2009 BREEDERS CUP MARATHON BETTING TIPS AND EXOTIC SELECTIONS

After the two claiming races slated to open the day at Oak Tree at Santa Anita, we've got the first stakes race of the Breeders Cup weekend- the Breeders Cup Marathon. This is a very long race, significantly longer than most taking place in America and this is definitely one expected to be dominated by foreign colts and geldings. Last year's winner, Muhannak, has had a relatively out of form year without a win since his victory at Santa Anita last year. While he has shown that he can win over the course and the distance, I think that the punters are wise to avoid backing him. You'll find him trading at around 14.5 on Betfair at the moment. Father Time attracted plenty of attention last year and is another top-quality British colt and he commands a competitive price. He is listed in the morning line at 3/1, but is trading at 4.8 on Betfair. He's had a very solid year and I think he's a surefire bet to come in for a place, however, I think he has the possibility of a victory here he is just a bit short of form against the favourite horse. Mastery is a 3 year old bay colt who boasts an excellent record this year and comes into the race with form to spare. He is fresh off a victory at Doncaster in the (Group 1) Saint Leger Stakes where he bested a quality field that included Father Time, Changingoftheguard and Kite Wood. The Saint Leger is a one mile six furlong race and it's the perfect warm up for the Breeders Cup Marathon. Coming out of the six stall, I think it's hard to bet against him. Dettori on top just seals the deal for me. You'll find Saeed Bun Suroor's charge listed at 9/5 in the morning line and 2.98 on Betfair. I would be backing this horse at a fixed price today if I were you. On a side note, I expect a very strong two days for Godolphin and they've been in such good form this season all over the place. I really think they will start things off with a bang. I'm backing Mastery for the straight victory and using him to top-end my exacta's and trifecta's with Father Time and Nite Light on the bottom end.