by Al Cimaglia
November 15, 2018
Today, Dover Downs will host Grand Circuit action with the first post coming at 4:30 ET. The Matron Stakes for 3-year-old fillies, colts, gelding trotters and pacers will take center stage. There will be four stake races with hefty purses on the card, each with a star-studded cast.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 4-Matron Stakes for 3-year-old colts and gelding trotters-Purse $210,150
1-Met's Hall (8/5)-Needs the lead and thinking will be able to keep it with the inside post draw, rates an edge.
4-Fashionwoodchopper (6-1)-Has the gate speed so Gingras can work a trip, likes the 5/8's and will use in gimmicks.
5-Six Pack (6/5)-Sick scratch for BC Final but has had a great year. Post draw may mean the difference today.
Race 6-Matron Stakes for 3-year-old filly trotters-Purse $183,900
3-Lily Stride (2-1)-Last 2 starts have been sharp, could be sitting in the 2-hole and snag another win.
1-Plunge Blue Chip (5/2)-May leave and look to control the race, one soft quarter could do the trick.
7-Impinktoo (10-1)-Will need a trip, will toss last and hope fractions are hot, can spice up the gimmicks.
Race 10-Matron Stakes for 3-year-old filly pacers-Purse $159,350
3-Solitary (12-1)-Can get lead or a 2-hole trip from this post on a dry track. Will look to hit the long ball, using.
5-Youaremycandygirl (5/2)-Will be gunning out and is a major player but will shoot against on this oval.
2-Percy Bluechip (9/2)-Comes off a big BC win and could be in good striking range to catch the speed, a player.
Race 12-Matron Stakes for 3-year-old colts and gelding pacers-Purse $193,750
2-Jimmy Freight (5/2)-Versatile colt is in fine form and Scotty Z. has options, can make it 3-straight wins.
1-Lather Up (7/2)-Gets rough on the turns at times but if not is a major player for top honors.
7-Dorsoduro Hanover (2-1)-Tough as nails and post is the issue as top 2 are near the wood, but best to respect.
Check me out on Twitter, @AlCimaglia