By G.S. Thompson
Last week the AI picked against the favourite and its choices actually ran decent. That being said, they tried everything to beat the favourite in that race and she still overcame with a gutsy stretch run to win. This week we’ll test the AI on the Ft. Lauderdale Stakes at Gulfstream Park.
FT. LAUDERDALE STAKES (G2)
Race 10, Gulfstream Park, Saturday, December 21, 2024
1 1/8 Miles (Turf) | Purse: $215,000 | 3-Year-Olds & Up
Top Selections
1. WIN FOR THE MONEY
2. GRAND SONATA
3. MAJOR DUDE
Longshots
1. EMMANUEL
2. CASH EQUITY
3. FORT WASHINGTON
The nine-furlong Ft. Lauderdale Stakes at Gulfstream Park this Saturday looks like an extremely competitive race, and odds at post time could dictate your betting choice.
Win for the Money requires forgiveness for his Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1) defeat, but his prior form justifies favouritism. His Woodbine Mile (G1) victory showcased his true capabilities, and his Gulfstream record speaks volumes – crossing the wire first in both local attempts despite one disqualification. At 5-2 on the morning line, he offers reasonable value. He’s also one of only three horses in here to have cracked 100 on the Beyer scale, the others being Cash Equity and Emmanuel.
Grand Sonata can improve markedly from his Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) performance. He earned a 99 Beyer figure in his Kentucky Turf Cup (G2), and today’s equipment change to blinkers should sharpen his early focus as he cuts back from 1 ½-miles to 1 1/8-miles. The Pletcher trainee partners again with Tyler Gaffalione, noteworthy since their alliance has produced all five of his career wins.
Major Dude arrives in excellent condition following a sharp Keeneland allowance win that produced a competitive 96 Beyer. His partnership with returning rider Irad Ortiz Jr. has historically produced strong results, including a win over this course in the Kitten’s Joy (G3) last year. His adaptable style suits the expected race flow.
Beyond the favourites, Emmanuel has never lost on this turf course, Cash Equity is capable of running a big number on his best day, and Fort Washington is a longshot trainer play.
Early pressure should materialize from Saratoga Flash and Siege of Boston, creating opportunities for the well-positioned stalkers to capitalize in the stretch run. This race is wide open, so your best bet in an evenly matched field is likely the horse with the most enticing odds.
See you at the windows!