by Al Cimaglia
January 5, 2020
Tonight, the feature from a betting standpoint at Pompano Park is the 0.50 Pick 4 with a $20,000 guaranteed pool. The sequence begins in Race 6, it has a very low 12% takeout and will be my focus.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 6
4-Harry Terror (3-1)-Drops a notch and starts inside so Hennessey should be on the engine or in the pocket. Has won 9 of 32 at The Pomp and could start another winning streak tonight.
5-Pointsman (6-1)-Also drops a notch and classy veteran is a threat at a square price if dialed on high. Paquet should find some cover and if the pace is hot chances go up.
7-Alluneedisfaith N (7/2)-Classy Yonkers invader had a decent start over the track last week and was off 6 weeks. The issue is the trip, otherwise probably is the top horse in the race. Simons could leave or may try to move on the backside.
Race 7
1-Man Of Mine (5-1)-Faded in last and wasn't Hennessey's choice. But it's tough to leave out from this post. Likes the top and has the speed to stay in the hunt all the way around. Could play hard ball with #7 for the lead.
5-Garrett's Guide (9/2)-Another who likes to race at the top of stack but could duck and rally late. If there is a speed duel Simons could benefit and win again at a nice price.
7-Mister Marvalous (2-1)-Not crazy about how this 4-year-old finishes off miles but will respect connections. Did win last time on the engine but that script may not work tonight, and others offer more value.
Race 8
1-Phoenician (2-1)-It's a mile and a quarter race and not much form to go by. But often the best driver finds a way to win. So, will use Hennessey in this spot with a horse that can grind out a victory.
3-Santini (5-1)-Last was better in a 5/8 dash and now uses Lasix for the 2nd time. Starts in a better spot for Braden to have some options and could be in the mix at a nice price.
5-Fluff Me Up (9/5)-Not going to get any value but is the ML choice off past lines at Stga when facing stiffer company. Will respect chances but not sure if Wallis blasts out or looks to rally off cover.
Race 9
6-Mach My Point (7/2)-Makes 3rd start for Petrelli and faded in a race with some quick fractions. Looking for better, fits and there aren't any standouts. Has a post edge over main players.
7-Firewater Jake (15-1)-Aggressive steer in last and faded badly. But barn has been doing well and banking on the trip being better. Holiday could leave, find a nice seat and light up the board.
8-Terlingua (7/2)-Comes off a dull effort after winning 2 in a row against some of these. Interesting race and there's no telling how many will blast out. 13-year-old could leave but Wallis may look to roll off cover.
My Ticket
Race 6) 4,5,7
Race 7) 1,5,7
Race 8) 1,3,5
Race 9) 6,7,8
Total Ticket Cost) $40.50
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