Ricky’s Rockets ?: Keeneland Picks for October 21, 2020

As we count down the days to the Breeders’ Cup, I do have some unfortunate news to bring. This is the final week of the Keeneland fall meet, with only four race days left. There is plenty of great racing this week, and you can catch it all right here!

Best of luck!

Race 5: $40,000 Claiming for 3-year-olds and upward going 1 1/16 miles (8 1/2 furlongs) on the dirt

#4 Two Thirty Five has been running against Allowance Optional Claiming levels here in Kentucky in his past two starts. He hasn’t been competitive in his most recent starts, but this drop in class makes him extremely attractive as a bounce-back candidate. #8 Street to Indy has finished first or second in 6/10 starts this year and hasn’t finished worst than second since May 25. He will try his luck for Chris Hartman and his new barn moving forward.

Race 6: Allowance for fillies and mares 3-year-olds and upward going 1 1/16 miles (8 1/2 furlongs) on the turf

#7 Carpe Vinum has faced come of the best three year olds on the turf in Micheline and Red Lark in her last two starts. This is a spot where this filly should thrive for Phil D’Amato.

Race 7: Allowance for fillies and mares 3-year-olds and upward going about 7 furlongs on the dirt

#1 Impeccable Style will cut-back to seven furlongs for the first time since last year. She broke her maiden at this distance, and gets Ricardo Santana Jr. to ride. #4 Aurelia Garland has been competitive in all of her races finishing no worse than fourth. She gets back to the dirt, where she’s had the bulk of her success. This will be her first start at the Allowance level for Rodolphe Brisset.

Race 8: Maiden Special Weight for fillies and mares 3-year-olds and upward going 1 3/16 miles (9 1/2 furlongs) on the turf

#7 Fortuna has done better the longer she goes. In her one race at this distance, she finished second by only a head after leading the whole way. I expect her to be on the lead with Tyler Gaffalione before. #10 Longpants Required will be trying to break her maiden in her 10th career start. She’s been competitive going this long, and has races in her past that will make her tough to beat.

THE TICKET

$5 Pick 4 (Races 5-8) 4,8 / 7 / 1,4 / 7,10 – $40

Keeneland October 21, 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: Keeneland