Awesome Slew the key in Churchill Downs' Late Pick 5

While Belmont Park and Santa Anita garner much attention Saturday with their Breeders' Cup preps, Churchill Downs will again offer a strong program that shouldn't be overlooked in your wagering plans.

It might end up chalking out, but the Late Pick 5 sequence (Races 7-11) includes a few longshots that could put in surprise runs. I'll be spreading in all but one of the races.

Race 7

Second in her debut at Saratoga, #6 MIA D'ORO (2-1) is the apparent class of the field as well as the primary speed. She'll take some catching. #7 CHOCOLATE MARTINI (15-1) is an interesting-looking first-time starter. A half to juvenile stakes winner Nicky's Brown Miss, she hails from a capable debut barn (Bret Calhoun), itself one-half of a potent combo along with jockey Brian Hernandez.

Race 8 (Jefferson Cup)

#1 BRONSON (5-1) was a solid third in the Dueling Grounds Derby in his first outing for Mike Maker and figures to get more pace at which to run at in his second start off the layoff. #7 MR CUB (8-1) has been much improved since adding blinkers and has the potential to shake loose from these early.

Race 9 (Lukas Classic [G3])

New Orleans H. (G2) winner #7 HONORABLE DUTY (1-1) was a clear second to Gun Runner in the Stephen Foster H. (G1) when last seen in June. Should be ready to fire off a three-month break. In case he's not, #3 FEAR THE COWBOY (4-1) rides into town in very good form, while #1 SEEKING THE SOUL (8-1) has generally done well over this track and will be making his presence felt late.

Race 10 (Ack Ack [G3])

#4 AWESOME SLEW (1-1), a tad unlucky with four second-place finishes in graded stakes this year to go with his Commonwealth (G3) victory, sticks out on class and will be tough to fend off. He's the single.

Race 11

#5 ONE LAST STRIKE (2-1), has been knocking on the door in his last two starts at Arlington and Kentucky Downs and is a logical inclusion. #9 BOLD PROPHET (6-1) undoubtedly in need of a race when third in his turf debut at Kentucky Downs following a 10-month break. Should improve off that. Blinkers come off #1 WAZZUP CHUCK (15-1) after a dull try with them back in January. Switch to turf should suit the son of Scat Daddy and the Grade 3-placed Kilmore Quay.

Here's the $1 ticket:

6,7 with 1,7 with 1,3,7 with 4 with 1,5,9 = $36

Good luck!

(Coady Photography)