by Al Cimaglia
March 8, 2021
Tonight, Pompano Park has its 0.50 Pick 4 starting in Race 6. The sequence has a $20,000 guaranteed pool with a low 12% takeout, and it will be my focus.
On Sunday, Wally Hennessey was the top pilot with two wins. Trainer Tee Wine led the conditioners with two trips to the winner's circle. Speed ruled, as is usually the case at the Pomp and it was a chalky night.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 6
1-Villiam (2-1)-Has had a great start to the year hitting the board 5 times in 6 starts with 3 wins. Chindano barn has been rolling over the past 30 days with 27% wins. Not sure the rail helps but should be put in play versus this group.
6-McMach (5/2)-On 3-1 took control at the half and rolled home in 150.3. Plano can duck and move early like in last, and this 7-year-old can stay good for a while.
Race 7
3-Southwind Amazon (6-1)-Usually has trouble winning versus this kind but is in form. If dialed on high this 11-year-old could get a cozy trip from this post and surprise at a square price.
6-Prairie Panther (5/2)-Raced a big mile from post 7 and hung on to beat #3 for the 1st win on Lasix. Over the years has been a winning machine at the Pomp (25-38). Bumps up in class but can make it 2 straight with a decent trip.
7-Skip To My Lou (3-1)-Has won 4 times in the last 5 starts and 3 were at this level. Chindano could try to leave but others will be doing the same. If the pace is hot this 5-year-old could grinded out, but it should be a battle.
Race 8
4-Millennial (10-1)-A few things need to happen for this price shot to connect. It all depends on the trip and my guess is Chindano leaves, and the chalks may not seal the deal. If the pace is sizzling, one big brush at the right time could be enough to sweep by.
5-Rockin Machine (9/5)-Beat #6 on 3-1 and took advantage of an efficient trip. Offers a short price and should be in the hunt but is trip dependent.
6-LA Rockin Sampson (3-1)-Deserves respect but faded down the lane in last. Holliday will probably blast out and look to get the top. That has been a successful game plan when in top form.
Race 9
2-Cloudbreak (7-1)-Miller's choice does its best work on the engine and has a good shot at getting there. Comes off the best start since being scratched lame on 1-25. Should offer a nice price and could take a picture if upswing continues.
7-Grand Galop Semalu (7-1)-Will look for another price and play against #5 the 9/5 choice. Short field may help chances after taking the long way around to win from the 2nd tier. The pace should be honest, and Holliday could be rolling fastest of all down the lane.
My Ticket
Race 6) 1,6
Race 7) 3,6,7
Race 8) 4,5,6
Race 9) 2,7
Total Ticket Cost) $18 for $0.50
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