Thursday, October 31, 2013

Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf

October 31, 2013 

Dear Readers,
        Here are my thoughts on the second Breeders’ Cup race on Friday’s card.
The Juvenile Turf
1                     All Cash – I like this horse, I watched his run in the G3 Bourbon Stakes, and he was in trouble nearly all the way.  When he finally found a small opening in the stretch he showed good determination.

2                    Giovanni Boldini – Love the name, but names don’t win races, however European entrants do in the Juvenile Turf. This colt has the pedigree and the connections to get the job done.

3                    Got Shades – Lookin' sharp…They come runnin' just as fast as they can. ZZ Top lyrics from Sharp Dressed Man. This colt tried to come runnin in the Zuma Beach only to run into a faster closer than him. Got Shades looked like he got tired to me. He should run better this trip.

4                    Outstrip – Talk about connections, this colt has it all. Well bred and running under the colors of a very successful stable. I like this horse.

5                    Bobby’s Kitten – Wow.

6                    Home School – I don’t think this horse should be 30-1 on the morning line. But having said that I can’t get behind him either.

7                    Aotearoa – Beware of overlooking this horse. He had to force his way through in the Zuma Beach. He looks to get better as he learns.

8                   Bon Accord – Consistent, game and hard to overlook. He definitely belongs in this race.

9                    Wilshire Boulevard – Experience alone will hold this colt in good stead. I think he will like the firmer turf at Santa Anita. In with a chance.

10                Ontology – Every horse can have an off day, and that is especially true of two-year-olds. Too bad it was the one before this one. Stillif he improves off his previous races he could be contentious.

11                 Poker Player – Morning line odds of 12-1 just emphasizes how deep the talent pool runs in this race. This horse was impressive winning the G3 Bourbon in only his third lifetime start. He beat morning line 6-1 Bashart honestly.

12                Shamshon – This colt shows speed on the deeper European turf courses and I think he will like the firmer turf here at Santa Anita. Don’t count him out.

13                Bashart – This is one of the more versatile horses in the field. He can be on the lead, stalk the lead or come from off the pace. His rider can adjust to the conditions and know that his horse will be adaptable.  

Oh dear, I have to make a top three list…argh! I don’t think Bobby’s Kitten is going to get away with running off all by his lonesome. Those riders’ are going to be gunning for him. Having said that, if he still opens up like a champion, look out Triple Crown next year. This is such a tough race to pick, juveniles are so mercurial. Oh well here goes. We’re just having fun…right?

 My wish list for the Juvenile Turf:

1                    Outstrip
2                   Aotearoa
3                   Bobby’s Kitten 

Next I’ll find my favorites for the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. 
 
Take care,
Shelley Riley
www.shelleyriley.com

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