Quills Picks Winners – Monday 10/19 – Parx Race 8

After completing the weekend QPW double at Woodbine this weekend, we head back home to Parx for today’s race of the day. Our featured race is race eight of a nine-race card. A field of six horses will sprint six furlongs in the penultimate race of the day.

Parx Race 8 – Allowance Optional Claiming

Favored in today’s race is the 4 Houghton Shuffle (5/2 morning line). He has run very well in local stakes races here at Parx, closing strongly but unlucky in defeat in his last three races. He will sit and make that big move late to pick up the pieces.

The 3 Maximus Meridius (7/2 ML) is another horse that has taken advantage of the local stakes schedule here as well. He is usually closer to the front but was not on the lead in the Stable Recovery Stakes last time out. Since there is other speed in this race he may rate behind the other two speed horses, or he may just be adding fuel to that fire up front.

The 2 Subrogate (5/1 ML) races for the first time on over eight months when he races at Colonial Downs near the end of August. He fired in that race and probably needed that race. He will be best suited by racing off the pace and trying to make a late move. I’m figuring he could get first run at the leaders if they tire.

The 1 Spikezone (3/1 ML) draws the rail in this race and figures to be gunning for the lead. This gelding likes to go for the lead, but she has shown the ability to stalk when he has to do so. I’m figuring he goes for the lead here drawing the rail, but if he stalks I will not be surprised.

Joe’s Pick

This is a race that sets up very nicely for Houghton Shuffle today. He gets a potential speed duel which he can show off his closing kick. This running style will benefit him today and he will get up late for the win.

I’m calling this race 4-3-2-1 and my play is $20 to win on the 1. Best of luck and I’ll see you in the winner’s circle!