Friday, May 26, 2006

Race one at Hollywood Park is a 7 and 1/2 furlongs 8000 claiming race for Fillies and Mares four years old and upward. Non-winners of two races in 2006 are allowed 2lbs. and non-winners of a race in 2006 allowed 4lbs. Mercedes Dancer is the favorite in this six horse field, but caution should be applied. Mercedes Dancer is dropping a ton in class and had not showed anything special of late. The drop in class and sub-par workout times most likely means she is only running at partial ability.

One horse that jumps out is Phinadanz from Brazil. The main issue here is the layoff. Phinadanz has not run a race in about 7 weeks and the last workout was five weeks ago. It’s easy to see that this horse has potential in this field, but the layoff may be too much. Phinadanz typically runs 6 furlong races. Her last race was 6 and a 1/2 furlongs at Hollywood Park. He finished third in the 10,000 Claimer, 2 and a 1/2 lengths back.

I am going to go out on a limb in this one and bet on Playful Blint, who is pretty much off the radar. She’s a five year old mare with potential. The first thing to like, in my opinion, is the fact that she’s used to running for distance. There’s some debate as to whether on having only one turn today, verses the two she’s used to. The key will be a good start and a largely mistake free race. She has showed the ability to close. She’s ready to go too. Her last race was just two weeks back. I expect attention to be one other horses, so it’s likely to see Playful Blint go off at around 10-1.

Five Horse: Playful Blint
Morning Line: 6-1