BetAmerica’s horse racing pick of the day: April 30, Oaklawn Park

Weekday picks and plays for Thoroughbred racing.

Thursday, April 30

Oaklawn Park, Race 8: Allowance/optional claiming (1 mile, 5:38 p.m. ET)

There is a ton of speed entered in this race for fillies and mares, which could give an advantage to #1 Vault (7-2 on the morning line).

Vault showed steady improvement as a 3-year-old in 2019, when she won her final three starts of the season against quality competition. She wrapped up the year with a 3 1/2-length victory in the Thirty Eight Go Go S. at Laurel Park, a performance that was flattered when runner-up Jehozacat returned to win the Wardward Lass S. and Endeavour (G3).

Though Vault has tactical speed, she typically settles a few lengths off the pace to set up her rally in the stretch, which is a perfect fit for Thursday’s speed-laden race. This is her first start for hot trainer Brad Cox, but Cox strikes at a 26% rate with new acquisitions, and the rail draw should help Vault work out a ground-saving trip.

Let’s bet Vault to win and call it a day.

$20 to win on #1 Vault

Good luck!