by Jeff Siegel
January 1, 2024
RACE 1
8-Girl of My Dreams
Degree of confidence: B
• Was worn down late by a filly who returned to win a stakes.
• Improving speed figures and a solid work tab since raced.
• Been vulnerable close home but the addition of Lasix may help.
Others to consider: 1-Ashley; 2-Hanmble.
RACE 2
4-CLUBHOUSE BRIDE
Degree of confidence: A-
• Was a pleasing debut maiden winner at Los Alamitos.
• Tackling tougher competition but should be up to it.
• Speed figures makes her a heavy favorite right back.
Others to consider: 5-Prancingthruparis.
RACE 3
4-MAHINA
Degree of confidence: B+
• Exits a powerful race; winner came back to score yesterday.
• Looked good winning over this course and distance two back.
• Needs patient handling and Umberto Rispoli knows her well.
Others to consider: 6-With Love; 7-Firstimeinforever.
RACE 4
1-IMAGINATION
Degree of confidence: B
• Burned money as odds-on favorite in his most recent start.
• First time Lasix user gets an easy chance to make amends.
• Switches to barn’s “go-to” rider and lands the favorable rail.
Others to consider: 2-Leading.
RACE 5
5-MARGOT’S BOY
Degree of confidence: B
• Moves up a notch following a $20,000 claim by Mark Glatt.
• Barn hits at 25% with this angle so improvement is expected.
• Long time since won but has three victories over the local lawn.
Others to consider: none.
RACE 6
2-SHE’S MY NIECE
Degree of confidence: B-
• Freshened since mid-November; shortens up, first time Lasix.
• Strong, healthy series of works should have her fit and ready.
• Career top figure when runner-up at Del Mar last time out.
Others to consider: 4-Lightning and Reign; 9-Envisioned.
RACE 7
7-GREGORIAN CHANT
Degree of confidence: B+
• Sparingly raced last two years and returns off two month rest.
• Plenty of back class and has five wins over the local turf course.
• Reunited with “win rider” Juan Hernandez, sharp recent breeze.
Others to consider: 1-Mas Rapido; 4-Don’t Swear Dave.
RACE 8
2-HOT PEPPERS
Degree of confidence: B
• Away for 15 months but is good enough to win if cranked up.
• Was a multiple stakes winner as a 3-year-old in New York.
• Light tab for new trainer but shows a quick local gate drill.
Others to consider: 3-Sweet Azeca.
RACE 9
5-ALLURING
Degree of confidence: B+
• Was gobbling up the ground late; galloped out far in front.
• Gets Lasix and an extra furlong to work with, nice prospect.
• Future is over a distance of ground but can winning sprinting.
Others to consider: 2-Not a Sinner.