9:17 Cigar Mile Handicap (Grade 1) 3yo+ (Dirt) 1m

Itsmyluckyday bids to retire on a high note in the Cigar Mile, the feature at Aqueduct tonight. He has run consistently throughout the year, winning the Grade 1 Woodward at Saratoga and three other stakes races. However, the four-year-old is seeking to rebound off a third at odds-on in the Kelso Handicap. He missed the Breeders’ Cup for this race. Secret Circle finished second in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint where Private Zone was third. That horse had previously won the Grade 1 Vosburgh at Belmont and finished second to Flat Out in this last year. Vyjack, who caused a shock in the Kelso, has good form at Aqueduct while Regally Ready, a Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint winner, has won six of nine this year at a lesser level.

SELECTION: Itsmyluckyday

Next Best: Private Zone

REST OF THE CARD

Also on the Aqueduct card Todd Pletcher’s Dame Dorothy puts her undefeated four race record on the line in the Grade 3 Comely Stakes. The Grade 2 Demoiselle (8.19pm) for two-year-olds, is headed by Grade 1 winners Angela Renee and Condo Commando. Angela Renee started favourite for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies but could only finish 10th. She may have to give best to fellow Grade 1 winner Condo Commando who was favourite for the Grade 1 Frizette at Belmont but finished fourth. Godolphin’s Gap Year could complete the placings. In the Grade 2 Remsen Stakes (8.48pm) 14 juveniles are scheduled to line up. Classy Class makes his second start for Kiaran McLaughlin after an impressive first-time win at Belmont Park. He disputes favouritism with Frosted a son of Tapit who broke his maiden here last month. Todd Pletcher’s maiden winner Royal Burgh and dual winner Ostrolenka are also to be feared.

DEL MAR SATURDAY

11:59 Hollywood Derby (Grade 1) (3yo) (Turf) 1m1f

Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner California Chrome will face five rivals in the Hollywood Derby at Del Mar (11.59pm), his first start on grass. Trainer Art Sherman believes a victory would help his horse in the Horse of the Year honours race against Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Bayern, who beat California Chrome by a quarter length that day. He could meet stern opposition in a meeting of Kentucky Derby and Queen’s Plate winners. The Canadian star Lexie Lou has an advantage in that she has won two of her three starts on grass.

SELECTION: California Chrome

Next Best: Lexie Lou