Churchill Downs Hotlist - September 29

Today’s Churchill Downs Hot List races to watch
Thursday, Sept. 29, 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 – (1) Tequila Empire faces claimers and should thrive back on the main track. (5) Truism rallied belatedly in her debut and should be more of a factor today. (3) Dre Me Less could be effective against claimers. Betting strategy: 1 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-3-5. Doubles: 1-3-5 with 1-2-3.

2nd race – (1) Palace Coup has speed and the rail and should not look back. (2) Spa City has run well lately and looks like the main rival. (3) Galerio is worth a look off the Cash claim. Betting strategy: 1 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-3.

5th race – (6) My My Munny takes a big class drop and should prove best. (9) Beachside Bunny will appreciate a return to dirt. (1) World of Wonder has speed and could be tough to catch from the rail. (3) Clever Tale fits in nicely here. Betting strategy: 6 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-3-6-9. Doubles: 1-3-6-9 with 1-2-8-11. Pick 3: 1-3-6-9 with 1-2-8-11 with 2-3-5.

6th race – (8) Double Barrel seems set for a winning try in his debut. (2) Devils Red is another firster who appears to have some talent. (1) Mobster could cause some trouble from the rail. (11) Mackman is worth a look in this field. Betting strategy: 8 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-8-11. Doubles: 1-2-8-11 with 2-3-5.

7th race – (5) Salute the Flag finds a field she should be able to handle. (3) Smarmy looks like the one they will have to catch. (2) Misty Veil will be dangerous on her best try. Betting strategy: 5 to win, place. Exacta box: 2-3-5.