Hawthorne Race Course will open the weekend with Illinois bred 2-year old filly pacers and trotters featured in four races, each with a $16,000 purse. The 0.50 Late Pick 4 sequence starts in Race 9 and will have a $15,000 guaranteed pool. The 12th race Jackpot High-5 has a $139,452 carryover.

On Friday night, the driver with the hottest hands was Mike Oosting who made three trips to the winner's circle. No other pilot or trainer had more than one win on the card.

Tonight, my focus will be on getting rewarded in a competitive Late Pick 4 sequence. Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 9
2-Lucky Crusader-Last 2 were okay, and looking for better in 3rd local start at a 10-1 ML.
3-Ricky Bobbie-Current form is sharp, may handle rise to NW2500 and could take a picture at a square price.
5-He Gone Jack-Back down to a comfortable level and fits. Will look to play against both program favorites.

Race 10
1-Fire On The Water-Looking for a price in a competitive race. There's a Cali connection with this 11 yr. old in 2nd Chgo start.
2-Brooklynite-Has speed but now is in a better spot to shine. 2nd chalk should be in the mix.
4-Delight Fashion-ML favorite could win with best and will respect, but current form doesn't scream lock.
6-Why Ask Why-Had been racing against better and not cutting it, drops to a spot to score but like #4 must be better.

Race 11
1-Northern Angle-Camera shy but usually in the hunt. Now gets Leonard and that could make a difference.
2-Captain Rhett-Husted's choice and is the leading money winner in 2017. Looks like a major player.
6-Ima Skydancer-Has been facing stiff competition and best to not overlook at a square price.

Race 12
2-Mississippi Rabbit-Back from downstate and has been consistently in the mix. Hot barn and could take a picture.
4-Fox Valley Nemitz-Last was dull but had skipped a start. Best would be good enough, looking for a rebound effort.
7-Fox Valley Herbie-Another who has been racing well. Oosting should be okay from this post and could be rolling best late.

.50 Late Pick 4
2,3,5/1,2,4,6/1,2,6/2,4,7
Total Bet=$54

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