Tonopah Challenge

The Tonopah Challenge features a field of 8 being contested at a distance of 1 3/4 miles on a dirt track in Texas this weekend. The field is pretty diverse.

1. High Performance 11-1. High Performance is coming off a win at 13 and is looking to repeat. Picks up top rider Shoemaker (21%) which is an additional bonus.

2. Ladys Deligth 16-1. Has had a history of success at this distance. May be a bit outclassed at this distance.

3. Vin Da Bona 4-1. Vina is a very capable horse with decent speed ratings. Riding on dirt track for first time since 2005 and will need to proof a liking to this surface.

4. Surely Within Fool 12-1. Recent claim by Steelers who has also opted to switch the horse to dirt. This surface is not the horses forte. Pass here.

5. Hearusplaydog 5-1. Picks up Brown who is usually fussy over his ride choices. Stablefred has been training this one well. Two of last three races show speed ratings of 95 & 92 at distances of 10 and up. Appears ready to score.

6. One for the Ages 6-5. Classy horse just claimed by Whipcrack. Shows excellent speed, however, these are at distances below 9. Horse likes to come from behind. One of the Ages has not been tested in a long route and this is a big concern.

7. Fast Break 5-1. Been racing with softer, however hits the board on all races at distances of 12 and up. Speeds have been decent and could hit the board.

8. Londoner 16-1. Londoner hasn’t been on the board in ages and would be a shocker if this trend changes here.

Top pick here is #5, Hearusplaydog. Has been running well and can beat the heavy favorite. Shoemaker opts for #1 High Performance who has been racing well, nice price here too. #7 Fast Break is third choice despite facing tougher. Fast Break has level of consistancy in route. Saver pick is the favorite One for the Ages, which must proof it can last the distance.