'Suicide kings' create a milllonaire

A jury of his peers wouldn't convict trainer Howard Tesher for the murder of Shaun Bridgemohan after the fiasco on Baron Von Tap in the seventh race at Saratoga on Travers Day. I know I wouldn't . Venerable trainer Kiaran Mcloughlin might also have a case for maiming jock Mike Luzzi. for his ride on Teide.

The race was won by improbable 88-1 Slambino, setting up a $1 million superfecta.

WTF? These two, supposedly professional pilots, tore through the opening quarters of a 11/6 mile turf race in :45 and 1:09. Maybe, it was something personal between them. Surely, they couldn't have been trying to win at that pace. Whatever it was, I have now downgraded the abilities of both jocks in my handicapping.

The 'suicide kings' have one grateful punter who should--at least--buy them both dinner.

LeSuprise at Le Spa

He must be giggling all the way to the bank. Julien LeParoux, I mean. Of all the jock performances at this year's Saratoga meet, LeParoux must be getting the most satisfaction. After all, his stint at NYRA a while ago, didn't provide him with enough business to stay in New York.

He had to move his tack to New Jersey to earn a decent living and a respected reputation. Once finding his niche, the jock is a 'must include' on almost every ride on the Jersey circuit. How satisfying for his fans to finally get good prices at the Spa. As of today, he is winning at just above 15%, a percentage point above formidable Edgar Prado. He is also a significant factor in the return of trainer Wayne Lukas to the winners' circle. You go Julien.

Why Handicap?

Why do you handicap races?
Seems a silly question with an all too obvious answer. 'To pick winners, stoopid!'
I've found there's more than one answer depending on your goal. Are you really handicapping for winners or contenders? Or are you trying to hit the pick six? Maybe most of your plays are exactas–a different scenario.

While it may seem like the same effort, each goal requires a different set of parameters. And, a different set of eyes.

Before handicapping, I look over a track's complete card. I throw out maiden claimers, first-starter fields, races shorter than 6 furlongs and longer than 11/8.

Then I scan the qualifying races for the monster move. If I find a few and can construct a play, I'm done.

No moves? I seek lone speed, or a strong second-finisher. If the price promises to be too short, I go back and evaluate the rest of the field for a possible exacta play.

This is three different ventures. In each case, my intention influences what I find.

Should I want to play a multiple race bet like a pick three, four or six I have to spend additional time evaluating the morning line favorites in each leg of the bet. Then, peruse a second level of contention, etc.

In this quick fix world, it would be nice to think that one handicapping effort will yield all the information you need for every wager. My experience indicates it doesn't happen.