Trips Nov 18

Churchill

MARCHWOOD (Race 7@CD, November 13, 2013, 6 furlongs, Claiming $30,000) The odds-on favorite was behind a wall of horses all the wall down the backstretch. Attempted to advance just before entering the stretch and was shut off with four foes in front. Altered course several times trying to find room but was constantly being restrained due to lack of racing room. Finally had room on the outside but was too late and was defeated by a very narrow margin, but no doubt the best horse in the field.

AGAVE CAT (Race 9@CD, November 13, 2013, 6 ½ furlongs, Claiming $50,000) The sixth choice was cut off at break and steadied severely. Ran well afterwards to reach contention but was behind front runners. Forced to steady and wait most of the turn and just before entering the stretch the rider was working hard to restrain his mount. He eventually got outside to run and finished fourth beaten on a couple of lengths. Surely a better finish without the trouble.

Hawthorne

CARTIAC ARREST (Race 1@HAW, November 13, 2013, 5 furlongs, turf, Claiming $25,000) The longest shot on the board was bumped repeatedly at start and within the first 1/16thy was slammed by a wall of horses from the outside, forced to pull back and dropped to last. Was still last by over a dozen lengths with 3/8 remaining, and then made a very impressive rally in the center of the course to gain third. She was then elevated after objections to the place position.

PARX

CHARLIE MURRAY (Race 4@PRX, November 12, 2013, 5 ½ furlongs, Claiming $7,500) Fifth choice in the wagering had plenty of run, but was trapped on the rail and constantly steadied after the opening 1/8 mile until the end of the turn. Had too much to do after that but ran on and missed the place spot by a length.

Penn National

REAL HUMOR (Race 9@PEN, November 13, 2013, 6 furlongs, Maiden Claiming $5,000) The odds-on favorite stumbled terrible at the start going to his knees and then bumped a rival. Was rushed up to mid pack but always faced a wall of horses in front. Lost interest at top of stretch.

Woodbine

CHELLE (Race 3@WO, November 13, 2013, 7 furlongs, Claiming $20,000) The second choice was squeezed at the start and forced to drop to last. Began rally with 3 furlongs to go, was 5 wide and closed very well to fly past foes for the victory.