QUIGLEY'S CORNER
Daily Del Mar Diary and Analysis
By HorsePlayer owner/publisher Tom Quigley
Wednesday, September 9, 2009 - Day 37 of 37
Sorry to those of you complaining about me not updating my diary the last few days, but I've been trying to squeeze every last drop out of life before I hit the 1/2 century mark this Sunday. Just remember two things: You only live once & you get what you pay for!
Quick story from The Corner this past Friday afternoon. As the 10 dime fillies & mares were about to walk by for race 5, I got jostled in the back by somebody trying to squeeze in & get a closer view. I glance over & it's trainer Patrick Biancone, who I'm actually startled to see so interested in these bottom level fillies. I quickly comment, in jest: "You dropping on one of these?" No response from the rather rude Frenchman, followed by another comment from me: "You could buy the whole field, Patrick." No reply, no nothing & with that, he walks away after only the first three fillies in the field had passed by. I thought it was maybe the garlic french fries I ate for lunch, but lo and behold, you might want to check the result chart & add the lone filly that was claimed out of the race to your stable mail!
Much more cordial visitors to the Corner over the extended Labor Day weekend included former New Orleans Councilman Eddie Sapir, NTRA Director of Marketing Fritz Widaman, Players Network producer Jenna Bodnar, HorsePlayer contibuting writer Rich Halvey, jockey agent Tommy Ball, thoroughbred owners John J Greely III, Jon Lindo & Mike Carney, trainer Matt Chew, TVG host Bill Seward, Dave (brother of Tony) Sinsi, Steve Tartaglione and die-hard Cub fan Bill Leutzinger, visiting from sweet home Chicago.
If you've fallen in love with Zensational to win the BC Sprint, you better hope trainer Bob Baffert works on getting him out of the gate more sharply. If he keeps up the antics he's displayed in the beginning of his last two starts, he's a play against for me the first weekend in November.
Saddest sight EVER: Seeing Del Mar in my rear view mirror later this evening as I head back home on the 5 Freeway north to Los Angeles. Hope you've had as much fun reading my diary as I have writing it. See you next year, God willing!
Wednesday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
Hall-of-Fame trainer Ron McAnally needs a road map to the winners circle these days, but I love the chances of his runner in race 6. Here's what I wrote in my Horses-to-Watch list just a few weeks ago:
"August 6th, 1st race: MORGAN LANE, unraced since January, but having shown a previous fondness for the Del Mar polytrack surface, received a "drunken sailor" ride from jockey Joe Talamo to just miss at odds of 6/1. Hall of Fame Trainer Ron McAnally doesn't win many thses days, but this five-year-old mare could get him off the duck list in her next start."
Since then, Ronnie Mac is off the duck list, and if you take a closer look at Morgan Lane's pp's, you'll see that last year at Del Mar, she improved in her second start over the track to win by 6. I'll settle for anything over a nose.
RACE 6: #7 MORGAN LANE $100 WIN
Ticket Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: - $100 (No plays Saturday, Sunday or Monday)
Meet to Date Results: - $1,222
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Friday, September 4, 2009 - Day 33 of 37
I know you'll find this surprising, but we have a Pick 6 carryover of $91,515 to kick off the start of Pacific Classic Festival weekend. The unfortunate & ironic part of today's carryover is that if a certain acquaintance of The Corner had not changed their ticket in the opening leg on their Pick 6 ticket yesterday, there would be no carryover as they would have had the only ticket. Ouch!
Speaking of the Pacific Classic, I attended the post position draw party on Wednesday evening for the big race. Always a special event on the Del Mar social calendar, the event was held at the spectacular L"Auberge hotel in Downtown Del Mar overlooking the crystal blue Pacific ocean. Two women I spoke to that night were the highlight of the evening for me: Trainer Helen Pitts, who conditions Einstein, the likely second betting choice in the 19th running of the Pac Classic and in case you forgot, also developed Curlin as a baby before being privately sold to Jess Jackson; and Antoinette Taverna, the incredibly sharp 86 years young mother of Raceandsports Radio show host Felix Taverna, visiting from Orlando FL.
The unofficial after-party after the post position draw continued at Jimmy O's across the street from L'Auberge. As you know, I'm a visual handicapper who spends alot of time assessing body language and if you knew what I saw taking place between two very high-profile members of our industry (of the opposite sex) as the clock struck midnight, let's just say you'd be very surprised. Don't worry, kids; my lips are sealed (kind of like yours were).
Visitors to the Corner during the last 48 hours included Keith Chamblin and Carter Carnegie from the NTRA, jockey David Flores, John Avello, Race & Sports Book Director for Wynn Las Vegas, Jeff "Woody" Copeland, "Elevator" Gail, Santa Anita Bartender Nola Ferraro, and TVG personality and Turf Paradise announcer Frank Mirahmadi.
Friday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
In this weeks edition of the TVG e-newsletter, HorsePlayer contributing writer Dean Arnold talks about the handicapping importance of a trainer shipping in at the end of the meet as others are shipping out. And he makes a good point that has merit in today's 7th race. Northern California high percentage trainer Kent Molinaro sends down Welken, a mare who has never finished out of the money in five career turf starts. She certainly looks live on the drop & is likely to get claimed, not only based on her racing ability but also as a broodmare prospect.
Race 7: $100 Win #8 Welken
Ticket Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: - $100 (No play Thursday)
Meet to Date Results: - $1,122
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Wednesday, September 2, 2009 - Day 31 of 37
I'm starting to sound like a broken record, but we have carryovers today in the Pick 6 ($168,634) and Super High 5 ($46,815).
My bad in Sunday's diary. Remember how I wrote about a horse that swerved behind starter Gary Brinson? The race in which it actually happened was Friday's 9th race, not Saturday's 2nd race as I incorrectly stated. Click Here to watch it for yourself.
Humans seen swerving around The Corner on Sunday included DMTC fan committee member Jeff Herbst, former jockey Julie Krone, trainers Doug O'Neill, Mike Machowsky and John "Cowboy" Ferzacca, thoroughbred owner Mark (West Side Rentals) Verge and HRTV personality Peter Lurie.
Week Six Horses-to-Watch:
August 28th, 7th race: UNUSUALLY HOT, breaking from the rail in her first start since April, was off slow & overall got a very tenative ride from the apprentice jock. Look for trainer Kathy Walsh to possibly point this one down the hill at Oak Tree (a course this filly has won on before) & to upgrade the pilot next time out.
August 29th, 5th race: GINNY FITZ, a first-time starter from the Eric Kruljac barn, looked racing fit on her way out to the track & put in a bold late run to finish a good third at 16/1 odds. Plenty of upside here after this debut performance.
August 29th, 9th race: EXCELLENT NEWS did all the dirty work setting quick early fractions & dug in gamely down the lane to just miss against a very well intentioned rival. Cap & gown next time out at a short price.
August 30th, 9th race: ASHEE will be on every Joe's horses-to-watch list. Granted the trouble was severe, but the winner was a 25/1 shot & the final 1/8 mile resembled harness horse time. Be a contrarian and bet against this Cal-bred filly next time out.
Wednesday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
Readers of my diary from last year will recall that I had considerable success providing them with a single to play confidently on Pick 6 carryover days. Let's see if I can duplicate that success today with a selection from my horses-to-watch list. Here's what I wrote a few weeks ago:
"August 5th, 5th race: MOON O'ER CASHEL was tons the best when missing by a head to the eventual wire-to-wire winner (Lavender Touch), who set a leisurely opening 1/4 mile split of 23.27 in this 6 1/2 furlong event. Underrated trainer Leonard Powell conditions this lightly raced five-year-old, who will be tough to beat next time out in a nw2 claiming race."
Race 5: $100 Win #6 Moon O'Er Cashel
Ticket Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $1,022
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Sunday, August 30, 2009 - Day 30 of 37
I continue to be envious of the information Del Mar Head Honcho Joe Harper puts on his blog. I hate being scooped :-)
Speaking of scoops, looks like no one in the mainstream racing print media (including the chartcaller!) has reported yet that in yesterday's second race, the filly breaking from the #1 post (Lovehi), broke behind starter Gary Brinson. Gary told me later in the day that's only happened to him one other time in his long & storied career.
If you're in need of some comedic relief, go back & watch the replay of Friday's fifth race, specifically the ride on Engine Sixty Nine. For her antics, jockey Jordan Springer received a 10 day suspension from the stewards.
Visitors to the Corner during the last 48 hours included former jockey Zoe Cadman, Kenny Rasmussen, Tina Wilson & John Unick.
Sunday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
A horse who was listed in my weekly Horses to Watch listing a few weeks ago runs in today's 6th race. Here's what I wrote:
"August 15th, 3rd race: SENSATIONAL SCORE, carrying a bit of extra weight as he walked by the Corner, was claimed out of this third place performance by trainer Doug O'Neill. This hard knocking six-year-old gelding has shown a propensity to like the racing surfaces at both Del Mar and Fairplex so pay close attention wherever he surfaces next."
And don't forget, you can get an up-to-the-minute report from me in the paddock later today to see if Sensational Score appears to be more racing fit than last time by following me for FREE on twitter at Quigleys_Corner.
Race 6: $100 Win #2 Sensational Score
Ticket Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: -$100 (No play Saturday)
Meet to Date Results: - $922
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Friday, August 28, 2009 - Day 28 of 37
If you happen to be near a TV set later today at 2:10 pm pacific time showing the Del Mar simulcast signal, turn up the volume & take a listen as I'll be the guest handicapper on the pre-race show. Hosted by John Lies, we'll review all 9 of today's races plus have an in-depth discussion on how Del Mar & HorsePlayer Magazine have embraced new technology together by offering my daily paddock report "tweets" (for FREE) at twitter.com/Quigleys_Corner
You remember the beginning of the old Wide World of Sports TV show where the ski jumper wipes out and the voice over says "the thrill of victory...and the agony of defeat"? Well, that's how yours truly has been feeling the last 48 hours. You see, I was alive to 6 horses in the last race of the Pick 4 on Wednesday, with payouts ranging from $1,000 to $47,000. Naturally, I ran second, third & fourth & didn't have the winner, which paid $7,000. But the good news is two avid readers of my diary (independently of each other) played $36 tickets & hit it, letting me know that they wouldn't have played nor had all 4 winners if they hadn't read my Wednesday diary. Then yesterday, another avid reader of this diary was a 1/3 partner in a winning Pick 6 ticket, which paid over $17,000. Congrats, boys! Those who know, do!
From the thumbs up & thumbs down department: If you're lucky enough like my buddies to hit a nice score, I can attest that the absolute best restaurant in the Del Mar area is < a href="http://www.marketdelmar.com/">The Market, located just east of the racetrack on Via de la Valle. Outstanding food, superb service & a good vibe all combine to make it a very special experience & one that will personally be a highlight of my mine from the 2009 racing season. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Bully's in the Del Mar village is an old, tattered sully establishment with rude service & less than marginal food that is way overpriced.
Who knew that I might have to start a daily police blotter? First, we had the tragic murder/suicide of the couple that played in the charity poker event earlier this month, now we get news that former UK basketball coach Billy Gillispie, a annual visitor to the Del Mar paddock, was arrested on Wednesday night on suspicion of DUI. One question: Look, I know getting a DUI is not funny stuff, but how do you get one in Lawrenceburg, KY and not Del Mar, CA?
As far as I know, the following visitors to The Corner yesterday obeyed all aspects of the motor vehicle code: Dr. Bob McNamara, Fernando Valenzuela (the former jockey, not the ex-Dodger pitcher phenom), and Maurizio, the personable host of Vigilucci's in La Jolla.
Welcome back Rafael. No, not Nadal, you tennis nurds, but rather the jockey, Mr. Bejarano, who makes his return to racing today with three mounts on the card.
Friday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
The beauty of handicapping is that you never stop learning. And one of the tidbits I recently learned from my esteemed colleague, Frank Scatoni, the editor of HorsePlayer Magazine, is that over the last five years, trainer Richard Mandella is batting 50% (2 for 4) with firsters going two turns on turf at Del Mar. He's got one in today that fits that profile.
Race 4: $100 Win #2 Exploration
Ticket Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: Previous Day Results: -$72 (No play Thursday; Wednesday play revised due to late scratches)
Meet to Date Results: - $822
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Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - Day 26 of 37
Attractive carryovers today in the Pick 6 ($193,145) and Super High 5 ($65,012).
Weekend visitors to the Corner included thoroughbred owners "Perfect" Pablo Suarez & Tom Noone, Monmouth Beach, NJ residents Mr & Mrs Joe Boyle, Today's Racing Digest workout analyst Bruno De Julio, veteran tourney player Brian MacClowry, Santa Anita Marketing Manager Nate Newby (with his super cool wife Sterling), Traci Block with her friends and long time pari-mutuel employee Corrie Storm with her two beautiful granddaughters, Devan & Callie de los Reyes.
Week Five Horses-to-Watch:
August 20th, 1st race: TRIBAL FACE, a first-time starter from the Steve Knapp barn, showed grit & determination down the lane against the more experienced 4/5 winner to just miss in a race in which he might have been best. Tab him for a bright future in the Cal-bred ranks.
August 22nd, 5th race: STICKY CANDY, although losing to a filly in this race, finished an ok second but was claimed by sharp trainer Ron Ellis for what could turn out to be a bargain basement price of $32,000 based upon his breeding. Look for him to stretch out to two turns next time out.
August 22nd, 6th race: VISCOUNT's trainer, Bob Baffert, probably still has steam coming out of his ears after the ride jockey Garrett Gomez gave this lightly raced three-year-old. If you didn't see the race, go back & watch the replay now as it's unlikely this ride will be part of Gomez's Hall of Fame highlight reel.
August 23rd, 1st race: ONE CHIN AGAIN, something I hope for every day I look in the mirror, got dueled into submission down the backside. Give him one more chance going long if he looks to be the controlling speed of his next race.
Wednesday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
Readers of my diary from years past know that I love to play the Pick 4 on Pick 6 carryover days. That's because many of the syndicates use the Pick 4 pool to "hedge" against their Pick 6 ticket, using horses they don't neccessarily like, thereby inflating the pool with "misspent" dollars. So today, not only will we have an inflated pool, but the Pick 4 sequence is a more difficult one to hit than what we normally see on the Southern California circuit, so let's do our best Charles Manson impersonation & take a stab at it.
Race 6: #2 Jana Gail, #6 Royally Large & #8 Salty Fries
Race 7: #8 Legends of My Own & #12 Baroda Court
Race 8: #1A Skyrush, #2 Worldly, #3 Becrux, #7 Prussian & #8 Knockout Artist
Race 9: #1 Fiery Rebel, #6 El Rifle and #7 Pinstripe Kid
Ticket Cost: 3x2x5x3x$1=$90
Previous Day Results: Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $750
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Friday, August 21, 2009 - Day 23 of 37
You won't need to worry about wearing a parka, but today will be the worst day weather-wise so far this meet. And even though we're faced with a gloomy overcast sky, there will also be no need for you to worry about any off the turf or MTO entrant nuttiness like the revered Spa 2,000 miles to our east.
The HorsePlayer Magazine management team continued it's recent emphasis on male bonding last night as myself, General Manager Jeff Sotman & Editor Frank Scatoni had a very enjoyable dinner on the brand new sidewalk patio at Sbicca's. Located at 215 15th Street in the heart of the Del Mar village, it's an absolute must visit establishment before or after the races as the food & drink is superb.
Birthday boy Mark ("3/5") Nichols celebrated his 50th birthday one day early yesterday by hangng out at the Corner. Those who toasted him included jockey agent Richie Silverstein, thoroughbred owner Doug Hames, syndicated handicapper Terry Turrell, and Scott Kaplan, co-host of the popular & successful Scott & BR morning sports talk show heard locally on XX Sports 1090 AM.
Friday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
No doubt Lava Man was a very talented horse, but I would make the argument that he was an even better turf horse than he was on dirt, as evidenced by his powerful & impressive victory a few years back in the G1 Charlie Whittingham at Hollywood Park. My reason for bringing this to your attention is because Lava Man's 1/2 brother, Enriched, is running in today's 5th race going one mile on the turf. Let's see how strong the gene pool is.
Race 5: $100 Win #7 Enriched
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $1,030
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Thursday, August 20, 2009 - Day 22 of 37
The busiest day of the meet in terms of socializing at the Corner occured yesterday. And that's the beauty of the Del Mar meet - you never know what each day is going to bring! Those who dropped in to have a good time included the beautiful tag team duo from TVG of Christina Olivares & Nancy Ury, additional TVG employees Jeff Chapman & Brian Hernandez, "Clocker" Donald Harris with his parents, Santa Anita bartender extraordinare Annie Lewis, Pat "I'll see you in the Cashier's Line" McQuiggan, state auditor Jimmy McBeth, and last but not least, former Racebook Director for the Coast properties, Muggsy Muniz.
Apprentice jockey Christian Santiago Reyes recorded his 40th career win yesterday in the seventh race, which means his weight allowance is now five pounds, rather than seven. The irony is that Mr. Reyes should have recorded his 40th win in race 4 yesterday, but was absolutely SCHOOLED
I'll close with what good friend & trainer analyst Frank ("Up With People") Tate said so profoundly yesterday at the Corner: "Violence is underrated!"
Thursday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
If you like maiden races, today is your lucky day as we've got four on tap. I'll tackle the nightcap as I believe trainer Kathy Walsh has the race surronded, plus a little birdie told me the Sherlock first-time starter might have some talent.
Race 8: $10 Exacta Box: #4 Meetyouatgrouion's, #7 CT's Sunshine Gal & #10 Deputy Judy RN ($60).
$20 Win & Place #7 CT's Sunshine Gal ($40).
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $930
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Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - Day 21 of 37
You know that person who tells you all about the new movie you haven't seen yet that kinda ruins all the fun out of seeing it anyway? I'm that guy today.
On Sunday night (and as I vaguely remember into early Monday morning), I attended the second season premiere screening of "Jockeys" at a charity event at Yogi's Beach Bar near the Del Mar Racetrack. Jockeys Mike Smith, Alex Solis, Kayla Stra and about 150 other industry types gathered for a raucous way to end the week. OK, I'll keep it interesting by only telling you this much - in the first episode, to be aired on the Animal Planet network this Friday evening at 10 pm, the portrayal of jockey Corey Nakatani is not likely to endear himself to many trainers, owners or racing fans.
Condolences to Hall of Fame jockey Laffit Pincay, Jr., whose father passed away over the weekend at the age of 86. Click here for more info.
Weekend visitors to the Corner included Harry & Gina Furlong from Twinspires.com, Steve ("HOY") Terelak, Tom ("Honus") Wagner, Stu Kirshenbaum & Karen Johnson, John Boczak, Jeff Strang, basketball coaches Al Bianchi & Billy Gillispie, Frank Lyons and LA Channel 2 morning news anchor Suzanne Rico.
Week Four Horses-to-Watch:
August 13th, 4th race: SIBERIAN HEART, although not bred to go a route of ground, sure is a long legged filly who is lightly raced and could be dangerous first time long in the maiden claiming ranks.
August 14th, 6th race: CAT CALLOWAY took a ton of betting action (M/L 9/2, final odds 3/1), and ran a credible second on a day in which there was a pronounced inside speed bias. Might earn her diploma next time out on a fairer racing surface.
August 15th, 3rd race: SENSATIONAL SCORE, carrying a bit of extra weight as he walked by the Corner, was claimed out of this third place performance by trainer Doug O'Neill. This hard knocking six-year-old gelding has shown a propensity to like the racing surfaces at both Del Mar and Fairplex so pay close attention wherever he surfaces next.
Wednesday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
Six Pack Abs is not something you see very often at the Corner, but the horse by that name running in Race # 2 today made a very favorable impression walking by prior to his last race on August 1st. Given a confident boost up in class off the claim by trainer Jeff Mullins, he's likely to flash intense early speed. Let's hope the Wednesday surface plays kindly to his running style.
Race 2: $100 Win #4 Six Pack Abs
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: Previous Day Results: +$110 (Saturday - No Diary Sunday)
Meet to Date Results: - $830
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Friday, August 14, 2009 - Day 18 of 37
I've got some really depressing news to share with you - Tomorrow's fifth race represents the 1/2 way point of the 2009 Del Mar racing season.
Pick 6 carryover today of $91,470. First post is 3 pm (on Fridays) and Common Sense performs in concert after the races.
In case you haven't heard, beginning tomorrow evening, HRTV will be broadcasting the Del Mar daily replay show. Click here for more information.
The CARMA charity poker event last night was attended by over 200 racing dignitaries, including yours truly. I can safely report that the final table of 11 included trainer Peter Miller, jockey Tyler Baze, bloodstock agent "Little" Alex Solis, and Bert "Teller" Tiernan. However, what I can't safely report is the winners name, other than that his nickname is Easy Ed.
The Corner was brightened up considerably on Thursday by the two "hottest" handicappers to visit so far this meet: Ashley Stevens & Savanna Legg (appropriately named). Naturally, they were chaperoned around the track the entire day by HorsePlayer GM Jeff "Don't call me Hugh" Sotman. Some of the males observed trying to put their eyeballs back into their socket included TVG's Mike Joyce, Georgie O from Hollywood Park, Tipsheet handicapper Deuce Bruce and Mike from Palomar Limosuine.
Friday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
Due to alcohol and/or other mind altering medications, the Details R Sketchy often times at the Corner. However, that's not why I like this three-year-old gelding in Race 4 today. What I do like his ability to fire fresh (he won his debut race), his trainers proficiency for getting horses to run well the first time they step foot on the turf course, and his morning line odds of 5/1. And if he hits the wire in front, the details may once again get sketchy thereafter.
Race 4: $100 Win #4 Details R Sketchy
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $840
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Thursday, August 13, 2009 - Day 17 of 37
I'm not sure of the reasons why, but the Super High 5 pools at Del Mar have not been as large as they were earlier this year at Santa Anita & Hollywood. Nevertheless, we have a carryover today of $31,192.
It might or might not be the next rendition of the Hatfields & McCoys, but I found it interesting that trainer Jeff Mullins dipped in & claimed Dances With Tigers in Race 7 yesterday. That's because Dances With Tigers former trainer was Bobby Troeger, who used to be one of Mullins assistants & earlier this year abruptly left that position, setting up his own stable & taking some of Mullins' owners with him. Shit damn!
Attention Saratoga players: Youbet.com has a new innovative promotion wherby if you hit the $500,000 guaranteed late Pick 4 on Saturday's, they'll add another 10% on top of the posted price. Click here to read the details. Possible sign of things to come as the battle bettween ADW's heats up to attract players to their platforms?
Yesterday might have been the most boring day in the history of the Corner. No hypes, no grypes & no new faces. Who knows, maybe the weather (overcast & cool) had something to do with it. Fortunately, we're back to ideal Del Mar weather today.
Thursday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
I'm not sure of the reasons why, but the Super High 5 pools at Del Mar have not been as large as they were earlier this year at Santa Anita & Hollywood. Nevertheless, we have a carryover today of $31,192. We've got our first Weekly Horses to Watch list horse running back today in Race 6. Here's what I wrote on July 29th:
"July 23rd, 4th race: PICO PICO looked great in the paddock, was bet down to 5/2 favoritism, got off to a slow start, but kept to his task in a race where this two-year-old colt displayed that he has plenty of upside."
To further validate Pico Pico's performance, the last place finisher in that race (Purse Lava) came back to easily win the 8th race on August 6th.
Race 6: $100 Win #1 Pico Pico
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $740
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Wednesday, August 12, 2009 - Day 16 of 37
Although the decision was LONG overdue, kudos to the Breeders' Cup management team for implementing the colored saddle cloths! Click here to read the entire story.
One of the highlights of the Del Mar social calendar occurs tomorrow evening when CARMA hosts its annual Texas Hold'em Poker Tournament Charity Fundraiser. Located at the Del Mar Hilton, the event begins at 6:00 pm & will be attended by a veritable Who's Who of those involved in the racing industry. Click here for details or to register.
Those who paid homage to the Corner on Sunday included professional handicapper Aaron Hesz, new restaurant owner Lisa Garber, former Del Mar trackman Chuckles Hernandez, Tony Sinsi, Odds Director for Las Vegas Sports Consultants & Mike "Comrade" Hobin.
Week Three Horses-to-Watch:
August 5th, 5th race: MOON O'ER CASHEL was tons the best when missing by a head to the eventual wire-to-wire winner (Lavender Touch), who set a leisurely opening 1/4 mile split of 23.27 in this 6 1/2 furlong event. Underrated trainer Leonard Powell conditions this lightly raced five-year-old, who will be tough to beat next time out in a nw2 claiming race.
August 6th, 1st race: MORGAN LANE, unraced since January, but having shown a previous fondness for the Del Mar polytrack surface, received a "drunken sailor" ride from jockey Joe Talamo to just miss at odds of 6/1. Hall of Fame Trainer Ron McAnally doesn't win many thses days, but this five-year-old mare could get him off the duck list in her next start.
August 9th, 3rd race: SWEET ALLIE MARIE, sneezing as she walked by the Corner on her way out to the track, showed unexpectedly sharp early speed with the addition of blinkers & stretching out for the first time to a route of ground. Also hampered by a poor post position, she ultimately wound up DFL, but I would be more than willing to draw a line through this effort & follow her closely in her next start for hot trainer Barry Abrams.
Wednesday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
The barn of Mike Puype is not exactly sizzling so far at the meet, but his one winner (from 18 starters) did occur with a layoff horse who had not started since October (July 24th, 2nd race: Bruce's Dream). He's got two entered today that fit that profile, both with healthy morning line odds & excellent works as reported by clocker Andy Harrington of National Turf. I'll bet both to win & also play a win parlay as well.
Race 1: $30 Win #1 Ornamental Torch
Race 9: $30 Win #11 De Brief Me
Race 1: $40 Win Parlay: #1 Ornamental Torch to Race 9 #11 De Brief Me
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: Previous Day Results: - $20 (Patricia's Gem scratched on Sunday, leaving me with a losing $10 two horse exacta box ticket).
Meet to Date Results: - $640
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Sunday, August 9, 2009 - Day 15 of 37
The mantra at the Corner yesterday was a simple one: "Stay thirsty my friends."
Some of those who sipped on the Kool-Aid included Rick Stein, Tambalynn Alward, George Colbert, legendary jockey agent Vince DeGregory and former DMTC exec T. Pat Stubbs.
And as I say at least once during every Del Mar season: I feel sorry for people who don't drink. The best they are going to feel all day long is when they wake up in the morning.
Sunday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
Look, I'm as a big of fan as Zenyatta's as anyone else out there. But being a fan & being a horseplayer are two completely different emotions that often times need to be seperated. So if the Del Mar Polytrack surface plays out anything like it did yesterday (and that's a big if), then the champ might be in trouble as both route races on Saturday (4th & 6th) were won by wire-to-wire types. So while my heart later this afternoon will be rooting for the Queen to remain undefeated, my wallet will be cheering against her.
Race 8: $20 Win & $20 Show #2 Patricia's Gem ($40) (To capitalize on the anticipated negative show pool).
Race 8: $10 Exacta Box: #2 Patricia's Gem, #5 Champagne Eyes & #8 Anabaa's Creation ($60).
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $620
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Saturday, August 8, 2009 - Day 14 of 37
From the Good News Department: Legendary basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian has been released from the hospital, just in time to celebrate his 79th birthday today. Get well soon Coach; hope to see you at the Corner sometime during the next 23 racing days left at Del Mar!
In case you care, jockey Aaron Gryder has switched agents, going from Craig O'Bryan to Tommy Ball. Call me a skeptic, but I don't think it's gonna matter.
Condolences to the family of former trainer John Pappalardo, who passed away this week at the age of 85. Although I didn't personally know John, racetrack lore has it that he was quite the character. Sounds like he would have fit right in at the Corner.
The characters that were at the Corner yesterday included Jim "El Presidente" Kostas (from DRF), Steve "No Vertical" Young, Jason "I Love All Cougars" Ward, Gail DeSantis, (the way better half of Johnny D), and Mark "Tickets" Leib.
Saturday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
For my Play of the Day, let's visit my home town, Sweet Home Chicago, where they're running the Arlington Million, a race I recall with great fondness as I was there to witness both of John Henry's historic performances. And while my selection today might not be in the same league as good old John, he's certainly one of the coolest horses in training as he's got only one to go, which is pedal to the metal. Of course, I'm referring to #2 Precious Passion, a horse I tabbed as the 2009 BC Turf winner after his unbelievable performance last time out in the United Nations Handicap at Monmouth Park. Sit back & enjoy the ride.
Arlington Park, Race 9: $100 Win #2 Precious Passion
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $520
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Friday, August 7, 2009 - Day 13 of 37
As promised in yesterday's diary, I found out that the one winning Pick 6 ticket on Wednesday ($99,947) cost $16 and was purchased at a New York City OTB. Further proof that the old saying "it's better to be lucky than good" still holds mucho merit.
Even though I'm a hard core horseplayer, I always put the safety of the thoroughbred first & foremost above anything else, so even though this is the first time I've heard anything about this, I'm all for it!
Paid my first visit to Petco Park last night to watch the Padres game, courtesy of HorsePlayer GM Jeff Sotman. Joining Jeff and I at the game (where we had primo seats 17 rows above the Padres on-deck circle), were HorsePlayer Editor Frank Scatoni & Ron "Golden" Pailet. Ron is a professional gambler who played the Padres to win the game (they did) and also had the Dodgers to win their game as well. And if you saw the 9th inning of the Dodgers game last night against the Atlanta Braves, you now have a better understanding of why we call him Golden!
Friday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
A poor running line can often be a horseplayers best friend. And that's the situation we find ourselves in today, having to evaluate the performance of #7, Oceanor, in the second race. His last race looks horrific on paper, but maybe we can find some legitimate reasons to excuse it, starting with that was a route race, with a poor post position, in his first race back after a 60 day layoff. Freshly claimed by trainer Doug O'Neill & the Great Friends stable, they see fit to wheel him back in just 7 days at a higher claim price. Methinks there's more here than what meets the eye.
Race 2: $100 Win #7 Oceanor
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $420
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Thursday, August 6, 2009 - Day 12 of 37
I'll find out the details from my friends in the mutuel department & pass it on to you tomorrow, but hard to believe there was one winning ticket in the Pick 6 yesterday when the $1 Pick 4 paid 40 dimes.
However, there is a Super High 5 carryover today of $33,066.
I'm glad I'm quickly closing in on 50 & don't have any Cougars chasing after me if the winner of the Cougar 2009 contest held yesterday at Del Mar Miss Rosie Goldstein is the best of the lot. Yikes! On a related note, no confirmation yet from the Marketing Department that promotion pamphlets are being passed out in the Hillcrest area of San Diego to promote the "Best Pal" stakes this Sunday at Del Mar.
If you're looking for a fun way to spend your lunch hour on Friday before the races, don't forget about Cool Fridays, which starts at 1:00 pm every Friday at Jimmy O's in Downtown Del Mar. Not only do they have great food & drink, but Raceandsports Radio Show host Felix Taverna will be talking horses, with his specal guests this week being Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith & thoroughbred owner Tom Lenner.
Wednesday's wackiness at the Corner included visits from Mohegan Sun Racebook Manager Zack Montoya, trainers JC Green & Gary Stute, recent Grade 1 winning owner Shawn Turner (L-Bo Racing - Global Hunter) and Las Vegas resident Tony Vega.
Thursday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
Tough beat right on the wire yesterday with our Play of the Day, but if you're following me on Twitter (Quigleys_Corner), you know that I more than made up for it on the remainder of the card. Today, my Play of the Day occurs in Race 2, where I like the #7 Glory Forever, trained by Carla Gaines, who saddled a similar two-year-old first-time starter that won this past Sunday for the same owner.
Race 2: $100 Win #7 Glory Forever
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $320
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Wednesday, August 5, 2009 - Day 11 of 37
Only a racetrack like Del Mar, teeming with hedonistic adults five days a week & nestled close to the filthy rich "bedroom" community of Rancho Santa Fe, could get away with having a "Cougar" (see Urban Dictionary meaning here) contest, which is what's taking place in conjunction with today's featured 8th race. It should make for an interesting winners circle presentation if you're on-track or watching in simulcast land, in particular if the #4 horse wins. I'm just saying...
He might not have as much talent as Indian Charlie's namesake, but my namesake nevertheless did me proud yesterday north of the border. Click here if you want to see what the hell I'm talking about.
If you're at work bored, with nothing to do today or tomorrow morning at 9:30am pacific time, tune into the Race Day Las Vegas Radio Show, hosted by Ralph Siraco, as I'll be discussing my daily Del Mar paddock tweets. And if you're not yet signed up (Quigleys_Corner), you missed out on some great information Sunday when I tweeted the following message 8 minutes prior to the running of the San Diego Handicap:
In r8 the 6 looks a little heavy off the layoff and offers no value. Instead play the 2 and 5 both of whom looked good in the paddock. Result: 2 and 5 dominate the race while the 6, the 3/5 favorite, finishes DFL. 2 pays $15 to win and the 2-5 $1 exacta pays $53.30.
And while those mutuels helped me in the Del Mar Handicapping Challenge tournament, it wasn't even remotely close to the total number eventual winner Don Beardsworth, from Peoria, AZ, put up when he played a $25 trifecta and $50 exacta in race 9 that netted him close to $23,000 dollars. With that score, Beardsworth turned his initial $6,000 live money bankroll into $27,316, and picked up an additional $20,000 in prize money added by DMTC for first place. Corey Johnsen, who received an additional $5,000 for finishing in second, was joined on the leaderboard by Mickey Seagle, Ed Briggs and Mark Streiff, with all five players qualifying for the Daily Racing Form/NTRA National Handicapping Championship next January. The top 10 finishers, with ending bankrolls, are as follows:
1- Don Beardsworth, Peoria, AZ--$ 27,316.00
2- Corey Johnsen, Grapevine, TX--$13,779.64
3- Mickey Seagle, Marion, NC--$13,359.40
4- Ed Briggs, Carlsbad, CA--$12,162.00
5- Mark Streiff, Mission Viejo, CA --$11,574.10
6- Bryan Carney, Valencia, CA --$9,891.35
7- Randy Scholz, West Covina, CA --$9,817.06
8- Craig Kaufman--Hacienda Heights, CA -- $9,616.21
9- Stan Bavlish, Las Vegas, NV--$9,090.90
10- Andy Dirado, Monarch Beach, CA--$8,743.00
Worshippers of the sun at the Corner on Sunday included John Dado, father of DMTC VP of Marketing Craig Dado, assistant trainer to John Sadler, Larry Benevidez, Las Vegas Review Journal sportswriter Matt Youmans, thoroughbred owner David Hulkewicz, the King of Pick 4's, Dr. Jessie, and the father-son team of Eddie & Nick Dalfio, who have stopped by the Corner six out of the first 10 racing days.
Week Two Horses-to-Watch:
July 30th, 6th race: ONCE UPON A GRACE, a five-year-old mare racing in the United States for the first time, came into this race off almost a 15 month layoff, was off slow, then got a tenative ride while entering the stretch in what most certainly appeared to be a prep for her next race going longer, which she is bred to adore.
July 31st, 5th race: ATKA is a tiny three-year-old filly who has no buisness running a route of ground, which might help explain her 1 for 17 career record. She could be a sneaky live longshot if she is returned to sprinting on the polytrack.
July 31st, 9th race: SCOTTISH DIAMOND made a favorable impression in the paddock with this start being his first time off the claim for trainer Jeff Mullins. He dueled through some fast fractions along the rail before giving up the ghost late in a visually impressive performance. Proceed with caution going forward, however, as this five year-old gelding has finished third in almost half his 28 career starts (compared to only 4 victories).
Wednesday Play of the Day - $100 Daily Bankroll
It's tough to win your first comeback race at any distance, much less 7 1/2 furlongs, after being away from the races for 20 months, but it's even tougher when your running style is to come from off the pace on a day when the track is completely biased towards early speed types, but that's exactly what Moon O'Er Cashel attempted to do on July 12th at Hollywood Park. Her effort that day was admirable given the circumstances, so I'm willing to wager she'll improve off that much better than looked on paper effort.
Race 5: $100 Win #7 Moon O'Er Cashel
Total Cost: $100
Previous Day Results: - $100
Meet to Date Results: - $220
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