Hawthorne Racecourse has an 8-race program scheduled with the feature coming in Race 4, an Open Trot with a $13,700 purse. The 0.50 Late Pick 4 starts in Race 5. The sequence has a $15,000 guaranteed pool, and it will be my focus.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 5

5-El Oh Govner (9/5)-Gets some class relief which should make a big difference. Appears to be a cut above this group with a decent steer and if minds manners.
6-Freddie Da Fox (9-1)-Franco takes the lines for the 1st time and steps-up coming off a win. Could be on the point or near the lead throughout. Can compete with this crew and doesn't have any breaking issues which are found in most others.

Race 6

5-Major Prince (5/2)-This is the 2nd time for Lasix and the 2nd start at Haw. Raced well last week but was no match for a well-meant winner. Won't be 31.80-1 but should be a player, and could be better tonight.
8-Walkin Papers (9/2)-Makes the 1st start since 11-25 for the Willis barn and the qualifier was good, paced the 2nd half in 57.4. Could fire hot off the bench and surprise if Franco gets into striking range at the top of the lane.
9-Run Forrest (5-1)-This wasn't Seekman's choice (5), but Oosting knows well. Had a good try in last which was the 1st start since 9-26. Paced the back-half in 57.1 with a 26.4 last quarter. They walked to the half in last, but the fractions should be more lively tonight and that can help the cause.

Race 7

2-Spice-It-Up (3-1)-Team Leonard entry fits well with this crew. Should be forwardly placed and in the hunt at the wire.
7-Sly Little Fox (5-1)-This will be the Haw debut and has been off 3 weeks. Has won 4 of 6 lifetime and 2 of those wins have come on the big track at Hoosier. Should be a player if doesn't need the start.

Race 8

6-Grab N Go (2-1)-Has made 3 starts in Stickney and has been competitive in all of them. Should be forwardly placed and best to respect.
8-JK Rockin Roll (6-1)-Got on the engine and faded down the lane but now meets a softer group. This was Warren's pick over the 1 & 7 and will look for a different trip this time.

0.50 Late Pick 4

5,6/5,8,9/2,7/6,8
Total Bet=$12

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