Handicapper's Corner: Empire Classic Stakes

Price Play in the Empire Stakes

By: Michael Mills, They're in the Gate

The Empire Classic Handicap on NY Showcase Day presents an interesting field and contest. The defending champ Twisted Tom is back with a new trainer after disappointing as the heavy favorite in his last two. Last year’s second and third place finishers are also in the lineup. Add to the mix a couple of nice three year olds. 



The 1 1/8 mile contest for older horses attracted eleven contenders.

The race projects as a faster pace than the last few races many of these have run with several against each other. Two handicapping angles to look at in here are the weight assignments and running lines at Belmont around just one turn.

Picks

#10 Pat On the Back — Although he is the high weight he looks to enjoy Belmont and can sit just off the projected fast pace and pounce down the lane.

# 2 Calculated Risker —  Gets in light at 116 pounds and presents improving form and running style fits the projected pace.

# 3 Control Group —  Don’t discount this guy to much over the top two. He is a use in the multi race investments. Not sure the pace will be to his liking with potential company around him.

The Play

$20 Win Place #10

$1 Tri 10-2-3/10-2-3-4/10-2-3-4-7

Have A Day.