| Katie's Picks |
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Hawthorne Race 3: Nice looking 3YO's will compete in an Illinois Allowance race. My top selection is the only horse who will be running against winners for the first time, Star of Paradise. He broke his maiden at Hawthorne winning by 11 ¼ lengths last out. It was a really impressive effort and scored an 81 Beyer. I think he can handle this field, and this closer will depend on another fast pace from his competitors. His barnmate, Canaveral Ride, looks like the biggest threat, but he won't be alone on the front end. He'll have to watch out for the uncoupled entries from Christine Janks barn, In the Details and Big Looie, who both possess early speed as well. This is one race I'm really looking forward to...stay tuned! Derby prep races to watch this weekend: Santa Anita Race 9: The San Felipe Stakes (GII) - We will start with 3YO Caracortado who looks to the one to beat. He is 5 wins out of 5 starts including 2 for 2 at the distance so the mile and one-sixteenth is no question. Everything is in his favor, he will have to watch out for Sidney's Candy. He will be running a route distance for the first time, but seems to be the fastest compared to this group. American Lion adds blinkers this time, and will try for a better trip from last. He had a troubled start, and was passed by Caracortado and Dave in Dixie turning for home. This will be great race to watch as a few of the contenders are on the Triple Crown watch. Tampa Bay Downs Race 11: The Tampa Bay Derby (GIII) - Todd Pletcher's Super Saver will be looking to wire the field as he returns from a 105 day layoff, but he has training well and things look bright for him in this spot. Schoolyard Dreams will press the pace and has done well over the surface and at the distance. Uptowncharlybrown, a favorite at the windows, might have a chance to run late is there is a tiring pace and he will run with blinkers this time out. This is one of the most exciting times of the year as everyone is looking for the next Kentucky Derby winner. Hawthorne Racecourse wants to give one lucky winner a trip of a lifetime to the 2010 Kentucky Derby. Visit www.hawthorneracecourse.com to learn more about the Road to the Derby Sweepstakes! Good luck at the races! Katie |