By Jarrod Horak
The 12th race from Calder on August 22nd is a flat mile optional claiming event for three-year-olds and up. Only 23% wire jobs at this distance as winning profile favors stalkers. Inside three posts best. The advanced weather forecast calls for a 30% chance of isolated thunderstorms.
#5 Powerchord (8-1) is a three-year-old facing older for the first time. He has fired in his last five dirt starts and gets plenty of pace to chase. Was last seen finishing 6th in a turf stakes event, but he was returning from a layoff and is 0-5 on that surface. Likes the local main track and can tag these at playable odds.
#3 Flatter Me Blue (5-2) earned triple digit speed rating at seven furlongs last time. Owns strong pace figs and does best work on or near the lead. Hails from sharp Marty Wolfson barn and runs for the tag. Set pace and held place in lone start at this distance. Low odds factor.
#7 Halo's Who (3-1) adds fuel to the pace fire. Likes this distance and is a gem of consistency with ten straight trifecta finishes.
#1 Catch Rikki (6-1) owns fine early/pressing speed and was well beaten 4th in needed extended sprint comeback. 2-time local winner needs a big forward move to down these. Task not impossible.
#2 Post Time (4-1) finished 3rd versus similar course/distance foes on July 24th. Runs for the $25k tag and should make presence felt throughout, but other early runners could hurt his chances. 27% local jock Cruz hops aboard. Mixed signals.
#6 Nathan Ridge (8-1) is a 6-time local winner, but his recent form is suspect at best. 3rd entrant running for the $25k claiming price.
#4 Sayers (10-1) has the ability to put himself in the race early, but the fresh gelding has been off form in four starts this year.
#8 Sweetlandofliberty (12-1) has yet to hit the board in six starts this year. Goes turf to dirt and will try to rally from off the pace.
The Plays: #5 to win, Exacta box 3-5, Trifecta 1-5/1-3-5-7/1-3-5-7
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By Jarrod Horak Handicapper and Editor at Horse Racing Nation- www.horseracingnation.com
