Horse Pick of the Day – Churchill Downs Race 10

Last Friday night was the first night for BetUS racebook fans to bet Churchill Downs under the lights. It was a terrific move by a track that is known for the Kentucky Derby but not for anything else.

Hopefully, with the advent of slot machines, and better marketing like running races at night on Fridays, Churchill Downs could once again become one of he premier tracks in the United States.

Let’s take a look at Race 10 at Hollywood Park on Friday.

Churchill Downs – Race 10

Allowance $50,200 n1x

For Three Year Olds Which Have Never Won a Race Other Than Maiden, Claiming or Starter or Which Have Never Won Two Races

1 1/16th miles on dirt

Blue Whistler - - 7/2 morning line

Blue Whistler is coming into this off of a maiden victory. Usually, I wouldn’t even think about horse betting like this against winners first time out, but there are so many positives to Blue Whistler that I can’t go against him. First, he broke his maiden at this distance and on this track with the best last out speed rating of this bunch. Second, jockey Corie Lanerie, who does very well at Churchill Downs, rides him. Third, trainer George Arnold is having a very good Twin Spires meet and fourth, Blue Whistler should be able to lay off of the speed and then make a run in the lane. He’s the play.

Taurus The Bull - - 6/1 morning line

Mr. Churchill Downs himself, Calvin Borel, takes the call for this son of Holy Bull. The outside draw could hurt him going two turns as he only has one way to go and that’s getting the lead and trying to run away. He faces other speed in this but he’s so fast that hanging on for second might not be a problem. I like the fact that Borel is on his back and he should get a lead.

Karama - - 5/1 morning line

This is the horse that could challenge Taurus the Bull early. I see this race unfolding with Karama and Taurus The Bull on the lead with Blue Whistler one to two lengths off. I don’t believe that Karama will throw in the towel nor do I believe that jockeys Calvin Borel and Jara Fernando, who rides Karama, will let the pace get out of control. Karama could be part of a merry go round race with Taurus The Bull and Blue Whistler.

Wagering Strategy

I’m going to bet Blue Whistler to win and place. I will put Blue Whistler into an exacta and trifecta box with Karama and Taurus The Bull.