***RACE FIVE ANALYSIS *** by The Wizard on Saturday, March 07, 2009

(# 10) HIGH TONED 5yo comes off three strong efforts against allowance company on the main track. This $25,000 claimer comes up soft for the level, so the class drop is quite significant. This will be the first time that High Toned has been offered for a claiming tag. In his only start on the turf he lost a head-bobbing decision in an allowance race over this course a year ago. Trainer Larry Robideaux puts the blinkers back on today. It is interesting to note that the last time this gelding raced with the hood was in his near miss on the grass last February. With his tactical speed and stalking style James Graham should get a good trip from the open outside post. (# 6) ALLIGATOR BAYOU After losing twice as the favorite he got his maiden win in his 3rd try. In his only start against winners he contested the pace for a half-mile against allowance colts. The grandson of Broad Brush could show an affinity for the grass. He is lightly raced and makes his first start for a claiming tag. (# 1) WAR VETERAN Set a fast and pressured pace before weakening in the late stages against this kind in the mud. One of just a few of these that is proven on the grass, he missed by a head against tougher company on the Louisiana Downs turf course. (# 4) BRANDON’S TROPHY 5yo hasn't won in ages but he has not missed the board in his last 10 starts. He is a half-brother to a turf winner, so he could take to the grass in his first opportunity. Very few Bayou-breds have turf in their bloodlines. (# 9) GOLDEN SOL Makes grass debut with a decent turf debut. Must overcome a tough outside post but is versatile enough to overcome it if given a heady ride.