BC Racebook Newsletter - March 14, 2024
Fraser Downs Racing Tonight Preview
Bailey’s On The Backstretch
by Bailey Williams
Spring training has been well on its way for over a month, but Saturday, March 9, 2024, saw the first group of clocked, qualified workouts at Hastings.
Among that first group of 20 horses to work were two noteworthy unraced 3-year-old horses gearing up for their first lifetime start out of the Steve Henson barn. These BC breds have some big shoes to follow as their bloodline siblings have gone on to have great success over the Hastings oval.
2022 BC Derby winner Regal Riot has a promising half-brother, I’m Seeing Red. Completing his first 3/8 of a mile work fifth fastest on the day, the speed and desire to have a quick turn of foot becomes obvious. The biggest key with the dam Regal Red’s foals is keeping them sound of mind. She, along with her offspring, have continued to race well in Vancouver, making Red Rock Farms a sought-out consigner for the annual yearling sale.
With the unfortunate reality of likely having to race together, the “adorable barn pet” Red Russel put up a very impressive first work of the season in a blistering 35.8 seconds. He continues to show similar speed to his dominant half-sister We B Three. Once purchased for a mere $1000, she has spent the majority of her career chasing the superstar, Infinite Patience and doing well holding her own. If Red Russel has half the determination as his sister and continues to show the natural ability, he is one to keep an eye on as we approach opening day on Saturday, April 27.
Each week as workouts continue to progress, I will be taking notes on horses worth adding to your watch list as well.
Playing in Handicapping Tournaments
by Dawn Lupul
The big one is here! The NHC (National Horseplayers Championship) is the richest, most important, and most prestigious tournament for horseplayers in the world. NHC 2024 will be held at Horseshoe Las Vegas March 15-17, 2024. This year features more than 600 players who will be competing for nearly $4.5 million in cash and prizes at the conclusion of the weekend.
For the last few years, I have been fortunate to be invited to play in the charity contest which runs at the same time as the big event. I was lucky enough to win the first time I played but haven’t been close to the top since. It’s fun to play and this year I am going to try to hit the top five. Fingers are crossed that I am seeing the ball clearly this Saturday!
Contest play is fun and is a good way to test your handicapping skills. The strategies are different from everyday play, and some people thrive in the tournament world who aren’t necessarily the best handicappers. It’s important to think outside of the box and look to maximize longshot play as much as possible. Horses that you wouldn’t be confident to play to win on a regular basis will often form the bulk of your contest selections.
Peter Fornatale, author of several books including The Winning Contest Player, is a rich resource for anyone looking to learn about the world of tournament play. He is also the CEO and Founder of the In The Money Media Players’ Podcast, who BC Racebook is excited to be working with this year to bring BC racing to eyes and ears across North America. Check it out!
Good luck to everyone playing this weekend, and hopefully I can represent BC Racebook in fine style and win some money for charity. May all your horses get to the wire on time!
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