My Sunday virtual travels land me firmly at Golden Gate Fields, where the last four on the card have reeled me in.

The sequence makes a challenging start in the fifth race – so challenging that it looks like utilization of “ALL” looks like necessity, and with seven horses in it, it’s not a bank breaker.
Here’s a look at my suggested ticket, which amounts to $63, and the combatants in play:


5th Race (5:45 p.m. ET, claiming)

The biggest handicapping challenge in this sequence hits you right at the beginning.

The conditioned claiming race at a one mile attracted seven horses that deserve attention off recent outings. It’s one rare of the rare occasions when I use them all.

SOUTHEAST ASIA has kept good form all year, showing up on the board in 10 of 12 races. He’s traveled well and has kept that form at the various track. However, he doesn’t stand out enough to use alone, and several others will take a case for themselves once set free.

Also on the ticket: (ALL) FOUR O’ FIVE, DI LAURIAN, MEGAMEISTER, SECOND BOLD, STORMING WARRIOR, CURRY NATION.


6th Race (6:15 p.m. ET, maidens)

HALF HOPING was competitive in four starts at Santa Anita and ran evenly in her first one over the Tapeta surface after a four-month break. She probably needed one over the strip, and her second back from her vacation should put her in a good position.

Also on the ticket: ZAFFERANA, ACCORDING TO JUDY.


7th Race (6:45 p.m. ET, starter allowance)

RED HOT LASS moves up in class, but her maiden win last out makes her a valid threat in this sprint.

She stalked the leaders in a professional run and drew off to an easy win in a time of 1:03 2-5 for 5.5 furlongs that matches up nicely with any of these over the strip. She can be in close attendance from the outside and can respond when called upon.

Also on the ticket: SHOUT IT OUT, PHANTOM INDIAN.


8th Race (7:15 p.m. ET, allowance optional claiming)

OF GOOD REPORT comes in off a fast-closing fourth against similar company and is showing signs of returns to good form.

He'll get a good pace in front of him and should be able to rally strongly in the final quarter. Jockey Pedro Terrero has done well (18 percent) and it’s a good sign that he gets the return riding engagement. A similar run as last time will make him tough to hold off.
Also on the ticket: FRIDAY’S AT SHADY.

My Ticket

Race 5) ALL (7 horses)

Race 6) #4 Zafferana, #5 According to Judy, #6 Half Hoping.

Race 7) #4 Shout It Out, #5 Phantom Indian, #6 Red Hot Lass.

Race 8) #7 Friday’s At Shady, #10 Of Good Report.

Total Ticket Cost) ALL/4,5,6/4,5,6/7,10 = $63 for $0.50