Today’s finale in Oldsmar allows handicappers to verify a life axiom, that patience is a virtue and that it can be rewarded. A case in point is Cochise Charlie (5-1).
Whether it was circumstances or choice, Cochise Charlie tried to win his last on the far turn with a aggressive move, a rally that started over a furlong earlier.
The wide sweep indeed carried him to the lead but there was no breather, a chance to relax. He fought his way to the lead and through the stretch before exhaustion took over with 100 yards to go as he faded from leader to fourth.
Check it out to see if you agree: Tampa Bay Downs, JAN 2, Race 7.
The newly turned gelding like the Tampa turf and seems to be coming to hand at 4. Showing no ill effects from his last, he returned 12 days later with a snappy half-mile blow in 48.40, eighth fastest of 92 peers to work the distance that week.
We’re betting that Daniel Centeno will ride with confidence and a bit more patience this time around. Taking the Tim Glyshaw trainee to win at 3-1 or greater and key-boxing multiples with last out graduate Hype Man (8-1), the well spotted Reiner (9-2), and mega-dropdown Clever Fellow (3-1).
