La Derby CQ score

Let's take a look at this weekends graded stakes and establish some Competitive Qality scores.  The Louisiana Derby ends up with a score of 2.  My pal Charlie set slow fractions on the front end, was challenged mildly by J be K down the backstretch, but when Kent D.  Decided not to engage and go for the lead Charlie led until the top of the stretch.

Pyro was trapped between horses for a few strides, but when J be K faded, he was able to take the lead. I was not impressed with his finish.  I didn't see the same explosive turn of foot, that he had in the Risen Star.

He still has not one at 9 furlongs, and the Blue Grass will be his first attempt, in what should be another full field.  At this point Pyro looks like a horse who could get in trouble and may not have that turn of foot at 9 furlongs or longer.  He is still pretty push button and small and compact, hasn't missed a step all spring.

The Gotham was another Strange race, Saratoga Russell showed his Trippi breeding after 4 furlongs and Texas Wildcatter looked like  a winner in mid stretch but may have misjudged the fox and wire and allowed Visionaire the earnings and the win.  The fractions were slow and Texas Wildcatter inherited an easy lead.  The CQ score is 1.

Some very interesting prices in the Oaks Future wager in Pool 2.  Indian Blessing may not run in the Oaks.  Some very live 30-1 shots in the second pool.