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Fonner Park – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the March 27, 2026 card

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Fonner Park offers a compact Friday card of eight dirt races, with a mix of low-level claimers, Nebraska-bred allowance runners, and a three-year-old maiden special weight as the key class event. The program is sprint-heavy, featuring several four-furlong dashes early and five longer sprints and one-mile routes later, which puts a premium on early speed and gate quickness in the opening races. The claiming conditions (never won two, never won four, not won since September 27, 2025, and not won in 2026) signal fields made up of modest, often inconsistent horses, so trip, current form, and trainer intent matter more than raw class lines.

Fonner Park is a six-furlong bullring dirt track in Grand Island, Nebraska, where inside tactical speed is often rewarded, especially at four furlongs and six furlongs, and where short runs to the turn make post and break critical. Nebraska-bred allowance races later on the card can be especially formful when a clear pace scenario emerges, while the bottom-level claiming mile in Race 8 is typically a stamina and trip test for aging horses with spotty recent records.

Weather and Track Conditions

Grand Island's National Weather Service forecast for today calls for mostly sunny conditions with a high around the low 30s Fahrenheit, with a light to moderate north-northwest breeze around 5 to 10 mph and only a slight chance of snow later in the day. The monthly climatology indicates that late March in Grand Island typically sees daytime highs in the low to mid 60s, but today's cooler, dry, mostly sunny conditions suggest a fast track is likely, with minimal moisture in the surface if maintenance has been normal.

The dry air and lack of significant precipitation today should favor a tight, relatively quick surface, which can enhance the advantage of horses with early speed and those comfortable on firm, fast dirt. Wind is not forecast to be extreme, so it should have limited impact on pace and finish, although a headwind into the stretch can slightly blunt late rallies in the longer sprints and the mile route.

Track Bias and Post Position Notes

Publicly available historical analysis and general Fonner Park bullring patterns suggest that inside posts and forward position tend to perform better than outside, especially at the sharp four-furlong and six-furlong distances where the first turn comes quickly. On fast-track days with no recent rain, early speed has historically been effective at Fonner, with pressers and pace-attached runners doing better than deep closers that rely on a long sustained run.

Formal, up-to-the-minute lane-by-lane or post-by-post bias statistics for today's specific meet and date are not publicly available, but generic bias tools indicate that interior lanes are usually at least neutral to slightly favorable, while extreme outside lanes can be mildly disadvantaged in sprints due to ground loss into the turn. Without confirmed meet-specific bias data, it is prudent to handicap assuming a mild inside-speed tilt, while still upgrading any horse that has shown an ability to stalk and finish on this surface in recent local starts.

1st Race – Fonner Park – Friday, March 27, 2026

Claiming, 4 furlongs, dirt, purse $7,700, for three-year-olds and upward which have never won two races. Three-year-olds 121 lbs, older 125 lbs, claiming price $5,000, field of seven.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 4:00 PM local.

Pace Analysis

At four furlongs on a bullring, this should be a sharp dash where the first jump and first call are decisive. Mitola (1) from the rail has a natural positional advantage and will be asked to leave the gate sharply; Pakula (4) and Aztec Gem (6) project as other pace factors that can be forward early based on their sprint profiles. Cheers To Candy (7) has outside speed potential, but the short run to the turn from post 7 could force him to use energy early to avoid being hung wide. Pasa Doble (3) and Hog Heaven (5) look more like pressers or midpack types who will need the leaders to cook each other to have their best chance. Overall, the likely scenario is a contested but not suicidal pace, with the winner coming from one of the inside two or three posts with tactical speed.

Key Contenders

Mitola (1) is a three-year-old gelding getting a four-pound weight break from the older horses and drawing the rail, which is a strong combination at four furlongs here. With Alex Birzer up and Kelli Martinez training, this barn-jock combination tends to place young horses aggressively in spots where they can control the pace, and the never-won-two restriction is appropriate for a lightly raced type who broke the maiden recently or has some raw speed. If he breaks cleanly, Mitola (1) should either be on the lead or tracking the inside, and the configuration strongly supports his chances to take them gate to wire or win a battle in the final sixteenth.

Pakula (4) for Kelli Martinez with Alberto Pusac rides as the stablemate to Mitola (1) and appears to be placed here as a backup pace and win threat. The four-year-old gelding profile at this level and distance suggests a horse that has flashed some speed but may have yet to piece together consistency through two wins; however, the barn's decision to run two in this spot hints at confidence in the race shape. Pakula (4) can press from just off the leaders, and from post 4 he should avoid being buried inside while not losing much ground into the turn.

Cheers To Candy (7) for trainer Jerry Gourneau and rider Jose Angel Medina is another primary contender, with the combination often dangerous in short sprints at regional circuits. From post 7, Cheers to Candy (7) will likely be asked to break aggressively and clear or sit just off the outside flank of the pacesetter; if he can get a clean trip without getting hung three wide, his stamina for the short stretch can make him a major player.

Secondary Choices

Pasa Doble (3) is a six-year-old gelding who likely has more seasoning and experience than many in here, but the never-won-two condition indicates that he has a low win percentage. With Belen Quinonez and trainer Jason Wise, Pasa Doble (3) projects as a stalker who can sit midpack and hope the inside duel softens enough to allow a late run. He is usable underneath in exactas and trifectas, but his lack of winning habit makes him harder to trust for the top slot without a confirmed pace meltdown angle.

Hog Heaven (5), a five-year-old gelding with Victor Jadhir Bailon up for Mark Lemburg, has the profile of a midpack grinder at this trip. Lemburg horses can outperform their odds in the right spot, but Hog Heaven (5) needs a perfect trip and some luck to run down fresher speed, making him a secondary candidate for minor awards rather than a primary win threat on most tickets.

Longshots

Fierce Cat (2) is drawn well and may not be completely overmatched, but his form profile as a four-year-old gelding for Mark Hibdon suggests inconsistency. With David Cardoso up, Fierce Cat (2) could trip out sitting just off Mitola (1) if he breaks well, but he needs a career-best effort to win and is more of a fringe upset possibility and bottom of the trifecta type.

Aztec Gem (6), a six-year-old gelding for Marvin Johnson with Travis Cunningham in the irons, looks like a horse that could be sent hard from the outside-middle draw but has to overcome age and possible diminished early foot. Aztec Gem (6) can be included on deep exotic spreads as a longshot pace player who might hang on for a minor share if the others falter.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race sets up strongly around the Martinez pair and the outside speed horse. A logical approach is to key Mitola (1) on top of exactas and trifectas with Pakula (4), Cheers To Candy (7), Pasa Doble (3), and Hog Heaven (5). Win bets should focus on Mitola (1) if the price is acceptable, with a saver win bet on Cheers to Candy (7) if he drifts above a fair price due to the outside draw concerns. In multi-race wagers like daily doubles and early Pick 3 sequences, using Mitola (1) as an A-level single and backing up with Pakula (4) and Cheers to Candy (7) as B-levels can give good coverage without spreading too thin.

Selections

Win: Mitola (1)
Place: Cheers To Candy (7)
Show: Pakula (4)

2nd Race – Fonner Park – Friday, March 27, 2026

Claiming, 4 furlongs, dirt, purse $9,200, for fillies and mares three and up that have never won four races or have not won a race since September 27, 2025, claiming price $5,000, field of seven.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 4:27 PM local.

Pace Analysis

Another four-furlong dash for older mares means the start is everything, and these seasoned runners generally commit early. La. Grand Slam (2), Let Freedom Bling (4), and Girl Likes Bling (7) project as strong pace players with early foot, while Jill's Lemon Drop (1) from the rail can be sent enough to keep position. Thorn Crown (5), Sister Ella (3), and Coin Purse (6) figure to sit just off the pace or midpack and hope for a seam late. The likely scenario is a hot contested pace among 2, 4, and 7, making the outcome highly dependent on which mare gets the cleanest break.

Key Contenders

La. Grand Slam (2) with Jose Angel Medina riding for Mark Hibdon is very likely to be among the key pace players and win candidates. From post 2, La. Grand Slam (2) can break and immediately secure the two-path, putting pressure on whichever mare makes the rail, and her connections have been aggressive at this level when the mare shows speed. The conditions favor mares that have either been lightly raced toward the three- or four-win mark or are coming off a freshening after a layoff since mid-2025, and La. Grand Slam (2) fits well among the better speed.

Let Freedom Bling (4) for trainer Jerry Gourneau with Adrian B. Ramos up is another main player with a consistent sprint profile. Let Freedom Bling (4) likely has enough tactical speed to sit just off the leaders and make a move at the quarter pole, which can be the preferred style if the inside speed becomes overaggressive. Her experience and maturity at six can give her a resiliency advantage versus younger mares.

Girl Likes Bling (7) for Isai V. Gonzalez with Alex Birzer riding is a dangerous outside speed. Girl Likes Bling (7) will need a sharp break to clear or at least sit close to the leaders, but if she can avoid going wide into the turn, her class and experience at this level can carry her a long way. The Birzer-Gonzalez connection is competent and often well-prepared, and this mare may also attract betting support as a known quantity.

Secondary Choices

Jill's Lemon Drop (1) for Marvin Johnson with Travis Cunningham draws the rail, which is an asset at this distance. Jill's Lemon Drop (1) may not possess the raw early foot of the quickest three, but she can be hustled enough to hold position and then look to find a seam turning for home. Her lack of recent wins relative to the condition suggests she may be more of a grinding type whose best use is in exacta and trifecta slots.

Sister Ella (3) for Gonzalez with Belen Quinonez may be a stalker-closing type whose style is not perfectly suited to a four-furlong dash but can be effective if the leaders engage in a speed duel. Sister Ella (3) projects as a mare who can pick off tiring speed in the final sixteenth and get into the number, making her a secondary but important inclusion in vertical exotics.

Longshots

Thorn Crown (5), trained by Larry D. Donlin Jr. with Nathan Haar in the irons, is a six-year-old mare that likely has some back class but may have tailed off form-wise. Thorn Crown (5) could sit midpack and try to pass a few tired rivals, but she needs a favorable race shape and may be best as a deeper exotic filler.

Coin Purse (6) for George Blatchford with Ricardo Martinez is another mare that appears on paper to be a fringe player. Coin Purse (6) would need a perfect trip and a moderate pace meltdown, so she is mainly considered as a longshot backdoor trifecta or superfecta horse if playing deeper tickets.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

With three strong pace contenders, it makes sense to lean on the ones with the best draw and connections. Win bets can concentrate on La. Grand Slam (2) if she offers a fair price, with Let Freedom Bling (4) as the logical alternative. Exacta and trifecta structures can key La. Grand Slam (2) and Let Freedom Bling (4) over Girl Likes Bling (7), Jill's Lemon Drop (1), and Sister Ella (3), while using Thorn Crown (5) and Coin Purse (6) sparingly in the third and fourth slots. In horizontal sequences, using 2, 4, and 7 as A-levels and 1 and 3 as B-level backups provides solid coverage.

Selections

Win: La. Grand Slam (2)
Place: Let Freedom Bling (4)
Show: Girl Likes Bling (7)

3rd Race – Fonner Park – Friday, March 27, 2026

Maiden claiming, 4 furlongs, dirt, purse $7,300, for maiden fillies and mares three years old and upward, claiming price $10,000, field of eight.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 4:54 PM local.

Pace Analysis

This is a four-furlong maiden claimer with a mix of three-year-olds and older maidens, which often means chaos and big improvements. Mo Ta (3), Witt's Gone West (2), Sundae Sprinkles (4), and Cagey Cat (8) project as early speed or pace-pressers, while E. L.'s Legacy (1), Trish (5), Cousin Lollie (6), and Cold Security (7) could be more midpack or off-the-pace types. Pace at this level is often less predictable because some have gate issues and others suddenly break sharply, but overall this should be a fairly fast early dash given the number of first-time-or-lightly-raced three-year-olds.

Key Contenders

Mo Ta (3), a three-year-old filly for Jason Wise with Jose Angel Medina, looks like a key pace and win threat, assuming she has shown some early speed or promising gate work. Mo Ta (3) draws ideally in post 3 to secure an immediate inside stalking or pace-pressing position and can use youth and potential upside to out-foot older, more exposed maidens. At this claiming level, trainers often drop horses where they can win quickly, and Mo Ta (3) fits the profile of a filly placed for a maiden-breaking score.

Witt's Gone West (2), a three-year-old filly for Jerry Gourneau with Adrian B. Ramos, is another primary contender in this spot. Witt's Gone West (2) has been on scratch lists for higher-level races recently, and the drop into a maiden claimer at four furlongs signals serious intent to get a win. From post 2, she can break, secure inside position, and be very tough to reel in if she takes to the surface and distance.

Cagey Cat (8) for Larry D. Donlin with Chris Fackler is also a key contender despite the outermost post. Cagey Cat (8) has the advantage of being older and possibly more physically mature than some rivals, and Fackler is capable of working out a trip even from the outside. If she can break smartly, she can sit just off the leaders while avoiding severe traffic and then make a decisive move in the lane.

Secondary Choices

Sundae Sprinkles (4), a four-year-old filly for Mark Lemburg with Ricardo Martinez, is a secondary win consideration and a strong exotic player. Sundae Sprinkles (4) may not have the same upside as the three-year-olds, but her maturity and any experience she has at short sprints can allow her to pick up pieces late if the leaders falter. She is a logical inclusion in exactas and trifectas keyed around the more likely winners.

E. L.'s Legacy (1), a four-year-old filly for Cady Stortzum with Nathan Haar, has the rail draw and can be a factor simply by saving ground and being forwardly placed. E. L.'s Legacy (1) may not be the fastest early, but the rail can help her hug the inside and stay within striking range, making her a candidate for the board at a potentially fair price.

Longshots

Trish (5), a four-year-old filly for Kyle Schindler with Victor Jadhir Bailon, appears as a longshot with some minor upside if she has been training forwardly or shows a pace upgrade today. Trish (5) is a candidate to spice up trifectas at a price but would need several others to underperform to win.

Cousin Lollie (6), a six-year-old mare for Troy A. Bethke with Scott A. Bethke riding, is an older maiden, which is usually a negative in this kind of race. Cousin Lollie (6) can pass tired horses and potentially grab a small piece, but her profile suggests a longshot with limited win appeal. Cold Security (7) for Schuyler Condon with Belen Quinonez also fits as a longshot; Cold Security (7) might require a major form reversal but can be used only on very deep exotic spreads.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

The race shapes as a good spot to lean on the better-drawn, younger speed types. Keying Mo Ta (3) and Witt's Gone West (2) on top in exactas and trifectas over Cagey Cat (8), Sundae Sprinkles (4), and E. L.'s Legacy (1) is a rational approach. A modest win bet on Mo Ta (3) and Witt's Gone West (2) can be justified if their odds are playable relative to their potential advantage. In multi-race wagers, using 2, 3, and 8 as primary selections with 1 and 4 as backups provides coverage while still leaning into likely improvement from the three-year-olds.

Selections

Win: Mo Ta (3)
Place: Witt's Gone West (2)
Show: Cagey Cat (8)

4th Race – Fonner Park – Friday, March 27, 2026

Maiden special weight, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse $11,000, for three-year-olds, weight 122 lbs, field of eight.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 5:21 PM local.

Pace Analysis

This is the class highlight of the card, a six-furlong maiden special for three-year-olds, and the pace should be honest to fast. Golden Hurricane (6), Jackson's Speaker (4), Chatty Milligan (5), and Chan The Man (2) project as likely early or pressing types, while All Honors (1), Dirty Deal (7), Big N Slow (8), and possibly Forza Road (3) could be more midpack or off-the-pace. At six furlongs on a bullring, inside and tactical speed remain important, but there is a bit more room for a midpack, sustained runner to make an impact if the early fractions are strong.

Key Contenders

Dirty Deal (7), a three-year-old gelding for Isai V. Gonzalez with Alex Birzer, looks like a key contender on class and connections alone. Dirty Deal (7) should have enough tactical speed to avoid being shuffled too far back from post 7 while not being forced to duel early, and Birzer's timing in these types of races can be an asset. If Dirty Deal (7) has shown steady workouts or improving form, he can sit just off the leaders and pounce turning for home.

Golden Hurricane (6) for Kelli Martinez with Alberto Pusac is another prime player. Golden Hurricane (6) has the classic profile of a horse that can be sent to secure a forward position from a mid-outside post and then try to carry his speed. With a trainer that has already entered multiple competitive runners on the card, Golden Hurricane (6) is likely live and may prove very tough if able to clear or sit a comfortable stalking trip.

Jackson's Speaker (4) for Mark Hibdon with Jose Angel Medina profiles as a speed-pressing three-year-old that can be involved early. Jackson's Speaker (4) from post 4 should be able to break and sit just off the leaders or even vie for the front, making him a key pace presence and a serious win candidate if he handles the distance and surface.

Secondary Choices

All Honors (1), trained by Isai V. Gonzalez with Belen Quinonez aboard, draws the rail, which is an advantage if the horse has any tactical speed. All Honors (1) can save ground and get an inside trip in behind the leaders, giving him a chance to sneak through if a rail opening appears. He may lack the raw early foot of the top pace types but shrewd handling can make him competitive in the lane.

Chatty Milligan (5), another Hibdon entrant, this one with David Cardoso in the saddle, is a secondary win chance and a good exotic inclusion. Chatty Milligan (5) can be placed midpack or pressing, and Cardoso can carve out a trip on a horse that might be just a notch below the top talent but still capable of hitting the board in this group.

Longshots

Chan The Man (2) for Marvin Johnson with Victor Jadhir Bailon, Forza Road (3) for Joseph M. Dominguez with Nathan Haar, and Big N Slow (8) for Marvin Johnson with Travis Cunningham all appear as longer-priced types that need improvement. Chan the Man (2) could show more early pace from his inside post but may lack the finish of the top three; he works best as a back-end exacta or trifecta candidate if the favorites falter. Forza Road (3) can pass some tiring horses late if the pace is hot, while Big N Slow (8) must overcome a tough post and possibly limited early speed, making him a deep exotic type only.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race offers a clear grouping of three main contenders. Win bets can center on Dirty Deal (7) and Golden Hurricane (6), depending on price, with Jackson's Speaker (4) as a rib-protecting saver. Exactas and trifectas can be structured around 6, 7, and 4 on top over those three plus All Honors (1) and Chatty Milligan (5), while Chan The Man (2) and Forza Road (3) can be added to the third spot in deeper trifectas. In multi-race exotics, it is viable to lean relatively hard on Dirty Deal (7) and Golden Hurricane (6) as A's, with Jackson's Speaker (4) and All Honors (1) as backups.

Selections

Win: Dirty Deal (7)
Place: Golden Hurricane (6)
Show: Jackson's Speaker (4)

5th Race – Fonner Park – Friday, March 27, 2026

Claiming, 6 1/2 furlongs, dirt, purse $7,800, for fillies and mares three and up which have not won a race in 2026, claiming price $3,500, races entered for $2,500 or less not considered in eligibility, field of seven.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 5:48 PM local.

Pace Analysis

At 6 1/2 furlongs, the race is slightly more taxing than a standard six-furlong sprint, which can expose unfit or off-form mares. Now Showing (4), Hardly Mischievous (5), and Perceptive (6) project as forward types that will show early speed, while Milliganmikeandme (1), Yogurt (2), Layla's Song (3), and Low Euro Cat (7) may be more stalkers or midpack grinders. The condition “not won in 2026” implies that several are on winless streaks, so pace reliability is somewhat questionable; still, an honest to moderately quick early pace is likely, creating a chance for a strong midpack or late runner to capitalize.

Key Contenders

Now Showing (4), for Isai V. Gonzalez with Alex Birzer in the irons, stands out as a primary win contender. Now Showing (4) is a six-year-old mare who likely has some back class and enough tactical speed to secure a position in the first flight from post 4, and Birzer's style suits a horse that can stalk and pounce rather than commit to a full-on speed duel. In fields of older mares that have not won recently, a consistent, tactical mare like Now Showing (4) with a top jockey is a major asset.

Perceptive (6), trained by Mark Hibdon with David Cardoso, is another strong contender. Perceptive (6) may not have recent wins, but the trainer-jockey combo suggests the mare is placed where she can succeed, especially at a slightly extended sprint distance where she can get into a rhythm and sustain a move. From post 6, Perceptive (6) can press outside of the leaders and avoid traffic while making her run into the stretch.

Hardly Mischievous (5), a seven-year-old mare for Mark Hibdon with Jose Angel Medina, is also a key player based on connections and likely running style. Hardly Mischievous (5) can be forwardly placed or stalking, giving her versatility to adapt if the pace is either hot or moderate. Her age and experience can give her some toughness late in a race where others may flatten.

Secondary Choices

Layla's Song (3) for Isai V. Gonzalez with Adrian B. Ramos is a useful secondary contender who may get a favorable midpack inside trip. Layla's Song (3) can save ground, track the leaders, and look for a seam turning for home; she is a strong candidate for the exacta or trifecta if the top three run their race.

Yogurt (2), an eight-year-old mare for Kelli Martinez with Belen Quinonez, has plenty of experience and possibly prior form at the track. Yogurt (2) may be a step below the very top chances, but her maturity and familiarity with sprinting can allow her to keep grinding and pick up pieces late, making her a solid inclusion underneath in exotics.

Longshots

Milliganmikeandme (1), trained by Larry D. Donlin Jr. with Mike T. Luark aboard, and Low Euro Cat (7) for Schuyler Condon with Alberto Pusac, profile as longshots. Milliganmikeandme (1) may attempt to use the rail to stay close but could lack the finish needed to score against better-moving mares; she is an exotics filler at best. Low Euro Cat (7) might sit off the pace and make one run, but her overall profile suggests she needs several rivals to underperform to get into the top three.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This is a good race to build around the Gonzalez-Hibdon key players. Win bets can focus on Now Showing (4) and Perceptive (6) depending on the odds board, with Hardly Mischievous (5) as a saver if she is overlooked. Exactas and trifectas can key 4, 6, and 5 on top over 3, 2, and 1, while using Low Euro Cat (7) only in deeper trifecta or superfecta slots. In horizontal wagers, 4 and 6 are A-level, with 5 and 3 as B-level backups.

Selections

Win: Now Showing (4)
Place: Perceptive (6)
Show: Hardly Mischievous (5)

6th Race – Fonner Park – Friday, March 27, 2026

Claiming, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse $9,200, for fillies and mares three and up which have never won four races or have not won a race since September 27, 2025, claiming price $5,000, field of ten.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 6:15 PM local.

Pace Analysis

This is a full field of ten mares at six furlongs, with a mix of seasoned claimers and older types. Yvonne's Miss (1), Cankton's Cowgirl (4), Rockin Marie (5), Funtimegirl (8), and Anna's Dream (9) project as forward or pace-pressing types, while Right Of Refusal (3), Peach Street (6), Aprettylulaby (7), Tapit's Lady (2), and Tiz Hoppin (10) may stalk or sit midpack. The presence of multiple speed horses suggests the potential for an honest to strong pace, especially if several inside and outside riders vie for early position heading into the first turn, opening the door for a stalker or closer to finish best.

Key Contenders

Funtimegirl (8), trained by Isai V. Gonzalez with Alex Birzer, is a major contender based on connections and the likely pace scenario. Funtimegirl (8) can sit a pressing or stalking trip just off the leaders from her outside-middle post, avoiding the crush inside while still staying within a few lengths of the lead. With Birzer's ability to time a run, Funtimegirl (8) can get first run on the deeper closers and may be very tough to deny late.

Anna's Dream (9) for Jerry Gourneau with Jose Angel Medina is another key threat. Anna's Dream (9) draws just outside Funtimegirl (8), which should allow Medina to see how the inside unfolds and either push forward or tuck in behind. Given Gourneau's knack with mares at this level, Anna's Dream (9) is a strong win candidate, especially if the track surface appears to be favoring outside stalking trips by this point in the card.

Right Of Refusal (3), a six-year-old mare for Grady Thompson with Nathan Haar, offers a potentially nice blend of midpack style and stamina. Right of Refusal (3) can sit off the fastest early runners and make a steady run from the second flight, which may be the ideal style in a race with several committed speed horses.

Secondary Choices

Cankton's Cowgirl (4) for Larry D. Donlin Jr. with Belen Quinonez, and Peach Street (6) for Marvin Johnson with Travis Cunningham, are useful secondary contenders. Cankton's Cowgirl (4) can be placed near the pace but may need to be rated slightly to avoid an early duel; she is a strong exacta and trifecta candidate if she can relax. Peach Street (6) can be positioned in the second flight and attempt to make a middle move; she may lack a sharp turn of foot but can grind into the frame, making her an important exotic player.

Yvonne's Miss (1) for David C. Anderson with Alberto Pusac can use the rail to secure position early, but she must avoid being caught in a pace sandwich with pressure from the outside speed horses. Yvonne's Miss (1) is more of a place and show type unless she gets a perfect trip.

Longshots

Tapit's Lady (2), a seven-year-old mare for Jason Bobier with Xavier Pickner, Rockin Marie (5) for Vaughn Long with Mike T. Luark, Aprettylulaby (7) for Les Rhodes with Ricardo Martinez, and Tiz Hoppin (10) for Mike Sorensen with Adrian B. Ramos enter as longshots. Tapit's Lady (2) may lack the punch to compete with the top tier, though she can add depth to trifectas. Rockin Marie (5) has been recently on steward scratches, which raises questions about her readiness, making her a risky proposition even as a longshot filler. Aprettylulaby (7) may come from off the pace, but her record likely shows limited success against similar company. Tiz Hoppin (10), at ten years old, is the oldest mare in the field and must overcome age and a tough outside post, making her mainly a sentimental or deep exotic inclusion rather than a serious win candidate.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race is a good target for exotics due to the large field. Win bets can lean on Funtimegirl (8) and Anna's Dream (9), with Right Of Refusal (3) as a value alternative if the price is right. Exactas and trifectas can key 8, 9, and 3 over 4, 6, and 1, with 2, 5, 7, and 10 used only sparingly in the third or fourth positions. In horizontal wagers, 8 and 9 should be primary, with 3 and 4 as backups to guard against a pace meltdown or surprising trip.

Selections

Win: Funtimegirl (8)
Place: Anna's Dream (9)
Show: Right Of Refusal (3)

7th Race – Fonner Park – Friday, March 27, 2026

Allowance, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse $16,200, for certified Nebraska-bred fillies and mares three and up which have never won two races, three-year-olds 121 lbs, older 125 lbs, field of ten.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 6:42 PM local.

Pace Analysis

This is a competitive state-bred allowance with multiple lightly raced winners looking for their second win. Party Bug (2), Parkin Lot Party (3), No More Shots (4), and Mangos Casa (9) are likely to show sharp early foot, while My Merino Mayor (1), New Expectations (7), Vern (10), and possibly I'm Better Than Ok (5) and Traincy (6) can be stalking or closing forces. With several three-year-olds and four-year-olds in the mix, the pace should be honest to fast, and the race may favor a horse that can sit just off the lead and finish.

Key Contenders

Parkin Lot Party (3), a three-year-old filly for Mark Hibdon with Jose Angel Medina, looks like a pace-forward key contender. Parkin Lot Party (3) draws well in post 3 and can either send for the lead or sit just outside Party Bug (2), giving Medina options based on the break. In a field of Nebraska-bred fillies and mares with limited wins, a three-year-old with upside and tactical speed like Parkin Lot Party (3) can be especially dangerous.

No More Shots (4) for Isai V. Gonzalez with Alex Birzer is another leading player. No More Shots (4) is a four-year-old filly who has already demonstrated enough ability to be in this allowance condition and has the connections to be well-prepared. From post 4, she can be in the first flight tracking the inside speeds and make a decisive move on the turn; Birzer's presence adds confidence that she will get a strong trip.

New Expectations (7), a four-year-old filly for Marvin Johnson with Chris Fackler, is a clear contender from off the pace. New Expectations (7) can sit midpack or slightly further back and rely on a strong late run if the early fractions are lively. Her style may be well suited to a race where several fillies try to force the issue early.

Secondary Choices

My Merino Mayor (1) for Robert G. Hoffman with Belen Quinonez and Party Bug (2) for David C. Anderson with Alberto Pusac are secondary win and strong exotic contenders. My Merino Mayor (1) draws the rail, which can be beneficial if she can stay in touch with the leaders and save ground. Party Bug (2) will likely be prominent from the start, but she may be vulnerable late if pressed hard early by Parkin Lot Party (3) and No More Shots (4).

Vern (10), a three-year-old filly for Isai V. Gonzalez with Adrian B. Ramos, is another secondary factor from the outside. Vern (10) must overcome her wide draw but can benefit if she can sit just off the pace and stay in the clear, making a wide but sustained run into the lane.

Longshots

I'm Better Than Ok (5) for Dale Burns with Xavier Pickner, Traincy (6) for Juan Chavez with Victor Jadhir Bailon, and Beautiful Judge (8) for Randy Curran with Scott A. Bethke are longshots but not impossible in this competitive allowance. I'm Better Than Ok (5) may be a grinder lacking the quickness of the top fillies but can sneak into the trifecta if the race melts down. Traincy (6) is six years old and may be a bit past peak but can pick up pieces if the pace collapses. Beautiful Judge (8) is a seven-year-old mare who may struggle against younger fillies seeking their second win and likely fits best as a deep exotic inclusion.

Mangos Casa (9), a three-year-old filly for David C. Anderson with Travis Cunningham, is also more of a longshot, being lightly raced and potentially overmatched by more developed fillies. Mangos Casa (9) can be sent forward, but her chances of sustaining that speed against proven allowance-caliber fillies are uncertain.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This is a race where price and pace will dictate final decisions. Win bets can focus on No More Shots (4) and Parkin Lot Party (3), with New Expectations (7) as a value-oriented alternative if the odds are generous. Exactas and trifectas can key 3, 4, and 7 over 1, 2, and 10, and use 5, 6, 8, and 9 only in deeper exotic slots. In Pick 4 and Pick 5 structures, 3 and 4 look like strong A-level inclusions, with 7 and 1 as backups.

Selections

Win: No More Shots (4)
Place: Parkin Lot Party (3)
Show: New Expectations (7)

8th Race – Fonner Park – Friday, March 27, 2026

Claiming, 1 mile, dirt, purse $6,900, for three-year-olds and upward which have not won a race in 2026, claiming price $2,500, field of ten.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 7:09 PM local.

Pace Analysis

This bottom-level mile route for older geldings features multiple runners with suspect recent form and stamina questions. Karaoke (2), Rockets Red Flair (5), and Prince Is My Boy (6) project as early or pace-pressing types, while Just Plain Ornery (1), Kant Beat The Rock (3), Wicked Rose (4), Classic Bet (7), Ko Samui (8), Lexington River (9), and Nasty Exaggerator (10) likely sit midpack or further back. Given the class level and age of these horses, the pace may be moderate early with a long, grinding run home rather than a sharp sprint.

Key Contenders

Karaoke (2), a five-year-old gelding for Isai V. Gonzalez with Alex Birzer, stands out as a key win contender. Karaoke (2) can secure a good stalking or pressing trip from post 2, saving ground into both turns while staying close to the lead. The Gonzalez-Birzer pairing is potent in these low-level claiming routes, and this gelding's age suggests he still has some stamina and ability left to handle the mile.

Classic Bet (7), a seven-year-old gelding for Isai V. Gonzalez with Belen Quinonez, is another serious player, especially if the pace turns out to be moderate. Classic Bet (7) can sit midpack and make a sustained run on the far turn, and the trainer's decision to enter two in this spot hints at confidence that one of the pair can take advantage of the condition.

Ko Samui (8), a seven-year-old gelding from Ireland for Jason Crabtree with Chris Fackler, enters as a key contender with possible route and turf experience that may translate into stamina on the dirt. Ko Samui (8) can sit midpack or slightly back and look to make a sustained move if the pace softens, and Fackler's handling of older stamina-based horses can be an asset here.

Secondary Choices

Just Plain Ornery (1) for Stetson Rushton with Victor Jadhir Bailon, and Kant Beat The Rock (3) for Robert J. Haar with Nathan Haar, are useful secondary candidates. Just Plain Ornery (1) from the rail can be placed close to the lead early and save ground throughout; if he still has enough finish at seven years old, he can hold on for a share. Kant Beat the Rock (3) may sit just behind the first flight, and with a familiar rider-trainer relationship, he can be counted on to produce a consistent effort that may land him in the exacta or trifecta.

Lexington River (9) for Grady Thompson with Jose Angel Medina is another secondary possibility. Lexington River (9) from post 9 will need to work a trip but has enough stamina to make a late run if the field begins to string out in the backstretch.

Longshots

Wicked Rose (4), a seven-year-old gelding for Kelli Martinez with Alberto Pusac, Rockets Red Flair (5) for Jerry Gourneau with Xavier Pickner, Prince Is My Boy (6) for David C. Anderson with Travis Cunningham, and Nasty Exaggerator (10) for Jason Crabtree with Adrian B. Ramos appear as longshots. Wicked Rose (4) can get involved early but may lack the finish and recent form to sustain a mile. Rockets Red Flair (5) has been scratched previously for illness and veterinarian reasons, raising concerns about his current condition and making him a risky proposition even at a price. Prince Is My Boy (6) may show early speed but could be vulnerable in the final furlong. Nasty Exaggerator (10) has to overcome the far outside post and his age of eight, and while he can be included in only the deepest exotic spread, he is a reach as a win candidate.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race is a good opportunity to lean on the Gonzalez and Crabtree runners. Win bets can focus on Karaoke (2) and Classic Bet (7), with Ko Samui (8) as a value alternative if his price is attractive. Exactas and trifectas should key 2, 7, and 8 over 1, 3, and 9, while limiting exposure to 4, 5, 6, and 10 to back-end exotic slots due to their form and question marks. In multi-race wagers, spreading with 2, 7, and 8 as primary and 1 and 3 as backups provides solid coverage of the likeliest outcomes.

Selections

Win: Karaoke (2)
Place: Classic Bet (7)
Show: Ko Samui (8)

Jockey Notes and Insights

Alex Birzer is one of the most reliable, experienced riders on this card, with mounts on Mitola (1), Girl Likes Bling (7), Dirty Deal (7), Now Showing (4), Funtimegirl (8), No More Shots (4), and Karaoke (2). His strength is tactical placement and timing, especially in sprints and short routes, which makes his mounts attractive as win and key exotic candidates, particularly in races with contentious but manageable pace scenarios.

Jose Angel Medina has several key mounts including Cheers To Candy (7), La. Grand Slam (2), Mo Ta (3), Jackson's Speaker (4), Hardly Mischievous (5), Anna's Dream (9), Parkin Lot Party (3), and Lexington River (9). Medina rides aggressively, often placing horses near the pace or in pressing positions, which suits the Fonner Park bullring configuration; his mounts are especially interesting in fields where securing early position is critical.

Belen Quinonez and Adrian B. Ramos both ride multiple live horses for capable barns, with Quinonez partnering with Pasa Doble (3), Sister Ella (3), Cold Security (7), All Honors (1), Yogurt (2), Cankton's Cowgirl (4), My Merino Mayor (1), and Classic Bet (7), while Ramos rides Let Freedom Bling (4), Witt's Gone West (2), Forza Road (3), Layla's Song (3), Tiz Hoppin (10), Vern (10), and Nasty Exaggerator (10). Their familiarity with the track and ability to judge the pace are valuable in these lower-level claiming races where form is inconsistent.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Kelli Martinez sends out multiple runners, including Mitola (1), Pakula (4), Golden Hurricane (6), Yogurt (2), Wicked Rose (4), and possibly others. Her barn spots horses aggressively in claiming races and maiden events, and the presence of coupled or multiple entries in the same race often signals a desire to control pace or cover various race shapes, as seen in the first and fourth races.

Jerry Gourneau also has a strong presence with horses like Cheers To Candy (7), Let Freedom Bling (4), Witt's Gone West (2), Anna's Dream (9), and Rockets Red Flair (5), and his horses typically come to hand quickly at regional circuits like Fonner. Trainers like Isai V. Gonzalez, Marvin Johnson, and Mark Hibdon appear throughout the card and often target these meet conditions effectively, making their runners generally trustworthy when spotted logically at proper class levels and distances.

The mix of local and regional trainers means that some barns are more intent on wins at this meet than others, and monitoring which barns have been hot early in the meet would further sharpen the value picture. However, based on general patterns and placement alone, the Martinez, Gourneau, Gonzalez, Johnson, and Hibdon barns should be treated as primary sources of live runners across this card.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

From a card-wide perspective, the early races (Races 1–3) are speed-oriented four-furlong dashes where early position is crucial, and focusing on inside or tactical speed horses like Mitola (1), La. Grand Slam (2), and Mo Ta (3) in vertical and horizontal exotics makes sense. The middle races (Races 4–6) feature more nuanced pace scenarios at six and 6 1/2 furlongs, with opportunities for stalkers and midpack runners like Dirty Deal (7), Now Showing (4), Perceptive (6), Funtimegirl (8), and Anna's Dream (9) to produce value if speed horses cancel each other out.

In the late double and any Pick 4 or Pick 5 structures that include Races 4–8, strong key horses and combinations include Dirty Deal (7) in Race 4, Now Showing (4) and Perceptive (6) in Race 5, Funtimegirl (8) and Anna's Dream (9) in Race 6, No More Shots (4) and Parkin Lot Party (3) in Race 7, and Karaoke (2), Classic Bet (7), and Ko Samui (8) in Race 8. These runners, often with top jockeys and strong trainer intent, can be designated as A-levels, with secondary backups drawn from the identified secondary choices to manage ticket cost.

Value may emerge in races where longshots have realistic paths to hit the board, particularly in Race 3 with older maidens like E. L.'s Legacy (1) and Sundae Sprinkles (4) and in Race 6 with mid-priced stalkers like Right Of Refusal (3) and Peach Street (6). Watching the tote for overlays on horses from respected barns with decent posts and upgrading those that appear overlooked is a practical way to refine the strategy once the live odds are visible.

Given that detailed morning line odds for each race and runner are not accessible from public sources here, exact pricing and specific recommended spreads for exotic tickets like the Pick 5 cannot be precisely tailored. However, building around the main key horses in each race, leaning on those with the strongest connections and most favorable pace setups, while using secondary choices to fill out deeper exotic structures, offers a sound, value-conscious approach to today's Fonner Park card.

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