Race of the Day, June 4
Belmont Park, Elmont, NY
Maiden Claiming, Turf, 1 1/16 miles, NY-bred, Purse: $41K
10 NY-bred maidens take to the turf for the 4th at Belmont. Wake Up and Go (#10, 2/1) returns to the maiden claiming ranks, where he started his career at Gulfstream this past winter. Adding blinkers, a likely return to that winter form will find the winner’s circle today. Born in Brooklyn (#5, 3-1) returns off a brief layoff after a competitive effort again better maidens last time out. He’s reasonable, but nothing stands out. All Over Me (#3, 5-1) picks up Jose Lezcano for his first try routing on the turf.
A number of likely higher-priced horses demand a look as well. Golden Nugget (#9, 12-1) makes his second career start on the turf. His last race was terrible, but he may have an excuse with a muddy track. Ride of Your Life (#7, 10/1) drops into claiming and adds blinkers after being eased in his only turf try. Rontos New York (#1, 6-1) needs to improve significantly on his first stretch-out. Mineral Water (#4, 8-1) drops in class and tries a turf route for the first time.
Questions
- Does Wake Up and Go improve with the blinkers and with the class drop? He ran well for Michael Matz this past winter at Gulfstream. Danny Gargan now trains.
- Can Born in Brooklyn improve with the rest and the second time on turf? It’s tough to take a short price on a horse that must get better to win.
- Does Ride of Your Life like the turf any better with the addition of blinkers? Mott’s keeping him on the turf is reassuring.
Analysis
Wake Up and Go should be the favorite and is strong. He’s worth a close look. If you think he’s vulnerable, there are several long shots who could figure, led by both Golden Nugget and Ride of Your Life. Depending on the rest of your ticket, this might be the place to pick up a price in both the Pick 4 and Pick 5.
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