Quills Picks Winners – Thursday 11/5 – Churchill Downs Race 9

I got a bit of a surprise yesterday, but that was on me for not looking for the weather at Churchill Downs yesterday. We got a sloppy track, which was no issue for Being Myself who won at 5/1 odds.

I think the track will be drying or dry for our race this afternoon under the Twin Spires. Our featured race is race nine of a ten-race card as an overflow field of 16 horses, with up to 12 horses running, will run one mile on the main track today in an allowance race.

Churchill Downs Race 9 – Allowance

Favored in our featured race today is the 1 Zimmer (6/5 morning line). He sat back and made a big move in the stretch to win his debut race last month at Belmont. The one-turn mile should suit him today. But with the rail will he have to be closer to the pace?

The 8 Penalty Box (9/2 ML) has been forwardly placed in his last two races at Churchill Downs and at Ellis Park. Last time at Churchill, he yielded late in an allowance race going longer. He has shown that he can race from off the pace as well so that might be an option here this afternoon.

The 12 Sweet Freedom (12/1 ML) will be on the outside if none of the AE’s get into the field and races for the first time in five months. If he is ready to go here today, he should be flying late here today.

The 14 Commentate (8/1 ML) will need to draw into the field but his 2026 debut was successful as be lagged at the back of the pack and made a strong, wide move for the win. If he gets in today, don’t be surprised if he is up there late as well.

Joe’s Pick

This race looks like it is all about Zimmer today. We might see him closer to the pace with the added distance, but he should be able to get the job done here to stay undefeated in two tries.

I’m calling this race 1-14-12-8 and my play is $20 to win on the 1. Best of luck and I’ll see you in the winner’s circle!