Quills Picks Winners – Sunday 11/8 – Del Mar Race 8

We switch things up a little bit this afternoon as we will head west to Del Mar for this afternoon’s race of the day. Today’s race is race eight on a nine-race card. Fillies and mares will go seven furlongs on the main track in the Betty Grable Stakes.

Del Mar Race 8 – Betty Grable Stakes

Favored in today’s race is the 1 Grand Slam Smile (1/1 morning line). She returns to the main track this afternoon after winning the California Distaff Handicap at Santa Anita last month on the grass. She followed this script last hear when she won this race last year. Look for her to be near the pace or even setting the fractions, especially drawing the rail here this afternoon.

The 2 Christel Clean (5/1 ML) did not fire in the California Distaff last time out but did have an excuse as she was bumped around the three-eighths pole. She also wants to be close to the pace which may mean that she pressures the favorite here this afternoon.

An interesting entry is the 6 Big Hug (8/1 ML). She comes down to California from Century Downs in Calgary where she sat right off the pace and drew off easily to win the Founders Distaff. She might be better suited for longer, but this mare knows how to win, having won 20 of 37 races lifetime.

The 4 Clubhouse Cutie (8/1 ML) won an optional claiming race at Santa Anita last month, stalking the pace and then getting the lead late and holding on for the win. If a speed duel does develop, she has a chance to get up late here today.

Joe’s Pick

I think we are going to gate that speed duel on the inside. Grand Slam Smile has proven that she can handle the switch back to the main track and should be very tough here. But I think that Big Hug knows how to win and I think she will get up late this afternoon in a bit of an upset.

I’m calling this race 6-1-4-2 and my play is $20 to win on the 6. Best of luck and I’ll see you in the winner’s circle!