Ricky’s Rockets ?: Belmont Park and Keeneland Picks for October 8, 2020

Belmont Park is back for another 10-race card on Thursday afternoon. There aren’t any stakes races on the card, but there are plenty of competitive races, which should result in great wagering action as well!

Also included below: my 10-race preview of Keeneland!

Best of luck!

Race 7: $35,000 Claiming for 3-year-olds and upward going 6 furlongs on the widener turf

#3 Tenure has been one of the more consistent runners at this level as he searches for his first win this year. He fits in perfectly with this group and will have every chance to win. Kendrick Carmouche almost got him to the winners’ circle at this level on September 6. #12 Smile Bryan has been facing better runners away from New York in his last couple of starts. After facing Allowance competition in Kentucky and Delaware in his last two races, he should enjoy facing a softer group of runners in this spot.

Race 8: Allowance for New York-bred 3-year-olds and upward going 6 furlongs on the dirt

#8 Riken is by far the quickest away from the gate and will be on the lead. He tends to fade late in the stretch, but when is placed properly, he finds a way to run his best races. #11 Bears Mafia is on a five race win streak as he returns to Belmont Park for the first time since June. The competition at Finger Lakes isn’t as strong as the NYRA circuit, but it’s hard to ignore the run he’s been on as of late.

Race 9: Allowance for fillies and mares 3-year-olds and upward going 6 furlongs on the inner turf

#7 Cost Benefit tried this level last time out at Saratoga, where he gave way around the far turn. The one-turn mile at Belmont should fit him much better. #8 Fetching has proven she can run sprinting or going longer, even though the longer she goes the better she is. Jose Lezcano rides back for the second time in a row as she looks for her second win this year.

Race 10: Maiden Special Weight for 2-year-olds (RNA $45,000 Sale) going 7 furlongs on the widener turf

#8 Panster was scheduled to make his debut on the turf at Saratoga at the end of August, but was kept on the dirt after the race was taken off of the grass. I’m curious to see how he does on the turf in his second career start. #11 Sinashack will make his debut for George Weaver who’s winning at 20% at the meet, combined with his runners winning at 70% for the meet as well. He’s established himself as one of the more underrated trainers in New York.

THE TICKET

$2 Pick 4 (Races 6-9) 3,12 / 8,11 / 7,8 / 8,11 – $32

Belmont Park October 8, 2020

For my full card plays, featuring race-by-race analysis, my top four picks for each race, and full-card multi-race wagers, check out my new product below:

Ricky’s Rockets: Belmont Park

Ricky’s Rockets: Keeneland