*** RACE EIGHT ANALYSIS *** by The Wizard on Saturday, February 14, 2009

(# 7) CAPTAIN CHEROKEE This son of Sir Cherokee brought $650K as a 2yo and is a half to sprint champion Midnight Lute. With a sprint prep under his belt be won very impressively at a flat mile. He stalked the pacesetter then slipped through a big hole to take the lead in mid-stretch and drew off. Earned a big figure and could be any kind. NOTE: THE HORSE HE BEAT, FIERCE THUNDER IN RACE FIVE, CAME BACK TO WIN EASILY WHICH FLATTERS THIS COLT. (# 2) MONTECORE With a race under his belt the $400,000 son of Hold That Tiger beat maidens by 8 widening lengths. The final time was fast but he was allowed to set a relatively soft pace. He will be severely tested on the front end this time. With Gulch as his grandsire he is bred to be at his best around two turns. (# 9) NORTHERN PRINCE Comes off a solid sprint in which he fought it out all the way with the promising Nuclear Wayne. He yielded to 'Wayne by less than two lengths and was well clear of the others. Has also shown the ability to rate. Bred for the route and his versatile style is a plus. Must avoid a wide trip from the outside post. (# 8) BECKY’S EXPRESS Did not seem to care for the polytrack in his first starts but he scored booming wins in both tries on dirt. He was claimed by Amoss out of a strong score over $25,000 claimers. That race was blazing fast at every call. This class jump is not as great as it appeared. Has a shot if Hernandez can avoid getting caught up in a speed duel. (# 3) DOC’S FRIEND Must improve to compete here but is bred very well for a wet track, draws an inside post with tactical speed and has top trainer Larry Jones as his mentor.