Aqueduct Picks: Can anyone take on De Paz's Shalimar Gardens on March 11?

The post parade is underway ... soon it will be time to head to the gate ... NYRA’s Aqueduct Racetrack has their Winter Meet entering the final weeks, despite battling tough weather conditions. The Derby Trail is heating up there with the Gotham S. (G2) now complete. That means that the Wood Memorial S. (G2) is not far off. Plus, do not forget all of the other NYRA stakes competition that is on the docket ... We have 8 competitive races on tap today, so enjoy!

At Horseracing.net/us we have you covered, including all of the action! It is a good time for some of the best that North American racing has to offer. Stay tuned!

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Most Likely Winner: (Race 3: Wild Carp Diem #6, 7/2):

Here is a colt by Carpe Diem that has not seen a dry surface in some time. You have to wonder if he got one, what would be his reaction? Jim Ryerson has this one entered at the same level for the 3rd time in-a-row, and I am thinking that he is due to break his maiden. In 4 career starts (3 on dirt and 1 on turf @AQU), he was perfectly adequate. That assertion though does not stir bettors who are after “wins.” In this spot, Ryerson goes with the “1st Time Blinkers,” and that is a popular angle to support. Maybe this is just what this colt needs, and he can showcase his talent for stretching out. That’s the light switch that is needed here with Manny Franco (his only rider ever) in the saddle.

Wagering Recommendation: $100 Win, #6

Off-the-Pace Play of the Day: (Race 4: Suspended Campaign #1, 8/1):

Trainer David Duggan is a much better conditioner than his AQU record would speak to … I like this entry of his, a filly by Honor Code. She comes back to the MT, and I am hoping that she finds a faster set-up. I think it is rather obvious that she prefers to steer clear of moisture. In her last race, at this very level, she just could not get going in the slop. Since she likes to work from the back of the pack, she really needs a good stalking trip. If celebrated jockey Kendrick Carmouche can make it happen, then betting her should make for a significant overlay.

Wagering Recommendation: $100 Bankroll, Graduated Wager WPS #1 ($10-W, $15-P, $75-S)

Spotlight Race of the Day: (Race 7: Dirt, 1 Mile, ALLW72kn1x, F&M 3+ NY Breds):

The Friday “feature” brings together a nice group of 7 older females, but let’s face it, all 6 of this lot will be trying to best heavy favorite, Shalimar Gardens #1. The Horacio De Paz-trainee missed at even money last time at this exact level, so how do you interpret that performance? My argument is that this filly by Uncle Mo is not the same horse as she was last year. Sure, she has talent, but maybe this is just the right spot to take her on again. Manny Franco gets the call again, but she will not have an easy time of it in this spot, despite the class that is lacking out of the others. This bet I have constructed is a pure hunch play, and perhaps once again, De Paz’s charge will misfire. You never know what can happen … it’s just like life … a horse race.

Wagering Recommendation: $2 Exacta Wheel, 2/3/4/5/6/7 w 1

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Enjoy some racing from the “Big A!” Best of luck on another run at Aqueduct! Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter … Horseracing_USA !!!