The Baruch Handicap – Grade II
SAR   Race #10   1 1/16m   InTurf   Graded Stake
Purse $250.000  For Three Year Olds And Upward.

1 Red Zebell, trained by Blazin D
Was a bit of a shock winner of the grade two MTH Stakes last time after being claimed just 6 weeks before when beaten in a $12.000 claimer. I think we all know by now that the class of the race doesn’t matter at HRP, though, and taking that run on it’s merits suggests this horse is up to this sort of race. Top weight however should be enough to see him battling for the minors rather than the win.

2 The Land, trained by Wolf Ridge Stables
Gets in here with a very fair weight, considering he has a much better turf record than the top weight. Whatever the reason he is rated lower should be enough, though, to make him very hard to beat though even if this trip may be on the sharp side for him.

3 Limato, trained by Chili King Stables
A decent three year old, but hasn’t got too many favours from the handicapper. He put in a 1:34 2/5 mile work at the end of July that puts him right in this race, but without the three year old weight allowance, he may find it tough.

4 Eighth Street, trained by Mb Stables
Has only run long twice in his career with one of those being in the Poker Handicap where he ran third. He has run some very good races over sprint trips on the dirt and goes to the turf here for a fair handicap mark. Turf works suggest he will be competitive.

5 Blue Vaqueros, trained by Crocker Ggs
For the life of me, I can’t see why this race is called a handicap when a three year old maiden winner with only three starts is given the same weight as a four year old that has placed at Grade One. Whatever the reason, the fact that this one worked one of the fastest 6 furlongs in the field makes me think that the even more ridiculous may happen and see him win.

6 Lure, trained by D J C racing Stables
This four year olds form had dropped off so badly that he was sold for just $50.000 in July. I can’t see a sudden turnround in form although if he has been galvinsied by his new surroundings, he does have enough past form to get into this.

7 What A Guarantee, trained by John Henry
He has run three good races without being outsanding since being bought from Australia Wide for $200.000. I like his 1:34 1/5 work in July, and this trip will suit more than the widish draw. The jury is still out with him.

8 Point The Way, trained by Axeman
This seven year old takes his chance from a nasty draw and looks like he may be set up as the early pace maker. That would normally mean he will weaken, but if he gets a soft lead he may have enough to cash a small cheque.

SUMMARY
Surely the three year old maiden winner with just three starts can’t win this….can it.

Categories: STAKES ARTICLES