Gulfstream Park Late Pick 5 play for Jan. 30

A trio of graded stakes events help comprise a fantastic Late Pick 5 at Gulfstream Park on Saturday. There will be a hefty pool to take a swing at, and I also don’t think that there is a morning-line favorite who is not susceptible to defeat in the five-race sequence.

Here is my analysis:

Race 8 -- Starter Allowance (3:15 p.m. EDT)

Turf test attracted 10 and I have to spread deep in a competitive contest. While starter races often boast a horse or two with a big class edge on their foes, this particular fray lacks that standout.

I can’t find much separation between #2 Light Fury (4-1), #3 Tune In (9-2), #5 Seize the Hay (8-1), #6 Semper Fi (8-1), #7 Mr. Tip (6-1), and #10 Austrian (7-2). 

Race 9 -- Forward Gal (G3)

#7 Zaajel (7-5) will be formidable with any improvement off of her splendid debut for Todd Pletcher. Shadwell homebred is the one to beat.

I will also include #5 Dial to Win (20-1), who would cause major separation in the pool if she was to score an upset. Timmy Hills charge could be the one to catch turning for home at a huge number.

Race 10 -- Sweetest Chant (G3)

Tough turf affair for three-year-old fillies features a lot of early zip, and while it would be logical to use only the top late runners in the cast, it’s difficult to omit some of the major players in the field because of their running style.

My top selection is #5 White Frost (9-2) for Bill Mott, but I feel it’s necessary to also add #2 Honey Pants (3-1), #4 Con Lima (5-2), and #6 Domain Expertise (5-1).

Race 11 -- Holy Bull (G3)

#6 Prime Factor (3-1) looked special in his debut romp on the surface in December for Pletcher. $900,000 Quality Road colt has trained swiftly in the interim, and while he faces eight talented prospects, I will single him in leg 4. He could be a budding star.

Race 12 -- Claiming

A turf claiming event at the $35,000 level caps the ticket. The finale goes through Grade 3 winner #5 Tusk (7-2), who finished eighth last time out trying to defend his crown in the Tropical Turf (G3). The class plunger removes the blinkers and picks up Gaffalione, but I am not in love with his current form and will toss the likely favorite.

The race has to set up for a contender from off the pace with an abundance of early types in the mix. #3 Honey Won’t (9-2) has closed late en route to victory in the past, and he shows a solid 6-2-1-0 local line, as well. Soldat 5-year-old should be dead fit following a long string of morning drills. Junior Alvarado riding is an added bonus.

#4 Financial System (5-1) exits a very deep heat for the $50,000 level most recently on the course when an even fifth. Breen trainee has excuses for all three starts since joining his barn, and picking up Saez is always a positive in South Florida.

Wager

50-cent Pick 5: 2,3,5,6,7,10 with 5,7 with 2,4,5,6 with 6 with 3,4 ($48)

Good Luck!