The Preakness holds a number of challenges for the handicapper.
Do you go with the Kentucky Derby winner in hopes of riding a potential Triple Crown champ?
Do you do with a Derby horse that had a bad trip, but has lots of potential?
Do you jump on one of the entries that didn’t run in the Derby?
That’s what I’m struggling with now.
Animal Kingdom, in the 11 post, would be the sentimental favorite. There hasn’t been a Triple Crown winner for decades, and it would help the sport to have one.
But, he (and a few others) ran just two weeks ago. How have they recovered?
The “new” entries don’t look extremely strong at first study. Dance City is drawing my interest, along with Concealed Identity.
But I still like Mucho Macho Man, Dialed In and Shackleford.
How will I play it? Not sure at this point. More work is needed, and maybe it’s a race I’ll choose some horses, but not bet.
If I don’t get a good feeling after handicapping, that’s usually a sign.
Click HERE to check out entries.
Stakes:
* Bluffs Run hosts the finals of the 3/8ths mile Derby Saturday.
* Derby Lane hosts the finals of the Gold Trophy Juvenile Saturday night.
* Jacksonville hosts the first round of the Puppy Stakes Friday night.
* Belmont hosts the Shuvee Saturday.
* Prairie Meadows hosts the Bob Bryan and Gray’s Lake Saturday.
* Woodbine hosts the Vigil Saturday and Hendrie Sunday.
Carryovers:
* Jacksonville’s tri super is $18,069.
* Southland’s twin super is $39,473.
* Arlington Park’s pick 5 is $17,563.
