A RUS Puzzle

It's no secret to regular readers of this blog that I like RUS.  The problem is one has to go north of the border to Ontario for parimutuel wagering on these events.  Admittedly, it has not been too hard to pick the winners of these events because the supply of horses available has been limited so you usually had the same horses competing against each other.


So this week's RUS event is a treat as the familiarity factor has been crushed as three American-based horses are making the trek to Sarnia, ON, more specifically Hiawatha Horse Park, for the final qualifying round prior to a major event at Mohawk Racetrack later in the month.  With the addition of these three horses into this week's handicapped event, not only do punters have a full field of eight heading to the gate; there is a little bit of uncertainty tossed in which hopefully will generate better rewards to those taking a stab.


Of course, for those of us back in the United States, your ability to participate is dependent on your ADW or track taking Hiawatha's signal. this Saturdaay  Those of us who don't have the ability to get the signal will need to be content to watch the race without wagering..


So let's take a look at the race, which may be found as part of the full racing card available from Hiawatha's website.



Saturday, September 12, 2015, SAR - Hiawatha Horse Park

4th RUS - $3,000;  Handicap


1- Twin B Excaliber (Evelyn Harms, 15-1) - Recent efforts at Leamington were fair..  First RUS event since since May.  Closed to finish 2nd at Clinton Raceway.  Returning to RUS and the rail a positive but still must be in top shape to win here.  An outsider.


2 - Radical Dreamer (Marit Valstead, 10-1) - Went to the front in last and hit the wall going fast fractions. A factor with more pedestrian fractions.  Worth a look at long at morning line odds.


3 - Ale Ale Jandro (Britt Kennedy, 8-1) - Finished third in last handicap in first start after victorious qualifier. Appears RUS is his game.


4 - Hidden Identity (T. Marielle Enberg, 5-1) - Returns to RUS after an extended period at Mohawk.  Gets big class drop here.  Been away from RUS for a while which may be a disadvantage.


5 - Glorious Winner (Jocelyn Gale, 4-1) - Vernon shipper has been racing credible on NY County Fair Circuit, Will have to step up big.  Not at these odds.


6 - Funny Photo (Sophie Eneggran, 5-2) -  On his way to victory before jumping off in stretch in last.  Shows 1:59 mark under saddle earlier.  If minds manner can be a legitimate contender.


7 - A Penny Earned (Heather Reese, 2-1) - Won a virtual official workout in last start.  Has been racing in higher class.  Based on overall class, appears to be a lock here.


8 - Tragically Shipp (Natalie Elliot, 8-5) - Racing summer under saddle including last RUS event.  Rider has been hottest on the circuit.  Can't ignore.


Selections: 7-8-3; Longshot - 2