NYRA Preview: Aqueduct 12/7

Race 1: $70,000 MSW for 2-year-olds going 1 mile (8 furlongs) on the dirt

It’s very obvious that #9 Cost Basis is the horse to beat in this spot, and I won’t be one of the courageous bettors trying to beat him. He made his debut at Saratoga on August 17 and didn’t do much running. Last time out in a 12-horse field, he took the lead at the top of the stretch bur Sonneman caught him late and ruined a masterful performance. Irad Ortiz is back aboard and look for this colt to win with ease.

Ricky’s Picks: 9-8-1-6

Race 5: $70,000 MSW for 2-year-olds going 1 mile (8 furlongs) on the dirt

This 10-horse field only has 16 races combined between them, which helps to make this race very intriguing. #1 Default Rate for Chad Brown crossed the finish line first in his debut at Monmouth Park but was disqualified to fourth for coming in the stretch. In his most recent effort, he finished third by 2 1/2 lengths behind Bellavia and Secret Rules who won next time out. I don’t see this colt by Carpe Diem being 3/1 by post-time but anything close to that provides great value.

Ricky’s Picks:1-9-5-4

Race 7: $70,000 MSW for 2-year-olds going 6 furlongs on the dirt

Only on Cigar Mile Day at the Big A will racing fans witness a 12-horse field in a 6-furlong sprint. Bill Mott has had a very nice meet up to this point and his colt #1 King Khozan is my top choice in here. Khozan, his sire, was 2-2 and on his way to big and better things but his career got cut short due to injury. King Khozan has looked amazing in the mornings and looks to be the horse to beat. I don’t see this colt being anywhere close to 8/1 at post-time and needs to be included on multi-race wagers.

Ricky’s Picks: 1-12-10-8