by Al Cimaglia
October 7, 2018
It's closing day at the Red Mile and the headline events on the 12-race card are the Kentucky Futurity and the Kentucky Filly Futurity. Both stakes require elimination races and it will be interesting to see if any other world records fall on Sunday.
On Saturday over a track that was lightning quick, Homicide Hunter became the fastest trotter in harness racing history with a 1:48.4 victory. To start the day the 3-year-old trotter Impinktoo matched the world record of Plunge Blue Chip of 1:49.4. The Ron Burke trainee became only the second sub-1:50, 3-year-old trotter.
Yesterday, Tim Tetrick, Yannick Gingras, Brian Sears and Scott Zeron all made two trips to the winner's circle. Ron Burke continued his hot hand in leading conditioners with three pictures.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 1-Fillies and Mares Open-Purse $72,000
4-Broadway Donna (2-1)-A cut above the rest and it's tough to go against this champion mare.
2-Caprice Hill (9/2)-Only 1-24 past 2 years, looking for better on the 1-mile oval and Sears could work a trip.
1-Royal Witch (3-1)-Having a nice year up north and should be in the mix to hit the ticket.
Race 8-Tattersalls 3-year old Pace-Purse $225,000
5-Stay Hungry (7/2)-Track was lightning fast on Saturday, could see a sub-1:47 mile from this well-bred colt.
6-American History (4-1)-2nd time Lasix shouldn't hurt, figures to be a major player.
4-Thinkbig Dreambig (9/2)-Will likely blast out and try to not look back, racing well at The Red Mile.
Race 11-Tattersalls 3-year old Pace-Purse $225,000-
4-Dorsoduro Hanover (2-1)-Liked him on Jug day and rates a slight edge versus this talented field.
6-Grand Teton (7/2)-Has been racing well in Lex and has the speed to finish the deal this afternoon.
7-Ideal Feeling (12-1)-12-1 longshot has a chance to get on the engine, looks like a live play.
Race 12-Fillies and Mares Open-Purse $98,500
3-Pure Country (9/2)-Only 1 win this year but racing well and hasn't had many good post draws.
4-Caviart Ally (5/2)-Winner of 2 straight looks like a player if takes to the track.
5-Shartin N (7/5)-Winner of 15 of 20 in '18 should be a major threat and could go a very fast mile.
Check me out on Twitter, @AlCimaglia