By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper — Early Double Analysis — February 20, 2021 —
Race 1
1 I’M A BIG DEAL – Freshened up by Ohio Hall of Fame trainer Virgil Morgan, Jr. This is a very nice horse, and I am kind of surprised to see him here in NJ. Probably not primed and ready for this yet, but will be soon. Be ready for it.
2 SUNDOWN KID – Sent south to new barn, probably just for opportunity to race. We’ll see if he sticks around, now that Canada is back in business. That qualifier was okay, so I will take a good, long look at him out on track. A maybe.
3 STONEDUST – The Dust continues to “hang” a bit for that winner’s circle photo. Needs that extra bit of energy to win one of these. He’s always a factor, and Simon’s put him in some good spots too! One of these nights, Alice…. Eric G on.
4 HEZA REAL DIAMOND – Yes, I see the driver change, but it’s not like Mark Mac did anything wrong. Had this gelding in perfect spots a couple of times and he just didn’t have the stamina. Will it be any different tonight? That’s your call.
5 SEEUINNASHVILLE A – Had to hike up to this level last time and proved he could handle it. Barn is going well right now, and this one’s rounded into good form. I make him the one to fear, especially if #3,4 don’t “want” to win.
6 UNLOADED N – The crazy horse got around there safely from post 10 last week. I guess that’s good. I see the drop. This is probably the level where he belongs. He does own a wicked late kick, when in the mood. Wouldn’t talk you off.
7 GLOBALDOMINATION N – Also on the drop here, and sufficiently speed-tightened last week. That’s the perfect setup for a strong try here. Should offer the right price, if you fancy an alternative to the faves. I like that idea!
8 JK WILL POWER – I guess he really was “supposed” to win that race last time. And he did! Andy put a perfect and patient drive on him, and geared up that one big charge to get by. Nice effort. Now, he steps up and moves out.
9 STARZNHEAVEN – Nickerson veteran is just gearing up for his 2021 campaign. He will not be ready for this just yet.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Andy McCarthy 5 over 6,7,9
Top Contenders 5-7-6-3
Race 2
1 ENVIRONS HANOVER – That was SOME qualifier, folks! Was actually in an early duel, shook off the pressure and strode out like a good horse! I was very impressed. Looking at his form, I didn’t see that coming. Might be good one!
2 WATER SPORTS TEEN – Definitely regressed a little in the second start back. I will have to pass for now.
3 UNIQUE BEACH – Did a fairly decent job of towing along last time, changing up the strategy completely. If anything, he’s probably racing himself back into shape. Remember the night of 1/23, when he looked home free? Just short.
4 BIG CITY BUD – Can’t really fault the Bud right now. He’s handling these tougher fields well. That trip didn’t exactly work out perfectly last time. Got extra week off. He will be good here, but will it be good enough? That’s the question.
5 FULL VIEW – Since that win at the end of 2020, he’s been buried in some real tough spots. I even liked that speed he tried from post 10. Last time, just went around there after a shuffle. Should get involved earlier here. A maybe.
6 WINDSUN AZAR – He’s now burned betting money twice, so you get tired of it after a while. Was super-good in the first go here, then not as strong last time. I really don’t know what we’re getting tonight. We just have to guess.
7 WINDEMERE FRANK – Maybe, just maybe he was a little better last time? Overall, his form has been flat. So, we need to turn up the jets, Frank! Is it coming any time soon? I’m not so sure in this spot. I want to see one more good one.
8 THE CANDYMAN CAN – Since that perfect trip of a lifetime win, he’s been dull. Why? No idea. I’ll pass again.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Dexter Dunn 3 over 8
Andy McCarthy 6 over 2
Top Contenders 1-4-5-3
