As thoroughbred racing action heats up across North America and beyond, key developments include the New Mexico Racing Commission’s approval of a casino relocation to Clovis, boosting regional racing prospects; standout performances like Paladin’s gritty victory earning Road to the Kentucky Derby points; and expert picks highlighting promising contenders at Laurel Park, Sunland Park, and Santa Anita, setting the stage for an exciting Sunday card.
New Mexico Racing Commission Greenlights Casino Move to Clovis
The New Mexico Racing Commission has unanimously approved a major casino operator’s proposal to relocate its facilities to Clovis, marking a significant shift for the state’s racing landscape. This move promises enhanced infrastructure and increased wagering opportunities at the local track, potentially drawing larger crowds and bolstering purses for New Mexico-bred horses. Industry stakeholders hail the decision as a vital step toward revitalizing the region’s thoroughbred and quarter horse programs amid evolving gaming regulations.
Paladin Powers to Victory on Road to the Derby
In a thrilling stretch battle, Paladin surged late from the outside to claim a hard-fought win, securing 50 valuable points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. Chip Honcho dug in gamely down the lane, but the determined colt kept grinding to edge ahead, showcasing the kind of heart that defines classic contenders. This standout effort positions Paladin as a rising star in the early Derby trail, with trainers now eyeing bigger targets.
Laurel Park Picks Spotlight Upside in Key Races
Laurel Park’s Sunday card features compelling matchups, led by Race 2 where Tony Eclipse, fresh off a respectable fourth in a tough return from layoff, looms as a major threat with his Maryland Juvenile credentials and improving speed figures. Devil’s Cay eyes a wire-to-wire bid despite a tricky post, while Night Time Nap brings recent claiming form under new connections. In Race 6, Buckin’ Right’s consistent high-speed figures make her the one to beat against fresh challengers like Censtamilla and the highly anticipated returnee Ms Notion.
Sunland Park Picks Target Two-Turn Prospects
Sunland Park’s action spotlights young horses stretching out, with Day At A Time favored in Race 5 after a dominant maiden score, now Lasix-free and bred for the distance against Caprock Cutie and I Am Paula Revere. Race 6 pits Speed Merchant, a three-time stakes winner with superior Beyers, against stalker Cash Waterfall in a tactical showdown. Bottle of Rouge, Bob Baffert’s Grade 1 winner, headlines Race 7 Oaks prep, while Wild Bout Hilary could control Race 8 from the front.
Santa Anita Race 4 Picks Favor Speed and Stalkers
Santa Anita’s Race 4 claiming event draws a competitive field of geldings and horses at six furlongs, with Dirty Words leading at 3/2 odds thanks to perfect recent stats and front-running style under Tyler Baze. Joint Venture and Four O Six Creed offer stalker value, while Jaguar Jon’s explosive win percentages position him as a live longshot. Trainers like Jeff Mullins and Ronald W Ellis bring proven form to this sprint showdown.
