by Al Cimaglia
September 14, 2018
Tonight, Hawthorne has a 13-race card featuring Leg 4 action for the Night of Champion point series. The 0.50 Late Pick 4 begins in Race 10, it has a $20,000 guaranteed pool and will be my focus. This looks like a competitive card leading up to the biggest night in Chicago harness racing which takes place next Saturday.
On Thursday night at Hawthorne the driver with the hottest hands was Kyle Wilfong with three winners. No trainer on the nine-race card captured more than one win.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
3-You'remyhearthrob - Been off 2 weeks but this barn usually sends them out ready, best to respect.
4-Cool Casper - Comes back in 7 days, that hasn't happened often, draws well and will take a swing for a price.
7-Backstreet Lawyer - ML chalk should be a player, will be tough if finds a good early seat without much strain.
1-Amora Beach - Has some back class, gets a new pilot, 3rd start for trainer and can stay in the hunt in this spot.
2-Dumas Gram - Gets R. Warren back and returns in 6 days, could be sitting on a big try.
3-R Duneshine - Slow pace hurt in last, should be up-front and can take a picture with best effort.
6-Wildcat Bobby - ML chalk rolled by everyone in last, Leonard sticks, and this is a similar field.
2-Del Rio Seelster - In from ScD and had 51.2 speed at HoP, joins the Leonard barn and should be a major player.
8-Last Dragon - Been off a while, should be a price from the Lackey barn. But tab action, I've seen this movie before.
9-Twin B TK - Leonard steers #2 so Jim Pants takes a ride, in form and could surprise with a good trip.
1-Southern Flight - Been off since 7/20 but tuned up well. Hasn't done much this year but fits here if ready.
4-Feelinlikearockstar - Back in 7 days for this and last was better. If upswing continues could win at a square price.
6-Why Ask Why - Drops and this is a better spot, can compete and at 8-1 in the ML will use in an odd race.
Race 10) 3,4,7
Race 11) 1,2,3,6
Race 12) 2,8,9
Race 13) 1,4,6
Total Ticket Cost) $54 for $0.50
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