Todays Gulfstream Park feature, the El Prado, obviously appears to be a prep for more important graded events later in the meet, especially with its allowance-sized purse. So we'll look for serious intent and value and believe we have found both in Empire Builder (12-1).

For openers, all his turf victories have come either at the distance or with similar dynamics, he attracts Luis Saez, the Calder leader that has gotten off to his best GP start, perhaps ever, but most importantly because as a 3-year-old, he has the most upset. He was a good third at the last winter stand here behind multiple stakes winning Howe Great, is favorably weighted, and his recent work, termed breezing, was 2nd fastest of 55 in his peer group that week at Calder.

Taking Empire Builder to win at 10-1 or greater and key boxing him in multiples with Get Serious (10-1), Tune Me In (10-1) and Salto (5-1).


Running Totals: May, 2007-Present

Number of Selections: 1220

Number of Win-Place-Show Finishers: 374-238-184

Amount Wagered: $2,442 [to win only]

Total Dollar Return on Investment: $2,562.50

Profit to Date: $120.50