By John Pricci — FAIR GROUNDS:
DIV 1: G2 Risen Star Stakes: It’s two, two preps in one: In the first division, based on talent, spacing, dynamics, post positions etc. etc. We’ve got two for the money but will split those hairs.
Winner: Silver Slate (4-1). Exotica: Enforceable (7-2), Scabbard (12-1).
DIV 2: G2 Risen Star Stakes: It’s today or never for Anneau D’or. Directly pointed, long stretch, adds blinkers, adds Rosario. On balance, it’s a weakish Grade 2.
Winner: Anneau d’Or (8-5). Exotica: Liam’s Lucky Charm (9-2) , Lynn’s Map (10-1), Finnick the Fierce (10-1), Mailman Money (8-1)
G3 Fair Grounds Stakes: He hasn’t been in career best form but expect big time improvement from Synchrony, now that he’s back in NOLA (5) 4-0-1) and is reuniting with Joe Bravo, the team that won this race last year. Class, too.
Winner: Synchrony (3-1). Exotica: Dontblamerocket (9-2), Captivating Moon (10-1)
LAUREL PARK:
John B Campbell: Third time will prove the charm for Monongahela; freshened for this.
Winner: Monongahela (2-1). Exotica: Alwaysmining (3-1), Someday Jones (5-2)
Wide Country Stakes: Bella Aurora is extremely honest (6) 3-1-2 and the demonstrated class.
Winner: Bella Aurora (3-1). Exotica: Bankruptonthebeach (9-2), Miss Marissa (4-1).
Miracle Wood Stakes: This one is a toughie as dynamics difficult to read the one turn mile could be problematic for some. We’ll lean on pedigree here.
Winner: Albert Park (7-2). Exotica: Lebda (4-1), Dreams Untold (5-2).
G3 Barbara Fritchie: She’s always been an honest filly but she looked like she raised her game when taking Aqueduct’s Interborough. Worthy favorite.
Winner: Saguaro Row (8-5). Exotica: Needs Supervision (9-2), Anna’s Bandit (3-1).
G3 General George: He’s been raced into top condition and the local hero looks set. Upset call.
Winner: Still Having Fun (10-1). Exotica: Firenze Fire (4-5), Tiz He The One (8-1). Wicked Trick (8-1)
