Happy Monday everyone! We head home to Parx for today’s race. We have a starter allowance optional claiming race going a mile and 70 yards. This race is essentially a non-winners of two races lifetime condition, as each of these horses only have one win each in their careers.
Parx Race 8 – Starter Allowance Optional Claiming
Favored in our race today is the 8 Shallus (5/2 morning line). It took 29 tries, but he finally broke his maiden as the favorite at Penn National ten days ago. He only beat three horses that day with a wide trip that was near the lead. I’m not sure what to make of that race other than the fact that he took over on the final turn and won by daylight.
The 4 Imperial Sky (6/1 ML) closed to break his maiden two weeks ago here at Parx. He stretches out after that win but had been knocking on the door in each of his five races in 2026. He has run well going two turns which should make him a contender here with a stalking trip.
The 1 It’s Authentic (6/1 ML) was bumped around at the start and steadied soon after, but he closed well to finish second three weeks ago here at Parx. Look for him to settle and make a move again this afternoon, hopefully without the drama at the start.
The 5 Play the Gray (3/1 ML) sat right off the pace last time out but got passed by the winner who drew off impressively. That winner won last month to win his third race in a row. That race in February did not look that bad for this gray or roan colt.
Joe’s Pick
I’m tossing Shallus. Yes, he was knocking on the door for a long time. But I never know what to make about horses in short fields like that one at Penn National.
I’ll take Play the Gray here. He had the lead briefly before the winner blew by him near the end of the final turn. He did not embarrass himself and still showed life to the finish. I think he gets the job done here this afternoon.
I’m calling this race 5-1-8-4 and my play is $20 to win on the 5. Best of luck and I’ll see you in the winner’s circle!
