Interesting AW feature beings the racing week in Hallandale, an optional NX@ mile and 70 years for older horses and what an evenly matched group it is.
Eight entrants dwindle down to three at the top of our ticket: Grand David (7-2) for Victor Barboza and Tyler G; Ever Dangerous (-2), going turf to synth for the recently resurgent George Weaver, and last-out Drexler claim Carrothers (5-1), exiting a live race for a top first-out-claim barn.
Grand David is the logical play given the class relief and inside draw, a tactical type who should suit today’s dynamics well, especially with Tyler in the boot.
A good case also can be made for the Drexler haltered Carrothers, who love the surface, trip, new surroundings for a 23% first-claim outfit with winning partner Edgar Perez.
But we think there will be some value on Ever Dangerous despite the presence of Irad. He lacks GP AW experience but it’s noteworthy that Weaver is 30% with this surface switch and the fact he looks set for tops today.
He appeared to need his January effort coming off a break–a Horse to Watch for us–and was asked to go 11 furlongs next out on turf. He showed improved early speed–the good news and bad news on grass.
He now turns back to suitably shorter trip meeting slightly lesser overall. And the Kitten’s Joy’s, as most realize, can run on anything.
Taking Ever Dangerous to win at 7-2 or greater and key-boxing exactas with his rivals named above.
