Pick 6 play on mandatory payout at Churchill Downs

The carryover has reached $173,889 and big pot awaits horse players as Sunday's Pick 6 features a mandatory payout on the closing day program at Churchill Downs. I will play the 20-cent minimum wager with a $100 bankroll.

Here are my thoughts on the sequence:

Race 7: #4 Hawkshaw exits a solid runner-up effort and given how the track has played favorably toward front-runners, he’s got a big chance to lead all the way. #9 Burley Blaise was stopped in the midst of his rally last time and Wilkes wins at a 20% clip in third start off layoff – won’t let this white-hot barn beat me. Taking a stand two-deep.

Race 8: Prohibitive favorite #5 The Gipper is a must-use and #12 Proforma is eligible to run well after finishing a good third following a slow start in his debut. Will also add #8 Texas Strong and #10 Unbridled West.

Race 9: #3 Trace of Mojo broke maiden wire to wire in last start at CD, could prove formidable on front end today. #9 Perfect Saint and #10 Jack West appear well-meant in this spot. And #4 Zanotti and #5 Uncle James possess some tactical speed, can’t be dismissed in a spread race.

Race 10: #6 Iron Fist should relish cutback to one-turn trip, can sit just off pace before pouncing, and rates as my best bet.

Race 11: #8 Approvethismessage is a viable wire-to-wire contender. #2 Uncle Guy can still bring it, eligible to be along in time with Leparoux. #4 Smart Moon has a chance in turf bow with his late kick.

Race 12: #2 Fever Pitch looks more than capable of graduating from post 2. #1 Tonbo and #3 Singleton also appear capable of challenging. #5 Nan’s Pierce Arrow is an intriguing longshot with solid BRIS numbers, like the runner-up effort two back over track.

20-cent Pick 6 ($96)

4,9 with 5,8,10,12 with 3,4,5,9,10 with 6 with 2,4,8 with 1,2,3,5

Good luck!