Track News
Look out for The Usual Q.T.
In horse racing news, a horse that racebook players should look out for is The Usual Q.T., who has been on fire as of late, and seems to be getting better and better.
On Sunday, November 29, The Usual Q.T. won the Hollywood Derby, a Grade 1 stakes race at Hollywood Park, and this was his third straight victory in a stakes race. This was his biggest win to date, as he earned $300,000. The Usual Q.T. was helmed by Victor Espinoza, and they galloped to a one-and-a-half length win over Battle of Hastings, who was the favorite. Battle of Hastings must be sick already of The Usual Q.T., who also beat him in the Grade 2 Oak Tree Derby at Santa Anita Park on November 7th. Ironically, Garrett Gomez led The Usual Q.T. to wins in September and October, but was riding Battle of Hastings this past Sunday.
The Usual Q.T. has now won five races in a row, and he’s finished at least second in eight of his 10 starts. He’s earning a reputation as one of the best horses that ride on turf in the country, and it’s looking like 2009 could be an even bigger year for the three-year-old gelding. So keep your ears open and eyes focused before you head to the racebook, because The Usual Q.T. will be in contention every time he steps onto the track.
2009 Breeders’ Cup is here
Searching for horse racing news? Santa Anita will generate plenty over the next few weeks as it plays host to the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic.
In a year full of big surprise winners, we’ll see many of the 2009 headline makers competing at Santa Anita on November 6 and 7. Mine That Bird, who shocked the world at the Kentucky Derby, will race, as will reigning Belmont Stakes champion Summer Bird.
Garnering lots of interest at the sportsbook is the undefeated female Zenyatta, who enters the Breeders’ Cup with 7/2 odds. The biggest favorite of all, however, is Rip Van Winkle, who is listed by most racebooks at 3/3. After Europeans excelled at the Breeders’ Cup classic last season, we must take them seriously and Rip Van Winkle is fresh off a win at the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes.
If you don’t go for the big names, there will be many other intriguing options to bet on, like Well Armed, Colonel John, Papa Clem, Bullsbay, Musket Man and Macho Again, among others.
Keep checking back for horse racing news breaks as the Breeders’ Cup Classic gets closer.