by Al Cimaglia
September 23, 2023
Tonight, Woodbine Mohawk Park has a 12-race card that is loaded with big money stakes. The main event is the Mohawk Million which rolls in Race 9. The 0.20 Late Pick 5 starts in Race 6, and it will be my focus.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 6 (9:22 PM EST)
4-Linedrive Hanover (4-1)-Comes back to the oval where 12 of 13 wins have been posted. Draws better than the last 3 races and gets a significant post edge over #9 the sharpest horse in the field. Best to respect, hasn't been racing poorly and should be in line for an effective trip.
6-Warawee Vital (9/2)-Comes off a decisive decision versus Free for All company on 9-2 and then tuned-up in a qualifier at Wbsb on 9-15. Might be overlooked at the windows, draws a fine post and could be a player if Henry works a smooth trip.
9-Tattoo Artist (6/5)-Winner of 3 straight banked a lot of money in August. Deserves respect, has been sharp as a tack since returning here to the Ian Moore barn. Came out of the clouds to win the Canadian Derby and could need the same type of effort to cash the top check again.
Race 7 (9:51 PM EST)
1-Chain Gang (15-1)-Willing to use from the rail with Scotty Z between the pipes. Should have the gate speed to get a close-up seat and could get sucked around at a large price. Looking for a similar trip as in the Champlain and to be in the hunt at the wire.
2-Legendary Hanover (8/5)-Huntsville freshman is 6 for 6 and didn't do it with mirrors. Has overcome the 8 & 9 posts in the most recent wins. JMac shouldn't have an issue taking control not long after the wings fold.
4-Captain Luke (8-1)-Price shot gets a new set of hands in Gingras. Hasn't taken a picture yet (0-6) but has finished 2nd three times. If there is a speed duel and a wicked hot pace the Alagna pupil knows how to fly down the lane.
Race 8 (10:20 PM EST)
4-Up Your Deo (5/2)-Had the rail last week, got the 2-hole and cruised home to win easily. This will be a bigger test, but the same outcome is a distinct possibility. Should be racing near the top of the stack again and my take is the chalk #5 could be vulnerable.
7-Winners Bet (5-1)-Lasix seemed to kick in last week in the 2nd start back from Kentucky. Just missed after rallying with a swift 54.1 back half. Might offer some nice value and it feels like this colt is sitting on a big mile.
Race 9 (10:50 PM EST)
5-Drawn Impression (2-1)-This filly has made 3 starts, has 3 wins and has looked great doing it. The question for tonight is not racing since 8-26, and was scratched sick in the Champlain on August 6th. Despite the layoff this Blais pupil could beat this group if 100%, and it is too risky to leave off the ticket.
8-T C I (9/5)-The Burke trainee is 8 of 9 and the only loss came in the first start of his career. Simply has been exceptional and is a perfect 2 for 2 at Mohawk. This appears to be a 2-horse contest and it should be a great race.
Race 10 (11:13 PM EST)
1-Livinthebeachlife (6-1)-Has only 1 win in 8 races at Mohawk but has battled better and should fit well with this crew. From time to time tardy starts have been an issue but should offer a square price. If Roy gets this Puddy trainee in play off the gate, chances for a win go up.
2-Jabberwocky (3-1)-Almost wired better from post 7 last week. The race will likely go through the team Zeron entry. Usually is in the mix and may seal the deal this time.
3-Cold Creek Queso (4-1)-Jamieson comes back for his 2nd straight drive, he could make a difference and will need to provide a sharp steer. Could take the top prize with the right trip in a race without a standout.
4-Ron (10-1)-This 4-year-old is camera shy but seemed to wake up last week and should be a price. Paced the back half in 53.1 but was far back early. Seems to do better getting involved off the gate. Henry takes over and he has had success in the past working a stalking trip.
0.20 Late Pick 5
4,6,9/1,2,4/4,7/5,8/1,2,3,4
Total Bet=$28.80
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