by Al Cimaglia
January 21, 2023
Woodbine Mohawk Park has a 12-race card scheduled for this evening. The feature goes in Race 9, a Preferred Pace with a $34,000 purse. The 0.20 Late Pick 4 also starts in Race 9, and it will be my focus.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 9
3-Saulsbrook Victor (2-1)-Winner of 3 straight at this class, and 4 in a row in total shouldn't be overlooked tonight. Won't get on the point and dawdle to a .58 first half again but has shown the ability to win in different ways.
6-Wheels On Fire (5/2)-Proven winner against this kind needed last after being off more than a month. This 8-year-old has won 28 of 87 at Mohawk and regular pilot Doug McNair should have in striking range turning for the wire.
Race 10
1-I Ama Rocket (3-1)-Comes off a win, and in 3 starts since joining the Jodie Cullen barn hasn't missed the board. Travis Cullen will need to work a sharp steer and follow live cover. Set a new mark in last and may have more to give.
7-Beachin Lindy (5/2)-This 8-year-old has been red hot winning 4 straight, the last 3 coming in this series. Has been a dominant winner versus this kind and can cash the biggest check with the same type of effort.
Race 11
1-William Hanover (4-1)-Started slowly and the .59 first half sealed his fate despite going the back half in 55.3. McClure takes the lines, and he can work an efficient trip for an improved effort.
8-Jordan Deo (7/2)-This will be the 3rd straight start with McNair in the bike and will look for an aggressive steer in a race without a standout. Has the gate speed to get a close-up seat and then roll by down the lane.
Race 12
1-Commanding Officer (3-1)-Drops to a soft spot, gets a positive driver change and draws inside. Has hit the board in 21 of 38 at Wbsb with 9 pictures. Should be a player but has been off since 12-30 and hasn't been in sharp form in the previous 5 starts.
5-Roll With The Flow (5-1)-Has 2 wins and a 2nd place finish in the last 3 races which were at London against Preferred company. Has taken top honors once in 6 Mohawk starts and McNair will do the steering. The McIntosh barn has posted 23% winners in the last 30 days and should offer a square price.
10-Twin B Powerball (4-1)-This is one of 2 entries from the Moreau barn (4/10) and the 5-year-old takes a significant drop in class. Loses Filion to #1, Jones will be in the bike and that should help the price. Has the gate speed to get a decent seat and could be overlooked at the windows.
0.20 Late Pick 4
3,6/1,7/1,8/1,5,10
Total Bet=$4.80
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