FRIDAY NIGHT 2/19/16 AUSTRALIAN RACING PICKS (before scratches):
5B (Rosehill) – #1 First Seal – 6.5 furlongs 11:05 PM EST…FIRST SEAL (2/1 ML) was considered a top mare before having to miss the Australian spring with a hoof problem. By all accounts she is 100% healthy now.
6A (Flemington) – #4 Palentino (the night’s best value) – 7 furlongs 11:25 PM EST…Most observers believe PALENTINO (7/1 ML) is the most talented horse in this race and he won very well over the track and distance in November.
6B (Rosehill) – #5 Sweet Fire – 6.75 furlongs 11:45 PM EST…SWEET FIRE (3/1 ML) appears to be going the right way and is drawn well in post 2.
7A (Flemington) – 5.0 Furlongs 12:05 AM Sat…BLACK CAVIAR LIGHTNING STAKES…#1 Chautauqua (currently 8/5) is the pick if he runs. He might scratch on race day.
If Chautauqua scratches use #5 Exosphere (who will become the even money favorite if Chautauqua scratches).
7B (Rosehill) – #1 Press Statement (the night’s most likely winner) – 7 Furlongs 12:25 AM Sat…PRESS STATEMENT (expect 4/5 odds at post) is probably the best miler Australia has produced in decades. This two-time Group 1 winner is starting this preparation at 7 furlongs but he will eventually run longer distances.