Rick Francis – Handicapping

By Rick Francis —- Week three of the Saratoga meet has always been about the Grade 2 Jim Dandy showcasing some of the best 3-year-olds in racing, however “some” is optimum word as a few as four sophomores will load into the starting gate and as such we’ll...

By Rick Francis —- The summer racing season turns it up a notch Saturday with the running of the Grade 1 Haskell Stakes from Monmouth Park. A field of eight 3-year-olds will head to the strating gate with a $1 million purse and a “Win and You’re In” berth...

By Rick Francis — This year’s 155th Running of the Grade 1 Belmont Stakes, also marks the 50th Anniversary of one of sports greatest moments, Secretariat’s legendary 31 length victory in the “Test of the Champion”. A field of nine 3-year olds will...

By Rick Francis —- The 98th Running of the Grade 2 Black-Eyed Susan drew a starting field of twelve 3-year-old filly’s highlighted by the Bob Baffert trained Faiza. A strong pair from the Brad Cox barn along with the Tom Amoss conditioned Hoosier Philly look to snap...

By Rick Francis —- The 149th Running of the Grade 1 Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby for the first time in recent memory will include all the Also Eligibles; we offer our selection and pleased to once again have the Ladies of the Gretna Jockey Club give us their picks. Good...

By Rick Francis —- A full starting gate of fourteen 3-year-old fillies go to post for the 149th running of the Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks. Several of these sophomore ladies have faced each other on their “Road to the Oaks” campaign so a heated contest can be assured;...

By Rick Francis —- Oaklawn Park Race 12) 1&1/8th Mile. Arkansas Derby Grade I. Purse $1,250,000 THREE YEAR OLDS Post Time: 7:24/( 6:24)/ 5:24/ 4:24 6) Angel of Empre (Cox/Prat); winner of the Grade 2 Risen Star, contested at today’s distance, placed here two back...

By Rick Francis —- Trainer Brad Cox sends out a strong pair with Verifying and Giant Mischief in the running of the $1 Million Grade 2 Rebel Stakes. Each of these strapping 3-year-old colts are seeking their first points to the “Run for the Roses” so expect a...