by Al Cimaglia
December 31, 2017
To close the year and in search of some warmer weather, Pompano Park will be in the spotlight tonight. The feature rolls in Race 7, an Open Handicap Pace with an $11,000 purse. The 0.50 Pick 4 sequence begins in Race 5 and that will be my focus.
Saturday's Big M Pick 4 ticket did not connect but there was a $36 winner in the third leg, #8-Sovereign Banner N, who was part of the selections. The last leg was captured by #9-Endeavor, who was bet down from 15-1 to 2-1 and raced like his post time odds. The 0.50 combination of (3-8-8-9,10) paid $1,549.70.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 5
1-Goldstar Raider-Hennessey from the rail is hard to leave out but will need a top effort to take a picture.
2-F Twenty Two-Will use from here at 12-1 as could get top or get sucked around and beat this crew.
3-The Onlyest One-In a spot to get to the top without a lot of strain and if so could win at a square price.
4-Oh My Joepa-9-year-old comes off the bench for team Macdonald looking for 16th win of year and fits.
Race 6
3-Hot Art-Drops and gets an inside post draw and should be in the hunt.
4-Hillybilly-Program favorite is the one to beat on paper, but like #3 has been camera shy.
5-Sir Bradford-Won 1st start at PPk after being off 6 weeks, steps up but will respect chances.
Race 7
2-Drachan Hanover-2nd chalk is no lock but likes PPk, Hennessey's back and he gets along very well.
4-Fritzie Pic Up Man-2nd start after a scratch, fits with these and should be in the hunt.
5-Sir Mamo-Post will be a challenge but if gets the trip can make it 2 in a row at this class.
Race 8
2-Grande Seelster-Drops out of Opens to a spot to shine.
5-Mikado Blue Chip-Beaten favorite has been coming very close, will respect off recent form.
6-Mr Pearl-Drops for an overdue win and last was better. Positive driver change and could be rolling late.
0.50 Pick 4
1,2,3,4/3,4,5/2,4,5/2,5,6
Total Bet=$54
Check me out on Twitter, @AlCimaglia.
Happy New Year!