Only 8 races at Del Mar, and conveniently placed immediately after the end of Saratoga.
4 of the 8 are Maidens, and this is the only stakes race. Likely have to go deep in P4s as I'm not going that deep to play P5s.
Twilight Gleaming: The Wesley Ward shipper is 2 for 2 at Del Mar including the 2021 BC Juvy Turf Sprint. This is undoubtedly a prep potentially looking to run in the F&M Turf Sprint in the Breeder's Cup. Ran just last month at Ascot, took the lead and folded to 16th in a field of 17. 2/1 ML seems low, and hard to see her at more than even money. The one to beat, and looks vulnerable.
Sassy Nature: With the SCR of the
, this gal will be next door looking to press the pace with the
. Speed and fade is very likely, but she will be sent.
Unbridled Mary: 1 for 1 at Del Mar and 2 for 3 at the distance. Off back-to-back wins, can she win 3 in a row? Would love for a lively pace to ensue as she should be coming late. Maybe in too deep of waters, but wouldn't be a complete shock.
Amy C: Strong turf pedigree gets another cut back in distance. Late pace figs are as good as any, and if a pace meltdown happens, she looks to be the biggest benefactor.
Xmas Surprise: Not a great record at Del Mar, and is taking a solid step up in class. Always a late runner, but this is likely too much for her today.
Wide West: Front running turf sprinter that will undoubtedly have to be sent to have any chance. Big step up in class, but off back-to-back wins. Not without a chance as she attracts solid turf jockey Juan Hernandez. Interesting.
Tony Ann: 3(2-0-1) record at Del Mar, and does like to sprint. Off a layoff since November of last year, but some solid near bullets coming in. This lightly raced 5YO has all of 7 career starts, but 4 career wins. She isn't in here to not try and win.
Princess Adaleigh: A speed baller with some serious question marks. 7(3-3-0) career record, so she likes to win. However, has recently been switched to turf and has a solid 2(1-1-0) record on the green stuff. Late pace figs are as good as any, so could her style change at 5F? Not without a chance.