Del Mar, southern California, hosts America’s seasonal championships this weekend. Expect fast ground, strong gallops and a record turnout for international raiders.
23:10: 1m Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (Grade 1) (2yo Fillies) (Turf) (2yo)
The Europeans have a poor record in this race – and this year’s raiding party isn’t the strongest – but, then again, there aren’t any obvious stars from the home team either. The one that stands out to me is CAIRO MEMORIES, who breaks from stall two and already has a course and distance win at Del Mar. She’s only raced twice but already looks a pro as she has settled nicely and found plenty when asked. She’s not got the fanciest connections but she’s warm in the market and any double digit price seems good value to get the meeting off to a flier.
1pt each-way Cairo Memories @10/1, 23:10 Del Mar, Friday (1-5, 1/5)
00:30: 1m Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf (Grade 1) (2yo Colts & Geldings) (Turf) (2yo)
This looks very competitive with no standout. I can really see the case for Charlie Appleby’s Modern Games but he needs to step up on known form and, despite a good draw, I couldn’t recommend him as a bet at such a short price. I’ll be backing DAKOTA GOLD – not to be confused with his European-trained namesake – at a big price as I was taken by his Monmouth Park win where he thrashed Coinage, whose own form ties in with a few others here, including Chad Brown’s Portfolio Company. That line suggests Dakota Gold could be the best of the domestic challenge and a plum draw in stall three gives him every chance.
1pt win Dakota Gold @16/1, 00:30 Del Mar, Saturday