Sharp claim as this one was taken for $7.500 via the hostile takeover, and has four seconds and a win since the haltering.  Closed well at CD last out going a flat mile, so the extra furlong seems to be something he will want, unless he goes back to his pace-setting ways.  No published works since that CD race, and you know I don’t like that.

Closed will to be fourth in the Hirsch Turf Classic (GI) last out, and that was facing older horses for the first time.  It broke up his three-race win streak (all stakes) and now that he’s back with his own age group, you have to think it’s a bit softer… or maybe not.  Either way, I’d give him a big look in this one.

Another nice claim… this one was haltered for $30.000 two back and has won both starts (stakes) for the new connections.  He has a 4-race win streak, overall, and I love his tactical speed that just seems to go on forever.  Nice rider… he’s got my eye!

Snagged from the Sept Auction for $33.000 and came back to be a fast closing second at BEL on a wet turf course for his first race in the new barn.  He seems to do his best work on the wet grass (has a second and a third) and they may be hoping for the same here today.

He’s been solid this season missing a check in one of his six starts and has back to back wins including a state-bred stakes score at BEL in his most recent.  I like the way he runs and the outside post is about the only thing that makes me think.  Still, I wouldn’t leave him off of the exotic tickets.

            Willie’s Green Card   3  /  5

Categories: Grade II