BetPTC.com – Ed Meyer

Hurricane Joaquin gave most of the nation a watery smooch, as some of the best pre-Breeder’s Cup races were taking place. As the countdown begins, and the real runners start to shake out from the pretenders. One has to question whether or not we saw a solid glimpse of things to come, or just really good runners looking to score a bumper payday. Either way, as the biggest wagering weekend of the year approaches, we’re just getting started to sift through all of the information to find the paper trail to the winner’s circle. – In addition to the marquee events, there were a bevy of races that were filled with action and excuses. Here are some very nice runners who look like a good thing next time they in the paddock.

Belmont Park – 10/3/15 – Race #1 – #1 – 6 1/2f on the dirt.

#1 – Luminary Flight = John Velasquez was aboard for an eventful trip as his mount broke in the air and brushed the starting gate doors. After attempting to settle out for a shot at redemption, he entered the far turn three wide and bumped late in the lane.

Belmont Park – 10/3/15 – Race #5 – #5 – one mile on the dirt.

#5 -Red Vine = Joel Rosario teamed up with Christophe Clement. He stumbled at the start and was immediately sandwiched between runner son both sides. After being pin-balled around, he regained composure to put together a top notch run. I think a cleaner trip makes him an appointment for the winner’s circle.

Keeneland – 10/3/15 – Race #6 – #3 – 6f on the dirt.

#3 – Judy the Beauty = Mike Smith was in town to ride for Wesley Ward,  and this top shelf gal is always worth the trip. That is, until Saturday. – “Judy” was pocketed up most of the race and the patient Smith waited for the seam to open. She was begging out for room and denied down the lane. Once freed up along the rail it was a little two late as the outer two had momentum and did not allow her time to fire up her jets.  – Give her just half a bad trip and she’ll make em’ pay down the lane.

Keeneland – 10/3/15 – Race #8 – #7 – 1 1/16 on the dirt.

#7 – Exaggerator = Kent Desormeaux aboard for his brother had a eerie feel of last year’s juvenile run. He did everything right for most of the trip and spilt horses down the lane to offer up a razor sharp challenge. He did get a little lost nearing the top of the lane and Kent D. got his mind right back on business and he responded quickly. – Each passing race has him maturing, and I think next trip out will be his coming out party.

Keeneland – 10/4/15 – Race #7 – #4 – 6f on the dirt.

#4 – Conquest Tiz One = Javier Castellano aboard for Mark Casse who comes loaded for bear this meet. Jumped out to fight for the lead, settled in with solid pace and looked like a player as they turned for home. She did everything right but win. Maybe it was the fractions, the track condition, or just a bad luck turn. But she’ll get more from this race and be much the better next up.

Belterra Park – 10/4/15 – Race #5 – #9 – One mile on the dirt.

#9 – Tally Jax = John McKee in the saddle for Eduardo Caramori who has been every effective on the Ohio circuit. He stalked perfectly, and put together a solid bid. He made some late gain, but the track was a sticky goo that ranged between muddy and gummy. It just didn’t fit his liking, and with a surface with a little more grab. I think we’ll have a trip to the winner’s circle coming soon.