Mon, December 30, 2024

CARDINAL TRICK (5) hasn't won recently but looks close to a breakthrough based on his last start second at Pleasanton (Dirt) over 5f when beaten 0.1 lengths. Overdue and looks a top chance. LURKING FEAR (1) was unwanted in betting last start but performed beyond expectations when beaten 1.3 lengths into third over 5½f at Los Alamitos (Dirt). Strong winning chance. CANDY'S WILDCAT (3) was comfortably accounted for when fourth last time out over 5½f at Los Alamitos, beaten 5 lengths. That followed a win at Pleasanton at the previous outing. Likely improver with strong prospects. TAKAMAKAHARA (4) is back at the races for the first time since September 14. Worth noting he filled a minor placing when returning from a lay-off last time in work over 6f at Santa Anita. Definite top-three chance.