Noble Impulse, California Crown look good for Reggae 6

For punters to corner Sunday’s Reggae 6 mandatory payout, it will take at least two solid bankers to be smiling as a winner after dividends for the sixth race are declared.

NOBLE IMPULSE, at four furlongs straight in the second event for $250,000 claimers, appears a safe bet along with second-time-out CALIFORNIA CROWN to close the Reggae 6 and be unbeaten in two starts.

Since claimed by Gary Griffiths for $550,000 a year ago, NOBLE IMPULSE has shown flashes of speed in eight starts, particularly when lowered among $250,000 claimers off a six-month lay-up late March.

Battling soundness issues, NOBLE IMPULSE finished lame in his last two races on the round course. However, the five-year-old had straightened clear of rivals last time out at five and a half furlongs, carrying top weight 126lb, before being overhauled by JAMAL JAMES.

Returning at four furlongs straight with no corner to negotiate, NOBLE IMPULSE’s legs should hold out long enough to race clear of rivals in the small six-horse field.

Throw superstition out the window and close the Reggae 6 with confidence. Bank Jason DaCosta’s CALIFORNIA CROWN against fellow inners after his workmanlike maiden victory at five and a half furlongs.

A half-brother to a former useful campaigner, DEJAE’S BOY, CALIFORNIA CROWN left the gate like a horse meaning business on April 27, outclassing return-winner BOLD MOVE and SMART TRICK. A big, rangy sort, CALIFORNIA CROWN looked better in the stretch run, suggesting he should enjoy seven furlongs.

Having remained consistent at exercise since clocking 1:08.2 for five and a half furlongs a week before debuting, followed by 1:15.3 for six furlongs last Sunday morning, CALIFORNIA CROWN should not be opposed.

Do not lower guards in other races. As tempting as DODGE THIS LINK might appear in the third, it is better to play safe than be sorry.

J IMMIE

REGGAE 6

Race 1: 6, 7, 8, 9

Race 2: 4

Race 3: 4, 5, 6

Race 4: 1, 5, 8, 9

Race 5: 4, 8, 9, 11

Race 6: 2

TOTAL: $1,920

TWILIGHT 6

Race 4: 1, 5, 8, 9