Handicapper Tips & Picks

Starting the analysis with the pair of L. Rivelli runners taking different paths of timing into this race: #1 PRINCE DAY wheels right back from the Wednesday event at CD, a race run under poor WEATHER conditions in the rain. The change in class is most significant from those three starts including the MSW return over this course back on 9/21 if they can deal with the 4-days between starts. #8 PAKULA comes in from the layoff and steady works since 8/31 into this race. Today’s MCL conditions on the TURF should be ideal keying off those projections set back on 10/30 (2024.  As far as class is this closer to a lateral move though perhaps something to note on intent as they will not race today for the claiming tag.

#6 ANTHONY THE GREAT also on the quick turnaround though the edge when it comes to local form and returning to MCL company – a flow upgrade PRESSED X_FLOW (Very Fast early/late) in the10/26 route race.

#9 SAND CAST has run the faster races in this field going back to the Oct/Nov 2024 turf races and figures run as a juvenile. Those efforts standout strongly and transferring those figures into this spot and sprint distance has them as a major contender. They still have to show it, though should be the right time as any second off and coming out of a BUNCHED up four horse field coming off the layoff three weeks ago at FP with the four fanned out to contest the lead, SAND CAST widest of all.

#7 CATNIP HILL is a longshot to give a mention at with the subtle, yet positive changes for this race. Going back to earlier on this season the class DROP was needed as well as the surface switch to the TURF and coming out of the 10/19 race projected ONE_TURN. She will face the boys in here, closer to a lateral move in class, which could be tough when looking at the recent series of C/C+ OptixGRADE to make a contender case for. A tougher case though respect a new face for a live barn in the 3yo filly #2 GIFT GIVING landing here for a belated second start. There was not much interest for her on debut at 51-1, granted two turns in MSW company during the championship GP meet, though the connections following that race did not return for another start and ultimately landed in the 2025 August sale picked up for the new connections for $9.5k. 

#1 AVERYZ DAY was upgraded on 10/16 returning to this circuit and going back to last October when running at this level recorded a B- OptixGRADE in that place finish. They paired up the B-with the show result and should again be at the right level for their abilities. The concern with the then is the pattern of SLOG something shown in each start since the debut and has the rail draw today as things to consider on value as they could be favored.

#4 KISS MY CHARMS is a slightly new face to consider first time at this level, second off and conditioning from the turf return on 9/21 though no real excuse on pace (Slow early) or reason to upgrade, outside of conditioning. #8 WW BEST OF TIMES also second off and perhaps reason to upgrade on that front with races that fits. Granted their better efforts have been recorded on the grass and route distance needing to brin those efforts to the main track as the current form and figures in the four main track sprints lack any edge over others in here.

#6 FREEDOM EMPIRE recently disqualified for their maiden win back in April will return today to run against maiden company and a big change in class on that front. They should move up naturally while their form and figures with that class move while current form and figures are in line with today’s rivals.

Giles aboard FREEDOM EMPIRE shifts S. Gonzalez to #7 SNEAKY FEET one that comes into this race with FP form, interesting style in their recent starts showing early speed dropping back and moving up again late. Their current form and figures should hold with the change in circuit keying off their efforts at Hawthorne from 2024, races mostly at the higher maiden level, mostly.

For whatever reason, it is not uncommon for longtime maidens to find their spot for the belated win to consider with #2 GRAY MIKE and #5 BLACK RUSSIAN two consistent type (arguably to a fault) though hold plenty of races that could see them belatedly breakthrough. 

#2 MORE THAN A DIVA should be sitting on a peak effort and subtle changes to move up in this spot. She turned in a competitive race coming off the layoff contesting a Fast early pace on 9/4s he was a further X_FLOW upgrade making a WIDE rush on 9/28. In those two return races she had the outside draw and 5.5f distance, that changes here with the inside and 5f along with the slightly lower par from the most recent start.

#3 CHROME ATTACK following the same race-to-race pattern as MORE THAN A DIVA into this event with the opposite runstyle looking to come from off the pace and different though still positive (progressive OptixGRADE) form cycle pattern into this event to suggest they are sitting on a peak effort here. The early pace has potential to be contentious for that late run (Q4 Square) noting today’s Sun Contention and higher 70 SpeedRate though the course profile in closing meet past has been kind to speed and see how that plays out this time around.

Not quite front runner, not quite closer IBfinds the middle Plot spot as a Square and following the same race-to-race pattern as the other two competitive with that pair along with Speed and Class in line with others in this field.

Looking at the overall OptixEQ analytics for this race: MORE THAN A DIVA holds an ABOVE+ Plot designation, the only horse in the field with that rating while both #6 RACEDAY ATTIRE and #9 CALL’EM ALL are rated ABOVE. #4 RAMBERT is AVERAGE- on Plot (Q1 Circle) though has the ABOVE rating on Speed and Class with most recent start a B- in the 9/28 common race. The recent series of layoff lines are noted though capable all the same. 

#5 MARY MOONGLOW brings upside wheeling right back with a subtle pace advantage (Q1) and from the 10/23 SPRINTER note from that two turn route race 10-days ago. #7 LALY should find an ideal trip drawn outside of MARY MOONGLOW and look to take first run with finishing ability as shown on the Plot, tracking Q1 Square. While giving up slight recency perhaps 45-days in this case is a favorable move to come in fresh with further positives a live F. Kirby barn and considerable class relief from the higher par events over the summer.

The local Hawthorne experience could present a further edge with #8 NO PAY NO HAY showing a similar, though not as strong (AVERAGE) Q2 Plot position shape along with ever consistent #10 SASSY WALKER coming in from FP as well.

The change in distance is key for #6 ANNIE’S HOPE on that projected to move up ONE_TURN/SPRINTER and did just that recording a B OptixGRADE under similar conditions on 10/12. Those route races could be reason for the Plot position and shape, not the most ideal position in this race Q3/4 Circle. She will make the transition back to the dirt, though should gain hold her form going back to prior starts both this year and course as well as from the DMR races in 2024.

#2 LADY HELENA takes a technical step up in class while also shortening up though in terms of par is closer to a lateral move. This seven time winner is eligible for this conditions with those wins not counting towards eligibility. 

#9 PALAGIO holds a massive class edge and even figure edge going back to their efforts in California. Their current form can be given an upgrade running HARD to pick up the belated maiden win while coming off the extended 363-day layoff back on 8/30. The connections did right by the horse given them 39-days recovery before placed to take on winners last month at KEE. There were still some additional hurdles though to their credit held form, showed run with the C+ OptixGRADE at the much higher par, recorded a speed figure in today’s par to win and did so through adversity making a WIDE MOVE after a TROUBLE_S in a VF early/late race shape with minimal change in running order and the pacesetters finishing 1-2.

#7 MOONRISE DRIVE returns from a pair of TROUBLE trips as shown in the OptixNOTES in the Past 3 Runlines and upgraded from those efforts while to their credit still pairing B- OptixGRADES. #2 LONE RETURN also upgraded from that 10/16 common race. Their race was tricky from the GATE restless inside SLOG coming out also encountered in running TROUBLE making a MOVE and strong GALLOP+. They recorded a B- OptixGRADE in line with MOONRISE DRIVE as well as #6 MONEY AGENT another showing run after the SLOG and consistent B_ OptixGRADES a this level this season to keep in the mix.

#8 CASH APP MIKE will be tested wheeling right back while taking on winners though reasonable to see them competitive in this group looking at their Plot position and Shape. #3 BLUES CROSS also looking to run on late and while they recorded a B OptixGRADE with a strong CLOSE into a Very Slow early/late pace and represented by a solid Q4 Square, this is a tougher spot with the move out of restricted F&M company to open here. 

Trainers L. Rivelli and J. Divito will be represented by a pair of FTS in this race and capable barns with this category and the biggest key will be getting visuals on both the horses and the board for additional clues.

#3 ROCKFEST also brings in steady works and should be absolutely race reason off that pattern of local works. They worked 10 flat back in the 2yo sale and made a positive appearance with plenty of upside for this individual handpicked by Divito. The same connections and similar work times/dates for #9 BOCA BEACH CLUB picking O. Mojica – since 2021 this jockey trainer combination with a positive ROI (36% win 63% ITM) though only one FTS in that sample, that horse back in 2021 finishing out of the money at HS Indy.

On paper the consistent and progressive work tab leans #1 GO CHICAGO over #7 HE GONE one that has some gaps though the swift gate half-mile drill on 10/26 should have them race ready. Looking at FTS jockey/trainer stats both rider J. Loveberry and A. Centeno have had success in this category while J. Loveberry often first call – 25% win with 49% ITM.

In terms of the runners with experience the trio returning from the 10/16 common race on the turf. That race expected more from the pair of #2 MR. IN PERSONAL and #4 UNION CAIT given their solid B debut efforts. While there was not the true “trip” excuse both horses raced WIDE and appeared that in running position was against the inside favoring profile. #6 COPPERJACKET was making their debut that day and showed run despite what may appear on running line and finishing position. They were GREEN and fractious in the gate making their MOVE outside in the lane and overall should benefit from the experience. 

The big change for many returning here is the race shape. The Sun/70 SpeedRate could change things up for horses that have had recent success with front running trips and softer paces and by contrast runners chasing off pace behind those moderate early fractions.

#6 LUCY’S LOOKIN LEFT coming out of the 9/21 start has that positive change in dynamic here and subtle change in class as well, while also moving off the rail, something that could further assist with trip and that tendency to SLOG.

Tracking first flight and primary pace contenders, #2 LILY’S CREED (front wrap removal would be a massive upgrade here) and #5 CAME UP ROSES taking up Q1 and Surface/Distance Squares: finds the outside pair of #9 PASTA SALAD RHONDA and #10 DESSERT FIRST wheeling back from the 10/5 common race with that noted dynamic to assist on trip.

#3 SHE BE SHEEHAN wheels back after setting the pace, a Very Fast pace, from the rail 10-days ago. While she could get caught up in another contentious pace here, she is not a “need the lead” type and can pass horses while a tactical change paired with a top effort could be her path to victory here.

Longshot #7 JOYZELLA finds a change in race shape, a move off the rail and rider change (TACTIC- in Past 3 Runlines) while stretching out for just the second time this season on the main track. The only main track route was against open company on 7/24 while racing under poor WEATHER conditions while a massive storm hit as the horses were in the paddock creating a long DELAY when finally on the track JOYZELLA was WIDE and NO_PUSH. Going back to prior season along with the 9/7 speed figure has numbers and efforts that could have her in their best change for a competitive race this meet.

#2 TAHOE RUN is a bit of a “wild card” in here though has enough to give consideration to at a price. Coming back this year from the layoff on 6/19, a race that appeared a PREP and even STRETCH on 7/10. They were unable to make the 8/21 route race and taking the return from the 87-day break with the 10/5 sprint under a similar par. A similar par recording a C+ OptixGRADE running behind the eventual open length BOS winner, Sir Sterling. The change in rider could be positive with Mojica aboard for their most recent win (June 2024) and showing early speed in that victory. That appears the tactical change with the class drop and stretch out. That could carry to turf as well and has been able to hold their form/figures on the turf, a limited two race sample with subtle trips in both to not hold the surface alone against them.

Now as far as early speed, it is unlikely TAHOE RUN will have a “lone” trip with #3 WHATDOYOUTHINKMARK in this field one that should be out in front early, returning to those front running ways, something they were compromised with on 9/21 with the outside post and TROUBLE_S.

TAHOE RUN could look to save ground and for first run, a trip #12 LAMPLIGHTER JACK could also be looking for from the outside – a in the clear stalk-and-pounce run as a capable scenario looking at OptixPLOT and Q1 position. That position carries positively right back to #10 WOODCOCK FLIGHT one that had a massive Plot upgrade and ran a “winning” B OptixGRADE effort settling for place in the photo/BLANKET finish at the wire on 10/9.

#1 CAUGHT OFF GUARD also upgraded as part of that 10/9 BLANKET finish something that could be overlooked with the 5^th place outcome in addition to the recent running lines and finishing positions. Trip and race dynamic should change here for them with the rail draw, outside (NO_COVER/WIDE) trips in their most recent starts and should hold value with that noted buried form in this full field – and in contrast to the other Q4 Squares, #9 EYE DEE KAY and #11 BOURBON LIFE.  

Tough to fault the connections of #1 CALIBRATE to try the Greenwood Cup (G3) looking for spot to compete in graded stakes company and overall CALIBRATE was not embarrassed they showed run, and the connections were not necessarily “wrong” picking that spot. Similar could carry here as they return to the turf. This will be the first time in a little over a year on the turf though similar timing from that 10/13 grass race in the final weekend of the meet under similar conditions. They recorded a BTL effort with in running TROUBLE finishing in a third and BLANKET finish at the wire.

Trip will be key here for all and in the case of CALIBRATE from the rail as the front runners – Q1/3 all sitting as Circles to suggest the winning trip should be first run tracking Square.

In addition to CALIBRATE #2 PROTONIC POWER shifting Plot position today from the Plot position upgrade picking up the 10/12 win and not a negative change moving forwardly for this race shape here. That spot is similar for #4 HARD TO FATHOM also coming off a win in their most recent start, a win that will have them stepping up in class here. With that said, they have run competitively at this level in the July 2024 series of races. Class wise they could be a touch below, though not out of it, just requires price compensation.

#7 ANOTHER MYSTERY was right there with PROTONIC POWER on 10/12 and has the ABOVE+ Class edge. Mojica has been a solid fit for this horse throughout his career and to work the trip today is not out of the question, though trip still must be considered back at the flat mile – similar for stablemate #6 EVEN THE WIND as a Q4 Square. C. Block sees fit to step up and wheeling right back in a week following the trip upgrade making an X_WIDE MOVE.

A. Hernandez also with a pair in this race, and while stablemate #9 BETTERA could be seen as lighter on numbers compared to their rivals, they have races fast enough to win here and following the 9/7 PERFECT trip win should be in position to run a new top third start of this cycle. 

The connections have been selective looking for the right race and timing for #4 OY GEVALD to note given the time since 9/4 race at KYD with a pair of Hawthorne allowance scratches during October. Their main track form and figures fit on par and returning to this circuit and main track suggests intent keying back to the B+ MSW win on 8/10. Their Speed and Class sit ABOVE and even for Surface/Distance should find a favorable tracking trip as a Q2 Square.

That position is a near overlap to potentially main rival #7 TRE ITALIAN and at least should be 1-2 in the wagering. TRE ITALIAN broke their maiden on debut at HS Indy in front running ways making a RUSH from the rail (SAVED) to prevail with pace pressure as the BOS. They moved from one post extreme to the other taking on winners for the first time at KEE on 10/9. In addition to ground loss (WIDE) they had to check off heels in the lane though at the time it appeared the outside trip played a bigger role than the TROUBLE- late as far as outcome.

Comparing the two on speed figures there is overall not much between them with the slight edge to OY GEVALD and similar when looking at the MSW win and B+ OptixGRADE while also recording solid B- OptixGRADES when in MSW company at ELP and OP to support on Class.

Playing in the underneath spots and looking at double digit ”longshot” runners to pair with the chalk: #3 GOOD TO BE PRINCE brings in some upside and enough for that supporting cast, underneath role. #2 EL MUCHO is lighter on speed figures to make the case for as a contender, though enough to consider on the Plot for underneath and for that to carry to #8 VERRAZANOINTHESKY as well. Tough to assess how the public will react with their wagering dollars to #13 BRODY given the string of show finishers, though if their reach double digit territory again, a clear include. 

The race par here came up very high for the level making a competitive race even more competitive. That carries to today’s race shape and extreme dynamic. The Snowflake Contention could give the appearance of a race that “does not have a lot of speed” though the higher 55 SpeedRate with the majority of the field positioned above the ParLine suggests honest fractions for this 85 distance.

That scenario gives a “longshot” look to #9 VISIONISTA one that should land higher odds in this field and overlooked in contrast to the more obvious off-the-pace types. In terms of VISIONISTA. Number wise she will require a new top, though if ever a time and place the change in class first time at the claiming level with the 49-day freshening should be it. The connections have in seasons at times (three exactly) entered at the claiming level though always scratched. The decision to run here for the tag appears intentional and paired with the timing and rider change should be looking for success late in the meet.

#1 ATMIDNIGHT shares a similar Plot position and shape while more "obvious" returning from the 10/9 win - a strong win in a race that set up perfectly for them. Not to say they cannot repeat, rather today's par is higher and value noted while presenting as a clear overlay last month. 

#7 CAT ATTACK can be dangerous especially if allowed to clear. Should #4 WANDA STRONG and #8 IZZY'S MONSTER be ridden to their tactical speed they should (along with #6 APRIL'S GEM) keep CAT ATTACK honest though there is a scenario for a steal. 

There are group of runners coming off obvious trips and other more subtle trips to upgrade here and at the same times others coming off favorable trips that can be downgraded.

#11 SHTARKER comes off an EX – EXCUSE with the TACTIC- (rider change made) making an X_WIDE RUSH X_BIAS over the turf course (inside favoring profile) on 10/16. They are unproven as far as surface distance, though have that clear trip upgrade and arguably some intent with the drop here and picking a spot to compete on closing day. #13 SAN ANTON also with a similar EX for all the same reasons from that 10/16 common race as shown in the Past 3 Runlines and preferred overall at ONE_TURN. They will look for racing luck here in more ways than one sitting on the AE along with #14 WOLF HUNTER.

M. Perez still represented in the main body of the field with #3 GAME SANTA upgraded for their second start against winners and from a subtle trip 10-days ago and looked to “need the race” returning from the 63-day layoff into that spot.

#2 GABE’S CHOICE lacked value on 10/12 as knock even before the race lacking an edge to support at a shorter number catching a higher race par. Today’s par is inline with the race back on 9/4 to move up with that subtle change and B- OptixGRADE on the day chasing behind their stablemate winner, Shaman Sez.

As far as recent downgrades, that was the case for #4 RUMBLING running a new top to B+ impressively break their maiden and a vulnerable favorite off that effort (REGRESS) when stepped up to take on allowance company on 10/16. The change in class should assist here though still will be tested with fellow front runner #6 REGAINED POWER as well as #12 BOURBON STREET BOY coming in fresh and back to the main track and softer spot for just a second race against winners.

The change in class should move up #8 COOL LESTER SMOOTH naturally as their recent, consistent speed figures fit right on par as shown color coded in light green. They should be fit with the cutback in distance and recency edge when comparing to #7 ZEE FIRE also on the distance cutback coming off the 77-day break and their Surface/Distance position in line with projected longshot, #5 MINIMO. 

Sticking to the theme of EX – EXCUSE #7 AWESOME SUNDAY returns from just that on 10/12 lunging straight up in the air at the break and losing a ton of ground both behind and sideways on the field chasing WIDE after unable to recover. She is not only upgraded from that trip (Form) and presenting ABOVE across the board – Speed/Plot/Class.

#1 DIXIE PENNY fits well in this race and returning to Hawthorne, the location of their three wins this year and the timing of those wins allowing eligibility here, a clever placement by A. Hernandez. Looking at the Plot and races this season, she has tactical speed and finishing ability with options for O. Mojica, things that could be crucial and perhaps the biggest hurdle with the rail.

#6 MAMBA OUT moves off the rail today and could be key for her in this spot and as far as trip. She also brings in a positive upswing in an “every other” pattern recording a B OptixGRADE with the win on 7/31 and B- against open claiming company on 9/11 with a subtle trip given the TROUBLE_S and WIDE RUSH on the day. 

Team Simonovich has had a great meet and could be saving the #1 DICK BEST for last in the seasonal finale. They return following a pair of scratches since the 10/2 higher par claiming event when parked WIDE compromised chasing a Fast early pace. It appeared the plan was to rate that day and following the 9/18 trip then given a HARD_LEAD into a Very Fast early pace, an X_FLOW upgrade staying on as the BOS despite the 4^th place outcome. The change in distance here back to a sprint along with F. Reyes aboard could see a tracking trip similar to the tough beat place finish going back to 5/22 at the N1 allowance level.

In terms of Speed/Plot/Class #2 HUEY ATTACK comes into this ABOVE+ the horse to beat in all of those categories, however, those races recorded in seasons past and now returning for a first start in 525-days creates some reservations.

#9 ALL ABOUT TONITE could look to hold a pace advantage with their early speed, a Q1 position above the ParLine. While they come into this race as a Circle, if they are able to get enough separation (and track decides to play speed for whatever reason as by the time this races runs it’ll be late and under the lights) they could be on the lead as the one to catch while also given an X_FLOW upgrade from the 10/23 start.

#4 ARROMAX could be upgraded (especially with front wrap removal) coming back from the B- RUSH WIDE trip with the cutback in distance. Throughout the summer at CBY they were most effective at the extended sprint 7f distance and find similar here at 6.5f.

From the opposite distance change the STRETCH for #11 ANCIENT MAN is a positive especially from the most recent 5.5f distance races. They can be a tougher runner to make the big win case for though the barn has popped with a few winners lateral and their form at the least from similar conditioned races this season fit for a minor share.

#8 COG figures to be a longshot in here for the reasonable reasons though another that could benefit from the extended sprint distance here and experience along with success at that distance in the past. Q4 Square #3 BOLDISH makes sense to consider for underneath with their recent outcomes, cutback in distance along with the Q4 Square position. 

1-PRINCE DAY has had a couple decent races and he’s dropping in class to make his turf debut. Could be good enough. 12-JOHNNY BOLT might be the quickest of these. He’s another dropper trying turf for the first time. 9-SAND CAST didn’t show a thing in five previous turf races but all were against maiden specials on a tougher circuit. Could awaken in this spot. 

Closely matched bunch of runners. Most are quick from the gate and at this short distance, doubt if any will hold back. 7-FROSTED ECLAIR could take advantage. She’s one of the few not likely to be involved in the early breakneck pace. Could run by late. 4-RAMBERT might be the quickest and she has shown some resolve when fighting for the lead. Might be the first out of the gate and hold sway all the way around. 10-HIALEAH HOTTIE jumps in class but she is two-for-two in turf sprints. Has to be worth a look. 

I think first time Lasix could help 7-LALY quite a bit. She used to be pretty quick but hasn’t been quite as competitive lately. Might grab the early lead in this spot and take it all the way. 10-SASSY WALKER hasn’t been at a level this low since she was claimed at Turfway early in the year. She’s been an even type of runner with competitive speed and the ability to close some. She isn’t likely to make a big late move or to try to outrun her rivals early but she might be able to grind out the win. 3-BL FORTY drops to meet her easiest field ever. She could be the best closer in the field and is a legitimate late threat if the pace sets up. 

3-BLUES CROSS is likely to be coming from far back. She narrowly missed in two of her last three races when the distances were too short. The weird thing was is that she didn’t show the same kind of run in the in-between race that was at this distance. She’s meeting the boys which makes her task more difficult but she could be tough if the pace sets up. 6-MONEY AGENT usually teases but he could be the best speed in the race. It’s been a while since he had a bad turf race. Maybe today he’ll be good enough. 2-LONE RETURN is more versatile than most in here and could be a factor on or off the pace. 

7-HE GONE has been training well like most Rivelli-trained runners do. Have to believe he’ll be ready to make his career debut. I heard 8-LITTLE KRUSH had some ability. He’s another making his debut off a good series of drills. 4-UNION CAIT is the only one in here with dirt race experience. He just missed graduating in his debut. He showed little in his follow-up race on the lawn but we know he can run well on the main track. 3-ROCKFEST might be the better of the two DiVito-trained runners in here. 

Don’t ignore 3-SHE BE SHEEHAN. She finished far back in her first start of the meet but her second race back was far better and she even took the lead before fading late. Drops a notch and races runs with another race under her belt. Can surprise. 10-DESSERT FIRST with a win and two seconds in her last three starts seems most likely in a field filled with runners in mediocre form. 6-LUCY'S LOOKIN LEFT was favored over Dessert First in last but had to settle for second place. She has, however, had the most local success with six wins in 17 local races. Can make amends.  

8-SAWYER FOX drops into straight claimers for the first time. He seems likely to be first from the gate. Have to worry about distance limitations since most of his races have been far shorter but he did have one race at the distance and narrowly lost after leading from the start. 12-LAMPLIGHTER JACK is another meeting his easiest field ever. He owns good route speed and we know he can handle the distance. 1-CAUGHT OFF GUARD is likely to get a favorable pace ahead of him. Attacks late. 

4-OY GEVALD has had two local races. He finished third on turf in his local debut and then crushed maiden rivals on dirt. Then he was sent to Kentucky to take on another tough turf field and didn’t show much. But he’s back here now and back on dirt. Should awaken. Lightly-raced 7-TRE ITALIANI might have been overmatched when shipped to Keeneland for his last start but repeated traffic woes didn’t help. He did look sharp breaking his maiden at Indiana in his previous start. He’ll never be far off the lead. 1-PONCHO ATTACK could show some late run. 

This race is filled with speed types so things should set up perfectly for 10-MISS RIVER RAT, 1-ATMIDNIGHT and 5-ROAR OF SILENCE among others. Miss River Rat won two of her last four races and finished in the money in the other two. Atmidnight is a well-traveled runner who just won locally for the first time while finishing second in her first two Hawthorne turf trips. Roar of Silence also won two of her last four, while finishing second to top choice in last. Can see 7-CAT ATTACK, 4-WANDA STRONG and possibly 8-IZZY'S MONSTER fighting for the lead. 

11-SHTARKER races on dirt for the first time in his career but he’s dropping a few levels to do it and his dirt works suggest he should be able to handle the surface. 8-COOL LESTER SMOOTH drops and turns back in distance. He showed little in previous sprints on any surface but he’s more seasoned now. 6-REGAINED POWER is blessed with plenty of early speed and has a legitimate chance to wire the field. 

1-DIXIE PENNY has been in great form when they run her at the right level and she’s at the right level today. She won the last three times she met straight claimers. Can get back to the winners’ circle. 7-AWESOME SUNDAY was favored in last when coming off a layoff and dropping in class but she reared leaving the gate and started off far behind the field. Deserves another chance. 8-SHARP ATTACK faces more seasoned rivals but she has been in good form and races for top-notch connections. 

4-ARROMAX is far from a strong choice but he has been competitive vs. better in recent dirt races. 9-ALL ABOUT TONITE looks like the best of the speed. He’s been tiring in his races but might last against this group. 2-HUEY ATTACK takes a big drop following a 17-month layoff. Not sure if he has anything left.