 109p – 109p / Gomez
107 – NOBLE’S PROMISE (Cuvee) / K McPeek / ?p – 99p – 107p / W Martinez
107 – VALE OF YORK (Invincible Spirit) Suroor / 102p – 107 – 107 / A Ajtebi
106 – ESKENDEREYA (Giant’s Causeway) / T Pletcher / ?p – 106p / J Castellano
106 – AIKENITE (Yes It’s True) / T Pletcher / ?p – 100p – 106p / A Garcia
105 – PULSION (Include) / P Biancone / ?p -?p -105 / M Smith
104 – GALLANT GENT (Yankee Gentlemen) / C Lewis / ?p -?p -104 / M Pedroza
102 – ASPIRE (Tale of the Cat) / E Kenneally / ?p – 97p – 102p / J Leparoux
…? – WILLIAM’S KITTEN (Kitten’s Joy) / M Maker / GF ? / R Dominguez
..96 – PISCITELLI (Victory Gallop) / ?p – 95p – 96p / K Desormeaux

D’FUNNYBONE is a clear pick on form. If he can run as well over the Pro-Ride at Santa Anita
as he did when landing the Futurity Stakes (G2) over the dirt track at Belmont Park he will
take some beating. The son of D’wildcat stormed away to win that 7-furlong event, by almost
five lengths from Discreetly Mine, who was 8 lengths ahead of the third-placed
Thiskyhasnolimit. D’Funnybone earned Globeform 114p in the process, improving yet again
following his runaway win in the Saratoga Special (G2) a month earlier, when he slammed Zip
Quick by over ten lengths over 6.5 furlongs. Will he stay 8.5 furlongs? That is the big
question. D’Funnybone did not seem to be stopping at Belmont and if he would have been
happy over a mile there he will have no problems with half a furlong further here. Top pick!

RADIOHEAD was visually so impressive when winning the Norfolk Stakes (G2) at Royal
Ascot, coming home by 2 lengths from Reignier despite nearly being knocked over inside the
final furlong. It was a remarkable recovery, and he confirmed his class by running third
against older horses in the 5-furlong Nunthorpe Stakes (G1) at York (he was flying late, over
an inadequate trip). Radiohead then flopped in the Mill Reef (G2) at Newbury but bounced
back in great style in the Middle Park Stakes (G1) at Newmarket. A bit outpaced early on, he
finished best of all and took second, 3/4 length behind the unbeaten colt Awzaan (who also
won the Mill Reef) and a neck in front of Showcasing (impressive G2 winner on his previous
start).

While other European juveniles at this Breeders’ Cup are coming out of the Dewhurst
Stakes (G1), normally the best 2yo contest in England, it is worth pointing out that the Middle
Park Stakes (G1) was a stronger race this year. Awzaan and Showcasing are both potentially
top class sprinting prospects for next year. Radiohead therefore makes more appeal than
BEETHOVEN, a narrow winner for the Dewhurst on his tenth start, VALE OF YORK, second
in a sub-standard G1 in Italy last time out, and ALFRED NOBEL, who has been regressing
since taking the Phoenix Stakes (G1) on heavy ground in Ireland in July.

LOOKING AT LUCKY, seemingly a bit of a ‘pro’ and one with a G1 win over course and
distance to his name (but what did he beat?), will get a lot of support. Perhaps he will start
favorite, though taking short odds about a runner from the wide post in a race like this does
not make much sense.

ESKENDEREYA’s form is hard to assess. He sure looked good (and sure did improve) when
he ran out a smooth 7 1/4-length winner of the Pilgrim Stakes at Belmont Park a month ago.
Coming here with two wins from two starts, the Todd Pletcher trainee has been declared for
the Juvenile in preference of the Juvenile Turf. That is probably a tip in itself.

NOBLE’S PROMISE enjoyed an easy time up front from halfway when holding off the closer
AIKENITE to wn the Breeders’ Futurity (G2) at Keeneland last month. Both these are
candidates for the trifecta ticket.

BREEDERS’ CUP JUVENILE
GLOBEFORM SELECTIONS

A: 5 D’FUNNYBONE
B: 11 RADIOHEAD
C: 3 BEETHOVEN, 4 NOBLE’S PROMISE, 8 ESKENDEREYA,
9 AIKENITE, 13 LOOKIN AT LUCKY
www.globeform.com

BREEDERS’ CUP JUVENILE

RECOMMENDED BETS

WIN: 5 D’Funnybone
EXACTA BOX: 5 and 11
20 TRIFECTAS

A: 5 with 11 with 3, 4, 8, 9, 13
B:5with3,4,8,9,13with 11
C: 11 with 5 with 3, 4, 8, 9, 13
B: 11 with 3, 4, 8, 9, 13 with 5
60 SUPERFECTAS

A: 5 with 11 with 3, 4, 8, 9, 13 with 3, 4, 8, 9, 13
A:5with3,4,8,9,13with 11with3,4,8,9,13
A:5with3,4,8,9,13with 3,4,8,9,13with11
2008 BREEDERS’ CUP JUVENILE (G1)
1 – MIDSHIPMAN (Unbridled’s Song) B Baffert / G Gomez -Globeform 116p

2 – Square Eddie -GF 113p
3 – Street Hero -GF 112p

Won by 1 1/4 lengths, 1/2 length

Race 6

Breeders’ Cup Mile: Goldikova aiming for repeat

Santa Anita: The French filly Goldikova, so good when beating the previous champion Kip
Deville in the Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1) last year, goes for back-to-back wins in the race on
Saturday.

Trained by Freddie Head, the man who rode Miesque to Mile wins in ’87-88, Goldikova lost
on her most recent start in France. She was below her best when third in the Prix de la Foret
(G1) but that was over an inadequate seven furlongs, and may not mean all that much. Her
form over a mile stands well above anything else seen this year. If she repeats it, she wins
again – even in competition with the likes of Khalid Abdullah’s progressive colt Zacinto and
Godolphin’s strong duo Gladiatorus and Delegator. But, there is a big but here... she drew
the outside post.

GLOBEFORM RATINGS
BREEDERS’ CUP MILE (G1)

Santa Anita 7 November 2009 – 1 mile Turf

Contenders presented with best Globeform ratings,
sires, trainers, GF ratings achieved in most recent starts (l-to-r)

127 – GOLDIKOVA (Anabaa) filly / F Head / 116P – 121p – 127 – 114 / O Peslier
124 – GLADIATORUS (Silic) / S bin Suroor / 124 – 0 – 0 – 113p – 120p / A Ajtebi
121 – ZACINTO (Dansili) / Sir Michael Stoute / 108P – 114p – 121p / R Moore
119 – DELEGATOR (Dansili) / S bin Suroor / 119p – 117p – 115 / L Dettori
117 – JUSTENUFFHUMOR (Distorted Humor) / K McLaughlin / ?P – 116p – 117P – 101p / A Garcia
117 – COURT VISION (Gulch) / R Dutrow Jr / 110 – 117 – 114 – 100 – 116 / Court Vision
117 – COWBOY CAL (Giant’s Causeway) / T Pletcher / 117 – 104 – 114 – 116 – 117 / J Velazquez
117 – FERNELEY (Ishiguru) / Ben Cecil / 110 – 111p – 117 / R Bejarano
116 – WHATSTHESCRIPT (Royal Applause) / J Sadler / 114 – 110 – 110 – 110 / K Desormeaux
115 – KARELIAN (Bertrando) / G Arnold II / 108 -110 -111 // 115 / R Maragh
111 – COURAGEUS CAT (Storm Cat) / Bill Mott / ?p -106p – 111 – 109 / G Gomez

Goldikova gets a 3lb sex allowance, add three
pounds to ratings for direct comparison with males.

GLADIATORUS is taken to win the BC Mile, and deny French wonderfilly Goldikova a second
win in the race – she drwe poorly in the outside stall, she can be a bit temperamental, she ran
well below form last time out and she is well worth opposing. If she runs to her best, she wins
again but there are doubts. Gladiatorus came back to form with a powerful display in the
Premio Vittorio di Capua (G1), after gradually creeping back up the form ladder in his
previous races. How this horse can still be backed at double figure for the Breeders’ Cup Mile,
is hard to understand. Gladiatorus was a deeply impressive winner of the Dubai Duty Free
(G1) at Nad Al Sheba in March, where he led from gate to wire and simply crushed the field.
And it was a top class field he beat, with Luca Cumani’s star performer Presvis running on for
second and G1 winners like Archipenko, Vodka, Jay Peg and Kip Deville all hopelessly
beaten. Gladiatorus joined Godolphin after thIs win and they sent him to England. That was
probably a mistake, as a front-runner like him is always more effective on turning tracks. US
style racing should bring out the best of him and he holds a leading chance.

GOLIDKOVA needs no introduction. She impressed here last year, when quickening right
away from the previous Mile winner Kip Deville to beat him by 1 1/4 lengths. She has notched
up four Group One wins in Europe this summer, and her best performance came when she
slammed Aqlaam (subsequent G1 winner) by 6 lengths in the Prix Jacques le Marois (G1) at
Deauville in August. Her subsequent run in the 7-furlong Prix de la Foret (G1) was about six
lengths below her Deauville form, however, and much was made of the draw that day. Truth
be told, a Goldikova at the top of her game would have beaten that field under any
circumstances. She simply wasn’t at her best.

ZACINTO is the potential big improver among the Europeans, having had only five career
starts, and he must be respected. The Juddmonte colt performed particularly well when going
down by just 1 1/4 lengths to Classic contender Rip Van Winkle in the Queen Elizabeth II
Stakes (G1) at Ascot in September (he had pulled too hard in slowly-run race on his previous
start).

DELEGATOR was behind Zacinto at Ascot, where he appeared to run out of stamina. He is
better than that showing and probably the type of horse to step up in a two-turn mile on a flat
track. He has a lot of speed and his second to Sea The Stars in the 2,000 Guineas (G1) at
Newmarket is testament to his class.

JUSTENUFFHUMOR did not care for the soft ground at Keeneland last out, but his previous
form indicates that he is the best of the US based runners. In winning the Bernard Barouch
Handicap (G2) at Saratoga in August, Justenuffhumor notched his sixth success on the
bounce, and he moved up to Globeform 117P, a rating that puts him right on the heels of the
top milers around. Of course, matching strides with last year’s winner Goldikova would require
another big step up, but Justenuffhumor figures to be the value bet here. If he had bypassed
Keeneland he would have been a much shorter price.

GLOBEFORM SELECTIONS

A: 9 GLADIATORUS
B: 4 DELEGATOR, 8 ZACINTO, 10 JUSTENUFFHUMOR, 11 GOLDIKOVA
RECOMMENDED BETS

WIN: 9 Gladiatorus

2008 BREEDERS’ CUP MILE (G1)

1 – GOLDIKOVA (Anabaa) F Head / O Peslier -Globeform 121p

2 – Kip Deville -GF 120
3 – Whatsthescript -GF 116

Won by 1 1/4 lengths, 2 1/2 lengths

Race 7

Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile: With Grade 1 status

Santa Anita: Won by subsequent Dubai World Cup (G1) winner Albertus Maximus last year,
the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile (G1) has an ineteresting and highly competitive field this time
round. This is also the first edition of the race staged with Grade One status.

Mastercraftsman, one of the top milers in Europe, is the favorite, but he may be in a tricky
starting position on the inside.

GLOBEFORM RATINGS
BREEDERS’ CUP DIRT MILE (G1)

Santa Anita 7 November 2009 – 1 mile Pro-Ride

Purse: $1 million

Contenders presented with best Globeform ratings, sires, trainers

124 – MASTERCRAFTSMAN (Danehill Dancer) / O’Brien / 123p – 120p – 118 -?p / Murtagh
116 – PYRO (Pulpit) / S bin Suroor / 111p – 116p / J Velazquez
116 – MIDSHIPMAN (Unbridled’s Song) / S bin Suroor / 116p in 2008 / GF ?p / G Gomez
116 – BULLSBAY (Tiznow) / Graham Motion / 112 – 101 – 115 – 116 / J Rose
115 – MR. SIDNEY (Storm Cat) / Bill Mott / 0 – 115 – 100 – 104 / K Desormeaux
114 – MAMBO MEISTER (King Cugat) / P Gleaves / 110 – 102 – 108 – 114 / M Cruz
114 – READY’S ECHO (More Than Ready) / T Pletcher / 105 – 112 – 114 – 111 / C Borel
112 – CHOCOLATE CANDY (Candy Ride) / J Hollendorfer / 0 – 112 – 110 / J Rosario
110 – FURTHEST LAND (Smart Stike) / C Wills / ?p -?p – 110 / J Leparoux
110 – NEKO BAY (Giant’s Causeway) / J Shirreffs / 100 – 108 – 110 – 110 / M Smith

MASTERCRAFTSMAN is the obvious favorite in the Dirt Mile, as his form stands head and
shoulders above the rest. Is he the “key” in the Pick 6 plan on Breeders’ Cup Saturday?
Perhaps, but be careful here. He drew post one and that is hardly ideal for a European turf
runner coming to a mile at this oval – especially one that is dropping back in distance, having
raced over 9.5 and 10 furlongs in his last three starts. If he breaks slowly he could end up in
all sorts of traffic problems on the turns. 6/5 really makes no appeal at all under these
circumstances – even when we talk about a horse that, on ratings, has lengths in hand. He
must be the selection of cours, but he will not be our key in any wagers.

The Irish colt was Globeform’s Champion Juvenile last year, and he is not far behind BC
Classic contender and barnmate Rip Van Winkle on this year’s ratings. Last term,
Mastercraftsman was the better of the two, but he was also being used quite a bit more. He
won the Phoenix Stakes (G1) and National Stakes (G1) at home in Ireland, before running
below his best to be fourth to Naaqoos in the Grand Criterium (G1) at Longchamp in Paris.
That may have been seen as a sign of a precocious juvenile already coming to the end of his
career’s best spell – but Mastercraftsman was not done by. He has trained on well at three,
and he has produced two of the best mile performances in Europe this season.

A fifth place finish behind Sea The Stars in the 2,000 Guineas (G1) at Newmarket – where
Mastercraftsman looked a bit dull in the preliminaries – set him up for a visually impressive
run in the Irish 2,000 Guineas (G1) at The Curragh. Mastercraftsman won that classic by 4 1/2
lengths from Rayeni, while Soul City finished third. These are smart colts though not really top
class and one could question the value of the form. The Ballydoyle winner was much, much
the best though, and he won with plenty in hand. The soft ground clearly suited him. The
ground was totally different when he went to post for the St. James’s Palace Stakes (G1) at
Royal Ascot just over three weeks later, and Mastercraftsman came out best once more. Only
by a neck this time, but his battling win over BC Mile runner Delegator showed how tough he
is. Delegator seemed to have his measure half a furlong out, but Mastercraftsman’s superior
stamina and determination won the day. Sea The Stars proved a length too good when he
had another crack at the champion in the International Stakes (G1) at York, and
Mastercraftsman was beaten 5 lengths when third to “S.T.S.” in the Irish Champion Stakes
(G1) at Leopardstown in September. This colt is very tough, no doubt about that, and he
thrives on racing. He looked fresh and happy when cruising home in a minor event over the
artificial surface at Dundalk in his most recent race, and Mastercraftsman is one of the best
horses on the European team this year.

PYRO, impressive winning the Forego (G1) at Saratoga and probably improving still (though
up to now been a typical dirt horse), Whitney Handicap (G1) winner BULLSBAY (proven over
synthetics and consistent), and last year’s Breeders’ Juvenile Cup Juvenile (G1) winner
MIDSHIPMAN are the obvious names to look at if betting against the favorite. Midshipman
has come in for some criticism in the media following his somewhat workmanlike comeback
win at Belmont Park in September, but don’t forget that it was a sprint, it was a run after along
layoff, and he needed the race. Another thing worth remembering is how good he was over
this track exactly a year ago, when he looked a natural miler with his win over previous Grade
1 winners Square Eddie and Street Hero.

Logic says go for Mastercraftsman, while the side of the betting brain that looks for value
says Midshipman. 6-1 does look a tempting price for this horse.

GLOBEFORM SELECTIONS

A: 1 MASTERCRAFTSMAN B: 3 MIDSHIPMAN, 4 BULLSBAY, 7 PYRO
RECOMMENDED BETS

6 EXACTAS

A: 1 with 3, 4, 7
B: 3, 4, 7 with 1
2008 BREEDERS’ CUP DIRT MILE

1 – ALBERTUS MAXIMUS (Albert the Great) K McLaughlin / G Gomez -Globeform 118

2 – Rebellion -GF 115
3 – Two Step Salsa -GF 112p Won by 1 1/4 lengths, 1/2 length

Race 8

Breeders’ Cup Turf:
Conduit now even better

By Geir Stabell

Having landed last year’s edition of the Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) in great style, the English
trained colt Conduit is a heavy favorite when coming back to Santa Anita. Not just because of
his powerful display over course and distance last year, but also because his form in Europe
this year has been just as good, some might say even better, than what was required to beat
Eagle Mountain at the last Breeders’ Cup.

Capturing the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes (G1) at Ascot and then running
fourth in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (G1) at Longchamps has enhanced his value no end
this term and a mile and a half on firm ground (not that he minds a drop of rain) is just what
Conduit loves.

GLOBEFORM RATINGS
BREEDERS’ CUP TURF (G1)

Santa Anita 7 November 2009 – 1 1/2 miles Turf Purse: $3 million

Contenders presented with best Globeform ratings, sires, trainers

124 -CONDUIT (Dalakhani) / Sir Michael Stoute / 120p – 116p – 124 – 122 / R Moore
118 – DAR RE MI (Singspiel) / John Gosden / 112p -117 – 118 – 118 / L Dettori
119 -SPANISH MOON (El Prado) / Sir Michael Stoute / 115 – 119 – 119 / K Fallon
116 -RED ROCKS (Galileo) / Brian Meehan / GF 116 in 2005 / 103 – 0 – 113p / J Leparoux
115 -PRESIOUS PASSION (Royal Anthem) / Mary Hartman / 113 – 115 – 98 – 115 / E Trujillo
115 -TELLING (A. P. Indy) / Steve Hobby / 108 – 108 – 115 – 99 / J Castellano
115 -MONZANTE (Maria’s Mon) / M Mitchell / GF 115 in 2008 / ? – 109p / R Bejarano

…? -ALLEGRE (Orientate) / B Koriner / GF ? / SCRATCHED

Dar Re Mi: 3lb sex allowance, add three pounds to ratings for direct comparison.

GLOBEFORM ANALYSIS

This is a three-horse affair;

CONDUIT is difficult to oppose and, despite his short odds, he must be the selection as he
goes for his second win in the Breeders’ Cup Turf. He was incredibly good over this course
and distance last year, he has shown even better form in Europe this season, and he will be
tough to beat. After getting going a little late this year – which was by design – Conduit
stepped up bigtime to justify favoritism in the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes (G1)
over a mile and a half at Ascot in July. Riding him with his usual confidence, jockey Ryan
Moore delivered Conduit with a strong run from off the pace, and the son of Dalakhani ran out
a game winner from stable his stable companions Tartan Bearer and Ask. Sir Michael Stoute
swept the first three places in the midsummer highlight in England. And now he could well
provide the exacta in the Breeders’ Cup Turf.

SPANISH MOON is also in with an excellent chance. He bypassed the Prix de l’Arc de
Triomphe (G1), where Conduit put up another fine performance to finish fourth (2 1/4 lengths
behind Sea The Stars). Spanish Moon is thus a fresh horse, and he is also one that should
love a track like Santa Anita, and he’s a possible improver. He landed the Grand Prix de
Saint-Cloud (G1) in Paris in June (beating Alpine Rose and Youmzain readily) and he
followed up in the Prix Foy (G2) at Longchamp in September. Both these races were run over
12 furlongs. In the Foy, a traditional ‘Arc’ trial, Spanish Moon controlled a moderate pace and
had too much left when the dual G1 winner Vision d’Etat attacked close home. Without the
front-running Presious Passion in the field, Spanish Moon would be extremely dangerous in
the Turf. Kieren Fallon will probably ride him just off the pacesetter, try to steal on run on the
Conduit and the filly Dar Re Mi at the top of the lane.

DAR RE MI takes a shot at this rather than the Filly & Mare Turf, and why not. This distance
suits her better and she ran so well against males in the Arc, where she checked in fifth, just
over three lengths behind Sea The Stars and no more than a length off Conduit. Dar Re Mi
had previously put toghether three solid races on the bounce in Grade Ones against her own
sex; winning the Pretty Polly Stakes (G1) in Ireland and Yorkshire Oaks (G1) in England –
defeating the top 3yo filly Sariska – before passing the post first in the Prtix Vermeille (G1) in
France, only to be harshly disqualified. Her effort in the Arc was no surprise at all and Dar Re
Mi is such a game and consistent runner. She could well beat them all here. Frankie Dettori
takes the ride, a big plus.

If these three Euros run to anything like their best form, they will fill the Trifecta.

GLOBEFORM SELECTIONS

A: 2 CONDUIT B: 5 DAR RE MI, 7 SPANISH MOON
RECOMMENDED BETS

WIN: 2 Conduit

6 EXACTAS

A: 2 with 5, 7
B: 5, 7 with 2
C: 5, 7 with 5, 7
2 TRIFECTAS

A: 2 with 5, 7 with 5, 7
10 SUPERFECTAS

A: 2 with 5, 7 with 5, 7 with 1, 3, 4, 6, 8
2008 BREEDERS’ CUP TURF (G1)

1 – CONDUIT (Dalakhani) Sir Michael Stoute / R Moore -Globeform 124p

2 – Eagle Mountain -GF 120
3 – Dancing Forever -GF 116 Won by 1 1/2 lengths, 2 1/4 lengths

Race 9

Breeders’ Cup Classic: Zenyatta the one to beat

Santa Anita: She will go for the big one, and what a wise decision it is.

Zenyatta’s Globeform rating makes her better than any of the males lining up for this year’s
Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1).

True, rivals like Santa Anita Handicap winner Einstein, the high class turf miler Rip Van
Winkle and top three-year-old Summer Bird make for a quality challenge, stronger than she
has ever faced, but Zenyatta is something else -and she's the one they all have to beat in the
$5 million contest.

Zenyatta -tops the Globeform ratings in the Breeders´ Cup Classic.

GLOBEFORM RATINGS
BREEDERS’ CUP CLASSIC (G1)

Santa Anita 7 November 2009 – 1 1/4 miles Pro-Ride

Purse: $5 million

Contenders presented with best Globeform ratings, sires,
trainers, and GF ratings in most recent starts (l-to-r), jockeys

129 – ZENYATTA (Street Cry) mare/ John Shirreffs / 126p – 129p – 118P -?P / M Smith
125 – RIP VAN WINKLE (Galileo) / Aidan O’Brien / 119p – 125 – 125 – 124p / J Murtagh
123 – SUMMER BIRD (Birdstone) / Tim Ice / 120p – 118p – 122 – 123 / K Desormeaux
123 – QUALITY ROAD (Elusive Quality) / Todd Pletcher / 123p – 122p – 111p – 121p / J Velazquez
123 – GIO PONTI (Tale of the cat) / Christophe Clement / 112p – 123p – 117p – 113p / R Dominguez
123 – MINE THAT BIRD (Birdstone) / Bennie Woolley Jr. / 123 – 121p – 113 – 114 – 111 / C Borel
122 – EINSTEIN (Spend a Buck) / Helen Pitts / 118p – 120p – 100 – 121 / J Leparoux
122 – RICHARD’S KID (Lemon Drop Kid) / Bob Baffert / 103 – 106 – 110p – 122 – 115p / A Solis
119 – COLONEL JOHN (Tiznow) / Eoin Harty / 119 in 2008 / 116p – 114 – 117 / G Gomez
119 – GIROLAMO (A. P. Indy) / S bin Suroor / ?p -?P – 119p / A Garcia
118 – TWICE OVER (Observatory) / Henry Cecil / 0 -114p – 115p -118 / T Queally
117 – REGAL RANSOM (Distorted Humor) / Saeed bin Suroor / 117p – 95 – 117p / R Migliore
115 – AWESOME GEM (Awesome Again) / Craig Dollase / 112 – 110 – 112 – 115 / D Flores

Zenyatta gets a 3lb sex allowance – add three
pounds to her rating for direct comparison with males.

2008 BREEDERS’ CUP CLASSIC (G1)

1 – RAVEN’S PASS (Elusive Quality) J Gosden / L Dettori -Globeform 128

2 – Henrythenavigator -GF 124
3 – Tiago -GF 122

Won by 1 3/4 lengths, 3/4 length

GLOBEFORM’S BC CLASSIC ANALYSIS

ZENYATTA can win the Classic and complete a unique double, following her stroll in the
Ladies Classic here last year. Not only is she the top rated horse on Globeform ratings, she
holds home court advantage, she has plenty of experience with the surface, and she will be
receiving a useful weight allowance.

True, some of the Classic rivals are solid horses but, let’s face it, with Sea The Stars and
Rail Trip both ruled out, there is not much ‘brilliance’ left. Zenyatta owns well over half the
brilliance on tap. Jockey Mike Smith has been making comments indicating that she will be
running against the boys, and that is precisely what she deserves to do. She has nothing
more to prove in her own division, and, while she has nothing to lose from going in the big
one, a win in the Breeders’ Cup Classic will make her Horse of The Year. Even if it is
achieved in the closest of finishes. Normally, when Zenyatta runs, there is no need for a
photofinish but – and this is the great thing – she has been in a couple of close final furlong
battles. She has become accustomed to winning with ease, but she also knows how to fight.

Capable of Globeform 129p, she will be carrying three pounds less than Rip Van Winkle,
Summer Bird, Quality Road, Einstein and all the other males. If Zenyatta performs to GF 130,
which is not at all unlikely, a male will have to produce GF 133 or higher to beat her. Is that
likely? If so, which one of them might be able to do so. To put the task into perspective; Sea
The Stars returned GF 130p in the Irish Champion Stakes (G1). Thus, if Zenyatta runs to her
best, the one who wants to match strides with her needs to run to a higher rating than See
The Stars’s personal best. Think about it.

Capturing Horse of The Year, being hailed as one of the all time greats, and retiring with an
incredible broodmare value, a Classic win for Zenyatta will also enhance the value of all
horses in her family. We may be seeing racing history this weekend. Even running second or
third would elevate her status even further. Some observers say that she has been ‘beating
little or nothing’ in the distaff divison. Well, that may well be how it looks on paper but anyone
with a bit of experience with racehorses and thoroughbred racing, who has seen her race,
must realise that she is an absolute freak. Mike Smith has ridden her with such
unprecedented confidence in some of her races, that one thought ‘now comes her defeat’. But
no. Zenyatta has overcome being in positions where other horses, never mind what they were
called, would fail. Last year’s Ladies Classic is an excellent example of such a run – when
Zenyatta came from way back to blow past her rivals for a comfortable win over Cocoa Beach
and Music Note. They are both top class performers, with success in the highest grade, but
neither had any sort of chance once Zenyatta got rolling. She won with plenty in hand.

The pace scenario should be to her liking in the Classic, as the early fractions should be
sharp here. In addition, stretching out to 1 1/4 miles may be just what Zenyatta wants to show
even better form than we have seen so far. The way she finishes her races suggests that she
would love racing over further than 1 1/8 miles, the longest trip she has tackled to date.

Thirteen wins from as many starts is a record that speaks for itself, and Zenyatta is a unique
throroughbred. Coming off an easy win in the Lady’s Secret (G1), a race she won also in her
final start prior to the Breeders’ Cup last year, she will take all the beating.

RIP VAN WINKLE looks the best of the Europeans, and UK Bookmakers have had him as
their favourite since it became clear that Sea The Stars was out of the picture. Rip Van Winkle
is not much to look at, in fact he is downright moderate in appearance – quite small and not
particularly attractive, he will never be anybody’s paddock pick -but he sure has an engine.
He looked awesome in Ireland last year, only to flop badly when heavily backed for the
Dewhurst Stakes (G1) at Newmarket last fall. Rip Van Winkle has restored his reputation
now, but it has happened gradually rather than ‘with a bang’. After running respectable races
in defeat behind Sea The Stars in the 2,000 Guineas (G1) at Newmarket, Derby (G1) at
Epsom Downs and when Eclipse Stakes (G1) at Sandown Park, he turned the corner with a
scintillating performance in the Sussex Stakes (G1) over a mile at Goodwood in the summer.
Kicking clear early in the straight, Rip Van Winkle ran on much too strongly for his rivals and
won by 2 1/2 lengths from the impressive Royal Ascot winner Paco Boy, with the top filly
Ghanaati beaten another 4 lengths in third.

Aidan O’Brien next sent him to the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (G1) at Ascot in September.
Tackling a mile once more, Rip Van Winkle justified favouritsm to beat Breeders’ Cup Mile
contender Zacinto by 1 1/4 lengths. Delegator, another Mile contender, was a well-beaten third.
These performances set Rip Winkle apart from all bar Sea The Stars in Europe, and he must
have a great chance in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. He is just the type to handle Santa Anita’s
Pro-Ride surface, and he will go well around the bends there. Now, that two European colts
ran so well in the Classic here last year does not mean all Euros will produce their best over
the surface. Turf runners do have a good record over this track, however, and there are many
reasons to like Rip Van Winkle in this year’s Classic. One reason not to back him in the future
books, is that he has suffered from some foot problems. These have been well documented,
though they are probably minor and have not yet ruled him out of any intended races. That
said, to win a Breeders’ Cup Classic, you need to have a horse that is aboslutely “A1” and at
the top of his game. O’Brien has had this race in mind for some time for this colt and we can
expect him to be sharp on the big day. Raven’s Pass landed the Queen Elizabeth II at Ascot
last year, prior to his historic win in the Classic. So let’s forget about that awful ‘stat’ created
by winners of the QEII that have gone on to the B Cup Mile… in fact, the double has yet to be
achieved. Starnge, isn’t it, when you think about how the QEII / BC Classic double could be
achieved for the second time on the bounce.

SUMMER BIRD was recommended on these pages when 50-1 in the future betting for the
Belmont Stakes (G1), so he is a horse we like! The rate of is progress in the first half of the
season was second to none, and he ran a great race in the third leg of the Triple Crown, to
defeat Dunkirk and Mine That Bird with a dominating stretch run. The margins between the
three were 2 3/4 lengths and a neck. Beating Mine That Bird by three lengths meant a healthy
16-length turnaround in form, compared to their running in the Kentucky Derby (G1), where
Mine That Bird was a clear-cut winner and Summer Bird came home in sixth after suffering
from a poor trip. Mainly, however, he was suffering from a lack of experience, since the Derby
was only his fourth start. Summer Bird made his racecourse debut as late as on March 1 this
year (fourth in an Oaklawn maiden), and there is a good chance of further improvement in this
son of Birsdtone, who also won the Belmont. Summer Bird could not match strides with the
mighty Rachel Alexandra in the Haskell Invitational (G1) at Monmouth Park, run over a sloppy
track almost two months after his Belmont win, but he was a clear second that day and it set
him up for a bi run in the Travers Stakes (G1) at Saratoga in late August. Ridden much closer
to the pace than in his earlier races he quickened right away at the top of the lane and ran out
a comfortable 3 1/2-length winner from Hold Me Back, who stayed on from off the pace to beat
Quality Road for second. The latter lined up again in Summer Bird’s next race, the 10-furlong
Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1) back at Belmont Park on the first Saturday of October. Rain, slop
was the order of the day again. It suited him best once more, and he won once more – this
time by a length from Quality Road – who put in a much-improved effort.

Whether Summer Bird can transfer his best form to the Pro-Ride surface is hard to say, but
the evidence we have points us in the direction of the answer “probably not”. On the plus side;
he can improve again, though he is a typical dirt performer, and one who relishes a test of
stamina. Ten furlongs at Santa Anita are not as demanding as at Belmont Park, and a dry
Pro-Ride is quite different to a sloppy dirt track. Still, it is hard to toss this horse out altogether,
simply because he has done nothing but move forward all year long.

QUALITY ROAD is a very interesting Breeders’ Cup Classic contender. He has the BC Dirt
Mile (G1) as an alternative but hopefully he will take a shot at the big one. This colt has been
sitting on a huge race for some time, and it was most unfortunate that a foot bruise ruled him
out of the Kentucky Derby (G1) back in May. Quality Road, then trained by James Jerkens,
had won the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) and Florida Derby (G1) at Gulfstream Park, both
in impressive style, and he was Derby favorite with many Bookmakers and top ranked on
many an expert’s list. Quality Road looked a world-beater in the making in the spring, though
it needs mentioning that he was not bettering enough different horses at Gulfstream to qualify
for what we call ‘solid form’. Was Theregoesjojo (2nd in FOY and 3rd in Fla.Dy.) a performer
almost capable of Grade One winning form? Hard to say, but Dunkirk, beaten 1 3/4 lengths in
the Florida Derby, has run well with the best in the classic crop since and, to a certain extent,
advertised Quality Road’s spring form. Quality Road, an attractive son of the classy stallion
Elusive Quality, returned from a four-month layoff when winning the Amsterdam Stakes (G2)
at Saratoga in August. Breaking the 6.5-furlong track record, he slammed leading BC Sprint
hope Capt. Candyman Can by 2 1/4 lengths, after overcoming a tardy start.

This win put him on track for the Travers Stakes (G1) at Saratoga, where a sloppy track
probably contributed to a below par effort for third, behind Summer Bird and Hold Me Back.
The rain came again prior to the Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1) at Belmont, and Quality Road’s
connections went for a new plan – sending the colt to the lead. This was not ideal but better
than being stuck in the kick-back. Quality Road was outstayed to the tune of a length by
Summer Bird. He battled on really well all the way to the line and it was an impressive run in
defeat. His credentials as a Breeders’ Cup Classic contender moved up a notch or two. That
the Dirt Mile is a tempting option is easy to understand, as he would be a short-priced favorite
or that event, but Quality Road possesses s much class, and has every right to improve
again, and he belongs in the Classic.

GIO PONTI, coming off a shock defeat when a heavy favorite for the Turf Classic (G1) at
Belmont Park, is a bit of a surprise runner in the Classic. He would fit in so much better in the
Turf but connections clearly feel that he has nothing more to prove on the lawn, and the
distances are also a factor. A mile and a half is too far for Gio Ponti, whose best form has
been produced ov a mile and a mile and a quarter. Christophe Clement’s runner had won four
Grade Ones on the bounce prior to being beaten by Interpatation at Belmont Park. This
fantastic run began with a solid off-the-pace success over Ventura (F&M Sprint fav.) and Dixie
Chatter in the Kilroe Mile (G1) here at Santa Anita in March. Gio Ponti came with a strong
finish from the back and just got up in the final jump to beat Ventura by a nose.

Facile wins in the Manhattan Handicap (G1) and Man o’War Stakes (G1), both at Belmont
Park, follwed before he captured the Arlington Million (G1) in Chicago on August 8 The
Manhattan was won by 1 1/2 lengths from Marsh Side, while Musketier was runner-up in the
Man o’War, beaten 1 3/4 lengths. The Arlington Million always attracts strong Euro shippers
and this year’s renewal was no different, but – for a change – they performed below par and
the exacta was filled by two North Americans. Gio Ponti strolled to the lead as they left the
home turn and was never in any sort of danger down the straight. He landed ‘The Million’

quite easily, passing the post 1 1/4 lengths ahead of the improving longshot Just as Well (who
went on to win a G1 on DQ next out). Stotsfold, the best of the visitors, took third. It was
another smooth performance by Gio Ponti but he did not have to run to his best to win at
Arlington. He could not have had an easier race, and therefore it was extra disappointing to
see his stride shorten badly close home in the Turf Classic (G1). So badly that Interpatation, a
50-1 shot without a win in two years, pass him. Gio Ponti may not have stayed the 1 1/2 miles
on soft ground though it is hard to believe that this was the only explination for his defeat. He
simply wasn’t at the top of his game on the day. On Breeders’ Cup day, he will have to be,
and he will almost certainly have to improve on his already smart form to make an impact in
the $5 million contest. Can he do that? Possibly, but realistically Gio Ponti looks more like a
‘filler’ for Trifecta and Superfecta players, than one to play as the winner.

MINE THAT BIRD , the upset winner of this year’s Kentucky Derby (G1), has lost his form in
recent months and, despite his connections continually sending out optimistic bulletins, he is
hard to fancy in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1). At his best, he can beat most of the three-
year-olds, over a concentional dirt track and in a strongly-run race ensuring a test of stamina.
He hs not been showing his best form, and that for some time, the Classic includes top older
horses and Europeans, and as it is run over a Pro-Ride surface it will not be such a test of
stamina. Ten furlongs on the dirt at Churchill Downs is an altogether different matter.

The Derby winner ran an unusual race at Churchill Downs, where he came from well out of
it, having been dead last in the early exchanges, to win the race by 6 3/4 lengths from the non-
staying Pioneerof the Nile, with Musket Man third. It was a smart and solid performance,
though not one of the best we have seen by winners of the first leg of the Triple Crown in
recent years. Not by any stretch of the imagination. Mine That Bird proved that it the win was
no fluke, however, as he ran a game race to finish second behind Rachel Alexandra in the
Preakness Stakes (G1) at Pimlico two weeks later. Staying on from off the pace, as is his
style, he was only a length behind the wonder filly at the wire, beating Musket Man by half a
length for second. The Derby form worked out quite well but we also got confirmation that
Rachel Alexandra was the best three-year-old in North America. She probably would have
won the Derby. The Belmont Stakes (G1) followed next for Mine That Bird, and the step up to
1 1/2 miles was sure to suit him, but it was another son of Birdstone, Summer Bird, who went
to the winner’ circle in New York. He beat Dunkirk, as Mine That Bird (committed way too
soon this time) was a one-paced third, beaten 3 engths by the winner. He has since been an
odds-on loser in the West Virginia Derby (G3) at Mountaineer – third to Soul Warrior – and
well beaten once more in the Goodwood Stakes (G1) at Santa Anita – a dull sixth to Gitano
Hernando. These runs are not exactly inspiring, as Benny Woolley’s pride and joy is coming
up to the biggest test of his career. It would be nice to see him bounce back to form, and
make his presence felt, but it would also be quite a surprise.

EINSTEIN won the Santa Anita Handicap (G1) over the same course and distance as the
Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1), and this Brazilian import is now well established as the best all-
rounder in North American racing. All surfaces, and a variety of tracks, seem to come alike to
him and Einstien must be taken seriously here. Although his form is a bit below what one
would expect is required to win the Classic, it would not be the biggest shock of all if he pulls
it off. Home court advantage and consistency are two factors that count for a lot in
horseracing. Einstein enjoys both, and he could be set for a big run on November 7. Just
going to post with a live chance is some feat, as the Santa Anita Handicap was run exactly
seven months earlier in the year. It takes a tough and special horse to keep competing at the
top level over such a long period. Since landing the ‘Big Cap’, which he took by a length from
Champs Elysees, Einstein has raced four times and only once finished off the board. That
was when he performed inexplicably badly in the Arlington Million (G1) – to be a distant fifth
behind Gio Ponti – and it is a race to forget. He had previoulsy checked in as an unlucky third
to Macho Again in the Stephen Foster (G1) on dirt at Churchill Downs, and taken the
Woodford Reserve Turf Classic (G1) on turf at the same venue, where his excellent late kick
made all the difference. He beat Cowboy Cal by a head with Court Vision, another four-year-
old, rounding out the trifecta.

A month after his run in the Arlington Million, a race he ran below form in also last year,
Einstein came back to something like his best with a solid run at Del Mar. The Pacific Classic
(G1), run over 1 1/4 miles, attracted a deep field of 12 runners and Einstein was one of the
most popular in the betting. He raced prominently throughout, handling the Polytrack as well
as any, and only the surprise winner Richard’s Gift proved too good. He outstayed Einstein
close home to win by a neck, and Rail Trip finishing a close third with Parading fourth and
Colonel john fifth helped give the form a strong look. Einstein lost nothing in defeat here, and
he must be fancied to turn the tables on Richard’s Gift at Santa Anita. Beating that rival is no
guarantee of success in the Classic, and Eisntein may not be one of the most obvious
candidates for a big win, but he sure is an obvious name to include in any trifetca plan. To
date, this son of Spend a Buck has raced 28 times for 11 wins, and he has finished in the top
three 18 times.

RICHARD’S KID served up one of the biggest shocks of the season, at when we are talking
Grade One action, as he won the Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar in September. Going off at
24-1, Richard’s Kid was among the back-markers early on, but he hit a super stride around
the home turn, and came five wide with a storming run to get up for a neck verdict over
Einstein, with Rail Trip beaten a lenth in third. Richard’s Kid’s rider Mike Smith lost his whip,
the Baffert trainee was coming off a photo loss to Unusual Suspect in the 12-furlong Cougar
(turf), yet he was capable of beating a pair of solid Grade One winners in a tight finish. It was
his sixth career win, with the previous having been gained in a minor stakes at Laurel in
February, when he defeated Bullsbay by a length. That win was also from off the pace.

His Pacific Classic win represented incredible improvement in form, and it would be easy to
dismiss it as a one-off, but Richard’s Kid performed really well in the top grade once more
when third behind Gitano Hernando and Colonel John in the Goodwood Stakes (G1) here at
Santa Anita a month later. Trying this year’s Breeders’ Cup Classic surface, he was not quite
as good as he had been at Del Mar but it was a decent prep for the big one. What about his
chances on November 7? Probably about 50-50 to hit the board, no more.

COLONEL JOHN, winner of the Santa Anita Derby (G1) and Travers Stakes (G1) at
Saratoga last year, could well be the surprise package in this year’s Classic. Having been
given time off in the first half of the year and prepared with a fall campaign in mind, he is a
possible improver – and his affinity for the track is a big plus. Colonel John, who finished sixth
in last year’s Classic, is 3-for-6 at Santa Anita. His previous best may not be up to matching
strides with the very best in this field but – if Zenyatta defects – his chances of finishing in the
top three or four are definitely there. Such a statement may sound strange, as he was a
beaten favorite in the Goodwood Stakes (G1) here last time out (caught late by Gitano
Hernando) but Colonel John ran well without getting a hard race. He was coming off an easy
win in the one-mile Wickerr Stakes on turf and an unlucky fifth to Richard’s Kid in the Pacific
Classic (G1), but probably still not fully tuned up when running in the Goodwood. There
seemed to be that little bit extra lacking, that the spark that made him a dual Grade One
winner as a three-year-old. It will be interesting to see whether his trainer has managed to put
that back in place for the big day.

REGAL RANSOM, so impressive in Dubai and a smooth front-running winner of the Super
Derby last time out, is a potential improver. His form was given a great boost when Super
Derby runner-up Blame swept by a aolid bunch of older horses to win the Fayette at
Keeneland, and to dismiss Regal Ransom would be folly -especially if you play trifectas and
superfectas. His barnmate GIOROLAMO is equally talented but may be a bit too speedy, and
perhaps a bit short on experience. One gets the feeling his entry here is a back-up plan,
though Godolphin often run a couple in these big races so he may well turn up. His alternative
would be to wait for the Cigar Mile at Aqueduct, a race that would suit Girolamo really well.

BREEDERS’ CUP CLASSIC CONCLUSION

ZENYATTA is a clear choice, with the Irish raider RIP VAN WINKLE just as clear as the
second choice. If he takes to the trac, and there is no reason to doubt that he will, he will run
a big race – he is probably going to be the biggest danger to Zenyatta. Of the others,
QUALITY ROAD may well be worth a bet at long odds. His stunning wins in the Florida Derby
(G1) and Amsterdam Stakes (G2) are two performances ranking high on our ratings. He has
been baten twice by SUMMER BIRD in recent starts, though that has been over slopp dirt
tracks and Quality Road was beaten for stamina on both occasions. Ten furlongs over the
Pro-Ride is a distance that suits 8 to 9-furlong horses best, and that is exactly what he is. Big
‘Cap winner EINSTEIN is another to include in the Classic Trifectas.

GLOBEFORM SELECTIONS

A: 4 ZENYATTA
B: 10 RIP VAN WINKLE
C: 8 EINSTEIN, 12 QUALITY ROAD
RECOMMENDED BETS

WIN: 4 Zenyatta

4 EXACTAS:

A: 4 and 10 boxed / reversed
B: 4 with 8, 12