Maiden King conquers So. Cal. maiden races
Maiden claiming $40,000, 6-1/2 furlongs, 3 yo’s +
Possible overlays Morning line
#1 Crazy Wager 4/1
#4 Philly Slew 7/2
#7 Final Journey 5/1
In his last race on July 20, #1 Crazy Wager was toward the back of the pack then started his run on the turn. But halfway on the bend, he was extremely wide — maybe in the 10 or 11 path — but still earned a respectable 66 Beyer Speed Figure.
Conservatively, I bumped the figure up to a 76, which just might be good enough to win this race if none of the others throws in a monster effort.
Another who has a shot is #4 Philly Slew, who earned a 73 Beyer on April 22. However, in his last race on July 12, Philly Slew could only muster a 66 Beyer after saving ground all the way on the rail.
The Marty Jones-trained #7 Final Journey may be the best betting proposition. This gelding, who is coming off a long layoff for his second lifetime start, has nothing but slow workouts. With no world beaters in here, it seems like a good spot for Jones to spring a surprise.
I will bet $400 to win on #1 Crazy Wager at 5/2 to 9/1 and $300 to win on #7 Final Journey at 2/1 to 9/1. At 10/1 or more on either, my bet reduces to $100.
Also, if #1 Crazy Wager goes off at 2/1 or less then I will play $200 on #4 Philly Slew at 3/1 or more instead.
Maiden King 