How to bet the 2021 Charles Town Classic and Oaks

The signature day of racing at Charles Town takes place on Friday. A total of nine stakes races will help comprise the bonanza 13-race card at the West Virginia venue, with a pair of lucrative graded stakes events leading the way.

MUCCIOLO: Charles Town stakes spot plays for Aug. 27

Charles Town Classic (G2)

The $800,000 headliner attracted a fine cast of 10 for the nine-furlong test in what appears to be a very good betting opportunity. With all due respect to defending champ #7 Sleepy Eyes Todd (6-1) and his affinity for the surface, I expect the pace to be hot and contested, which could hurt his chances.

#2 Noble Drama (8-1) has been a steady and consistent performer in the Sunshine State for a few seasons for conditioner David Fawkes. The Gone Astray gelding is a mystery on this course, but he has very good form, and I love that he has been successful closing on the speed-favoring Gulfstream trip as of late. The six-year-old will be an honest number under Angel Cruz.

#9 Restrainedvengence (10-1) has a measure of class to him, and his last pair of tries on the dirt have been solid, as well. The dark bay son of Hold Me Back is one that I will dabble with in the exotics at a big price.

Wager

• $15 win and Place #2 Noble Drama ($30)
• 50-cent trifecta 2,9 with 2,9 with all ($8)
• 50-cent trifecta 2,9 with all with 2,9 ($8)

Charles Town Oaks (G3)

Sophomore fillies will dash seven-eighths of a mile in the other graded affair of the evening. A total of 11 are entered, with one on the also-eligible list, in a fascinating event.

#10 Allworthy (8-1) gets a tough draw on the outside for trainer Saffie Joseph, though I do give the talented chestnut a big chance at a top-two finish despite her starting slot. The daughter of Tonalist will close from well back early on the cut back in trip.

Unbeaten #8 R Adios Jersey 12-1) has done nothing wrong from four starts to date in advance of her graded bow. Georgina Baxter's pupil is quite swift and boasts improving Brisnet Speed figures. Brad Cox’s much improved #6 Inject (9-2), Fantasy S. (G3) starlet #3 Pauline’s Pearl (3-1), and Bill Mott’s #1 Caramel Swirl (5-2), who has roared home to convincing wins in two-of-three since removing blinkers, will also make the ticket.

Wager

• $4 exacta key box 10 with 1,3,6,8 ($32)
• 50-cent trifecta box 1,3,6,8,10 ($30)