Sun, April 21, 2024

Group 2 placegetter EMPIRE OF GOLD (4) missed the frame on dirt over 6f at Oaklawn Park in a then filled a minor placing last start on turf over 5f at Sam Houston Park. Has a formidable record at this journey with five wins and two placings from seven starts and is sure to play a big role. ALPINE THUNDER (3) has returned in good shape this campaign. Opened with a second at Oaklawn Park (Dirt) two starts back then got the job done by 0.3 lengths last time out over 6f at Oaklawn Park (Dirt). Finds a suitable assignment and can salute again. TAPE TO TAPE (6) is close to breaking through after two consecutive placings, the latest coming when second over 6f at Fairgrounds (Dirt) after being in contention all the way. Has the speed to overcome the draw. Ideally placed and is sure to be there at the finish. BOSS' DIALIN IN (1) turned in a modest performance when sixth last time out over 6f at Fairgrounds, beaten 12 lengths, after a win at Fairgrounds at the previous outing. In contention this time.