Belmont: Thursday, June 22

[Teach]

Race One:
PIQUET is my pick in the opener. However, a note of caution, she’s been the bridesmaid in her only two pari-mutuels, both narrow second-place finishes. Is today the day? One of the best, Javier Castellano, is in the irons. Castellano is outstanding (tan fantastico) in rating horses; he’s one of the best at timing a winning move. He may have to get this filly “into the game” a wee bit earlier. This filly is no lead-pipe cinch, yet to hit the board… In my opinion, in this field, the closest thing to a certainty (again, everyone’s a free agent when it comes to wagering on the speed and endurance of thoroughbred race horses). Others: 4, 6, 8

Race Two:
SWETRAYOFSUNSHINE looks like horse…would appear to be the horse… Yet, at this level – despite three straight wins – I don’t feel completely relaxed waxing eloquently about this 8 year-old mare’s chances of having her picture taken in the winner’s circle. At this claiming level, one has to be especially cautious. Yet, having said that – Who else. The mare’s trainer, Robertino “Beto” Diodoro, is having an outstanding meet. The mare’s pilot, Angelo Arroyo, is most capable. Others: 1, 3, 6

Race Three:
CHOW FUN is my choice in this turf sprint. Yes, this mare has not raced in more than a year. Yet, if as fit as I believe she may be, I believe she can prevail at a decent price. Dave Cannizzo does very well with claim repeaters. Javier’s in the irons. Certainly worth a look at a price. Others: 10, 6, 5

Race Four:
CENTR OF THE STAGE is my pick here. I believe this first-timer has a chance of winning at first-asking. A 17% Sire with first-timers. The Dam had one winner from one starter. Irad Ortiz, Jr. for Rudy Rodriguez. Others: 8, 6, 4

Race Five:
MR. CAT is my choice in this turf sprint at 7 panels. I believe trhe outside starting post will do wonders. That is along with the services of jockey Jose Ortiz and trainer Linda Rice. Rice does well with horses making their second career start. Others: 9, 4, 2

Race Six:
They stay on the lawn at 6 panels. Again, I’m looking outside at the HEAVY MEDDLE This Medaglia d’Oro-bred colt should be out and going from his outside post when the gates open. I believe he can carry his speed a long way. Jockey Jose Lezcano will need to ration out his speed. The Hall of Famer, Bill Mott, trains. Others: 5, 3, 11

Race Seven:
MARY PRAY FOR US has been quite competitive at this level. This Filly has the services of Luis Saez. Saez has picked up the pace, recently. He’s most capable in the irons. Trainer Mike Miceli does quite in third-start off a layoff situations. Others: 9, 8, 7

Race Eight:
In this 7 furlongs OC on the lawn I’m pickin’ MISS KATIE MAE. This Irish-bred bay filly has acquitted herself very well in facing tough turf foes throughout the country. I believe she catches a field she can handle. Jose Ortiz is in the irons for trainer Graham Motion. Others: 8, 7, 6

Race Nine:
In the finale, a turf route, I’m going with SMARTY KITTEN. This Wesley Ward trainee has faced better. Admittedly, this gelding hasn’t won at the distance. Yet, he may be able to surprise. The gelding has three 2nds in seven tries on the lawn. Albin Jiminez is in the irons. Others: 8, 4, 3