‘Horses to Watch’ highlights horses that should be followed for potential wagering options in the future. Virtual stables or stable mail are good tools to help you follow along.
Rye (Jan 10: Race 5)- He made a good account of himself in his first start since May. This sprint race appeared to be one that trainer William Morey wanted to get under his belt, before running him in a 2-turn race next time out. He is a stakes winner going long on the grass and it would not surprise me if his next start was down south. Early on he was outpaced and sat in last on the inside. He was wheeled to the outside in the stretch and ran on strongly to be 4th beaten by 5 lengths (earned an 80 Beyer Speed Figure). Also, this was a very nice allowance field filled with stakes runners. The most important thing to me however, was his gallop out– he galloped out a mile past the field. He clearly wants 2-turns and should be competitive wherever he shows up next.
Brilliant Richie (Jan 11: Race 8)- Didn’t sit the most comfortable trip on the rail, and didn’t find room to run until around the 1/8th pole. He finished up well and was able to run on for second. It seems like the synthetic is his best surface, as he ran 3rd in his only try on it on debut. Should be very competitive if he stays at this maiden 8000 level next time out.
Sequentially (Jan 12: Race 9)- Got away from the gate a bit slow and sat 2nd to last on the backstretch. On the far turn he made a big 5-wide move into contention and was able to sustain that run in the stretch to come up a head short. Not sure how big of a price he will be, but he is definitely one to keep an eye out for next time (especially if he stays at this level).
Mr. Diplomat (Jan 13: Race 9)- Made a nice account of himself in his career debut. On the backstretch he sat 8th out of 9 horses and seemed relaxed. On the turn, he made a very nice move going 5 wide and finished full of run in the stretch. He got a lot of education out of this debut and was 2nd to a hard-trying maiden in Mo Dinero. His trainer Blaine Wright is also a solid 18% with 2nd time starters. This son of Mr. Sidney ran a 58 Beyer Speed figure, and I could see him protected next time out. No matter where he shows up, he is one to follow.
NorCal Horse Racing News 