My first impulse while looking at today's featured Stardusk Stakes from the Big A is to forgive Pianist's (4-5) stalking effort in Keeneland's G3 Valley View, where she didn't seem as comfortable with the conditions as she was in New York. Of course, she is the logical favorite and most probable winner.

But we'll take the value offered on Channel Lady (4-1) who is not as fast but is fresher, appears suited well by race dynamics, and the fact she's never taken a backward step on turf. The presence of Ramon is more incentive to look for the upset.

Taking Channel Lady to win at 7-2 or greater and an exacta box with Pianist.


Running Totals: May, 2007-Present

Number of Selections: 1198

Number of Win-Place-Show Finishers: 371-233-179

Amount Wagered: $2,394 [to win only]

Total Dollar Return on Investment: $2,535.20

Profit to Date: $139.20