Sunday's 6th race from Emerald Downs is the $75,000 Emerald Distaff Hcp for fillies and mares traveling nine furlongs on the main track.
#8 Kimmyv (8-1) exits an even 4th vs. similar local Stakes rivals and she was making her first start in almost three months that day. Her sharp trainer is 28% 2nd off the shelf and 36% with horses making their 2nd start under his care. She gets a distance test today and projects a decent tactical trip at playable odds.
#6 Gadget Queen (8-1) missed by a neck in this event last year and she appears to be rounding back to form following a place finish in same local Stakes race my top exits.
#3 Christmas Ship (5-2) flew home to win a NoCal grass Stakes last time and the Hollendorfer trainee was 3rd in this event last year.
#1 Clair Annette (7-2) has won back-to-back local Stakes events and should make her presence felt throughout from the rail. The 7yo mare has a nose for the wire but nine furlongs could prove her undoing.
#9 Crocodile Tuff (6-1) exits a good looking local Optional claiming tally and placed in a Stakes event before that. Russell Baze hops aboard.
The Plays: $12 to win #8, $1 Trifecta 3-6-8/3-6-8/1-3-6-8-9 ($18) - analysis by Jarrod Horak