Rick Francis
and Bob Hill
Staff writers
Tracksideview.com

No Such Word (1) had the trip she wanted in the Fantasy but was no match for top two.  Only one of three returns today and with extra rest this consistent girl will be factor today.  Seeking the Title (2) just missed in a dramatic three horse finish in the Fair Grounds Oaks.  The question that need to be asked is, “Does a Hall of Fame jockey Kent Desormeaux look to get back at his critics for what a few consider an iffy Derby ride?” I say he does.  Lemon Drop Kid daughter Khancord Kid (3) comes in well rested after her Grade 3 winning turf score at Gulfstream. Knows the distance but lacks the speed to compete with these.

Acting Happy (4) started her career with two wins at this distance.  The cut back in last showed she was closing, so return to the mile-and-an-eighth means keep in the exotics.  Harissa (5) got off the synthetics and spiked the scale on the real stuff at Sunland. Competition aside, that money is real. I look for this girl to give the top choices all they can handle.  Tidal Pool (6) returns in two week turnaround from what many will say was one of the greatest finishes in a classic of either sex. If she had the rest that many in this field have had she would be 1-5. Heart of the horse and jockey Calvin Borel look to save Lukas’ weekend.

Trainer and jockey of Patriot Miss (7) are smokin’ hot here at Pimlico, and that combo may win the race before and after, but not this one. CC’s Pal (8) comes in off two game Grade 3 efforts. Has yet to handle outside foe but will push the pace. Don’t think she can hang on.  After five straight wins, including the Florida Oaks, what do the owners of Diva’s Delite (9) do? Change trainers.  Thank goodness the New Orleans Saints didn’t change coaches before the Super Bowl.

I’m looking for trainer Lukas’ woes to continue, but will include Tidal Pool in my exotics.  Ricks Picks: 2-5-9-6.

I agree with Rick that the short rest for Tidal Pool (6) makes her vulnerable here.  Why shouldn’t a daughter of Afleet Alex shine at Pimlico?  I think Harissa (5) proves that a horse can win a classic race after prepping at Sunland Park.  If Desormeaux keeps Seeking the Title (2) close enough through the opening six panels that one could be real, real tough to beat and should be in the mix.  Diva Delite (9) rounds out the super. Bob’s Picks: 5-2-6-9