Ellis Park Hotlist - July 9

Today’s Ellis Park Hot List races to watch
Friday, July 9, 2021

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.

1^st race – (6) Fieldstone had little impact in starter company but should thrive here at this claiming level. (2) Hard Strike was a wide fifth at this level but should be a factor against these. (7) Big in the City may appreciate a switch to turf. (5) Cleveland Simpson has speed and could be tough to catch. Betting strategy: 6 to win, place. Exacta box: 2-5-6-7.

3rd race – (5) Sianara was second in her first try against winners and seems best here. (6) Diggin Gold didn’t care for turf but can rebound here. (1) Break Curfew has been no worse than third in her last five starts and cannot be overlooked. Betting strategy: 5 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-5-6. Doubles: 1-5-6 with 2-4-7-8.

4th race – (4) Georgeous Carina makes her debut for Ward and seems ready for a big effort. (8) India Ink has been training smartly for Cox and seems like the one to fear. (7) Big Boss Ben tired and finished third last time but should be more formidable here. (2) Fierce Debate also makes his first start and should have a say in the outcome. Betting strategy: 4 to win, place. Exacta box: 2-4-7-8.

6th race – (11) Purple Dream was second in his first try at a turf sprint. Looks like he’s found a winning spot here. (3) Reward Night could take a step forward on turf. (12) Haig Point rallied belatedly last time but might work out a better trip here. (2) Foliage returns to turf and should perk up here. Betting strategy: 11 to win, place. Exacta box: 2-3-11-12.

8th race – (8) Autostrada flopped on dirt but should welcome a switch to turf and gets the nod here. (7) Amiche should be well-suited by moving over to turf. (6) Tayet was third in her last three starts and belongs in the exotics. (5) Mint Edition disappointed last time but is working nicely for her comeback. Betting strategy: 8 to win, place. Exacta box: 5-6-7-8.