Churchill Downs Hotlist - October 2

Today’s Churchill Downs Hot List races to watch
Saturday, Oct. 2, 2022

By Bob Ehalt and Matt Shifman

Hot List Key:

A : A preferred horse to watch                   B: Secondary horse to watch
*C: Went down 2 or more betting notches in the final 3 minutes and finished 1st through 3rd
*D: Went down 2 or more betting notches and finished 4^th or worse
* - 4 or more betting notches if 11-1 or more.

1st race – (8) Maestoso debuts for Sharp and seems ready for a big effort. (3) He’s a Good Dancer might respond to a drop in class and a shift to a sprint. (4) Big Beemster steps up after a useful debut. (2) Easy Big Boy fits in with this group. Betting strategy: 8 to win, place. Exacta box: 2-3-4-8.

3rd race – (1) Childers was a game second last time and should handle this field from the rail. (2) Own the Field was third on turf in his debut but should handle dirt. (7) Atkins appears to be on edge for his debut. (5) Cortese has speed and could be tough to catch. Betting strategy: 1 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2. Exactas: 1-2 over 5-7 and 5-7 over 1-2.

5th race – (1) Money Run tired on turf in his debut but should welcome a switch to dirt in a claimer. (2) Olazabal steps up after a runner-up finish and should be the main rival. (8) Distorted Pro should be a factor while making his debut. (6) Boxster might perk up with the class drop. Betting strategy: 1 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-6-8.

7th race – (6) Alpha Belle didn’t fire in her debut but has worked well since then and could rebound with a strong showing. (2) Lacie Be Good also seems capable of a better effort in her second start. (8) Lovin’ On the Run is worth a look in this field. (1) Flirting Girl could have an impact in her career debut. Betting strategy: 6 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-6-8.

9th race – (7) She’s Keen was no factor in the Alabama Stakes but should be more competitive here. (1) Lovely Princess could be a factor in the final furlong. (4) Outlining has some speed and looks like the one to reel in. (5) Park On the Nile should not be ignored here. Betting strategy: 7 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-4-5-7.