Churchill Spring Meet -- Five things to look for

With Derby Week behind us, we roll headlong into the rest of the Spring Meet at Churchill Downs. The rest of May, June and early July will feature a lot of fun events and great racing. Let's look at five things that will be available to you and also a strategy or two. 


1) THE GREAT EIGHT

A strong jockey colony will be on hand for the Spring Meet...riding for some excellent trainers. Keep your eye on Corey Lanerie, Julian Leparoux, Brian Hernandez, Jr., Ricardo Santana, James Graham, Shaun Bridgmohan, Florent Geroux and Calvin Borel on the track. These riders have had a multitude of success at Churchill over the years and will be in contention for the meet's leading rider title. 

2) TWILIGHT THURSDAYS

Be sure to hit Thursday's at Churchill, starting tonight. A later post time of 5 p.m. gives you plenty of time to hit the Twin Spires after work and $1 beers from 5-8 p.m....plus food trucks should be enough motivation to get you out and party with your friends. 

3) FAIRGROUNDS FORTITUDE

A trend I picked up on last week is that horses that shipped in from Fairgrounds Race Track in New Orleans ran very well at Churchill during Derby week. Quite a few of these delivered a nice price at the teller's window as well...so be sure to watch these runners and include them in your wagering strategies!  

4) DOWNS AFTER DARK

These special evenings at Churchill feature great racing, entertainment and huge crowds. Four of these evenings are planned for the Spring Meet...so check the calendar and meet up with your crew to party and parley by the paddock! 

5) A NEW AND IMPROVED LOOK

You'll definitely want to check out the newly remodeled second floor of the clubhouse when you hit the track. Plenty of food and beverage options, an expanded betting area with plenty to tellers and wagering machines and big screens galore to watch the races at Churchill...as well as the best simulcasting options around! 

A little bit of everything for all. Whether it's the social, betting or excitement that brings you out to Churchill...it looks like they intensified the efforts to make sure you are entertained during your time at the track. 

You just might run into the Handicapping Heroes crew as well during your visit...and if you do, walk right up to us...ask us who we like and join us for a beverage or a bit of banter. 

Be sure to catch the weekly broadcast of Handicapping Heroes on WCHQ 100.9 FM and on-line at www.crescenthillradio.com Saturdays at noon. 


paulie