By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper — Early Double Analysis — Friday, May 28, 2021 —
Race 1
1 GRAND TETON – Was in way over his head in that last one, so don’t hold that against him. This is probably the perfect spot to bounce back for his new connections. The rail, plus some intimidating speed might make him tough to catch.
2 ACTING OUT – Just keeps getting bet for some unknown reason. That doesn’t change the 1-17 record this year. Drew good post once again, but better find more when it counts late. I just haven’t seen it. I will simply wish you luck.
3 RISKY MILLION – Interesting newcomer to Club Med, and into a pretty dangerous stable. I can’t guarantee he’ll be ready right away, but he might be soon. I will be watching closely for future evaluation.
4 AMERICAN NITRO – One of the many this group that have only one win this year, so that’s a problem. Seems like he made the transition from Florida to the north okay. But, even I will admit this is a big step up the ladder. Tough call.
5 KINGOFTHEJUNGLE – Was bet early, middle and late last week as the “International Good Thing,” but at least he paid off! Went right down the road with some newfound speed and kept it up all the way. Will have to deal with #1 now.
6 ROCKINWITHTHEBEST – I thought he would have taken more betting action last week, but did not. Still took a shot and flashed some speed before a shuffle. He’s another part of the pace scenario, IF RH wants. He likes to leave too!
7 TODDLER TANTRUM – Showed up at Yonkers last week and got bet off the board. However, he did not deliver the goods that night. Moves from pole there, to post seven here, in field full of speed. That’s probably not going to work.
8 GOOD DAY MATE – It’s been a while since we saw this veteran here. Beat weaker. Huge step up. I’ll just pass.
9 GRANDPA DON – They took Don to Freehold for a few and were rewarded with a win, and a third. That win snapped a long skid too! Unfortunately, for first trip back to Club Med, they get slammed with post nine. That hurts a lot. Trainer: I adore this horse! I’ve finally got him happy and willing to try. Last start Fhld was my fault. I tried putting headpole back on and he has shown me how much he hates it. So, back to a line pole, and driving bit change. Thrilled to have JC drive
10 FRANCO TRISTAN N – Very interesting entrant here, especially with Joe Lee aboard. Dropped and popped up at home base, so this is big step back up. Plus, it’s post 10. Does he have any early speed? That’s a good question.
DRIVER CHOICES: None
Top Contenders 1-6-5-10
Race 2
1 JULA PRO HANOVER – Neither one of his first few starts showed all that much, but that sums up several of these. Drew the cozy pole post to sit a bit closer. Let’s see if third start back is the charm. Somebody has to win this.
2 TAKE THIS SOCIETY – Took a very aggressive stance in leg one a few weeks ago and it didn’t work out. Ended up skipping leg two, which worries me a bit. Not looking at a very big price here, so take a long look out on the track. Trainer: Trained really well! Last race was just a bit of a messed-up race and I wouldn’t worry about it. Should be okay.
3 RED REDEMPTION – I just love his speed! If he ever learns to finish, he will be a very dangerous horse. Will not be 40-1 vs. this group and should have the lead instantly. Zenith may have to do some work to catch him. Watch out.
4 ZENITH STRIDE – They slapped the hopples on for the leg two try and he was raced conservatively. Did not make it to final, so the gloves come off here. Too much class for these, provided he stays on gait! Is that asking a lot?
5 MEDIA MOGUL – I guess we could say he’s slowly racing himself back into shape? That was a little bit better effort to pick up a check last time. But, he will need a lot more than that to get by them all. Demand fair price if you fancy.
6 MUSCLE DYNASTY – He’s been a “project horse” for Team Wellwood. Just missed making the final, as also eligible one. Last race was also a touch better. But, I don’t know if I’m quite ready to bet from an outside post like this.
DRIVER CHOICES: None
Top Contenders 4-3-2-6