Kentucky Downs Hotlist - September 16

Today’s Kentucky Downs Hot List races to watch
Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020

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 – (9) Conquest Rainycity was well-bet in his debut but turned in a dull try. Adds Jose Ortiz for this start and may perk up. (7) Hard Rye Guy had a rocky journey in a race that was ruled an exhibition. Should be a main force with a clean trip. (5) Tamanrassett missed by a nose in his debut and will be a main factor here. (1) Mechanicville is worth a look in his debut. Betting strategy: 9 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-5-7-9.

3rd race - (8) Tiz Splendid News is a firster for Ward who is bred for speed and may not look back. (4) Goodtime Artie has a top jockey and an interesting pedigree for turf. (1) Sir Roberto is another firster who seems to have some talent. (9) Emerald Forest was a distant second in debut and should benefit from the experience. Betting strategy: 8 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-4-8-9.

5th race – (6) Big Union was a game second in his debut and should be able to handle this field. (10) Rockstar Ro was third in his debut and figures to appreciate the added distance. (7) Next will welcome a switch to turf. (9) American Tryst is a firster for Maker who cannot be ignored. Betting strategy: 6 to win, place. Exacta box: 6-7-9-10. Doubles: 6-7-9-10 with 1-4-5-8.

6th race – (4) Jakarta is a stakes-caliber runner who should be very tough to catch in this six-figure starter race. (5) Dance Rhythms will be the main threat in a chalky race. (8) Flora Fantasy makes her debut for Maker off a claim and can land a share of the purse. (1) Jungle Juice could sneak into the picture late. Betting strategy: 4 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-4-5-8.

9th race – (7) Kimari was second in a Group 1 stakes at Royal Ascot and merits top billing here. (1) Turned Aside should get a great trip from the rail and looks like the one to fear. (9) Embolden will be dangerous at this distance. (3) Maven could wake up in this spot. Betting strategy: 7 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-3-7-9.