by Al Cimaglia
February 10, 2018
The weather in Chicago caused Hawthorne to cancel on Thursday and Friday. Tonight, there is a 14-race card scheduled at the Stickney one-mile oval and snow shouldn't be an issue. The Late 0.50 Pick 4 sequence begins in Race 11 and has a $15,000 guaranteed pool. The Jackpot Hi-5 rolls in Race 14 and the carryover sits at $138,504.
My posted Pick 4 ticket at Cal Expo came apart in the opening leg when the #9-Cenalta Artistry, who wasn't on my radar, got on the engine and never looked back paying $12 to win. My selections were on target in the last two legs only. There was a $77.80 (3-1) exacta found in the selections for the third leg. The (9-10-3-5) combination paid $80.24 on a 0.20 bet.
Comments and selections below for the Late Pick 4 are based on a fast track.
Race 11
1 - E R Oliver - ML chalk from the rail with Leonard, can't dismiss but doesn't like to win and will look to beat.
5 - Tymal Torch - Will need to find some live cover but can roll late and this is a spot to shine.
6 - Red Red Redneck - Took the long way around in last, now has an opportunity to get a very good early seat.
Race 12
1 - Bling - Since start of meet has gone from NW5k to NW1k, no excuses for less than a top effort.
2 - Urban Mare - Last was better and if trend continues it could be picture time.
5 - Lexington Lady - Hits the board but is 0-21, should be in the hunt and this isn't a group of All-Stars.
7 - Savanah Georgia - ML chalk drops out of Opens and will respect but usually does best work on a smaller oval.
'Race 13
1 - Finnittowinit - Raced evenly to finish 2nd after a break the race before, looking for a more aggressive try.
2 - Fox Valley Maya - Maya doesn't like to win but same with others, will use after a strong .57 back half.
7 - Shawty Hanover - Takes a step down, should enjoy the company and could pop at a square price.
Race 14
1 - Backwoods Barbie - Hasn't had a great time in Chicago but drops from Opens and may regain Hoosier form.
2 - Hooray For Hazel - Gets post relief, was rolling late but slow pace hurt in last. Widger should work a better trip.
8 - Young American - Leonard's choice raced better, not much speed inside so may get an easy lead off the gate.
0.50 Late Pick 4
1,5,6/1,2,5,7/1,2,7/1,2,8
Total Bet=$54
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