Early Breeders’ Cup Observations
- Who: Thoroughbreds – Prince Will I Am, Winter Memories, Awesome Feather, Midday, Blind Luck, Master of Hounds, Uncle Mo, Goldikova, Workforce.
- What: Horse Racing Betting Tips – The Breeders’ Cup.
- Where: Churchill Downs.
- When: Friday and Saturday, November 5th and 6th.
With the Breeders’ Cup a week away, there are several horses that look like they’ll be very tough to beat. Of course, we’ll have to consider works, appearance, price, track conditions, scratches, etc., before making any final decisions. Here’s who I like at this point in time, and why:
Prince Will I Am (Marathon): This late-developing 3YO is the only member of the field with a Grade 1 win and a win over the track. He’s sharp now, bred to run all day, and doesn’t face a very formidable group of older horses. He could make 5-1 look like a steal.
Winter Memories (Juvenile Fillies Turf): She’s 2-for-2, beautifully bred, and in the very capable hands of trainer Jimmy Toner… should mow them down in the lane as the 8-5 chalk.
Awesome Feather (Juvenile Fillies): This undefeated filly ran more than two seconds faster than her male counterparts in the Florida Stallion Series on October 16th. Despite her outstanding credentials (5-for-5, top speed figs), she’ll be an overlay at around 7-2 because of her low-profile connections and Calder roots.
Midday (Filly and Mare Turf): This mare returns to defend her crown, and appears to be doing even better than last year. Imposing.
Blind Luck (Ladies’ Classic): This filly is a true road warrior, and fires her best shot nearly every time. She’s proven at the track and distance, and will get an honest pace to run at. Last out she spotted the winner 10 pounds…this time they’ll be at equal weights. What’s wrong with 5-2?
Master of Hounds (Juvenile Turf): This regally-bred youngster earned a huge Racing Post Rating of 115 for his 3rd-place finish last out in a Group 1 at Doncaster. The field he faces here pales in comparison. He’ll be very tough to beat if he adapts well to his new surroundings.
Uncle Mo (Juvenile): I love this horse. He runs fast early and fast late. He’s got a quiet disposition, saving all his energy for the race. Clocker Mike Welschof the Daily Racing Form reports that he’s built like a three-year-old. This looks like a case of man vs. boys. I’ll take even money or better.
Goldikova (Mile): One of the all-time great turf milers (of either sex). She’s going for an unprecedented third straight Breeders’ Cup Mile win…and should get it. Key her on top in exotics with Paco Boy and Proviso (who is reported to be doing extremely well).
Workforce (Turf): It’s not often that we get to enjoy watching a horse that’s won both the Epsom Derbyand Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe…this close up. Let’s hope he brings his ‘A’ game to our side of ‘The Pond’.
Those are my early horse racing betting tips for the Breeders’ Cup. I’ll be fine-tuning my plays in the coming days, and will post my selections on Thursday of next week. Best of luck and happy gambling!
