PLAY of the DAY” by Brian Nadeau                   
   
Date:  5/14/2023 
   
Featured Track/Race:   Churchill Downs – Race 5 
   
Race overview:  A deep 10k claimer going 6 ½ Fs on the main that could go many different ways, so looking for value gives you a big leg up on the betting public.  
   
Pace:  There’s not much here, and #2 Dark Hedges (7-2) should control things, but the extra half-furlong late could be a problem. 
   
Trends:  The main track had a speed/inside feel to it early on Derby Day but it evened out late for sure. And as a whole, it’s been fair throughout the meet, though speed and being forward is always preferred.  
   
Best Play:  #3 FIERY TALE (9-2): Asmussen claim rises in class and gets Saez, so there’s some intent here from the trainer/owner, and his last two have been solid in very fast races for the levels. 
   
Bet Types:    Aggressive WP bet and single to end the early Pk5/Pk4, and in the middle Pk4 as well. 
   
Meet/POD Stats:  CD Meet: 67-9-5-6 ($1.06/$3.86 ROI through 5/6) 

CD POD: 6-0-1-0