Split divisions of an optional allowances are the features at Laurel and we opted for the one with the slightly larger field overnight.
The bad news is that the favorite, Warm (9-5), will be a very tough out. Race dynamics, a favorable outside post, tactical speed, kick and superior Thoro-Graph figures are significant obstacles for the competition to overcome.
The two who appear to have the best upset chances are Monaco Princess (4-1) who reunites with 2019 leading trainer Claudio Gonzalez and winning partner Victor Carrasco. the fillies best runs have been for this team.
The one who catches the eye most is Lucy’s Town (3-1) who’s reversing the usual winter north-to-south pattern. This filly’s last race was at Gulfstream Park in a Claiming Crown event vs. some very salty females.
A late kicker, she was virtually eliminated by an opening quarter of 24.30,–too much of an advantage for pace types in one-turn GP miles. The same dynamic applies here, but the pace rates to be much more lively, the rivals more accommodating, and the switch to McCarthy suits one-run closers.
But, as stated, Warm looks like the most probable winner. Check out the Laurel Live Video on the HRI homepage and see if you think her recent authoritative win on DEC 28, RACE 4 is too much for her rivals to overcome.
If 3-1 or more is available we will make a straight play and an exacta box with the favorite.
