It was a very difficult day for all of us in the Flom and Rosen families.  But one thing I never expected was using handicapping as a way to take a step back from all the sadness and find a little peace trying to make sense of one of the most difficult cards I ever saw.  My Pal Charlie ran great in The Forego but just couldn’t hold off the closers at the 16th pole.  And Rachel Alexandra ran one of the most remarkable races in history on a day where we needed something to cheer about!

As far as the handicapping went, my win selections were shut out, but one second choice won and 6 third choices won.  I had a great run from races 2-5, including two nice pick 3’s and the pick 4 which paid almost $1,000.  However, my exacta boxes failed to cash, so the day came back a loser.  But I felt like a winner and I’m going to try again on Sunday and Monday to have one more big day and post a profit for the meet.  Charlie — you are my inspiration!

Forget to include race 12 in my picks.  2, 9 and 4.  Good luck!

In the midst of fighting mythical dragons and being involved in a handicapping fairytale that has consumed me with pleasure in the last 5 weeks, a harsh dose of reality has occurred. On Friday morning, my father-in-law, Charlie Flom, passed away at the age of 93.  He was a remarkable man — kind and sensitive to all and a tower of strength to his family and friends.  Plus, he was still driving into Manhattan regularly to see us!  He also loved to watch the races with me, especially on big days like the derby or Breeders Cup where he would pick his own horse and root him across the finish line.  In honor of him, I continue my quest to be the greatest handipcapper in America by handicapping the entire meet at Saratoga without missing a day.  Interesting that in race 10, The Forego, My Pal Charlie (#10) has a real shot to upset the field at a big price. Wouldn’t that be something!

Here’s the entire card today at The Spa.  I’m posting this without the benefit of scratches, so please keep that in mind while playing today. Keep in mind that speed seems to be really good on the turf as dry conditions continue and that Todd Pletcher is live in every race he has a horse today, even if I don’t pick him on top!  I also wish Rachel Alexandra well in the Woodward, even though I’ve picked against her.  I also wish my buddy Brian well in the last day of our contest.  Thanks for some great competition. Good luck to all today!

Race 1: 6, 9 and 2

Race 2: 3, 6 and 10

Race 3: 3, 7 and 1

Race 4: 4, 10 and 7

Race 5: 11, 9 and 1

Race 6: 10, 6 and 7

Race 7: 6, 5 and 10

Race 8: 6, 13 and 4

Race 9: 2, 3 and 10

Race 10: 4, 5 and 3

Race 11: 4, 10 and 11