Mahoning Valley: Horse racing pick of the day for Nov. 3

Weekday picks and plays for Thoroughbred racing.

Tuesday, Nov. 3

Mahoning Valley, Race 5: Allowance (1 mile, 2:36 p.m. ET)

#3 Escape Velocity (5-2 on the morning line) is clearly the runner to beat for trainer Jay Bernardini, who has gone 2-for-4 (50%) to start the meet.

The 6-year-old gelding was impressive under Bernardini’s care last winter at Mahoning Valley, where he dominated a $4,000 claiming race by 4 1/2 lengths, then cruised cruising by 13 lengths for a $5,000 tag.

Claimed out of the latter win by trainer Nick Caruso, Escape Velocity traveled to Monmouth Park for a summer campaign, where he faded in his first start, then wiring a $5,000 claiming event by 4 1/2 lengths.

Bernardini claimed Escape Velocity back and won’t be running the accomplished veteran for a tag Tuesday.

Even though Escape Velocity is stepping up into allowance company, he fits well on paper and owns the field’s highest Brisnet Speed rating.

With his abundant early speed, Escape Velocity has an opportunity to shake loose on an easy lead, so let’s bet him heavily to win and call it a day.

$30 to win on #3 Escape Velocity

Good luck!