She's a Handicapper now..and I'm saying "Champagne, Anyone?"

She's a Handicapper now..and I'm saying "Champagne, Anyone?"

Sunday, May 27, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- RESULTS FROM CHURCHILL 5/26/18


The Handicappers dove headlong into the challenging late Pick 4 at Churchill on Saturday and nailed the dive. Paulie gave you the Pick 4 ($1916.35 for a .50 cent wager) and both the early and late Pick 3's in the sequence ($241.45 and $217.85).

All the Handicappers were handing out winners like free samples of bourbon chicken at a Chinese fast food emporium. If you "played with the boys" yesterday...don't try to stuff all those bills into a small wallet. As we like to say, "We made money, honey."

Here's how it went.

SCOTT dined on some excellent fish and also found time to give you three winners, four seconds, and a third. Three exactas from his picks, the late Pick 3 and he had a strong day that would normally be in contention to win the points battle with 27 points for Smilin' SCOTT. 

ARCHIE chatted up dignitaries and shared cigars on the balcony when he wasn't at the window getting paid. He gave out three winners, four places and two shows Three exactas and a trifecta also went his way. ARCHIE edges his way into second place on the day with a impressive 28 points. 

PAULIE had one of those days you dream about. His picks were hitting and the beer was cold. He gave you all four winners in his selections, three places and two shows. Ring him up for three exactas, a trifecta, both Pick 3's in the sequence and the late Pick 4. They were paying PAULIE yesterday and he wins the points battle with a nice, nice...very nice 39 points.  


We do what we claim here. We give you winners. Do you like to win? Do you like to leave the track with more money that you entered with? Follow Handicapping Heroes, play the handicappers picks.

Enjoy that fat pocket or wallet. (Why pay $$$$ for services that don't do as well when we're here giving you better information FREE?)


CUMULATIVE TOTALS

PAULIE      174
ARCHIE     161
SCOTT       156



paulie
xxxxx


Saturday, May 26, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- CHURCHILL DOWNS PICKS 5/26/18


The Handicappers are all at Churchill Downs today for their selections. They'll take on the late Pick 4 at Churchill Downs (Races 8-11) and offer some detailed thought and explanations on their picks. Be sure to catch the broadcast today at noon on WCHQ 100.9 FM. www.wchqfm.com to see what Archie and Scott have to say...plus Paulie's Picks as well.

Let's get into it.


RACE 8 -- MAIDEN CLAIMING $50000 -- 1 MILE (TURF) 


PAULIE

5 - MAKEAMERICAGREAT
9 - TRIPLE DOG DARE
6 - JAILHOUSE KITTEN
7 - FINISHED


SCOTT

5 - MAKEAMERICAGREAT
3 - SASSY KING
1 - ALMOREB
4 - HEADSAIL


ARCHIE

1 - ALMOREB
5 - MAKEAMERICAGREAT
6 - JAILHOUSE KITTEN
7 - FINISHED


RACE 9 -- ALLOWANCE $55000 -- 7 FURLONGS


PAULIE

8 - HONORABLE TREASURE
2 - GRAY SKY
3 - TAP MASTER
6 - HOME BASE


SCOTT

7 - BOLD PROPHET
8 - HONORABLE TREASURE
6 - HOME BASE
1 - SOUPER SMART

ARCHIE

3 - TAP MASTER
2 - GRAY SKY
7 - BOLD PROPHET
8 - HONORABLE TREASURE


RACE 10 -- WINNING COLORS (GRADE III) $100,000 -- 6 FURLONGS


PAULIE

2 - GOLDEN MISCHIEF
5 - MISS KENTUCKY
4 - TREBLE
3 - PINCH HIT


SCOTT

2 - GOLDEN MISCHIEF
5 - MISS KENTUCKY
3 - PINCH HIT
4 - TREBLE


ARCHIE

3 - PINCH HIT
5 - MISS KENTUCKY
4 - TREBLE
2 - GOLDEN MISCHIEF


RACE 11 -- MAIDEN $53,000 -- 1 1/16 MILES


PAULIE

3 - FIREBALL SHOT
10 - ELUSIVE HERO
1 - MERCERTOWN
9 - MO ZONE


SCOTT 

10 - ELUSIVE HERO
9 - MO ZONE
3 - FIREBALL SHOT
8 - MEISTERMIND


ARCHIE

3 - FIREBALL SHOT
10 - ELUSIVE HERO
9 - MO ZONE
12 - SHARKY'S LEDGER



HANDICAPPING HEROES TODAY!  NOON. DOWNLOAD THE WCHQ APP OR LISTEN LIVE ON RADIO 100.9 FM OR AT THE WEB SITE      WWW.WCHQFM.COM 


paulie
xxxxx

Monday, May 21, 2018

Successful weekend for Kordenbrock Racing



Those W.B. Smudge folks are at it again.

Matt Kordenbrock's Racing sent out two winners over the weekend at Churchill Downs. On Saturday, they saddled DISTORTED RANSOM in the 3rd race and the 4 yr.old claimer found the wire first in a seven furlong claiming $16,000 race under the steady hands of rider Brian Hernandez, Jr.

"We needed all of those seven furlongs" trainer Matt Kordenbrock joked after the win. Distorted Ransom unleashed a furious stretch drive to catch and pass DOCTOR LEE at the wire at odds of 8-1. It was Kordenbrock's first win of the meet at Churchill and a thrilling one to watch for owners Gary and Olivia Johnson...plus the assembled Kordenbrock friends and staff that assembled in the winner's circle to celebrate the victory.

Matt wasn't on hand to catch Sunday's win for the stable...having to take a horse to Cleveland for racing Monday at Thistledown Race Course. With Connie, his wife, and others associated with the barn and friends on hand, though...FANCY MAN sprinted to an early lead and then barely held off ARCH REVENGE by head to win Churchill's 7th Race...a claiming $10,000 affair. Up and coming rider Edgar Morales held the reigns for this win...Hernandez being committed to ride the third place finisher ARCHIE. It was a great ride by "the kid" who found enough to get Fancy Man to the wire first.

A recent claim for the Kordenbrock barn and owners Robert O' Hara and Gwynet  Gower...this horse had shown skills at Tampa Bay Downs in longer races in his last four attempts and the conditions proved to be the right fit yesterday. Barely. FANCY MAN is a 5 year old gelding who has nine wins and 16 "in the money" finishes in 30 attempts. He was a recent claim as well for Kordenbrock Racing back in late March after a fourth place finish at Tampa Bay

Connie called Matt right after the race and they rejoiced in the win. Also overheard was a humorous shout in the background:

"Matt...could you win something by 2 or 3 lengths next time? You're giving us heart attacks here!" 

The Kordenbrock stable also had an entry in Churchill's ninth race, SHARP ART, who got off to a slow start and couldn't make up enough ground in the stretch to hit the board. The 6 year old was claimed three races back out of the Tom Amoss barn but came up short in two allowance tries and may need softer company after not collecting the cash in Sunday's $50,000 claiming race.


A great weekend for Matt Kordenbrock Racing and I wouldn't discount their Monday entry at Thistledown...LEMON LOVER...in the fourth race today in Ohio. With a morning line at 6-1, this runners comes in from Belterra Park and Laurel Race Track, where he picked up a couple of second place efforts. Kordenbrock has assigned the ride to Luis Rivera, who has four wins in 18 rides at "Thistle".

Churchill has drawn pretty good crowds in the days after the Derby, but...in typical Churchill fashion...they've confused the populace and attendees with their new and (we hope temporary) parking schematics and plan they've come up with. They've closed the Longfield lot, which leaves patrons jammed in trying to park in the limited lot spaces off Central avenue.

And, in the jockey's parking area, they actually have over 20 Handicapping spots! Which were empty, virtually...on Saturday and Sunday. It boggles the mind, but...as one of the lot attendants lamely tried to explain to me...those are reserved for handicapped members of jockey families. These "attendants" have also been seen (and filmed) accepting bribes in the form of cash payouts from car drivers to obtain and access reserve parking that areas that are clearly marked "reserved" for people with track-issued permits to park there.

The hypocrisy and schemes continue at Churchill.  I felt very badly for the elderly lady I walked in with Sunday...she had a Handicapped placard in her vehicle, was denied admission to handicapped parking areas and was having a very hard time walking the quarter-mile from her spot to the general admission gate. In 90 degree heat. She would not give me her name, nor let me record her...for fear of retaliation. All she wanted was to spend a couple of hours with her great-grand-kids at "Family Adventure and Fun Day" over in the grandstands area. Too proud for wheelchair assistance and seemingly oblivious to the guys in golf carts speeding by.

In other Sunday racing at Churchill, it might be time for a change in strategy for New Direction Racing's VIOLENT STORM. Impressive in winning his third race of his career, a maiden $60,000 contest at Churchill last fall, the three-year-old gelding hasn't shown much since. On the turf yesterday in Churchill's 8th race, VIOLENT STORM was nowhere neat the top three in the Allowance $55,000 conditions. Even with superb turf rider Brian Hernandez, Jr aboard, the son of VIOLENCE appeared to be more of a tropical depression than a storm. It might be time for trainer Brendan Walsh to place this three-year old $75,000 purchase price gelding from the 2016 Keeneland September sale into the claiming or optional claiming ranks.


paulie
xxxxx

Sunday, May 20, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- RESULTS FROM 5-19-18 PMILICO AND CHURCHILL


The Handicappers divided forces yesterday and Scott took on the late Pick 4 at Churchill (Races 8-11), while Paulie and Archie opted to dissect the late Pick 4 at Pimlico, (Races 10-13) which included the Preakness. The braintrust had excellent racing luck at both tracks...doing what they do best, giving out winners, exactas, trifectas, Pick 3's and Pick 4's.

Let's look at the final munbers:

SCOTT took on the challenging Churchill card and ended up with three winners, two places and three shows in the four race sequence. He also added an exacta and trifecta to his totals. A strong day for smilin' Scott and he ended up with 21 points.

PAULIE played the Pimlico Pick 4 and knocked their socks off. He had 4 winners in the 4 race sequence, a second and two thirds. Give him and exacta and trifecta...plus both Pick 3's in the sequence and the Pick 4. Strong handicapping from the moderator of Handicapping Heroes and a final total of 31 points. 

ARCHIE also had the cashable numbers in the four-race Pimlico challenge. Four winners, two seconds, two exactas, a trifecta, both Pick 3's and the Pick 4. It came down to the final race, The Preakness, but Archie wins the contest for the day with a magnificent 34 points .  

We'll also give a "shout-out" to our buddy and trainer Matt Kordenbrook, who won the third race with 9-1 long-shot Distorted Ransom in a head-bobbing finish over Doctor Lee. Good racing luck and a fine ride by Brian Hernandez, Jr for the affable trainer who also has W.B.Smudge in his stable. A $20 payout on a $2 win ticket and Paulie made his day a profitable one early by "unbuckling" on the four-year old out of Regal Ransom and owned by the delightful Gary and Olivia Johnson. The winner's circle was a party after that one!

We gives you the horses each week that we think have the best chances. We can't control what they pay, obviously, but we give you picks that can turn into tickets that you can take to window and get paid on, instead of getting tossed on the table or floor. We've said it before and we'll say it again...we give you winners. For free.


CUMULATIVE TOTALS: 

PAULIE       135
ARCHIE      133
SCOTT        129

To hear yesterday's broadcast...go HERE


Saturday, May 19, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- SELECTIONS FOR LATE PICK FOURS -- CHURCHILL AND PIMLICO



The Handicappers are dividing their skills today and offering the late Pick 4's at two tracks. Churchill and Pimlico. It is Preakness Day at Pimlico and the Louiville Handicap runs at Churchill, so there's plenty of great racing around.

SCOTT HARRIS is staying home at Churchill and has picks for Races 8-11 at Churchill. PAULIE and ARCHIE are taking on the Maryland Race course Pimlico and the late Pick Four is races 10-13 and does include the Preakness, Here's what they've got:


SCOTT'S CHURCHILL SELECTIONS


RACE 8 -- ALLOWANCE --  $55,000 -- 1 1/8th miles (TURF) 

7 - STAVE
10 - DRIFT AWAY
1 - HAYWORTH
3 - RAHWAY


RACE 9 -- OPTIONAL CLAIMING --  $80,000 -- 1 1/16 miles 

1 - THIRSTFORLIFE
6 - FORT FORTITUDE
2 - JESS I AM
7 - SENIOR INVESTMENT


RACE 10 -- THE LOUISVILLE HANDICAP  --  $100,000 -- 1 1/2 miles (TURF) 

1 - DESIGNED FOR WAR
8 - HARLAN STRONG
7 - SOME IN TIEME
6 - CARTOON


RACE 11 -- MAIDEN --  $17,000 -- 7 FURLONGS

7 - RED HOT RIO
4 - BLITSIG
1 - OPERATOR
9 - TIME FOR WAR


***********************************************************************


PAULIE'S PIMLICO PICKS


RACE 10 -- THE MARYLAND SPRINT STAKES --  $150,000 -- 5 FURLONGS

5- SWITZERLAND
9 - LONG HAUL BAY
4 - LEWISFIELD
2 - HEARTWOOD


RACE 11 -- THE VERY ONE STAKES $100,000 -- 5 FURLONGS (TURF) 

7 - GIRLS KNOW BEST
1 - CHANTELINE
12 - JUST TALKIN
11 - SMILIN CAUSEWAY


RACE 12 -- SIR BARTON STAKES -- $100,000 -- 1 1/16TH MILES 

8 - AX MAN
2 - PONY UP
1 - FOREST FIRE
4 - THREES OVER DEUCES


RACE 13 -- THE PREAKNESS -- $1,500,000 --  1 3/16 MILES

7 - JUSTIFY -- (He's the one to catch and pass. Likes slop. Won the Derby. He's my top pick.)
5 - GOOD MAGIC  -- (Chased Justify last time. May get closer to him today but still second) 
2 - LONE SAILOR  -- (Was gaining at the end in Derby. Liked his narrow miss in LA Derby)
6 - TENFOLD --  (Asmussen skipped Derby for this one. Will contest pace. Can he pass?) 


**********************************************************************



ARCHIE'S PICKS FOR PREAKNESS AND PIMLICO


RACE 10 

9 - LONG HAUL BAY
4 - LEWISFIELD
5 - SWITZERLAND
3 - RED DRAGON TATOO



RACE 11 

12 - JUST TALKIN
7 - GIRLS KNOW BEST
11 - SMILING CAUSEWAY
1 - CHANTELINE


RACE 12 

8 - AX MAN
2 - PONY UP
6 - DREAM BABY DREAM
3 - CALIFORNIA NIGHT


RACE 13 -- THE PREAKNESS


7 -- JUSTIFY  (He looks to be 100% and ready to go. Bob Baffert wouldn't run if he wasn't)
5 - GOOD MAGIC  (Ortiz will be there ready to pounce if he gets a chance. Bettor beware.)
2 - LONE SAILOR  (Trainer Amoss switches to the other Ortiz brother. Not as much traffic)
8 - BRAVAZO  (Might be a good way to fill out Superfecta. Maybe third at best.)   



******************************************************************************


DON'T FORGET THAT YOU CAN HEAR THE HANDICAPPER'S ANALYSIS FOR ALL THESE PICKS ON OUR RADIO SHOW HANDICAPPING HEROES AT NOON TODAY ON WCHQ 100.9 FM OR AT THE STATION'S WEBSITE OR MOBILE APP. 

LINK: 

WWW.WCHQFM.COM


Good luck today and may all your tickets be cashable!


paulie
xxxxx











Thursday, May 17, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- Some early Preakness thoughts


It looks like Justify has been establish as the 1-2 favorite for the running of the Preakness on Saturday. I don't think he'll stay at those odds, he'll probably go off 2-5 or lower. It looks like the track conditions could be "off" based on the projections for weather at Pimlico.

We all know Justify can run in "the slop". We know that Good Magic, currently 3-1 odds can close in the slop. So, the question is this...is there a "longshot" that can win this race? Post positions really don't make that much of a difference in a eight-horse race, but, for what it's worth...#7 belongs to Justify and #5 to Good Magic.

I'll give you two horses...long shots... to watch. Not saying they'll win, but they just might hit the board. Anything can happen in a horse race, as we all know.

TENFOLD has a morning line of 20-1. he's trained by Steve Asmussen and Victor Espinoza receives the ride. Like Justify,  he didn't run as a two-year old. He also didn't run in the Kentucky Derby. He finished fifth in the Arkansas Derby. The barn reports he's gained weight and muscle since then and in Espinoza, he gets a three-time Preakness winner on his back. Asmussen is one of horse-racing's best trainers and the additional time off could be of benefit to the son of Curlin. It would take a huge effort from him to win the Black Eyed Susan bouquet, but, at 20-1 or higher, it might be worth a small investment to take a chance on a horse that is 2 for 3 lifetime and coming into his own. He'll get the #6 hole at the gate.  Will he be able to match the early speed or will he try to come off the pace? I'll probably include him in any "exotics" I play in the race.

LONE SAILOR draws my interest as well. He's a 15-1 shot and comes out of the highly-regarded Tom Amoss barn. His eighth-place finish in the Kentucky Derby did have him closing a bit, and one of the "kings" of New York racing, Irad Ortiz, gets the mount. He did have a second-place finish in the Louisiana Derby by a neck. He's the only other horse, besides Justify, to have a 100+ Brisnet Spped rating to his credit, so perhaps he'll challenge Justify early and either wear him out or maybe even hang on to go wire-to-wire. At 15-1, he's another that will figure in my "exotics"wagers and perhaps a small "across the board" bet also.

I've haven't mentioned QUIP here.He did winthe Tampa Bay Derby and his owners decided to forego the Kentucky Derby and wait for the Preakness. Buyer beware here, of course, but 12-1 and Florent Geroux on board could attract some. I'll remain on the sidelines on him except for including him on the bottom of trifectas and supers.

We'll be back Saturday with our Late Pick 4 selections for Preakness day.


paulie
xxxxx


Wednesday, May 16, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES - HOT JOCKEYS AT CHURCHILL -- BOX OFFICE WOES



THE HOT JOCKEY

One of the angles that a Handicapper uses is who the "Hot Jockeys" are riding in a race. By "Hot Jockeys" we mean those who have been winning or hitting the board well lately, not a reference to their temperature and weather conditions affecting them.

How does a particular jockey end up on a particular horse? There are several ways this can happen.

Jockeys have agents who work the backsides of tracks soliciting rides from trainers for their clients. A jockey himself might do the same for himself and they're not shy about asking for a return ride on a horse the next time out, also.

Trainers and owners may desire a particular rider that has ridden the horse before or for the barn and actively seek this rider to ride for them on their horse. Some stables and trainers have a "A" list...a jockey that normally gets "the call" for riding their mounts. Some have "B" lists as well, in case that barn has two horses running in a race or that "A" jockey is unavailable.

Some riders prefer certain tracks and may not be able to travel to another track due to riding commitments where they are or they just may not want to travel across the country to ride a race or two and then have to fly back to their home track. Sometimes, it can even evolve to "pickup" mounts...where a scheduled rider cannot get to a track to ride a specific race because of travel snafus or a recent injury or situation that prevents them from accepting the ride. Then, a trainer usually goes to the available "jockey colony" at a track and selects one that is available. A "pickup" as it were.

Races present obstacles to no matter who is on a horse, traffic problems, speed duels, slow paces, track conditions and the like. So, it seems, sometimes no matter who is on board...their success can change as the race unfolds.

As Churchill continues with the 2018 Spring Meet, who are the "hot" jockeys currently and how are they doing?

Two riders are having quite the successful meet so far:

BRIAN HERNANDEZ, JR has met with a great deal of success in his rides. He leads Churchill with 16 wins. When you consider he's ridden 60 horses, that's a 27% win ratio and that is tops for Churchill among regular riders. He's also finished "in the money" (second or third) 12 additional times, which gives him a 46% in the money ratio. You might want to pay attention to who he's aboard during your next visit to the facility on Central Ave. He's been a popular rider at Churchill for several years now and a likable fella as well!




COREY LANERIE has also met with success during the Spring Meet. He has 13 wins, second best in the Churchill jockey colony, in 73 attempts. That's a 17% win percentage. He's also had 14 "place" efforts and 12 "show" results, which is an impressive 55% in the money ratio. Lanerie has been a popular jockey beneath the Twin Spires for numerous years now and is another rider that you might be aware of when he's riding. Corey is a popular pick, from what I hear, in bettor "show" pools, where people bet on a horse to show, hope he wins, and then roll the money over to the next race.



The two jockeys  mentioned above are also the top two when it comes to "rides" in the Spring Meet. A couple of other riders, who haven't had as many mounts, aren't doing too badly, either. RICARDO SANTANA has participated in 53 races and has 8 wins...for a 15% win ratio. JULIAN LEPAROUX has piloted 39 horses so far this spring and also has 8 wins, for a 21% win number. Santana has a 35% in the money success rate and Leparoux checks in at a 46% in the money record.

A tip is making sure that the jockey listed to ride a horse in the program or racing form is actually on board. The track does a great job of informing you of any jockey changes and you should always checkout the "post parade" to make sure that the rider/horse combination is what the program says it is. Sometimes you'll see, in races that have "also eligible" horses listed...or multiple scratches in a contest...a change. Like where Lanerie, for example might be listed on two horse in a 13 horse field.
Always make sure of the rider.

The "hot jockey" angle has it's merits but cannot be depended on solely when handicapping a race. It is, though, an important tool when putting together multi-race tickets. Recently, I played a small, in terms of investment dollars, Pick 4 that included all four jockeys mentioned here in the race sequences and walked away after the sequences with over a $200 profit. So many other things that one must consider when handicapping a race make it a true study and thorough analysis. Each handicapper has a format that they try to follow. Adopt your own and see how it works for you. If it isn't successful, you can always change it up a bit.


COMPLAINTS ABOUT LINES


I did hear from several patrons about the incredibly long wait on Mother's Day to get tickets to enter the track. Accounts of standing in line at the Box Office window for 30 minutes or longer to purchase track admission tickets and the new "scanning" procedure at the gate aren't making patrons very happy at all.

There are ways to circumvent that. Purchase your tickets on line and print them out. You can avoid the Box Office that way. Go to MY CHURCHILL DOWNS ACCOUNT or TICKETMASTER to do this. The link below will get you there:

PURCHASE CHURCHILL DOWNS TICKETS

If you have a large group attending, you can also call group sales at 502.636.4450 and they'll gladly assist you with admission and even dining at the track.

I did receive a rather upset e-mail about the Box Office having only three windows open at the Longfield lot entrance and the lines being over 100 people deep. The e-mailer reminisced about the days when you could just walk up, hand the cashier a few bucks at the gate and get in the track.

I'm not sure why Churchill went to the scanning procedure and policy but will surmise that it has to
due with security concerns and a better tracking method of who's attending.

Let's face it, we live in a "nervous" society these days and the track is concerned about your safety while there. Is there a better way to do it? If you have a suggestion, give Churchill a call and explain it to them. They'll gladly listen to all ideas, complaints and recounts of your "Day At The Races". You can also go online to do this or use your Churchill Downs mobile app.

Sonja and I did attend Mother's Day at the track and did witness the long lines at the Box Office as we walked up to the admission gate. We, fortunately, had our passes in advance and the procedure to get in wasn't too complicated at all to go through the checkpoints.

Managing your tickets through your My Churchill Downs Account is convenient, simple, secure, and allows you the ultimate flexibility in using your seats. To log in to your My Churchill Downs Account via a desktop computer, use your account ID or an email address on your account. If you are logging in via a mobile device or app, you must use the primary email address on your account. If you do not know your password, click on “Forgot Your Password?” to have a temporary password emailed to you. If your temporary password does not work, your account may be locked due to inactivity. Once logged in, you may change your password through the edit my profile link on the home page. If you have any questions or issues, please contact your account representative, email to onlinetickets@kyderby.com, or call 502-636-4400 for customer service.


Have a great week!

Paulie
xxxxx



Monday, May 14, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- W.B. Smudge just wants to run.



You could call W.B. Smudge the "grand old man" of the backside at Churchill Downs.

Matt Kordenbrock
At nine years old, the gelding owned by Robert O'Hara and Gwyneth Gower and trained by Matt Kordenbrock has seen 62 races in his career. Seven tries at Churchill, where he's posted an incredible six of out seven in the money efforts and a couple of wins. W.B. tried retirement, it didn't suit him, so he's back on the track and finished an impressive second in a claiming race at Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 12th. A race where he dueled with the leader the entire way, just backing down at the end by a head to a prohibitive favorite that was four years younger than him and carried one of Churchill's best jockeys in the saddle in Corey Lanerie. Not surrendering. A nice ride by "Jersey" Joe Rocco, who rode W.B and looks to ride here for the meet

When he hits the track for a morning workout, Matt tells of his very deliberate, purposeful nature and actions before he begins. W.B. Smudge likes to survey the situation around him, taking a good long look at all going on around him. Almost as if he's recalling the memories and races of the past,. Reflecting on the sights and sounds of the place he once again calls home for the spring and summer. Saying, maybe, "Hey, Look at me. This guy's here to do it and I've been doing it a lot longer than you pups."  The first lap is a stretch out effort for the sprinter...gotta get those veteran bones and joints loose before putting in a clocked 4 furlong workout. Never a hassle for the exercise rider.

Been there, done that.

And...he's always on the lookout for peppermints. 

He's a big fan of the sweet treats. Be prepared to provide if you go to your pocket and "Smudge" is anywhere near you. He'll come over and look at the pocket. Might even give you a slight reminder that it's time to produce a treat. Pay the man a little tribute kind of thing, you know.

After an allowance race at Oaklawn in April 2017, where W.B. finished second at 7-1 odds to highly-regarded RECOUNT , Matt and the owners wondered if he was ready to call it a day on his racing career. They sent him to pasture, but W.B Smudge was not happy about it at all

Matt talks about that:

"He was an entirely different horse, not being at the race track. His whole disposition changed. He wasn't happy. You could really see the difference. So, we decided at the start of 2018, why not put him back where he might want to be? The track. The change in his disposition was immediate and obvious. He wanted to be there. He was happy again. So, we'll run him as long as he's happy and healthy. It's what he wants and he's still capable of turning in a good 6 furlongs. We've dropped him down a bit to claiming company, we're not worried about losing him, after all, who claims a nine-year-old? We'll see how the rest of the spring and summer develops." 

A December 2017 workout at the Churchill Downs training facility showed an OK time for five furlongs. They worked him twice at Oaklawn and decided to enter Smudge in a $30,000 starter allowance contest. He ran evenly to get fifth. Another Oaklawn try got another fifth. As the Kordenbrook's (Matt's wife Connie is also heavily involved in the training proceedings and quite knowledgeable in racing) prepared to change venue and do their usual return to Churchill for the Spring Meet, Matt decided to get his gelding a run up at Indiana Downs in an optional claiming contest. He ran a solid second, so it looked like he was ready for a spring/summer campaign.

W.B Smudge has a home at the Kentucky Horse Park when he retires for good. They've asked for him. Matt isn't sure when that will happen. He's seen the difference. A trainer always looks out for a horse's best interest and health first. It's an owner concern and trust in a trainer's ability to recognize that as well. That includes mental health and disposition. Matt and the owners see eye-to-eye here.

"As long as he stays happy and healthy, we'll enter him in races." Matt surmises. "He wants to be out there and he always gives his best effort. I wish I had 10 just like him." 

W.B Smudge has earned over $570,000 for his owners and trainer over the nine years. Won the prestigious Senator Robert C. Byrd Memorial Stakes Race in 2017 over WILBO and seems to prefer the dirt over turf/grass races.

And, if you go to visit him, don't forget the peppermints. After all, a horse with his own Facebook page should get a little love and bling now and then, right?

The old, respected sprinter still has a few moves in him, it would seem. And the Kordenbrock legacy in racing appears to be in great hands as well. Matt and Connie's daughter has done work with TVG and is quite knowledgeable and well-versed in the sport. Their grandson carries a "play"whip with him and likes wearing a jockey's helmet whenever he gets a chance. He likes to watch racing on TV with Mom and emulate the riding styles of the jockeys. And, he's developed a riding style at four years old. Ask him, he's determined to ride for grandpa someday.

Just don't let him near your cooler with wheels as a riding venue. He has trouble in the stretch with those, based on a comical video the family took of him riding one and falling off when the pulling handle moved on him.

Hey, he got up from the spill, walked away, wanted more and didn't lose interest. That's dedication. Seems like they know a lot about dedication in the Kordenbrock family. Generation after generation.

(Some Photos courtesy of Coady Photography)


paulie
xxxxx

Sunday, May 13, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- CHURCHILL DOWNS RESULTS 5/12/18



Tommy Boy, the lovely Laura and Orange Crush Paulie
Paulie and Archie took on the late Pick 4 at Churchill Downs yesterday and found the card
a competitive one to handicap. They did pretty well, though...bringing you the winner in three
of the four races and the early Pick 3 in the sequence. The last race proved difficult for many,

A couple of horse players who we talked to that had the "Pick 4" chose to take either "all" or seven horses in the final leg...the 11th race. It was the toughest to handicapping, as we take a look back and neither Arch or Paulie were able to come up with the winner of the race.

Here's how the boys did:

ARCHIE had six of his 16 selections hit the tote board. Give him three winners, one second and to thirds. He also hit the first Pick 3 in the sequence and had an exacta. THE KING OF THE SANDTRAPS FINISHES THE SEQUENCE WITH 16 POINTS. 

PAULIE also had all sixteen leave the gate and eight of them produced cashable tickets. Three winners for him, two seconds, three thirds, two exactas, two trifectas and the first Pick 3 for the
man in the orange shirt. HE WINS THE DUAL COMPETITION WITH 26 POINTS.

Since Scott did not compete in the Pick 4 sequence, today's totals will not go toward the cumulative totals.


THE REPLAY OF THE BROADCAST WILL BE AVAILABLE LATER TODAY AT

www.wchqfm.com

Archie, the Gold Room Queen and Hank Williams, Jr.
Next week, the Handicappers will leave Churchill for a day and take on The Preakness Stakes and the four race Pick 4 that surrounds it.

Be sure to check Handicapping Heroes every day this week for news, commentary and articles about handicapping, horse racing, and the sights and sounds of Churchill and the other racing events we cover.

It's all free here. Make money with us!


Paulie
xxxxx

Saturday, May 12, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- SELECTIONS FOR CHURCHILL 5/12/18



The Handicappers tackle the late Pick 4 at Churchill Downs today (Races 8-11). Scootin' Scott Harris is not with us this week, and we'll miss him, but he vows to return next week.


RACE 8 -- MAIDENS 53000 -- ONE MILE AND ONE SIXTEENTH


PAULIE

7 - RUSHINTOTHECIRCLE
6 - AIR ON FIRE
5 - BRAVE NATION
3 - FORT PECK

ARCHIE

7 - RUSHINTOTHECIRCLE
6 - AIR ON FIRE
3 - FORT PECK
5 - BRAVE NATION


RACE 9 -- THE UNBRIDLED SIDNEY -- 70000 -- 5 FURLONGS (TURF)


PAULIE

5 - RUBY NOTION
9 - MORTICIA
3 - TRIPLE CHELSEA
10 - EXCESSIVESPENDING

ARCHIE 

3 - TRIPLE CHELSEA
9 - MORTICIA
8 - JUSTA LADY
5 - RUBY NOTION

RACE 10 -- CLAIMING 40000 -- 6 FURLONGS


PAULIE

7 - PRIVATE VIGILANTE
8 - KATE'S GOLDEN DUDE
1 - UNDERCOVER LOVER
2 - TARUCA

ARCHIE 

2 - TARUCA
6 - CHARGE THE LINE
7 - PRIVATE VIGILANTE
3 - SOUL P SAY


RACE 11 -- MAIDEN -- 53000 -- ONE MILE AND ONE SIXTEENTH (TURF)


PAULIE

9 - NAPLES LADY
8 - LOVE TO SHARE
1 - WILL YE GO LASSIE
11 - DON'T STOP MARIA

ARCHIE

8 - LOVE TO SHARE
9 - NAPLES LADY
11 - DON'T STOP MARIA
5 - MALIBU TREASURE


BE SURE TO CATCH THE HANDICAPPING HEROES RADIO BROADCAST TODAY AT NOON ON WCHQ 100.9 FM OR ONLINE AT 

WWW.WCHQFM.COM

LISTEN LIVE OR CHECK OUT ANY OF THE PREVIOUS BROADCASTS. WHY NOT STAY AROUND AND MAKE WCHQ YOUR "TO GO" STATION? 


PAULIE
XXXXX



Wednesday, May 9, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- WHAT IS IN THE FUTURE FOR CHURCHILL DOWNS and DERBY WEEK?


So, with the 144th. Derby in the rear view mirror and a successful but wet end to Derby Week, let's look at next year.

Really, you might say, Paulie? Why not? Churchill had their largest Thursday "Thurby" crowd this year. I'm not a fan of the moniker "Thurby", for what's it is worth, but it seems to be catching on with others.

Thursday used to be Louisville's Day at the Track...but more and more "locals" I talk to are shying away from the Thursday crowds and preferring to come out on Wednesday and forego the insanity of the three-day circus that is Thurby, Oaks and Derby. Which is perfectly fine. More and more out-of-towners arrive in Louisville for Derby Week on Wednesday or earlier and spend three or more days on the Churchill Downs premises.

With the advent of a new and beautiful Poplar Level facility being re-opened for gaming and such by next year's Derby Week, I can also see a lot of locals headed back there in 2019, just like they did back in the days of simulcasting there in the old Louisville Downs building.

It makes sense.

It was a fun affair. I hope it happens. The building also used to hold simulcasting when the track was "dark". That could re-develop as well and it wouldn't bother me in the least. It makes sense to have a resurgence of another local, off-track OTB besides Churchill again, especially since Indiana won't show Churchill and the bridge tolls make it a costly, daily trek over there. The Instant Racing gaming has done well at other locations and, let's face it, isn't it time that the Commonwealth of Kentucky allows casinos? Indiana is profiting off them. So are Ohio and West Virginia. More money for education and other concerns if properly set up and organized. Join the 21st. century, Kentucky.

So, this Thurby concept and possible expansion...

Does Churchill need to promote a high-profile, big dollar (I'm saying at least $500,000 purse) race for the day? You have the Oaks and Derby, why not a Kentucky Thurby race on Thursday? Maybe invite back runners from the previous year's Derby? Maybe move The Churchill Downs (Grade II) from the eighth race on Derby Day to Thursday (the purse is $500,00 for it currently) and TwinSpires or another huge concern could sponsor it and maybe up the purse? A high-profile race for older horses.

This year's Churchill Downs race brought in some great four year olds and older. Whitmore, a Derby runner in 2016. Imperial Hint, who ran in the 2016  Pat Day Mile, Limousine Liberal, who won the Churchill Downs and has run in six Churchill stakes races over the last three years.  Multi-stakes participant Awesome Slew ran and so did crowd-favorite and Churchill Downs Racing Club owned Warrior's Club, who finished second. Nine solid runners in all. That could grow if properly exploited.

It's a thought for this rapidly growing Thursday during Derby Week. Maybe just reset Wednesday as "Louisville Day" at the track and start building a three-day event. It would be unique to horse-racing, maybe other tracks would do similar to create a "triple crown" of winners for this third event and maybe, just maybe, there could even be a 3-day package made available to prospective patrons.

Thurby, Oaks and Derby. Maybe design a nice trophy for Thurby. Maybe develop an official Thurby beverage and garland of flowers for it. Tulips? Daffodils?

Just a thought on a Wednesday.


paulie
xxxxx

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

HANDICAPPING HEROES -- THE DERBY STORY


I started doing this a few years ago after reading other attempts to do so. Creating a few short paragraphs, telling a story involving all 20 Derby horses. Here's this year's:

"Can you Justify the Good Magic involved in a Lone Sailor in Hofburg with My Boy Jack having Promises Fulfilled under a Magnum Moon? 

They had Vino Rosso with Free Drop Billy while listening to Mendelssohn  Recalling their Instilled Regard for a Combatant named Solomini. 

Enticed by a Firenze Fire they watched Flameaway, Bolt D' Oro struck with Bravazo in Noble Indy..Audible to all." 

Some Derby items: 

-- According to a friend who reads and comments on my other site...CARDINAL COUPLE...he downloaded and shared the HANDICAPPING HEROES picks at the simulcast facility he was at on Derby Day. He did quite well with them, but the big story was a guy at a nearby table who took "J Fred's" top four picks and added Instilled Regard to them because he had a acquaintance associated with the Instilled Regards' ownership LLC. That ticket ended up paying over $19,000 on a #1 super and the man had it. 

-- A huge tip of the cap to our Scott Harris for all his hard work, efforts and long hours last week at Churchill! It's rare that someone can making a living at their life's passion, but Scott is able to fulfill both at his job in Churchill's Gold Room. Never a frown on his face, always ready to assist and displaying his unique wit, humor and observations...he's our "handicapping hero" from last week. 

-- Paulie rarely attends Oaks and never Derby...preferring to hit the track early in Derby Week. That held true again this year...being busy helping prepare and working the "financial investments" for a annual Derby party he's been associated with for 39 years now. Much was made of FUNNY DUCK winning the 10th race Pat Day Mile on Derby Day. Paulie had (1) investor on that winner at the party. 

It was his wife Sonya.

She picks a horse's name each race and Paulie puts up the $2 investment. It paid huge, as we all know. STORM ADVISORY, TORRENT, THUNDERING SKY didn't turn out so well for her ( those picks based on the weather conditions Saturday) so she switched strategy and went with interesting names. LIMOUSINE LIBERAL and MARAUD worked out well. FUNNY DUCK did too. Her streak ended on CAMELOT KITTEN and MAGNUM MOON. 

-- WINNER OF THE BEST DERBY WEEK STORY goes to John Edelen, former owner of John E's Restaurtant. He relates that legendary horse trainer Bob Baffert used to have his Derby Eve Party at the establishment. After his horse Real Quiet won the Derby in 1998, they decided to name the room where the parties occurred "The Baffert Room". After Real Quiet barely missed winning the Triple Crown in a "nose" loss to Victory Gallop in the Belmont, Baffert joked in The Daily Racing Form that "that Louisville reataurant would probably change the name of the room to "The Baff Room." 

-- RUNNER UP STORY goes to a guy named Jack I met on "Thurby". He tells the tale of coming to Louisville for Derby Week since the early 1980's. In 2009, he was on "the bricks" at Churchill a couple of days before the Derby....hanging out at the walk up bar down there. He struck up a conversation with an interesting guy in a black hat and carrying a cane who introduced himself as Bennie Wooley but told Jack to call him "Chip".  They were having a great conversation and Jack bought Chip a couple of beers. Mr. Wooley was in from New Mexico and told Jack he had "a horse" running on the Derby Day card. Further conversation brought out that "that horse" was Mine That Bird and the race the horse was running in was the Derby. Despite the odds, Jack decided to bet the horse with a $5 across the board bet.

"Chip" Wooley's Mine That Bird won the 2009 Derby with Calvin Borel on board and paid $103 on a $2 win wager...the biggest winning odds in 60 years. Jack got so excited near the end of the race...when Mine That Bird was pulling away in the stretch that he spilled a beer on a Louisville policeman who, fortunately, shrugged and kept walking. "I never saw Chip again but he left a life-long memory with me." Jack said. Plus, a pocketful of money.

How was your Derby week?

paulie
xxxxx




Sunday, May 6, 2018

KENTUCKY DERBY DAY WRAP UP AND RESULTS -- HANDICAPPING HEROES


The Handicappers Scott and J. Fred Muggs gave you their selections for ALL 14 races on Derby Day. Although they had some different selections in the races -- they ended up with the SAME RESULTS.

They provided NINE WINNERS, NINE PLACES and TEN SHOWS each on the Derby Day Card.

To break it down...they gave you 56 horses and 28 hit the board.  That's batting .500 and a very good day for them on a day were the weather was wet and the track and turf sloppy and definitely yielding.

(I'll reveal it here and now since Derby has passed. "J FRED MUGGS" was actually alleged to be PAULIE but due to contractual....meaning $$$$$....obligations for another entity, Paulie wasn't allowed to actually put his selections anywhere else but their entity on Saturday) BTW, Paulie killed the other two handicappers that participated at that entity. Wasn't even close. "J-Fred" was Paulie "allegedly" on Saturday...most of you probably figured that out. I'll confirm it was.

Let's look a little further on what we gave you here FREE yesterday. 

J FRED handed out (6) exactas, (4) trifectas and that includes the Derby.

SCOTT provided (5) exactas and (4) trifectas. 

THE PRICES were right and Paulie's $2 trifecta on his Derby Box of Justify, Audible, Good Magic and Vino Rosso cost $48 but returned almost $300.  His .50 trifecta box in Race 8 cost $12 and returned $213. 

In the end, in the Derby, it was Justify staying close to the pace the whole rce and taking over at the end. Good Magic tried to join him but could never get by and barely held off the charging Audible at the wire to get second and third. 

Let's hope all three return for the Preakness and they get nice weather for that race. 

YOU CAN GO TO SATURDAY'S HANDICAPPING article and see THE RESULTS/ORDER OF TOP THREE FINISHES IN RED for all 14 races. 

Also, go to the link below to hear our classic "WHO WILL WIN THE DERBY?" broadcast from Saturday

LINK:  WHO WILL WIN THE DERBY? SATURDAY HANDICAPPING HEROES BROADCAST

Now, a day of rest on Sunday. 


paulie
xxxxx










Friday, May 4, 2018

KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS/OAKS RESULTS -- CHURCHILL DOWNS -- HANDICAPPING HEROES


The Handicappers Paulie and Scott had a fantastic day picking the ponies on Kentucky Oaks Day. On a 13 race card, Paulie had (12) winners and Scott gave you (9). Long shots, favorites and in between...the fellas were at their best on Friday.

It is Derby Day! We know not yet what scratches might occur nor how the weather will be, or if races will be moved off the turf but we've handicapped expecting no changes and hopefully the results will be good.

Paulie will be sitting out today's handicapping but he brings in noted prognosticator and seer of all, the esteemed J. Fred Muggs to join Scott in the 14 races on the card.


SATURDAY SELECTIONS 

RACE 1 - THE GENUINE RISK

J. FRED

6 - ONCE ON WHISKEY
5 - CROSSWALK
4 - ARTICULATOR
2 - SHARE THE UPSIDE

SCOTT

6 - ONCE ON WHISKEY
5 - CROSSWALK
2 - SHARE THE UPSIDE
8 - HONORABLE TREASURE

SCOTT RECOMMENDS PLAY THE #6 TO WIN AND USE IT IN THE EARLY DAILY DOUBLE. THE TWO BOTH LIKE ONCE ON WHISKEY (DON'T WE ALL?) BUT #5 CROSSWALK HAS BEEN IN THE MONEY ALL FOUR LIFETIME STARTS AND #7 UNITED PATRIOT HAS WON LAST TWO


RESULTS    5-8-1


RACE 2 - THE FUNNY CIDE

J FRED

2 - SUMMER LUCK
1 - GRAY SKY
8 - AMERICAN GREATNESS
7 - SUPER DERECHO

SCOTT 

2 - SUMMER LUCK
7 - SUPER DERECHO
6 - BIG GRAY ROCKET
1 - GRAY SKY

USE THE #2 AND #7 TO FINISH OUT YOUR DAILY DOUBLE. #2 SUMMER LUCK WON HIS ONLY RACE AT CHURCHILL AND #1 GRAY SKY HAS BEEN IN THE MONEY 9 OUT OF 13 TIMES. #9 CLEARLY SUPER HAS A CHANCE TO SURPRISE AT HUGE ODDS.


RESULTS 6-1-2



RACE 3 - THE TWINSPIRES.COM

J FRED 

6 - IRISH FREEDOM
4 - HOLLYWOOD HANDSONE
5 - SONNETEER
8 - LOOKIN AT LEE

SCOTT

4 - HOLLYWOOD HANDSOME
10 - LADDIE BOY
6 - IRISH FREEDOM
5 - SONNETEER

#10 IS SCOTT'S LONG SHOT SPECIAL. WHY NOT PLAY IT ACROSS THE BOARD? #4 HOLLYWOOD HANDSOME GOT BUMPED LAST TIME AND COULD HAVE RUN BETTER. #6 IRISH FREEDOM GETS JAVIER CASTELLANO ON BOARD. BRAD COX IS ON FIRE!


RESULTS  8-5-6



RACE 4 - THE PLEASANT COLONY

J FRED

9 - IRISH TERRITORY
5 - D SQUARED
4 - UNBRIDLED REBEL
3 - DING DONG DITCH

SCOTT

2 - MIDNIGHT TEA TIME
3 - DING DONG DITCH
12 - SNAP HOOK
9 - IRISH TERRITORY

J FRED LIKES A "IRISH" DAILY DOUBLE IN RACES 3&4  #6 AND #9. IRISH TERRITORY HAD TROUBLE ON FIRST TURN LAST TIME, COULD DO BETTER. MIDNIGHT TEA TIME HAD A ROUGH TRIP LAST OUT ALSO AND JOSE ORTIZ RETURNS TO RIDE



RESULTS  9-2-10


RACE 5 - THE AMERICAN PHAROAH

J FRED

1 - SIEM RIEP
6 - BEHAVIORAL BIAS
3 - HEARTWOOD
8 - MCCRACKEN

SCOTT

8 - MCCRACKEN
6 - BEHAVIORAL BIAS
9 - DAZZLING GEM
1 - SIEM RIEP

#1 SIEM REP HAS JUST MISSED TWICE TODAY COULD BE HIS DAY. #8 MCCRACKEN HAS BEEN WORKING WELL FOR 2018 DEBUT. #5 PETROV IS A "BOUNCE" HORSE -- ONE GOOD RACE ONE BAD RACE. HE HAD THE BAD RACE LAST RACE. COULD BE?


RESULTS  8-6-9


RACE 6 - HUMANA DISTAFF

J FRED

1 - FINLEY'SLUCKYCHARM
5 - LEWIS BAY
3 - IVY BELL
8 - AMERICAN GAL

SCOTT

1 - FINLEY'SLUCKYCHARM
3 - IVY BELL
5 - LEWIS BAY
4 - SKYE DIAMONDS

THE HANDICAPPERS AGREE.-- "FINLEY" SHOULD BE LUCKY TODAY. #3 IVY BELL AND #5 LEWIS BAY ARE CLOSERS. BEWARE. #8 AMERICAN GIRLS RAN AGAINST SOME OF THESE LAST OUT AND JUST MISSED BY A NECK. JOSE ORTIZ RETURNS.



RESULTS  8-3-5



RACE 7 - LONGINES DISTAFF TURF MILE

J FRED

11 - LA CORONEL
3 - DREAM AWHILE
5 - DREAM DANCING
7 - RES IPSA

SCOTT

3 - DREAM AWHILE
7 - RES IPSA
9 - ON LEAVE
11 - LA CORONEL 

SCOTT RECOMMENDS THE #1 IF THERE ARE SCRATCHES. J FRED RECOMMENDS YOU DRINK IN CASE OF SCRATCHES. OR GO 'ON LEAVE' THE #9. #3 DREAM AWHILE HAS LOOKED GREAT SICE COMING OVER FROM EUROPE. #11 LA CORONEL WON HERE.


RESULTS  6-9-1


RACE 8 - THE CHURCHILL DOWNS

J FRED

3 - IMPERIAL HINT
7 - LIMOUSENE LIBERAL
8 - WARRIOR'S CLUB
10 - AWESOME SLEW

SCOTT

3 - IMPERIAL HINT
7 - LIMOUSENE LIBERAL
1 - WHITMORE
10 - AWESOME SLEW

#3 IMPERIAL HINT HAS WON LAST 5 OF 6. #7 LIMOUSENE LIBERAL LOVES CD DIRT AND HAS WON 5 TIMES ON IT. #10 AWESOME SLEW WON THE ACK ACK HERE IN FALL


RESULTS  7-8-10

RACE 9 - THE AMERICAN TURF

J FRED

6 - RIVER BOYNE
9 - CAPTIVATING MOON
3 - THREEANDFOURPENCE
10 - MARAUD

SCOTT

1 - SPEED FRANCO
10 - MARAUD
7 - TIGERS RULE
3 - THREEANDFOURPENCE


THIS ONE IS WIDE OPEN. #1 SPEED FRANCO WILL TRY TO GO WIRE TO WIRE. #6 RIVER BOYNE HAS WON THREE TIMES SINCE COMING OVER FROM IRELAND. #3 THREEANDFOURPENCE HAS CHASED DERBY ENTRY MENDELSSOHN TWICE. ?????


RESULTS  10-9-11


RACE 10 - THE PAT DAY MILE

J FRED

8 - MASK
12 - RESTORING HOPE
7 - MADISON'S LUNA
9 - GIVEMEAMINIT

SCOTT

8 - MASK
5 - MISSISSIPPI
12 - RESTORING HOPE
7 - MADISON'S LUNA

SCOTT SAYS GO $5 WIN AND PLACE ON THE #5 IF THE ODDS CLIMB TO OVER 8-1. #8 MASK HAS RULED THE TRACK IN TWO LIFETIME STARTS. #12 RESTORING HOPE FINISHED BEHIND TWO DERBY STARTERS IN THE WOOD MEMORIAL. #7 MADISON'S LUNA IS ALSO 2 FOR 2 LIFETIME


RESULTS  4-3-9


RACE 11 - OLD FORESTER TURF CLASSIC 

J FRED

4 - CAMELOT KITTEN
7 - SYNCHRONY
10 - BEACH PATROL
5 - CHANNEL MAKER

SCOTT

1 - DEAUVILLE
9 - YOSHIDA
7 - SYNCHRONY
10 - BEACH PATROL

#1 DEAUVILLE COMES FROM IRELAND AND HAS WON $1 MILLION DOLLARS LIFETIME. #4 CAMELOT KITTEN AND TOOK THE KENTUCKY CUP CLASSIC IN MARCH. #10 BEACH PATROL RUNS WELL WHEREVER HE GOES AND HAS TWO SECONDS HERE.


RESULTS  9-10-7


RACE 12 -- THE KENTUCKY DERBY

J FRED

5 - AUDIBLE
18 - VINO ROSSO
7 - JUSTIFY
6 - GOOD MAGIC

SCOTT

18 - VINO ROSSO
9 - HOFBURG
5 - AUDIBLE
6 - GOOD MAGIC

WOW! WRITE YOUR OWN STORY HERE. #5 AUDIBLE WAS IMPRESSIVE IN FLORIDA DERBY. #18 VINO ROSSO HAS BEEN THE TALK OF THE BACKSTRETCH. #6 GOOD MAGIC LOOKED SHARP AT KEENELAND AND #7 JUSTIFY HAS BEEN KILLING IT.


RESULTS  7-6-5


RACE 13 - THE SEA HERO

J FRED 

6 - DETERMINANT
5 - LIONITE
1 - BATTLE AT SEA
9 - REGAL QUALITY

SCOTT 

5 - LIONITE
11 - KING ZACHARY
3 - LAST BAD HABIT
9 - REGAL QUALITY

##6 DETERMINANT TRIED STAKES COMPANY AND IS BACK WHERE HE BELONGS TODAY. #5 LIONITE IMPRESSIVE AT OAKLAWN LAST OUT. #9 REGAL QUALITY JUST MISSED AT GULFSTREAM LAST OUT AND GETS JOHNNY V TO RIDE TODAY. WATCH!


RESULTS  11-6-8



RACE 14 - FOOLISH PLEASURE

J FRED 

8 - ELUSIVE HERO
6 - LIMITATION
4 - COROT
1 - ONE MORE TOM 

SCOTT 

6 - LIMITATION
7 - MO ZONE
4 - COROT
8 - ELUSIVE HERO


#8 ELUSIVE HERO COMES IN WITH A NICE GULFSTREAM CAMPAIGN AND GREAT CHURCHILL WORKS. #6 LIMITATAION JUST MISSED AT OAKLAWN AND SHORTENS UP TODAY. #4 COROT JUST MISSED AT KEENELAND AND LEPAROUX RETURNS TO RIDE


RESULTS  8-5-8



here IT IS...our annual tribute to the race....Dan Fogelberg's "RUN  FOR THE ROSES" 
at this LINK


GOOD LUCK TODAY AND HAVE A GREAT DERBY 144 !





CHURCHILL DOWNS -- KENTUCKY OAKS PICKS -- THURSDAY RESULTS/FRIDAY PICKS -- HANDICAPPING HEROES


"Thurby"...as it's known as now...was a very successful Thursday for Paulie. Despite a couple of scratches and a horrible bumping in Race 10 which DID NOT draw an objection or inquiry.(which is ludicrous and unexcusable) that knocked my pick almost onto the turf course...I still managed NINE WINNERS ON THE 11 RACE PROGRAM.!!!

Tired of throwing tickets on the ground? Want to go to the window and get cash? Just read here and learn. We give it to you free of charge. Can't offer anymore than that. Yes, there were a lot of "chalks" and low odds horses on the card Thursday...with the exception of the final two races...but a popular saying here from Scott Harris is that 'we can pick the winners...but we can't pick what they pay'.

When the longshots look to have a chance, we include them. Some days they're hard to argue for.

I'm pleased to be joined by Scott Harris for the Oaks/Friday picks today.  Despite his incredibly busy week at Churchill this week, he's taking time to join me today and we salute him!

FRIDAY/OAKS Selections:

RACE 1 -- MILE AND A SIXTEENTH  OPTIONAL CLAIMING 100,000

SCOTT 

 6 - GO GOOGLE YOURSELF
4 - SHE'S PRETTY LUCKY
1 - FIRST ALTERNATE
5 - AMERICA'S TALE

PAULIE

6 - GO GOOGLE YOURSELF
4 - SHE'S PRETTY LUCKY
1 - FIRST ALTERNATE
5 - AMERICA'S TALE 

Analysis: Scott and Paulie are in agreement here. Corey Lanerie and Paul McGee look to have a legitimate threat here in the #6. #4 adds blinkers today which may help. #1 has been consistent with five place finishes and a win the last six times out. #5 drops in class and should find these easier. 

******RACE RESULTS******

4-1-6





RACE 2 -- MILE (TURF) MAIDEN SPECIAL WEIGHT 66,000

SCOTT

7 - DABINETT
3 - TACTICAL AFFAIR
9 - PACHINKO
2 - WILD N READYRQ

PAULIE

2 - WILD N READY
4 - KILLAY
7 - DABINETT
6 - FIRST KISS

Analysis:  #7 ran well in debut at Keeneland has has top flight trainer and rider. #2 making third start off layoff and excellent turf jockey in Leparoux. #4 comes in from Great Britain where she was never worse than third in five tries. #3 showed some close at Aqueduct and should get better in her second time out. 

****** RACE RESULTS******

4-13-2



RACE 3 -- 6 FURLONGS MAIDEN SPECIAL WEIGHT 66,000

SCOTT

6 - KEROS
8 - BUGLE NOTES
1 - INDUSTRIALIST
3 - QUENIENNY

PAULIE

1 - INDUSTRIALIST
3 - QUENIENNY
6 - KEROS
7 - CUMMINGS

Analysis:  #6 ran well first time out at Turfway and has had three bullet works as well. #1 has caught mud and slop last two out and done well. could be sharp on fast track. #3 has been working well for debut. #8 another first timer for Todd Pletcher and John Velazquez. So is #7 but for Jimmy DiVito and Chris Landeros. Nice works at Churchill from both.

******RACE RESULTS******

8-4-5


RACE 4 -- ONE MILE AND SIXTEENTH (TURF) OPTIONAL CLAIMING 62000

SCOTT

1 - KEEP QUIET
11 - KRAMPUS
6 - COMPASS ZONE
12 - SAHAM

PAULIE

11 - KRAMPUS
1 - KEEP QUIET
5 - THATCHER STREET
8 - GALTON

Analysis:  #11 in the money 5 out of 6 lifetime and beat the #1 last out at Keeneland. They ran behind Mr Cub who won big on Thursday. #5 is a veteran competitor who has been in the money in 8 out of 10 races at Churchill. #6 Won at Keeneland last time out #8 likes Churchill too.


******RACE RESULTS******

8-12-6 

RACE 5 -- 7 FURLONGS --THE EIGHT BELLES STAKES $200000

SCOTT

3 - MIA MISCHIEF
6 - GAS STATION SUSHI
1 - AMY'S CHALLENGE
7 - HOLD HER TIGHT

PAULIE 

6 - GAS STATION SUSHI
3 - MIA MISCHIEF
1 - AMY'S CHALLENGE
4 - SALT BAE

Analysis:  The handicappers are pretty similar here with their picks. #3 has big wins at Oaklawn and Churchill. Either first or seccond all six lifetime races. #6 has destroyed all foes in two lifetime races including Keeneland. #1 will show early speed, can she hang on at the end? #4 another that will try and make the lead and hold them off. Gets Javier Castellano today which is huge. 

******RACE RESULTS******

3-5-6


RACE 6 -- ONE AND ONE SIXTEENTH MILES -- LA TROIENNE STAKES - 350000

SCOTT

3 - ABEL TASMAN
8 - MARTINI GLASS
4 - IVY BELL
6 - TIGER MOTH

PAULIE

3 - ABEL TASMAN
1 - SALTY
8 - MARTINI GLASS
5 - APOLOGYNOTACCEPTED

Analysis: We both agree, you have to beat the #3. she'll be flying at the end. #1 another closer who should like the long Churchill stretch. #8 will set off the pace and pounce on the turn. #5 will look to get the lead and go wire-to-wire on top. #6 another deep closer. 


******RACE RESULTS******

1-2-8


RACE 7 -- FIVE FURLONGS TWIN SPIRES TURF SPRINT (TURF) $200000

SCOTT

9 - BUCCHERO
10 - WILL CALL
7 - VISION PERFECT
1 - DELECTATION

PAULIE

9 - BUCCHERO
2 - FLASHAWAY
8 - FRISKY MAGICIAN
10 - WILL CALL 

Analysis:  Both Scott and Paulie see #9 as the one to beat. Third start of the year and going shorter. look out. After that, #10 ran well at Fairgrounds, didn't like Keeneland but got bumped. #2 will close and could catch tired sprinters. #7 looked great at Gulfstream tries tougher foes today.#1 an English invader who probably needed the Keeneland start. Be wary. Another closer. 

******RACE RESULTS******

10-6-9

RACE 8 -- ONE AND ONE SIXTEENTH MILES THE ALYSHEBA GR II $400000

SCOTT 

1 - GOOD SAMARITAN
3 - ALWAYS DREAMING
5 - HOPPERTUNITY
4 - BACKYARD HEAVEN

PAULIE 

3 - ALWAYS DREAMING
4 - BACKYARD HEAVEN 
1 - GOOD SAMARITIAN
5 - HOPPERTUNITY

Analysis:  #3 won the Kentucky Derby last year and had a nice 2018 tightener at Gulfstream. #1 won his 2018 debut and has some very nice stakes efforts. A closer. #8 was scratched.. #5 another that will contest it early and has won over $4 million in his career. Baffert retains Prat for the ride. #4 will fire in the stretch and will try to find enough


******RACE RESULTS******

4-7-1


RACE 9 -- SEVEN FURLONGS OPTIONAL CLAIMING 75000

SCOTT

6 - DEVINE MISCHIEF
2 - ELECTRIC FOREST
10 - SWORN SILENCE
9 - ENRAGE

PAULIE

2 - ELECTRIC FOREST
4 - UPSET BREWING
6 - DEVINE MISCHIEF
5 - MAHO BAY

Analysis: A wide open affair! #6 loved the Fairgrounds and barely missed the win at Keeneland. Get Joel Rosario to ride. #2 quite impressive in maiden voyage at Keeneland. #10 has won at Churchill and probably needed last at Oaklawn. #4 is 2 times in the money at Churchill and should get paid again today.



******RACE RESULTS ******

6-8-4


RACE 10 -- MILE AND SIXTEENTH (TURF) THE EDGEWOOD GRADE III $200000

SCOTT

11 - RUSHING FALL
6 - DADDY IS A LEGEND
3 - ALTEA
2 - BEYOND BLAME

PAULIE

11 - RUSHING FALL
6 - DADDY IS A LEGEND
7 - TOINETTE
4 - FIGARELLA'S QUEEN

Analysis:  We both love #11 here but odds will be short. 4 for 4 lifetime and Castellano returns for Chad Brown. Maybe best bet of day? #6 has chased #11 home twice and will probably do the same today. #2, #3, #4 and #7 all hoping to get place or show money? #3 from France and had a nice debut at Tampa Bay. #7 has won last two times out and #2 has two wins and two places in four lifetime starts. All at Fairgrounds. 

******RACE RESULTS******

7-11-6


RACE 11 -- ONE MILE AND EIGHTH -- THE KENTUCKY OAKS $1000000 

SCOTT

14 - MONOMOY GIRL
13 - ESKIMO KISSES
10 - MIDNIGHT BISOU
5 - WONDER GADOT 
(USE #7 RAYYA IF ANY SCRATCHES)

PAULIE

10 - MIDNIGHT BISOU
14 - MONOMOY GIRL
11 - MY MISS LILLY
9 - TAKE CHARGE PAULA
(USE #2 COACH ROCKS IF ANY SCRATCHES)

Analysis:  Monomoy Girl or Midnight Bisou? #10 a west coast invader with three straight wins, Mike Smith and came to Kentucky for a win, not the juleps. #14 huge at Keeneland and Churchill in previous and has beat most of these one time or another. #13 will try but maybe second or third at best if one of the favorites fails. #11 really improved in New York, might swoop by them if track is sloppy. #2 is ex-Coach Pitino owned and has won last two in Florida. Not today...Rick. 


******RACE RESULTS******

14-5-10


RACE 12 -- ONE AND ONE SIXTEENTH MILES OPTIONAL CLAIMING $71000

SCOTT

 10 - GIO GAME
8 - OX EYED DAISY
4 - NUCLA
6 - SHE'S A JULIE

PAULIE

10 - GIO GAME
4 - NUCLA
8 - OX EYED DAISY
9 - BANASHEE BIRDIE

Analysis:  #10 looks the best and has just missed twice in this kind of company. #8 very impressive in last win at Gulfstream. #4 likes the sloppy track. Consider if weather goes bad. #9 quite the win at Oaklawn, will be flying at end. 


******RACE RESULTS******

10-6-5



RACE 13 -- 1 MILE MAIDEN SPECIAL WEIGHT $66000

SCOTT

2 - RIZZOLI
6 - TEQUILA SUNRISE
9 - HANALEI MOON
1 - JAN ONE

PAULIE

2 - RIZZOLI
3 - ACTRESS ON BOARD
6 - TEQUILA SUNRISE
7 - AGENT PROVOCATEUR

Analysis:  #2 impressive in earlier sprints might need the extra distance today. #6 just missing a win in six lifetime starts. Comes in second a lot on west coast, Rosario stays on. #3 another with "seconditis" will jockey change to Luiz Saez help? #9 showed very little only time out but barn and breeding suggest she'll get better second time around. #7 has two second place finishes last two times. Time to graduate? "The kid" Adam Beschizza climbs on board.

******RACE RESULTS******

10-6-5


GOOD LUCK TO ALL TODAY AND CHECK BACK TOMORROW AS WE DO IT AGAIN WITH THE DERBY DAY CARD AND DERBY RACE! PAULIE WILL YIELD HIS SPOT TO NOTED HANDICAPPER J. FRED MUGGS TOMORROW.

paulie
xxxxx










Thursday, May 3, 2018

CHURCHILL DOWNS -- WEDNESDAY RESULTS/THURSDAY PICKS -- HANDICAPPING HEROES



Ol' Paulie had another fine day at the TwinSpires on Wednesday with six winners, seven seconds and eight thirds out of the 40 horses he outlined for you. Building a bankroll, giving you the information free. That's what we do here.

THURSDAY PICKS 

RACE 1 

1 - ONE RIVER PLACE
4 - POP CULTURE
6 - TOOTHPIC
5 - BOBBY JACK

RACE 2 

3 - WIN WITH PRIDE
2 - ELECTRIC AVENUE
1 - THE RED DUDE
6 - BURGAMEISTER

RACE 3 

6 - ARCH ARCH BABY
7 - ASHLEYS MAGENS BAY
2 - ANNAPOLIS CLASS
3 - INDIAN GEM

RACE 4 

7 - QUIET CONCERT
8 - UNION BOWMAN
1 - INMYFATHERSIMAGE
4 - POLITICALLYCORRECT

RACE 5 

2 - DREAMING DIAMONDS
3 - SUPER SIMPLE
1a - ELFY
8 - TOY MOON
NOTE: #5 NEW YORK CHARMER IS AN ALTERNATE HERE
IN CASE OF SCRATCHES. 

RACE 6 

1 - HUNTIN BUDDY
2 - DAPPER SAM
6 - GREAT SKY
7 - CAUSE TO ACTION 

RACE 7 

7 - THE MONEY MONSTER
1 - JAZZY TIME8 
8 - TARPYS ZAPPER
2 - BIG COULEE

RACE 8 

4 - MR. MISUNDERSTOOD
3 - MR. CUB
11 - TRUST FACTOR
9 - ROYAL SON 
NOTE: #13 FOXTROT CHARLIE IS AN ALTERNATE HERE IF THERE
ARE ANY SCRATCHES

RACE 9 

4 - THIRTEEN SONGS
6 - HINT OF MINT
2 - TRUE BOOTS
3 - NAPLES MIST

RACE 10

4 - LUV THIS LIFESTYLE
3 - SHANGHAIED ROO
5 - MYHOTRODLINCOLN
7 - BAYTOWN MACCA

RACE 11

9 - SENSITIVE
10 - NOW POWER
11 - LA SOLA RANGER
1 - SHE'S A TRUE BEAUTY


Have a GREAT Thurby and check us out tomorrow as well! 

paulie
xxxxx


Wednesday, May 2, 2018

CHURCHILL DOWNS WEDNESDAY PICKS/TUESDAY RESULTS -- HANDICAPPING HEROES

Good Day yesterday with six winners and seven second places. There were a few scratches and a couple that didn't run as expected...that's horse racing. Laughing on the way to the payouts window.

Wednesday PAULIE Picks: 

RACE 1 

5 -- ROCK SHANDY
4 -- HIGHER FACTOR
3 -- CONVINCING
1 -- SPEEDMEISTER

RACE 2 

1 -- STAR DOG
4 -- COOKIES ARE GOOD
5 -- BOBBY THE BRAIN
7 -- TAKIN THE SLOROAD

RACE 3 

1 - WILDWOODSGREATEST
8 -- IZZY THE WARRIOR
5 -- RED AGAIN
7 -- AZTEC LION

RACE 4 

3 -- HOLLYWOOD CRITIC
2 -- KING OF ALL MEDIA
7 -- BERN' JAMES BERN
4 -- ZAMBIAN DREAM

RACE 5 

1 -- GRANDPA'S DREAM
3 -- BWANA GO
8 -- ZAEVION
5 -- OUT OF THE OFFICE

RACE 6 

7 -- I'VE GOT GRACE
8 -- LOVELILY
3 -- OUR SNOWFLAKE
2 -- SARABI

RACE 7 

2 -- LADRONA
5 -- SAPPHIRE JUBILEE
1 -- PHANTOM OPENING
7 -- NYMUE'S TREASURE

RACE 8 

2 -- WHOLEHEARTED
1 -- STARQUEST
7 -- SHEZAPPEALING
5 -- MURIKA

RACE 9 

3 -- SENOR JOBIM
2 -- BOURBON COUNTY
10 -- PARADE BLUE
11 -- BRITISH HUMOR

RACE 10 

2 -- TOLL GUARD
4 -- WILD WILL
8 -- HARLAN'S VALOR
9 -- NO LIMIT


GOOD LUCK TODAY AND IT'S DERBY WEDNESDAY! HAVE SOME FUN! 


paulie
xxxxx

Tuesday, May 1, 2018

CHURCHILL DOWNS PICKS FOR TUESDAY MAY 1st -- HANDICAPPING HEROES


So...with Derby Week upon us...I thought I'd take a venture and give some selections for the cards at Churchill this week. These are purely picks I've come up with on racing form studying. Let's see how I do as the week goes on. Here's the nine races on Tuesday's card. Bet them however you feel.

RACE 1 -- Maiden Claiming 40000

5 - Pearl's Option -- 2nd at Churchill in the fall . Good jockey
3 - Mahdia -- Impressed at Keeneland with 3rd place against better
7 - Triple Kapalua -- Ran evenly at Oaklawn. Two tries over Churchill dirt
4 - Ezplylemonsqueezy -- Adds blinkers today and gets Corey Lanerie on

RACE 2 -- Claiming 16000

3 - Ninth Hour -- Shortening up and Jon Court returns to ride. Dropping
7 - Tenkoz -- Won huge at CD in fall. Out of Dale Romans barn
1 - Runabout -- Improved last two at Turfway. A step up but has speed.
4 - Bronze Age -- Should like shorter distance. Will try to go wire to wire

RACE 3 -- Claiming 20000

7 - Netas -- Class tells here. Dropping to new level. Broke maiden at Churchill
6 - Drop Kick -- Impressive win in fall. Out of Asmussen barn.
2 - Southeast -- Much the best at Tampa Bay last out. Adds Leparoux
5 - Granian -- Won at Churchill in fall. Dropping. Speed threat.

RACE 4 -- Claiming 40000

7 - American Cowgirl -- Dropping in class. Has good early speed. Might hang on
9 - Peace Front -- Two wins at Gulfstream. Gets Geroux to pilot. Another with speed
2 - Ring Me Up -- Could close. Familiar with Churchill and Luis Saez rides for Margolis
5 - Winner of last two at Fairgrounds. Brian Herrandez, Jr takes the mount again

RACE 5 -- Claiming 5000

4 - I Am Miss Brown -- Two wins at Churchill. Declan Cannon returns 
2 - She Loves Leather -- Will contest early pace. Dropping in class. Can also close
7 - North of Eden -- Won at Churcill in fall. Been running well at Fairgrounds. Calvin Borel
3 - Commercial Appeal -- Two seconds and a win last three out. Will go for lead early

RACE 6 -- Maiden Claiming 10000

3 - Just Old School -- Dropping in class. Just missed at Keeneland. Gabriel Saez returns. 
4 - Beyond the Nile -- Good speed and Churchill experience. Brain Hernandez, Jr on.
1 - Kowboy Posse -- Best speed of all of these but not a closer. Watch board for clues
10 - Wild Will -- Drops in class. Corey returns for Gerg Foley

RACE 7 -- Allowance 55000

4 - Runninwiththewind -- LONGSHOT SPECIAL -- Class drop fits here perfectly. 
2 - San Sebastiana -- English invader has been working well and Geroux and Cox team up
3 - Church Social -- Consistent in the money on turf. May not win but will force issue.
11 -- Ladrona -- Winner of last two at Gulfstream but big step up. Leparoux will help.

RACE 8 -- Optional Claiming 62500

2 - Mr. Crow -- Back to a level where he has shone.  Should best these. 
4 - Spikes Shirl -- Won at Keeneland last time. Has won at Churchill. In good form right now
8 - Guns Loaded -- Always close at Oaklawn. Will play come catch me. Can he last? 
7 - Control Stake -- Raced well at Oaklawn. 4 out of 6 in the money here at Churchill . Lanerie

RACE 9 -- Claiming 30000

10 - Safari Kitten -- Has really improved in last two. Michael Maker trained and Lanerie returns
8 - Cause Me Grief -- English invader drew Joel Rosario. Beware.
7 - Court of Love -- Can spped last on mile turf is the question. 
5 - True American Beauty -- Big class jump but figured it out at Turfway. Could surprise.


GOOD LUCK TODAY!

paulie
xxxxx