by Al Cimaglia
June 7, 2020
The horsemen at Hawthorne Racecourse have been anxiously awaiting a Sunday night of racing since the middle of March. Tonight's 13-race card has a 0.50 Late Pick 4 slated to begin in Race 10 and it will be my focus. The sequence has a $25,000 guaranteed pool.
The driver with the hottest hands on Saturday was Bobby Smolin with three trips to the winner's circle. The leading trainer was Ronnie Roberts with two wins.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 10
3-Swans Mission (12-1)-Even qualifier at HoP but did race the back half in 57.4 and should be forwardly placed with this post draw.
5-I Thank You (5-1)Had a breaking problem in the past but qualified without any issue. Leonard can keep her in the hunt early, could get sucked around and roll by late.
8-Stella Kemp (5-1)-Had a pair of qualifiers at HoP and might be ready for a big try off the bench. Trixton filly is 0-9 but has faced some tough competition. Fits much better with this group and should offer a square price.
Race 11
2-Lookintomyeyes (3-1)-Qualified at ScD and also had a nice start on 5/27. Has been in the hunt in 5 of 6 races in 2020. Does have a win and a third-place finish at Haw in two starts. Will look for a big try off the recent effort.
3-Slow Your Roll (4-1)-Qualified in 56.4 at Nfld after winning back on 3/8 at Haw. Steps-up but still fits with this crew and has done well in 2 Haw starts.
6-Spicy Lil Hope (6-1)-Comes off an even qualifier and is 0-7. But Husted seems to put this 3-year-old filly in play and will take a swing for a square price.
Race 12
1-Dandy Dude (10-1)-Finished off the qualifier in fine fashion and has hit the board in 13 of 19 Haw starts. Drawing the rail helps and has the gate speed to be on or near the lead throughout at nice odds.
6-Western Vinny (3-1)-Comes off a solid qualifier and will likely be sent out to gain an up-close seat. Should be in the mix throughout and will be trying to take its third picture in 22 starts.
7-Lakeside Buddy (4-1)-Qualified at Haw with Leonard on 6/1 and has 2-second place finishes in 4 Haw starts. Leonard is a different set of hands, maybe he will squeeze a little more juice out of this 4-year-old and snag 3rd career win.
Race 13
2-Beachmaster Two (2-1)-3-year-old maiden is 0-11 but had 2 qualifiers at HoP and did face stakes level competition last year. Oosting has steered before and he has options from this post.
10-Rollinwithdesire (8-1)-Team Seekman trainee tuned up at HoP with a good qualifier. Has some speed and went the 2nd half in .57 on 5/30. There are a few who could blast out and if pace is hot chances for success go up at a price.
My Ticket
Race 10) 3,5,8
Race 11) 2,3,6
Race 12) 1,6,7
Race 13) 2,10
Total Ticket Cost) $27 for $0.50
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