Quills Picks Winners – Wednesday 4/29 – Churchill Downs Race 9
Happy Wednesday everyone and it’s day two of our five-day look at Churchill Downs as we are a day closer to the Run for the Roses. Today, we look at race nine today as older horses will go a mile and a half on the main track in the Isaac Murphy Marathon Stakes.
These races are rare but we are seeing these type races a little bit more. Some of these horses have found their niche in these marathon races while others are trying something new.
Churchill Downs Race 9 – Isaac Murphy Marathon Stakes
Favored in this marathon race is the 2 Parchment Party (2/1 morning line). He returned from a trip to Australia and their most famous race to win the Temperance Hill Stakes at Oaklawn Park last month. He closed strongly to win that race. Trainer Bill Mott argues that this race may be too short for him, as he has won going as far as a mile and three-quarters on the main track (so far).
The 1 No Bien Ni Mal (3/1 ML) returns to the races today after winning the Grade 3 Greenwood Cup at Parx last September. He has had a series of stamina building workouts preparing for his return. He is two for two in North America after racing in Uruguay and Brazil.
The 4 Digital Ops (8/1 ML) appears to be running in this race today and not at Oaklawn on their closing day Saturday. He dashed through the snow at Colonial Downs at win an 11-furlong marathon there last month. He likes to be near the pace and could be a candidate to go gate to wire here this afternoon.
The 5 Interceptor (6/1 ML) definitely does not have any ties to the New York Jets after the season their defense had. But seriously, he comes in from New York (ironically enough) where he finished second in the 10-furlong Excelsior at Aqueduct at the beginning of the month. Look for him to sit right behind any horses that dare to go for the lead and try to take over late.
Joe’s Pick
Some horses here do have to prove that they can go the mile and a half here this afternoon, especially Interceptor. But I think that he is bred to run all day but has not had the chance to prove it like the favorite Parchment Party had the chance to prove last year.
Sometimes I say eat chalk and move on to the next race, but I have a feeling that the combination of the pedigree as well as the jockey will have a patient ride and will get up for the win, fending off the challenge of Parchment Party.
I’m calling this race 5-2-1-4 and my play is $20 to win on the 5. Best of luck and I’ll see you in the winner’s circle!
