AQUEDUCT

More Than a Reason: Broke fourth, steadied along inside on first turn, raced sixth more than 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, saved ground for six furlongs, steadied in traffic on far turn losing ground, rallied to second in stretch, made up 4 ½ lengths and was beaten a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the inner track Jan. 1.

Heir to the Stone: Stumbled at start, bumped, raced fourth early, advanced to third two lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied turning for home, made up nearly two lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on Dec. 14.

The Shaughraun: Broke next to last from the outside 10th post, raced 11 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, turned for home five wide in fifth, finished willingly to make up 2 ½ lengths and ran second by a neck at a mile on the inner track Dec. 7.

Sobee: Broke through gate prior to start, raced 10th and last 19 lengths behind last after a half-mile, rallied four wide on far turn to sixth in stretch, made up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a head at a mile on a good turf course Nov. 20; ran final quarter in 24 2/5.

Captain Backfire: Stumbled badly at start, raced seventh and last 12 lengths behind after a half-mile, fanned three wide heading home, rallied with good energy late to make up 6 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Nov. 1; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

CALDER

Lincoln’s Bullet: Raced sixth more than seven lengths behind after a three-eighths of a mile, swung out for the drive in fourth, made up 4 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 20. (Pressed pace a half-length back in second after a half-mile, moved up to engage winner in stretch, dueled, gained lead by and head and was outgamed to the wire to finish second beaten a half-length at seven furlongs on Dec. 28.)

Wild Blue Dreams: Tracked pace 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, chased winner in stretch, but couldn’t close gap and finished second by 4 ¾ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 22. (Tracked pace 1 ½ lengths behind in second after a half-mile, moved to threaten the winner at the quarter pole, but couldn’t close gap and finished 5 ½ lengths ahead for the place at six furlongs on Dec. 19.)

Appealing Runner: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 13. (Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied from fourth in stretch to make up 32 ½ lengths and finished full of run to gain second by 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 1.)

FAIR GROUNDS

South Line: Broke ninth and last, advanced to raced fifth 8 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, swung out wide turning for home, rallied determinedly from fourth in stretch, made up more than 6 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten a head at 5 ½ furlongs on Jan. 1; ran final half-furlong in five seconds.

Jazz in the Park: Raced more than 13 lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, sung out for the drive, closed fast from fifth to make up more than 4 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at a mile on Dec. 18; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

Fifty Five: Broke ninth and last, raced more than 10 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, came inside on far turn, angled out for drive, went inside in stretch rallying from seventh to second, made up five lengths and gained second by a nose at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Dec. 6.

GULFSTREAM PARK

Red Hot Bullet: Steadied early after breaking third, raced more than four lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, angled out for stretch run, rallied from fifth to make up more than two lengths and finished second beaten a head 1 1/16 miles on the turf Jan. 3; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 30 seconds.

Notonthesamepage: Broke seventh from inside post, rushed up to the front, led by 1 ½ lengths after a half-mile and drew off to win by 8 ¼ lengths ridden out at six furlongs on Jan. 3; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

HAWTHORNE

Krum de Ka Krum: Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung six wide into stretch, made up more than 1 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at 6 ½ furlongs on Jan. 1.

Char’s Bob’n Robin: Broke ninth and last, brushed back to trail early, raced eighth more than nine lengths behind after a half-mile, swung seven wide for drive, rallied to make up 3 ¼ lengths in stretch and gained second by 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 20

Bow Tie Pasta: Broke sideways ninth and last, moved to fifth 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied repeatedly along backstretch losing a couple of lengths, dropped to seventh after six furlongs, made up a length in stretch and finished a game fourth at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 6.

Marvelex: Raced second early, dropped to third more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, moved four wide into stretch and finished second by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 23. (Hopped at the start, raced fourth after a half-mile, steadied on the turn, swung six wide for stretch and gained third by 1 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Jan. 3.)

LAUREL

Dr Stick: Shuffled back near three-eighths pole, raced more than two lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, swung wide in upper stretch, rallied to make up more than two lengths and finished second beaten a nose at seven furlongs on Jan. 3.

Anjunothat: Stalked contested pace in third more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out midway on turn, took command in upper stretch and drew off under confident handling to win by nine lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 6; ran final quarter in 24 2/5.

Rescigno: Broke 11th and last, trailed by more than 20 ½ lengths after a half-mile, advanced between rivals to fifth in stretch, eased outside near sixteenth pole, made up 3 ½ lengths and drove clear to win by a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 23; returned $12 on the front end. (Raced ninth more than 12 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied wide entering stretch and finished third by a length at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Nov. 22.)

PENN NATIONAL

Bruno’s a Biter: Broke alertly from post 12, raced 1 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, lost ground circling rivals on far turn, rallied in stretch to make up nearly three lengths and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on Dec. 18 at Laurel.

PHILADELPHIA PARK

True Values: Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, boxed in leaving turn to upper stretch, responded in final furlong and gained second by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Jan. 2.

Smitten Citi: Clipped heels of rivals while racing fifth, near five-sixteenth and quarter poles, closed from fourth in stretch to make up more than 3 ½ lengths and finished second by a nose at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 16.

Novation: Sprinted to front, led by five lengths after a half-mile, steadily increased margin in stretch and cruised to easy win by 14 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on a sealed muddy surface Dec. 2.

Take a Leap: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, split rivals entering stretch, finished fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and gained second by three lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 4 at Philadelphia Park. (Broke a step slow seventh and last, raced eight lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, carried wide around turn, rallied to second in stretch, made up 5 ½ lengths and finished full of run beaten a half-length at six furlongs on a good surface Dec. 2 at Penn National.)

Lemon Spray: Broke a step slow eighth and last, steadied and bumped along backstretch, rallied to lead by 1 ½ lengths off rail approaching far turn, bore out leaving quarter pole, drifted further outward in stretch, wavered lanes and finished second by a length at a mile on Nov. 11. (Raced four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, took lead nearing stretch, led by two lengths with a furlong to go, weakened and finished second by 1 ¾ lengths at a mile and 70 years on Dec. 30.)

RETAMA PARK

Hadi K: Raced six lengths behind in fourth after three-eights of a mile, rallied inside on turn while saving ground, made up more than four lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Jan. 3.

Justwill: Raced more than five lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied four wide on turn to third in stretch, made up 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Dec. 27; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

Aille’s Heartflush: Unruly in gate, vied for lead early, raced a half-length ahead after three-eighths of a mile, dueled with winner in stretch and ran second defeated a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 18. (Tracked pace in third more than a length behind after a half-mile, rallied on far turn moved to second, but couldn’t close gap in stretch and finished 1 ¼ lengths ahead of the third-place finisher at a mile on Jan. 2.)

Cowgirl Cool: Fractious in gate, original rider hurt and replaced, stalked pace 2 ½ lengths behind in second, dropped to third after six furlongs, rallied in stretch and gained second by 2 ¾ lengths at a mile on Nov. 21. (Raced more than two lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied on turn to take second, but couldn’t catch winner while securing the place by a dozen lengths at a mile on Dec. 5.)

Fiesta Margarita: Broke from the outside 10th post, raced 10th and last early, advanced to ninth more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide to fourth in stretch, closed fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second nosed out at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 11. (Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung out four wide in upper stretch, rallied from second and won by a length on Nov. 20.)

Waco Hug: Broke seventh and last, trailed by eight lengths after a half-mile, rallied on far turn to grabbed lead, increased margin to six lengths in stretch and drew off ridden out to win by 12 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 17. (Raced sixth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, circled field five wide into stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and won by three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 6; returned $11.20 on the front end.)

SANTA ANITA

Thelma Rose: Raced more than 6 ½ lengths behind in ninth after a half-mile, came out four wide into stretch, rallied from sixth to make up more than 4 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Jan. 1; ran final quarter in 24 1/5.

Sprung: Raced seventh early, dropped to eighth more than 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, split rivals in mid-stretch and closed from fifth outside foes to make up more than 1 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at a mile on the turf Jan. 1; ran final quarter in 23 2/5,

TAMPA BAY DOWNS

Unbridled Behavior: Raced 10 lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung out very wide in mid-stretch, closed sharply from fourth under strong handling and won by three-quarters of a length at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 21 at Laurel. (Stalked pace a length behind in second after a half-mile, rallied three wide into stretch, duel with leader and edged clear under strong handling to win by 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 26.)

TURF PARADISE

Moon Over Hemet: Moved to rail shortly after breaking from outside seventh post, raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, saved ground into stretch, eased out, made up more than three lengths down the lane and finished well beaten a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 29.

Derry: Bumped at break, raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, dropped to fifth in stretch, closed steadily to make up more than 1 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 20.

His Way: Raced third early, dropped to fifth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied to second in upper stretch, threw his head inside the furlong marker and finished third beaten two necks at a mile on the turf Dec. 8. (Pressed pace in third more than a length behind after a half-mile, rallied to a narrow advantage between rivals nearing the lane, but couldn’t catch winner and finished second by 6 ½ lengths 1 1/16 miles on a sealed muddy surface on Dec. 23.)

Hills of Roses; Broke from the outside ninth post, raced fourth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, angled in during stretch run, rallied to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at five furlongs on Oct. 10. (Chased pace five lengths behind in second after three-eighths of a mile and rallied in stretch to win by a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 26.)

TURFWAY PARK

Star’s Classic Cat: Broke 10th and last from inside post, raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, lost ground swinging six wide leaving turn, rallied from fifth to make up more than three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Jan. 1.

Southern Squire: Broke in the air, raced seventh early, moved to sixth more than 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, split horses for the drive, gained second in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and lost by a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 5.

Silver Bayer: Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied inside to gain second and was beaten by two lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 18 at Calder. (Raced fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, assumed command entering stretch and drew clear to win by 7 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 7.)

by Bookmaker Racebook

Gulfstream Park opened in 1939 and the meeting ran four days. Opening day attracted 18,000 and the total handle was $441,561.

The South Florida track was closed during most of World War II from ’40 through ’43. It reopened in ’44 and attendance for the 20-day meeting was 290,688 while the total handle exceeded $5.6 million.

Gulfstream continued to grow throughout the decades, setting lofty records starting in the ’80s: highest opening day handle, more than $2.4 million in ’84, and largest single day attendance, 51,342 in ’89.

Various wagering records were established from ’95 through ’03 B.C. – Before Casinos. Most attendance for any of the 65 meetings came in ’91 when nearly 1.1 million turned out over 88 days.

This year’s meeting, which begins Saturday, runs 79 days through April 23. Several changes have been made, including a five-day schedule, Wednesday-Sunday, which is aimed at producing larger fields. Tuesdays were dark in ’08.

“Mondays have not been as successful as we hoped, and we expect this year’s change will enable the horse population to be used more efficiently,” said Doug Bredar, Gulfstream’s new racing secretary.

Fields last year averaged 8.65 horses a race for 88 days as only 35 stakes were held, with 29 graded, and purses plummeted to $5,275,000.

Back in ’02, fields averaged 8.2 horses over 90 days. In ’03, that jumped to 8.9 thoroughbreds per contest during the 89-day meeting that saw a record $8,605,000 in purses for 45 stakes, including 21 graded.

“Getting larger fields and carding races with quality horses should make the meet very attractive to horsemen and horse players as well,” Bredar said.

Purses were hiked during the 21st Century often exceeding $8 million while the number of stakes ranged from 41 to 47, with more than 30 graded contests annually.

In ’07, the stakes program featured 45 events, one less than the previous year, but purses exceed $1 million over ’06. Total value: a record $9.25 million.

This year there’s a record 48 stakes while the $8.5 million in purse money was restructured. All but six stakes is worth $100,000 or higher. Last year, only 33 matched that amount. Average daily purses, including stakes, average $22,000 more than in ’08.

The Florida Derby, one of three Grade 1 events, remains at 1 1/8 miles and will be staged five weeks before the Kentucky Derby for the fifth consecutive year. However, its $1 million purse was trimmed by $250,000 to allow more money shifted to overnight races.

Another change has Gulfstream featuring stakes on three Fridays while reducing the number of Saturdays and Sundays with multiple graded stakes.

Track officials expect the three-day stakes weekends starting Jan. 30, Feb. 20 and March 27 will be popular with many horsemen and racing fans vacationing in South Florida during the winter, Bredar said.

Prospects for large stakes-day handles increased when Gulfstream and the Florida Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association agreed in December to an advance deposit-wagering (ADW) contract for ’09.

Lack of contracts with most major ADWs was a major factor in Calder’s sharp decline in this year’s handle and other problems.
“Fans throughout the country will know that they can bet on Gulfstream races from their homes,” said Mike Mullaney, director of media relations. “This (ADW agreement) eliminates the possibility of a distraction going into the meet.”

Bredar added: “We hope our cards will be eye-opening and too good for people too pass up, whether they are betting at the track or from home.”

by Bookmaker Racebook

AQUEDUCT

Heir to the Stone: Stumbled at start, bumped, raced fourth early, advanced to third two lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied turning for home, made up nearly two lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on Dec. 14.

The Shaughraun: Broke next to last from the outside 10th post, raced 11 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, turned for home five wide in fifth, finished willingly to make up 2 ½ lengths and ran second by a neck at a mile on the inner track Dec. 7.

Sobee: Broke through gate prior to start, raced 10th and last 19 lengths behind last after a half-mile, rallied four wide on far turn to sixth in stretch, made up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a head at a mile on a good turf course Nov. 20; ran final quarter in 24 2/5.

Captain Backfire: Stumbled badly at start, raced seventh and last 12 lengths behind after a half-mile, fanned three wide heading home, rallied with good energy late to make up 6 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Nov. 1; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

CALDER

Lincoln’s Bullet: Raced sixth more than seven lengths behind after a three-eighths of a mile, swung out for the drive in fourth, made up 4 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 20.

Witty Woman: Raced fourth early, dropped to sixth more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied from fourth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on the turf; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

Wild Blue Dreams: Tracked pace 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, chased winner in stretch, but couldn’t close gap and finished second by 4 ¾ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 22. (Tracked pace 1 ½ lengths behind in second after a half-mile, moved to threaten the winner at the quarter pole, but couldn’t close gap and finished 5 ½ lengths ahead for the place at six furlongs on Dec. 19.)

Super Whipper: Raced inside more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, angled outside winner in stretch, rallied to make up nearly four lengths and finished second beaten a head at 5 ½ furlongs on a good surface Oct. 25.

Appealing Runner: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 13. (Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied from fourth in stretch to make up 32 ½ lengths and finished full of run to gain second by 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 1.)

FAIR GROUNDS

Jazz in the Park: Raced more than 13 lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, sung out for the drive, closed fast from fifth to make up more than 4 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at a mile on Dec. 18; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

Fifty Five: Broke ninth and last, raced more than 10 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, came inside on far turn, angled out for drive, went inside in stretch rallying from seventh to second, made up five lengths and gained second by a nose at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Dec. 6.

HAWTHORNE

Char’s Bob’n Robin: Broke ninth and last, brushed back to trail early, raced eighth more than nine lengths behind after a half-mile, swung seven wide for drive, rallied to make up 3 ¼ lengths in stretch and gained second by 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 20

Bow Tie Pasta: Broke sideways ninth and last, moved to fifth 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied repeatedly along backstretch losing a couple of lengths, dropped to seventh after six furlongs, made up a length in stretch and finished a game fourth at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 6.

Marvelex: Raced third early, dropped to fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground angling out five wide for clear run, brushed with rival, made up 1 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Nov. 2. (Raced second early, dropped to third more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, moved four wide into stretch and finished second by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 23.)

Sky High Spirit: Raced more than five lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied through traffic from fifth in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Oct. 22.

Bar Hoppin: Broke 12th and last, trailed by more than 7 ½ lengths after a half-mile, rallied three wide into stretch to third, closed steadily to make up six lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 27; ran final quarter in 24 1/5. (Raced more than four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung six wide into stretch, rallied from third to make up two lengths and won by three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a good surface Oct. 24.)

HOLLYWOOD PARK

Perfect Magic: Raced sixth more than four lengths behind after a half-mile, made up more than three lengths in the stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Nov. 20; ran final quarter in 24 3/5.

Day of the South: Squeezed at start, raced seventh more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled in for drive, came out mid-stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten a length and a nose at six furlongs on Nov. 6; ran final quarter in 23 1/5.

LAUREL

Bruno’s a Biter: Broke alertly from post 12, raced 1 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, lost ground circling rivals on far turn, rallied in stretch to make up nearly three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on Dec. 18.

Anjunothat: Stalked contested pace in third more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out midway on turn, took command in upper stretch and drew off under confident handling to win by nine lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 6; ran final quarter in 24 2/5.

Count On Lou: Broke sixth and last, steadied, trailed by more than 1 ½ lengths after a half-mile, lost ground moving to fifth for the drive, eased out near eighth pole, rallied from third and finished second beaten a nose at a mile on Nov. 19. (Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile and rallied from third in stretch to gain second by three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 5.)

Unbridled Behavior: Raced seventh and last early, advanced to fifth four wide eight lengths behind after a half-mile, closed gamely in stretch from third to make up five lengths and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on Nov. 5; ran final quarter in 24 seconds. (Raced 10 lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung out very wide in mid-stretch, closed sharply from fourth under strong handling and won by three-quarters of a length at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 21.)

Crack the Opus: Broke in air, rushed up inside to chase pace 4 ½ lengths behind in second after a half-mile, eased out for drive, made up nearly three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on a sealed muddy track Oct. 25. (Prompted pace a length behind after a half-mile, failed to respond in stretch and finished second at seven furlongs on a sloppy surface Nov. 14.)

Rescigno: Broke 11th and last, trailed by more than 20 ½ lengths after a half-mile, advanced between rivals to fifth in stretch, eased outside near sixteenth pole, made up 3 ½ lengths and drove clear to win by a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 23; returned $12 on the front end. (Raced ninth more than 12 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied wide entering stretch and finished third by a length at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Nov. 22.)

PHILADELPHIA PARK

Smitten Citi: Clipped heels of rivals while racing fifth, near five-sixteenth and quarter poles, closed from fourth in stretch to make up more than 3 ½ lengths and finished second by a nose at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 16.

Novation: Sprinted to front, led by five lengths after a half-mile, steadily increased margin in stretch and cruised to easy win by 14 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on a sealed muddy surface Dec. 2.

Take a Leap: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, split rivals entering stretch, finished fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and gained second by three lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 4 at Philadelphia Park. (Broke a step slow seventh and last, raced eight lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, carried wide around turn, rallied to second in stretch, made up 5 ½ lengths and finished full of run beaten a half-length at six furlongs on a good surface Dec. 2 at Penn National.)

Lemon Spray: Broke a step slow eighth and last, steadied and bumped along backstretch, rallied to lead by 1 ½ lengths off rail approaching far turn, bore out leaving quarter pole, drifted further outward in stretch, wavered lanes and finished second by a length at a mile on Nov. 11.

Wildcattwentyfour: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth after a half-mile, came three wide into stretch and finished third by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 25. (Raced more than six lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile and rallied in stretch to finish second by 7 ½ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 29; returned $8 for place.)

Etrain: Raced fourth early, dropped back to eighth and last through the turn, rallied from seventh in stretch and finish third beaten a neck for place at six furlongs on Oct. 20; ran final quarter in 24 4/5 at Delaware Park.

RETAMA PARK

Aille’s Heartflush: Unruly in gate, vied for lead early, raced a half-length ahead after three-eighths of a mile, dueled with winner in stretch and ran second defeated a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 18.

Magic Misty: Raced seventh more than five lengths behind after a three-eighths of a mile, angled out off turn to fifth in stretch, closed willingly to make up 3 ¼ lengths and finished second by a head at five furlongs on Nov. 7.

Cowgirl Cool: Fractious in gate, original rider hurt and replaced, stalked pace 2 ½ lengths behind in second, dropped to third after six furlongs, rallied in stretch and gained second by 2 ¾ lengths at a mile on Nov. 21. (Raced more than two lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied on turn to take second, but couldn’t catch winner while securing the place by a dozen lengths at a mile on Dec. 5.)

Fiesta Margarita: Broke from the outside 10th post, raced 10th and last early, advanced to ninth more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide to fourth in stretch, closed fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second nosed out at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 11. (Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung out four wide in upper stretch, rallied from second and won by a length on Nov. 20.)

Bill’s Last Fling: Broke alertly from the outside 13th post, chased leader early in second, took lead by a length after a half-mile, drew clear in upper stretch and won by 6 ½ lengths ridden out at six furlongs on Sept. 27.

Waco Hug: Broke seventh and last, trailed by eight lengths after a half-mile, rallied on far turn to grabbed lead, increased margin to six lengths in stretch and drew off ridden out to win by 12 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 17. (Raced sixth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, circled field five wide into stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and won by three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 6; returned $11.20 on the front end.)

TURF PARADISE

Derry: Bumped at break, raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, dropped to fifth in stretch, closed steadily to make up more than 1 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at 5 ½ furlongs on Dec. 20.

Ransom Captive: Tracked pace more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, awaited room for the drive, advanced to third in stretch, steadied near sixteenth pole and gained second by a neck at a mile on the turf Dec. 6.

His Way: Raced more than three lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, dropped to seventh after six furlongs, awaited room on turn and top of the stretch, closed to gain third beaten a head and a half-length at about a mile on the turf Nov. 21. (Raced third early, dropped to fifth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied to second in upper stretch, threw his head inside the furlong marker and finished third beaten two necks at a mile on the turf Dec. 8.)

Dante’s Gulch: Raced seven lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, advanced to third in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and finished second by 3 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 25.

Hills of Roses; Broke from the outside ninth post, raced fourth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, angled in during stretch run, rallied to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at five furlongs on Oct. 10. (Chased pace five lengths behind in second after three-eighths of a mile and rallied in stretch to win by a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 26.)

TURFWAY PARK

Charlie V.: Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, angled into the five path on far turn, dueled with three rivals heads apart in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 18.

Southern Squire: Broke in the air, raced seventh early, moved to sixth more than 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, split horses for the drive, gained second in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and lost by a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 5.

Silver Bayer: Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied inside to gain second and was beaten by two lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 18 at Calder. (Raced fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, assumed command entering stretch and drew clear to win by 7 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 7.)

by Bookmaker Racebook

AQUEDUCT

The Shaughraun: Broke next to last from the outside 10th post, raced 11 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, turned for home five wide in fifth, finished willingly to make up 2 ½ lengths and ran second by a neck at a mile on the inner track Dec. 7.

Sobee: Broke through gate prior to start, raced 10th and last 19 lengths behind last after a half-mile, rallied four wide on far turn to sixth in stretch, made up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a head at a mile on a good turf course Nov. 20; ran final quarter in 24 2/5.

Captain Backfire: Stumbled badly at start, raced seventh and last 12 lengths behind after a half-mile, fanned three wide heading home, rallied with good energy late to make up 6 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Nov. 1; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

CALDER

Witty Woman: Raced fourth early, dropped to sixth more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied from fourth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at a mile on the turf; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

Sr. Encarnacion: Broke slowly, raced sixth more than 5 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, rallied from fifth in stretch to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a head at five furlongs on the turf Nov. 16.

Wild Blue Dreams: Raced five lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide entering stretch, made up nearly 3 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a head at five furlongs on Nov. 6. (Tracked pace 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, chased winner in stretch, but couldn’t close gap and finished second by 4 ¾ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 22.)

Super Whipper: Raced inside more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, angled outside winner in stretch, rallied to make up nearly four lengths and finished second beaten a head at 5 ½ furlongs on a good surface Oct. 25.

Appealing Runner: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 13. (Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied from fourth in stretch to make up 32 ½ lengths and finished full of run to gain second by 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 1.)

FAIR GROUNDS

Fifty Five: Broke ninth and last, raced more than 10 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, came inside on far turn, angled out for drive, went inside in stretch rallying from seventh to second, made up five lengths and gained second by a nose at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Dec. 6.

HAWTHORNE

Bow Tie Pasta: Broke sideways ninth and last, moved to fifth 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied repeatedly along backstretch losing a couple of lengths, dropped to seventh after six furlongs, made up a length in stretch and finished a game fourth at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 6.

Fashionable Time: Broke 12th and last, raced 11th more than 19 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, moved five wide to seventh in stretch, finished well making up more than 6 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a head at 1 1/16 miles on Nov. 22.

Marvelex: Raced third early, dropped to fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground angling out five wide for clear run, brushed with rival, made up 1 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Nov. 2. (Raced second early, dropped to third more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, moved four wide into stretch and finished second by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 23.)

Sky High Spirit: Raced more than five lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied through traffic from fifth in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Oct. 22.

Bar Hoppin: Broke 12th and last, trailed by more than 7 ½ lengths after a half-mile, rallied three wide into stretch to third, closed steadily to make up six lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 27; ran final quarter in 24 1/5. (Raced more than four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung six wide into stretch, rallied from third to make up two lengths and won by three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a good surface Oct. 24.)

HOLLYWOOD PARK

Bow Tie Pasta: Broke sideways ninth and last, moved to fifth 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied repeatedly along backstretch losing a couple of lengths, dropped to seventh after six furlongs, made up a length in stretch and finished a game fourth at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 6.

Perfect Magic: Raced sixth more than four lengths behind after a half-mile, made up more than three lengths in the stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Nov. 20; ran final quarter in 24 3/5.

Warren’s Dreaming: Raced ninth and last more than eight lengths behind after as half-mile, came out leaving turn three deep into stretch, closed willingly from sixth to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten three-quarters of a length and a nose at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 20; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 29 4/5.

Day of the South: Squeezed at start, raced seventh more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled in for drive, came out mid-stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten a length and a nose at six furlongs on Nov. 6; ran final quarter in 23 1/5.

LAUREL

Anjunothat: Stalked contested pace in third more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, eased out midway on turn, took command in upper stretch and drew off under confident handling to win by nine lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 6; ran final quarter in 24 2/5.

Count On Lou: Broke sixth and last, steadied, trailed by more than 1 ½ lengths after a half-mile, lost ground moving to fifth for the drive, eased out near eighth pole, rallied from third and finished second beaten a nose at a mile on Nov. 19. (Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile and rallied from third in stretch to gain second by three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 5.)

Unbridled Behavior: Raced seventh and last early, advanced to fifth four wide eight lengths behind after a half-mile, closed gamely in stretch from third to make up five lengths and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on Nov. 5; ran final quarter in 24 seconds. (Raced 10 lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung out very wide in mid-stretch, closed sharply from fourth under strong handling and won by three-quarters of a length at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 21.)

Crack the Opus: Broke in air, rushed up inside to chase pace 4 ½ lengths behind in second after a half-mile, eased out for drive, made up nearly three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on a sealed muddy track Oct. 25. (Prompted pace a length behind after a half-mile, failed to respond in stretch and finished second at seven furlongs on a sloppy surface Nov. 14.)

Rescigno: Broke 11th and last, trailed by more than 20 ½ lengths after a half-mile, advanced between rivals to fifth in stretch, eased outside near sixteenth pole, made up 3 ½ lengths and drove clear to win by a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 23; returned $12 on the front end. (Raced ninth more than 12 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied wide entering stretch and finished third by a length at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Nov. 22.)

PENN NATIONAL

Take a Leap: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, split rivals entering stretch, finished fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and gained second by three lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 4 at Philadelphia Park. (Broke a step slow seventh and last, raced eight lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, carried wide around turn, rallied to second in stretch, made up 5 ½ lengths and finished full of run beaten a half-length at six furlong on a good surface Dec. 2.)

PHILADELPHIA PARK

Novation: Sprinted to front, led by five lengths after a half-mile, steadily increased margin in stretch and cruised to easy win by 14 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on a sealed muddy surface Dec. 2.

Lemon Spray: Broke a step slow eighth and last, steadied and bumped along backstretch, rallied to lead by 1 ½ lengths off rail approaching far turn, bore out leaving quarter pole, drifted further outward in stretch, wavered lanes and finished second by a length at a mile on Nov. 11.

Wildcattwentyfour: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth after a half-mile, came three wide into stretch and finished third by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 25. (Raced more than six lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile and rallied in stretch to finish second by 7 ½ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 29; returned $8 for place.)

Etrain: Raced fourth early, dropped back to eighth and last through the turn, rallied from seventh in stretch and finish third beaten a neck for place at six furlongs on Oct. 20; ran final quarter in 24 4/5 at Delaware Park.

RETAMA PARK

Peggy Charlese: Raced six lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, rallied six wide on turn, closed from fourth in stretch to make up 2 ¾ lengths and finished second by 1 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 28.

Magic Misty: Raced seventh more than five lengths behind after a three-eighths of a mile, angled out off turn to fifth in stretch, closed willingly to make up 3 ¼ lengths and finished second by a head at five furlongs on Nov. 7.

Cowgirl Cool: Fractious in gate, original rider hurt and replaced, stalked pace 2 ½ lengths behind in second, dropped to third after six furlongs, rallied in stretch and gained second by 2 ¾ lengths at a mile on Nov. 21. (Raced more than two lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied on turn to take second, but couldn’t catch winner while securing the place by a dozen lengths at a mile on Dec. 5.)

Fiesta Margarita: Broke from the outside 10th post, raced 10th and last early, advanced to ninth more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide to fourth in stretch, closed fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second nosed out at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 11. (Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung out four wide in upper stretch, rallied from second and won by a length on Nov. 20.)

Bill’s Last Fling: Broke alertly from the outside 13th post, chased leader early in second, took lead by a length after a half-mile, drew clear in upper stretch and won by 6 ½ lengths ridden out at six furlongs on Sept. 27.

Waco Hug: Broke seventh and last, trailed by eight lengths after a half-mile, rallied on far turn to grabbed lead, increased margin to six lengths in stretch and drew off ridden out to win by 12 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 17. (Raced sixth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, circled field five wide into stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and won by three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Dec. 6; returned $11.20 on the front end.)

TURF PARADISE

Ransom Captive: Tracked pace more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, awaited room for the drive, advanced to third in stretch, steadied near sixteenth pole and gained second by a neck at a mile on the turf Dec. 6.

His Way: Raced more than three lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, dropped to seventh after six furlongs, awaited room on turn and top of the stretch, closed to gain third beaten a head and a half-length at about a mile on the turf Nov. 21.

Cut the Silk: Tracked pace two lengths behind in second after a half-mile, rider lost whip in upper stretch, continued willingly to the wire making up a length and lost by a half-length at a mile on Nov. 2.

Dante’s Gulch: Raced seven lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, advanced to third in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and finished second by 3 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 25.

Hills of Roses; Broke from the outside ninth post, raced fourth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, angled in during stretch run, rallied to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at five furlongs on Oct. 10. (Chased pace five lengths behind in second after three-eighths of a mile and rallied in stretch to win by a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 26.)

TURFWAY PARK

Southern Squire: Broke in the air, raced seventh early, moved to sixth more than 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, split horses for the drive, gained second in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and lost by a half-length at 6 ½ furlongs on Dec. 5.

Silver Bayer: Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied inside to gain second and was beaten by two lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 18 at Calder. (Raced fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, assumed command entering stretch and drew clear to win by 7 ¾ lengths at six furlongs on Dec. 7.)

by Bookmaker Racebook

AQUEDUCT

Sobee: Broke through gate prior to start, raced 10th and last 19 lengths behind last after a half-mile, rallied four wide on far turn to sixth in stretch, made up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a head at a mile on a good turf course Nov. 20; ran final quarter in 24 2/5.

Captain Backfire: Stumbled badly at start, raced seventh and last 12 lengths behind after a half-mile, fanned three wide heading home, rallied with good energy late to make up 6 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Nov. 1; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

CALDER

Sr. Encamacion: Broke slowly, raced sixth more than 5 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, rallied from fifth in stretch to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a head at five furlongs on the turf Nov. 16.

Wild Blue Dreams: Raced five lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide entering stretch, made up nearly 3 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a head at five furlongs on Nov. 6. (Tracked pace 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, chased winner in stretch, but couldn’t close gap and finished second by 4 ¾ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 22.)

Super Whipper: Raced inside more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, angled outside winner in stretch, rallied to make up nearly four lengths and finished second beaten a head at 5 ½ furlongs on a good surface Oct. 25.

Appealing Runner: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 13. (Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied from fourth in stretch to make up 32 ½ lengths in stretch and finished full of run to gain second by 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 1.)

CHURCHILL DOWNS

Choice Play: Broke alertly from the outside 12th post, raced seventh more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied in traffic through stretch from third to make up nearly two lengths and finished second beaten a head at seven furlongs on Nov. 21; ran final three furlongs in 36 3/5.

Princessmarguerite: Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, split rivals entering stretch, angled out for clear sailing and made up three lengths to finish second beaten a length at six furlongs on Nov. 7.

FAIR GROUNDS

Silver Bayer: Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied four wide into stretch, made up 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at five furlongs on the turf Sept. 6 at Calder. (Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied inside to gain second and finished in that position by two lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 18 at Calder.)

HAWTHORNE

Fashionable Time: Broke 12th and last, raced 11th more than 19 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, moved five wide to seventh in stretch, finished well making up more than 6 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a head at 1 1/16 miles on Nov. 22.

Marvelex: Raced third early, dropped to fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground angling out five wide for clear run, brushed with rival, made up 1 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Nov. 2. (Raced second early, dropped to third more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, moved four wide into stretch and finished second by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 23.)

Sky High Spirit: Raced more than five lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied through traffic from fifth in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Oct. 22.

Bar Hoppin: Broke 12th and last, trailed by more than 7 ½ lengths after a half-mile, rallied three wide into stretch to third, closed steadily to make up six lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 27; ran final quarter in 24 1/5. (Raced more than four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung six wide into stretch, rallied from third to make up two lengths and won by three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a good surface Oct. 24.)

HOLLYWOOD PARK

Perfect Magic: Raced sixth more than four lengths behind after a half-mile, made up more than three lengths in the stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Nov. 20; ran final quarter in 24 3/5.

Warren’s Dreaming: Raced ninth and last more than eight lengths behind after as half-mile, came out leaving turn three deep into stretch, closed willingly from sixth to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten three-quarters of a length and a nose at 6 ½ furlongs on Nov. 20; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 29 4/5.

Day of the South: Squeezed at start, raced seventh more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled in for drive, came out mid-stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten a length and a nose at six furlongs on Nov. 6; ran final quarter in 23 1/5.

Joe Bravo: Raced eighth more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came out in seventh in stretch, closed willingly to make up more than 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on the turf Nov. 6; ran final quarter in 22 1/5.

LAUREL

Count On Lou: Broke sixth and last, steadied, trailed by more than 1 ½ lengths after a half-mile, lost ground moving to fifth for the drive, eased out near eighth pole, rallied from third and finished second beaten a nose at a mile on Nov. 19.

Unbridled Behavior: Raced seventh and last early, advanced to fifth four wide eight lengths behind after a half-mile, closed gamely in stretch from third to make up five lengths and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on Nov. 5; ran final quarter in 24 seconds. (Raced 10 lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung out very wide in mid-stretch, closed sharply from fourth under strong handling and won by three-quarters of a length at 5 ½ furlongs on Nov. 21.)

Crack the Opus: Broke in air, rushed up inside to chase pace 4 ½ lengths behind in second after a half-mile, eased out for drive, made up nearly three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on a sealed muddy track Oct. 25. (Prompted pace a length behind after a half-mile, failed to respond in stretch and finished second at seven furlongs on a sloppy surface Nov. 14.)

Rescigno: Broke 11th and last, trailed by more than 20 ½ lengths after a half-mile, advanced between rivals to fifth in stretch, eased outside near sixteenth pole, made up 3 ½ lengths and drove clear to win by a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 23; returned $12 on the front end. (Raced ninth more than 12 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied wide entering stretch and finished third by a length at 1 1/16 miles on a good turf course Nov. 22.)

PHILADELPHIA PARK

Lemon Spray: Broke a step slow eighth and last, steadied and bumped along backstretch, rallied to lead by 1 ½ lengths off rail approaching far turn, bore out leaving quarter pole, drifted further outward in stretch, wavered lanes and finished second by a length at a mile on Nov. 11.

Take a Look: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, split rivals entering stretch, finished fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and gained second by three lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 4.

Wildcattwentyfour: Broke eighth and last, raced seventh more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced wide to sixth in stretch and finished third at seven furlongs on Oct. 14. (Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth after a half-mile, came three wide into stretch and finished third by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 25.)

Etrain: Raced fourth early, dropped back to eighth and last through the turn, rallied from seventh in stretch and finish third beaten a neck for place at six furlongs on Oct. 20; ran final quarter in 24 4/5 at Delaware Park.

RETAMA PARK

Magic Misty: Raced seventh more than five lengths behind after a three-eighths of a mile, angled out off turn to fifth in stretch, closed willingly to make up 3 ¼ lengths and finished second by a head at five furlongs on Nov. 7.

Cowgirl Cool: Raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, fanned three wide on far turn dropping to sixth, rallied five wide in upper stretch from fifth, closed willingly to make up 2 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a neck and two lengths at a mile on the turf Oct. 30. (Fractious in gate, original rider hurt and replaced, stalked pace 2 ½ lengths behind in second, dropped to third after six furlongs, rallied in stretch and gained second by 2 ¾ lengths at a mile on Nov. 21.)

Fiesta Margarita: Broke from the outside 10th post, raced 10th and last early, advanced to ninth more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide to fourth in stretch, closed fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second nosed out at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 11. (Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, swung out four wide in upper stretch, rallied from second and won by a length on Nov. 20.)

Bill’s Last Fling: Broke alertly from the outside 13th post, chased leader early in second, took lead by a length after a half-mile, drew clear in upper stretch and won by 6 ½ lengths ridden out at six furlongs on Sept. 27.

Waco Hug: Broke 10th and last, raced seventh more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, swung out three wide for the drive, advanced to second in stretch, closed fast to drew off and won by two lengths at a mile on Oct. 10. (Broke seventh and last, trailed by eight lengths after a half-mile, rallied on far turn to grabbed lead, increased margin to six lengths in stretch and drew off ridden out to win by 12 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 17.)

Ms Classic Seneca: Raced more than four lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, advanced four wide for drive, steadied off heels of rivals inside quarter pole, rallied from sixth to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths in stretch and gained second by a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 6. (Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide to second in upper stretch and won by a half-lengths at five furlongs on the turf Oct. 4: returned $12.20 on front end.)

TURF PARADISE

His Way: Raced more than three lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, dropped to seventh after six furlongs, awaited room on turn and top of the stretch, closed to gain third beaten a head and a half-length at about a mile on the turf Nov. 21.

Cut the Silk: Tracked pace two lengths behind in second after a half-mile, rider lost whip in upper stretch, continued willingly to the wire making up a length and lost by a half-length at a mile on Nov. 2.

Dante’s Gulch: Raced seven lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, advanced to third in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and finished second by 3 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 25.

Hills of Roses; Broke from the outside ninth post, raced fourth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, angled in during stretch run, rallied to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at five furlongs on Oct. 10. (Chased pace five lengths behind in second after three-eighths of a mile and rallied in stretch to win by a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 26.)

WOODBINE

Mighty Fenian: Broke a step slowly, raced ninth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed four deep on turn to gain fourth in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a neck at seven furlongs on Nov. 16.

Kingcarey: Broke 12th and last, trailed by more than 12 lengths after a half-mile, angled from rail to six wide late on far turn, rallied willingly through stretch from ninth, made up 2 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Nov. 5.

Tap Show: Raced more than nine lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied between rivals in stretch from sixth to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a length and a head at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 19. (Broke a step slowly, stalked pace four wide on far turn, gained second in stretch, led briefly and lost by a length at 1 ¼ miles on Nov. 10.)

by Bookmaker Racebook

I’m making an addition to my handicapping toolbox after an experiment since late summer produced quite a few winners.

It’s one of the helpful features of Brisnet.com past performances listed on the front of each race – the figure beneath “SPEED.” The number is the average winning speed at the distance during a particular track’s meeting.

From time to time I adjust my toolbox. This is just another way to consider speed when handicapping races no matter the track. I still include my favorites: class, horses for courses, successful jockey-trainer combos, running styles and racing patterns.

What I like about this tool is it separates the speedier and slower horses at a particular distance that’s especially telling after the first couple of weeks at a meeting no matter the surface.

I offer two recent examples starting with an allowance route Nov. 10 at the Meadowlands. This eight-horse contest was the 49th at a mile and 70 yards. Forty-six percent of the winners showed early speed.

The top figure of 99 belonged to Fuencia posted three races back when the son of Fusachi Pegasus broke his maiden in a sprint.

The next highest, 97, belonged to favored Stevil, the classiest of the bunch that ran fourth in this year’s Blue Grass Stakes and fifth in the Preakness. But the son of Maria’s Mon hadn’t won since running that fast in his debut last fall taking a sprint.

I went for second-choice Pampered Sir, who won once at 1 1/16 miles and finished second three times at a mile and 70 yards, all allowance races since departing the grass in August. His speed figure: 93. A good omen: The son of Concerto was one of three contenders that consistently showed early speed.

Pampered Sir pressed the pace in second, took the lead after six furlongs and held off Stevil down the stretch to win by three-quarters of a length. Madman, who also had a high-speed figure of 93 winning last time out but in a low-level claimer, finished far back in third.

On Nov. 11 at Churchill Downs, an allowance race at seven furlongs featured nine fillies and mares with five evenly matched. But not a single one of the seven horses that raced the distance at the track posted the average winning speed figure: 93.

Two top contenders shared the top 88 number this year: Distorted Passion, third in an allowance contest with the fastest time, and Geniver, who captured a claiming race.

I thought the main danger was Silent Street, but went for Distorted Passion, who stayed closer to the pace in most sprints.

The son of Distorted Humor tracked the pace, took the lead in the stretch, drew clear under steady urging and scored by 2 ½ lengths. Silent Street finished second while Geniver ran fourth.

On Nov. 16 at Churchill Downs, a five-furlong race scheduled for the turf was transferred to the sealed muddy main track. Three horses were scratched.

I liked second-choice Simply Seattle, the top speed on grass with 94, who possessed the highest figure on dirt. 91. In addition, the daughter of Chief Seattle scored last spring on a sloppy surface, leading every step of the 5 ½ furlongs. She won the same way in the first race at the distance on the main track during this meeting.

Favored Time Flies, with her debut on the turf postponed, was shortening up after impressively breaking her maiden by 8 ½ lengths at Church Down three back at six furlongs.
However, the daughter of Gilded Time hadn’t raced on an off track. She finished 1 ½ lengths back in second.

by Bookmaker Racebook

AQUEDUCT

Captain Backfire: Stumbled badly at start, raced seventh and last 12 lengths behind after a half-mile, fanned three wide heading home, rallied with good energy late to make up 6 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at six furlongs on Nov. 1; ran final quarter in 23 4/5.

CALDER

Wild Blue Dreams: Raced five lengths behind in fourth after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide entering stretch, made up nearly 3 ½ lengths and ran second beaten a head at five furlongs on Nov. 6.

Super Whipper: Raced inside more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, angled outside winner in stretch, rallied to make up nearly four lengths and finished second beaten a head at 5 ½ furlongs on a good surface Oct. 25.

Appealing Runner: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 13. (Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied from fourth in stretch to make up 32 ½ lengths in stretch and finished full of run to gain second by 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 1.)

CHURCHILL DOWNS

Princessmarguerite: Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, split rivals entering stretch, angled out for clear sailing and made up three lengths to finish second beaten a length at six furlongs on Nov. 7.

Masrawy: Broke a step slow 11th and next to last on rail, raced seven lengths behind in 10th after a half-mile, circled field five wide for drive, bumped repeatedly with rival entering stretch, continued with good energy from fifth, made up six lengths and finished third beaten a length at seven furlongs on Oct. 26.

Silver Bayer: Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied four wide into stretch, made up 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at five furlongs on the turf Sept. 6 at Calder. (Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied inside to gain second and finished in that position by two lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 18 at Calder.)

DELAWARE

Etrain: Raced fourth early, dropped back to eighth and last through the turn, rallied from seventh in stretch and finish third beaten a neck for place at six furlongs on Oct. 20; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

DELTA DOWNS

Matt’s Cajun Fire: Raced fifth more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied three wide on far turn, grabbed lead in stretch and drew off to win by two lengths at a mile on Sept. 27 at Retama Park. (Tracked pace in sixth more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied around far turn to take lead in upper stretch by a length and drove clear to win by 3 ¾ lengths under steady urging by 3 ¾ lengths at a mile on Oct. 29.)

FORT ERIE

East Face: Raced more than six lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, angled out in final furlong, rallied from fifth in stretch, made up three lengths and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Oct. 10 at Woodbine. (Broke sixth and last, raced more than 1 ½ lengths behind in fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile and finished third by 2 ½ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on a sloppy surface Oct. 27.)

HAWTHORNE

Marvelex: Raced third early, dropped to fourth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lost ground angling out five wide for clear run, brushed with rival, made up 1 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Nov. 2.

Sky High Spirit: Raced more than five lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied through traffic from fifth in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Oct. 22.

Bar Hoppin: Broke 12th and last, trailed by more than 7 ½ lengths after a half-mile, rallied three wide into stretch to third, closed steadily to make up six lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 27; ran final quarter in 24 1/5. (Raced more than four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung six wide into stretch, rallied from third to make up two lengths and won by three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a good surface Oct. 24.)

HOLLYWOOD PARK

Day of the South: Squeezed at start, raced seventh more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled in for drive, came out mid-stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than four lengths and finished third beaten a length and a nose at six furlongs on Nov. 6; ran final quarter in 23 1/5.

Joe Bravo: Raced eighth more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came out in seventh in stretch, closed willingly to make up more than 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on the turf Nov. 6; ran final quarter in 22 1/5.

LAUREL

Unbridled Behavior: Raced seventh and last early, advanced to fifth four wide eight lengths behind after a half-mile, closed gamely in stretch from third to make up five lengths and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on Nov. 5; ran final quarter in 24 seconds.

Crack the Opus: Broke in air, rushed up inside to chase pace 4 ½ lengths behind in second after a half-mile, eased out for drive, made up nearly three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on a sealed muddy track Oct. 25.

Rescigno: Raced seventh more than nine lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied six wide in stretch, closed willingly despite drifting wide, made up more than 3 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at 1 1/8 miles on the turf Oct. 10. (Broke 11th and last, trailed by more than 20 ½ lengths after a half-mile, advanced between rivals to fifth in stretch, eased outside near sixteenth pole, made up 3 ½ lengths and drove clear to win by a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 23; returned $12 on the front end.)

MEADOWLANDS

Rise Up Singing: Pressed pace early, took command by a length after a half-mile, shook free in stretch and drew off to win by 5 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on a sealed muddy track on Sept. 6 at Monmouth. (Pressed pace early, grabbed lead by a length after a half-mile, dug in gamely in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Oct. 1.)

Big Easy: Trailed by more than four lengths after three-eighths of a mile, advanced to second in stretch, angled out and rallied to win by a head at five furlongs taken off the turf Sept. 13 at Philadelphia Park. (Raced more than five lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, angled out for the drive and rallied in stretch to gain third by 1 ¼ lengths at five furlongs on the turf Oct. 18.)

PHILADELPHIA PARK

Take a Look: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, split rivals entering stretch, finished fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and gained second by three lengths at six furlongs on Nov. 4.

Wildcattwentyfour: Broke eighth and last, raced seventh more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced wide to sixth in stretch and finished third at seven furlongs on Oct. 14. (Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth after a half-mile, came three wide into stretch and finished third by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 25.)

RETAMA PARK

Magic Misty: Raced seventh more than five lengths behind after a three-eighths of a mile, angled out off turn to fifth in stretch, closed willingly to make up 3 ¼ lengths and finished second by a head at five furlongs on Nov. 7.

Cowgirl Cool: Raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, fanned three wide on far turn dropping to sixth, rallied five wide in upper stretch from fifth, closed willingly to make up 2 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a neck and two lengths at a mile on the turf Oct. 30.

Fiesta Margarita: Broke from the outside 10th post, raced 10th and last early, advanced to ninth more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide to fourth in stretch, closed fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second nosed out at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 11.

Bill’s Last Fling: Broke alertly from the outside 13th post, chased leader early in second, took lead by a length after a half-mile, drew clear in upper stretch and won by 6 ½ lengths ridden out at six furlongs on Sept. 27.

Waco Hug: Broke 10th and last, raced seventh more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, swung out three wide for the drive, advanced to second in stretch, closed fast to drew off and won by two lengths at a mile on Oct. 10. (Broke seventh and last, trailed by eight lengths after a half-mile, rallied on far turn to grabbed lead, increased margin to six lengths in stretch and drew off ridden out to win by 12 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 17.)

Ms Classic Seneca: Raced more than four lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, advanced four wide for drive, steadied off heels of rivals inside quarter pole, rallied from sixth to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths in stretch and gained second by a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 6. (Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide to second in upper stretch and won by a half-lengths at five furlongs on the turf Oct. 4: returned $12.20 on front end.)

TURF PARADISE

Cut the Silk: Tracked pace two lengths behind in second after a half-mile, rider lost whip in upper stretch, continued willingly to the wire making up a length and lost by a half-length at a mile on Nov. 2.

Dante’s Gulch: Raced seven lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, advanced to third in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and finished second by 3 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 25.

Hills of Roses; Broke from the outside ninth post, raced fourth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, angled in during stretch run, rallied to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at five furlongs on Oct. 10. (Chased pace five lengths behind in second after three-eighths of a mile and rallied in stretch to win by a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 26.)

WOODBINE

Kingcarey: Broke 12th and last, trailed by more than 12 lengths after a half-mile, angled from rail to six wide late on far turn, rallied willingly through stretch from ninth, made up 2 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on Nov. 5.

Tap Show: Raced more than nine lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied between rivals in stretch from sixth to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a length and a head at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 19. (Broke a step slowly, stalked pace four wide on far turn, gained second in stretch, led briefly and lost by a length at 1 ¼ miles on Nov. 10.)

Splash of Gold: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, closed outside rivals to second on far turn, gained lead by a head at sixteenth pole and was nipped at wire by a neck at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 13. (Raced four lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied four wide to second in stretch and finished in that position by 6 ½ lengths at seven furlongs on Oct. 31.)

by Bookmaker Racebook

Smart and Fancy: Shuffled back inside near turn, raced ninth and last more than seven lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, swung wide into stretch, rallied from fifth to make up two lengths and finished second by a neck at five furlongs on a good turf course Sept. 27 at Philadelphia Park. (Raced five lengths behind in third after a half-mile, rallied in tandem with winner during stretch drive, made up nearly 1 ½ lengths, led for a couple of jumps near wire and finished second nosed out at six furlongs on the inner turf Oct. 12.)

American Cruiser: Stalked pace three wide a head and a length back in third after a half-mile, rallied to draw clear by two lengths in stretch and prevailed by three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a yielding turf course Sept. 12; returned $12.20 on the front end. (Raced 6 ½ lengths behind in third after three-eighths of a mile, closed slowly in stretch nearing sixteenth pole and edged away to win by two lengths at five furlongs on the turf Oct. 14.)

Hard to Explain: Raced more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, moved to second in stretch, rallied between rivals and prevailed by a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Sept. 1 at Monmouth. (Raced 10th more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced wide to night in stretch and closed fast to finish second by a neck at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 4.)

CALDER

Super Whipper: Raced inside more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, angled outside winner in stretch, rallied to make up nearly four lengths and finished second beaten a head at 5 ½ furlongs on a good surface Oct. 25.

Casa Mimaty: Raced third early, dropped to fourth more than two lengths behind after a half-mile, steadied on far turn losing several lengths, dropped to seventh and last, swung out for the drive, closed well from sixth to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at a mile on a sealed sloppy surface Oct. 11.

Appealing Runner: Raced more than seven lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, swung wide for drive, rallied to make up more than four lengths in stretch and finished third beaten a half-length and a neck at six furlongs on Sept. 26. (Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths in stretch and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 13.)

Silver Bayer: Raced more than 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, rallied four wide into stretch, made up 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a length at five furlongs on the turf Sept. 6. (Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, rallied inside to gain second and finished in that position by two lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 18.)
Amazo’n: Raced eighth more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide into stretch and finished third by 9 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on Sept. 19. (Raced eighth more than 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, swung out wide for drive and finished third at a mile and 70 yards on Oct. 20.)
CHURCHILL DOWNS

Masrawy: Broke a step slow 11th and next to last on rail, raced seven lengths behind in 10th after a half-mile, circled field five wide for drive, bumped repeatedly with rival entering stretch, continued with good energy from fifth, made up six lengths and finished third beaten a length at seven furlongs on Oct. 26.

Fort Apache Star: Raced eighth and last early, moved to sixth seven lengths behind after a half-mile, angled in saving ground for drive, split rivals in stretch from fifth, bumped with third-place finisher, made up 2 ½ lengths and gained second by a nose at six furlongs on Oct. 26.

DELAWARE

Etrain: Raced fourth early, dropped back to eighth and last through the turn, rallied from seventh in stretch and finish third beaten a neck for place at six furlongs on Oct. 20; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.

Irish Chestnut: Broke ninth and last, moved to eighth more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced outside rivals to sixth in stretch, finished willingly to make up 4 ½ lengths and ran third beaten two necks at 1 1/16 miles on Aug. 10.

FAIRPLEX

Tahoe Kid: Bumped at break, chased three deep more than 1 ½ lengths in third after a half-mile, lost ground to fourth in stretch, split rivals, made up two lengths and finished third beaten less than a length at six furlongs on Aug. 14 at Del Mar. (Raced fifth early, took command by 1 ½ lengths after a half-mile and drew off in stretch to win by four lengths at six furlongs on Sept. 13.)

FORT ERIE

East Face: Raced more than six lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, angled out in final furlong, rallied from fifth in stretch, made up three lengths and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Oct. 10 at Woodbine. (Broke sixth and last, raced more than 1 ½ lengths behind in fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile and finished third by 2 ½ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on a sloppy surface Oct. 27.)

HAWTHORNE

Sky High Spirit: Raced more than five lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied through traffic from fifth in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Oct. 22.

Snoose Goose: Raced sixth early, dropped to seventh more than 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out in sixth seven wide for the drive, exchanged brushes with winner several times, dropped to seventh in stretch and drifted out while closing fast to finished third beaten a neck and a head at 1 1/8 miles on the turf Oct. 11; ran final three furlongs in 37 2/5.

Bar Hoppin: Broke 12th and last, trailed by more than 7 ½ lengths after a half-mile, rallied three wide into stretch to third, closed steadily to make up six lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 27; ran final quarter in 24 1/5. (Raced more than four lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung six wide into stretch, rallied from third to make up two lengths and won by three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a good surface Oct. 24.)

KEENELAND

Dragum: Raced seventh and last more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, shifted out for drive and rallied from fifth in stretch to gain third beaten a length at about 7 ½ furlongs on a good turf course Sept. 12 at Louisiana Downs. (Raced sixth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came four wide into stretch, rallied to make up more than two lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 16.)

Gilded Memory: Raced eighth more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half mile, circle four wide into stretch, rallied from sixth to make up more than five lengths and gained second by three-quarters of a length at a mile on the turf Aug. 14 at Ellis Park. (Raced 9 ½ lengths behind in ninth after a half-mile, rallied to third in stretch and finished second by 3 ¼ lengths at seven furlongs on Oct. 16.)

LAUREL

Crack the Opus: Broke in air, rushed up inside to chase pace 4 ½ lengths behind in second after a half-mile, eased out for drive, made up nearly three lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on a sealed muddy track Oct. 25.

Rescigno: Raced seventh more than nine lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied six wide in stretch, closed willingly despite drifting wide, made up more than 3 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at 1 1/8 miles on the turf Oct. 10. (Broke 11th and last, trailed by more than 20 ½ lengths after a half-mile, advanced between rivals to fifth in stretch, eased outside near sixteenth pole, made up 3 ½ lengths and drove clear to win by a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Oct. 23; returned $12 on the front end.)

Wood Alley: Broke 10th and last, advanced to fifth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, took over into the lane, drew off in stretch with singled tap of the whip and won by 11 ¼ lengths at seven furlongs on Aug. 9 at Philadelphia Park. (Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, angled out four wide for drive, rallied to take command nearing mid-stretch and won handily by 5 ½ lengths at a mile on Sept. 20.)

MEADOWLANDS

Rise Up Singing: Pressed pace early, took command by a length after a half-mile, shook free in stretch and drew off to win by 5 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on a sealed muddy track on Sept. 6 at Monmouth. (Pressed pace early, grabbed lead by a length after a half-mile, dug in gamely in stretch and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on Oct. 1.)

Big Easy: Trailed by more than four lengths after three-eighths of a mile, advanced to second in stretch, angled out and rallied to win by a head at five furlongs taken off the turf Sept. 13 at Philadelphia Park. (Raced more than five lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, angled out for the drive and rallied in stretch to gain third by 1 ¼ lengths at five furlongs on the turf Oct. 18.)

PHILADELPHIA PARK

Watta Warlock: Raced ninth early, rushed up to grab lead by a head after a half-mile, dropped back to seventh entering stretch, rallied wide to make up more than two lengths and gained third by a nose at six furlongs on Oct. 20.

Wildcattwentyfour: (Broke eighth and last, raced seventh more than six lengths behind after a half-mile, advanced wide to sixth in stretch and finished third at seven furlongs on Oct. 14. (Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth after a half-mile, came three wide into stretch and finished third by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on Oct. 25.)

RETAMA PARK

Fiesta Margarita: Broke from the outside 10th post, raced 10th and last early, advanced to ninth more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied four wide to fourth in stretch, closed fast to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second nosed out at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 11.

Bill’s Last Fling: Broke alertly from the outside 13th post, chased leader early in second, took lead by a length after a half-mile, drew clear in upper stretch and won by 6 ½ lengths ridden out at six furlongs on Sept. 27.

Matt’s Cajun Fire: Raced 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, lost ground going wide into stretch, finished willingly to make up more than 4 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on Sept. 19. (Raced fifth more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied three wide on far turn, grabbed lead in stretch and drew off to win by two lengths at a mile on Sept. 27.)

Waco Hug: Broke 10th and last, raced seventh more than five lengths behind after a half-mile, swung out three wide for the drive, advanced to second in stretch, closed fast to drew off and won by two lengths at a mile on Oct. 10. (Broke seventh and last, trailed by eight lengths after a half-mile, rallied on far turn to grabbed lead, increased margin to six lengths in stretch and drew off ridden out to win by 12 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 17.)

Ms Classic Seneca: Raced more than four lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, advanced four wide for drive, steadied off heels of rivals inside quarter pole, rallied from sixth to make up more than 2 ¼ lengths in stretch and gained second by a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 6. (Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth more than 1 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, rallied four wide to second in upper stretch and won by a half-lengths at five furlongs on the turf Oct. 4: returned $12.20 on front end.)

TURF PARADISE

Dante’s Gulch: Raced seven lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, advanced to third in stretch, made up 3 ½ lengths and finished second by 3 ¼ lengths at a mile on Oct. 25.

Hills of Roses; Broke from the outside ninth post, raced fourth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after three-eighths of a mile, angled in during stretch run, rallied to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at five furlongs on Oct. 10. (Chased pace five lengths behind in second after three-eighths of a mile and rallied in stretch to win by a half-length at 5 ½ furlongs on Oct. 26.)

WOODBINE

Tap Show: Raced more than nine lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied between rivals in stretch from sixth to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a length and a head at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 19.

Splash of Gold: Raced seventh more than 2 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, lost ground going wide into stretch, rallied from fifth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at six furlongs on Sept. 27. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, closed outside rivals to second on far turn, gained lead by a head at sixteenth pole and was nipped at wire by a neck at 1 1/16 miles on Oct. 13.)

by Bookmaker Racebook

Here’s the 25th Breeders’ Cup in a nutshell.
$1 Million Filly and Mare Sprint, 7 furlongs: There are two horses to beat, both 3-year-old fillies. Indian Blessing, the early 2-1 choice is 2 for 2 at the distance, with a victory over the old Santa Anita Cushion Track. Zaftig won twice at the distance on dirt, beating Indian Blessing at a mile. Indyanne or Intangaroo can round out the trifecta off their synthetic surface form.

$1 Million Juvenile Fillies Turf, a mile: Too wide open to call. Darts, anyone?

$2 Million Juvenile Fillies, 1 1/16 miles: No foreign invader has won. Top contenders: Stardom Bound, 2-1, is 2-2-0 of 4 on synthetic surfaces, scoring at the distance in 1:42 2/5 at Santa Anita. Sky Diva, 7-2, daughter of 2008 leading 2-year-old sire Sky Mesa, is 2 for 2 at a mile on dirt. Include C. S. Silk, 15-1, with the highest speed figure.

$2 Million Filly and Mare Turf, 1 ¼ miles: Top contenders: Dynaforce, 2-2-1 at the distance; Mauralakana, 5 of 7 this year on the turf; and Wait A While, undefeated in three starts over Santa Anita’s grass.

$2 Million Ladies’ Classic, 1 1/8 miles: Favorites dominate, as 17 of 24 winners were less than 3-1, which probably accounts for the small fields. Zenyatta, morning line 3-5 favorite, is undefeated in eight races that include seven on synthetic surfaces. I like her to defeat seven challengers. Longshot Carriage at 8-1, who won twice on Polytrack, is worth including in exotics.

$500,000 Marathon, 1 ½ miles: Roll out the dartboard again.

$1 Million Turf Sprint, 6 ½ furlongs: California Flag, boasting four victories on the grass with Joe Talamo aboard, can repeat Morvich win at the distance even though breaking from post 10. Main challengers are to gelding’s outside: speedsters Mr. Nightlinger (No. 14), going for sixth in row in turf sprints, and Morvich runner-up Get Funky (No. 13), the best closer.

$1 Million Dirt Mile: Well Armed, the 3-1 morning line favorite, bypassed the Classic even though not racing at this distance in 20 months. The son of two-time Classic winner Tiznow does have two victories at Santa Anita this year in routes leading after eight furlongs. Top challengers: Pyro, also skipping the Classic; Lewis Michael, 2-2-0 of 4 at the distance; and Mast Track, the likely pacesetter despite a minor quarter crack.

$2 Million (Turf) Mile: Despite averaging about 13 entries, chalk has finished on top nearly one-third of the time. Only Lure in ’92 was in front at every call and repeated in ’93 when stalking the pace. Kip Deville, 9 of 13 at the distance and 2 for 2 at Santa Anita, stands a good chance of repeating. Top contenders: Irish-bred Goldikova, 5-2-0 of 7 at a mile; and Whatsthescript, 4 of 8 at the distance.

$2 Million Juvenile, 1 1/16 miles: Endurance is a key factor. Eighteen winners were among the top three choices. Horses to watch are sired by this year’s No. 2 earnings champ Lion Heart (3 for 3 as a 2-year-old): Azul Leon and Silent Valor. I like Munnings, the early lukewarm 7-2 choice who drew the rail, and Street Hero, 6-1, breaking from post 8 with the best time of 1:42 at the distance at Santa Anita.

$1 Million Juvenile Turf, a mile: It’s dart time again.

$2 Million Sprint, six furlongs: No running style has dominated. There have been five wire-to-wire victories, seven closed from back of the pack and nine turned for home in front. I like Fatal Bullet, In Summation and Street Boss, not necessarily in that order.

$3 Million Turf, 1 ½ miles: Thirteen European-bred horses won. Class and form often point to the winner. You make the call.

$5 Million Classic, 1 ¼ miles: Only four horses scored from posts 1-3, including Ghostzapper on the rail in ’04 who was only the second wire-to-wire winner since ’91 when Black Tie Affair triumphed off the longest layoff – 49 days. Outside is the place to be as nine won from posts 10 through 14, including ’07 champ Curlin from post 11. The early 7-5 favorite breaks from post 9. The son of Smart Strike wins again.

by Bookmaker Racebook

Ten of the 14 Breeders’ Cup races could have full fields as a record 180 thoroughbreds were pre-entered for the two-day program at Santa Anita Park.

That’s good news for horseplayers because the larger the fields, the better the payoffs, Historically, exotic wagers produced big bucks during the 24-year history of America’s premier racing day.

Fields this year might average 12.78 compared to 11.69 at Monmouth Park in 2007 when 122 horses were pre-entered in 11 BC contests. That doesn’t count horses entered in two races in case they don’t get realize their first choice.

Races for 2-year-olds have attracted the largest number of entries during the past two years.

This year’s $1 million Juvenile Fillies Turf at a mile drew the most pre-entries – 21. Surprisingly, no filly was entered in another race despite the field being limited to a dozen.

Last year, 23 were pre-entered in the inaugural Juvenile Turf. This year’s $1 million race at 1 1/16 miles attracted 18, including four with second choices, but all make the 12-horse field.

This year’s $2 million Juvenile at 1 1/16 miles enticed 17 pre-entries, with none having second choices, so three horses won’t race on Oct. 25. The ’08 Juvenile Fillies attracted 15 so only one could be left out.

Unlike previous years, there may be as many as two also-eligibles that have a shot to make each race as the scratch time for all contests is the morning of Oct. 24.

The smallest BC field comes in the headliner of the five races worth $8 million on the all-female card Oct. 24. The $2 million Ladies’ Classic lured only eight going 1 1/8 miles.

Undefeated Zenyatta, who probably will be the odds-on favorite, apparently scared away some opposition. The 4-year-old is one of two horses (Tiago runs in the Classic Oct. 25) that trainer John Shirreffs entered.

The daughter of Street Cry scored an impressive 3 ½-length victory in the six-furlong Humana Distaff over the Pro-Ride surface on Sept. 27 during the Oak Tree meeting. Runner-up Hystericalady seeks revenge as does Ginger Punch, who was third to Zenyatta in the Apple Blossom Handicap.

Ginger Punch, defending champion of the race previously known as the Distaff, is only one of three horses pre-entered by trainer Dick Mandella. You might recall he had six triumphs in the past two BC events at Santa Anita.

The headliner runs in the Classic. Curlin,’07 Horse of the Year, is attempting to join Tiznow as the only two-time winner. While it’s his debut on a synthetic surface, the son of Smart Strike has won on fast and sloppy dirt tracks and ran fairly well on the grass.

Curlin will perform at Santa Anita if his Oct. 13 workout is any indication – breezing five furlongs in 59 seconds flat.

However, he hasn’t frightened away any rivals because 16 horses were pre-entered. His trainer Steve Asmussen has entered Student Council and Pyro in the 1 ¼-mile contest.

Two other conditioners are sending out two challengers each, including Aidan O’Brien, who tops all trainers with 10 horses pre-entered in eight races.

His brightest stars, Henrythenavigator and Duke of Marmalade, have numerous Group 1 victories across the Atlantic. Bobby Frankel, with seven horses entered in six races, sends out Hollywood Gold Cup winner Mast Track, the likely pacesetter, and Champs Elysees, third in the Santa Anita Handicap.

Two main contenders are the lightly-race Casino Drive, who toyed with rivals in an Oct. 12 allowance race at Santa Anita, and Go Between, who loves synthetic surfaces as demonstrated by a pair of Grade 1: the Pacific Classic and the Sunshine Millions Classic on the Left Coast.

by Bookmaker Racebook