Quills Picks Winners – Monday 9/7 – Kentucky Downs Race 11

We head back to Kentucky Downs for today’s race. We will be looking at race 11 of a 14 race card. Like the card today, this field is massive as well. There are 16 horses entered with up to 12 horses running in the Franklin-Simpson Stakes. Three-year-olds will sprint six and a half furlongs on this Labor Day.

Kentucky Downs Race 11 – Franklin-Simpson Stakes (Grade 2)

Favored in today’s race is the 6 Alpyland (3/1 morning line). He was caught late in the Grade 2 Secretariat at Colonial Downs last time out going longer. Look for him to be near the pace and try to draw off in the stretch.

The 10 Take Charge Star (4/1 ML) finished a tiring fourth in France last month and makes his American debut here at Kentucky Downs today. Two races back in June at Royal Ascot, this colt fought hard but could not get back the winner. He may be further back but should be able to make a strong run here late in this race.

The 5 Throckmorton (10/1 ML) lost by a neck in the Grade 3 Quick Call at Saratoga about six weeks ago. He was gaining on the loose leader and got by him, but a closer came from the clouds to get the win. This colt will be close to the pace if not on the lead here this afternoon.

The 7 Learntodiscover (20/1 ML) won that Quick Call in July at Saratoga, but he did not in the Mahony at Saratoga last month. There may be a built in excuse here as he hit the gate at the start and was wide throughout. If he can get out of the gate cleanly, he should have a chance to get at least a piece here this afternoon.

Joe’s Pick

I admit I am very intrigued by the European invader here this afternoon. Take Charge Star ran well two races back at Royal Ascot but did tire in France at Deauville. Though he did tire in France, he did not miss by much. With a weight break as well, I think he gets up for the win here today. I’m calling this race 10-5-6-7 and my play is $20 to win on the 10. Best of luck and I’ll see you in the winner’s circle!