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

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Turfway Park offers a 10-race, all-weather Tapeta card tonight, with a mix of maiden claimers, conditioned claimers, a strong maiden special weight sprint, a starter allowance, and a high-end 1 1/2 mile allowance optional claimer for fillies and mares anchoring the late sequence. The program is route-heavy, with eight of ten races at one mile and the card designed to leverage Turfway's synthetic profile where pace, stamina, and surface affinity often matter more than raw early speed.

Handle and field sizes have been robust at recent Turfway meetings, which typically translates into competitive odds and good value opportunities in multi-race wagers. Recent analysis of the meet indicates that Tapeta routes have played fairly but with a slight lean toward horses who can finish, particularly in full fields where early traffic and pressured paces can soften front-runners.

Weather and Track Conditions

Current forecasts for the Florence, Kentucky area point to cool late-March conditions with dry or only lightly damp weather into the evening, and no major storms expected during the racing window. Turfway's Tapeta surface drains efficiently and is designed to maintain a relatively consistent, safe cushion even when temperatures drop, so you should expect a standard, fast all-weather surface rather than an extreme variant.

Historically, mild and dry nights at Turfway produce a track that is neither strongly speed-biased nor overwhelmingly closer-favoring, though late runners tend to be slightly more reliable in the mile routes when fields are 10-plus deep. There is no widely reported rail deadness or specific negative inside path pattern at the current meet, so post position should be treated as a secondary factor behind pace and form.

Track Bias and Post Position Profile

Meet-long track profile work for Turfway's Tapeta shows that at one mile, winners are reasonably distributed across posts, with mild advantages shifting depending on field size. Inside posts 1–4 are slightly more efficient in small and moderate fields, but in full 12–14 horse races, middle posts (5–9) typically produce a healthy share of winners as they avoid both the crush into the first turn and wide, ground-losing trips.

In terms of running styles, Turfway's Tapeta routes tend to reward horses who can sit mid-pack or just off the lead and finish, with pure front-end “need-the-lead” types more vulnerable when contested and deep one-run closers dependent on pace collapse and racing luck. In sprints, tactical speed is a more valuable commodity, but this card is dominated by routes, making sustained pace and turn-of-foot key handicapping angles.

1st Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 27th, 2026

Maiden claiming, 1 mile Tapeta, open 3-year-olds, large field of 13, and several with prior scratch or vet history from the Scratch Watch report.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 5:55 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

On paper, there is not a clear, blazing front-runner, but multiple horses appear capable of contesting the early lead, creating a moderately honest pace. Brea From Three (1) can be expected to use the rail and show some tactical speed to secure position early, while State Of Attack (5), Summer Sounds (8), and Dokkodo (9) each project to be forward or pressing types based on connections and class placement patterns.

With Coach Rudy (10) and Nehalem (11) adding mid-pack pressure from the outside, the shape leans toward a compact group into the first turn rather than a strung-out field. That should bring mid-pack stalkers and finishers into play, particularly those who have already shown an ability to pass horses late on Tapeta or in similar company.

Key Contenders

Nehalem (11) gets a subtle class drop into this maiden claiming level after prior scratches at the 30,000 price and has a trainer who typically spots to win when dropping from that grade. With Joseph Ramos aboard and a mid-to-outer draw, Nehalem (11) should get a clean stalking trip, sitting just behind the earliest speeds and looking to grind past late.

Dokkodo (9) shows re-entry after being scratched in a prior maiden claimer and fits well from a placement standpoint, offering a blend of tactical speed and route stamina that should fit this mile configuration. William Cowans is generally effective with this type of re-entered maiden claimer at Turfway, and Luan Machado's ability to judge pace on Tapeta is a plus.

State Of Attack (5) comes out of an also-eligible situation earlier at the meet, and the Walden barn typically presents fit horses in these lower-level maiden claimers. From gate 5, Alex Achard should have options to either attend the pace or sit just off, making State of Attack (5) a logical key for horizontals if the tote is reasonable.

Secondary Choices

Brea From Three (1) may not be the most talented horse in the race, but the rail post and Adam Beschizza's aggressive style from inside give him an opportunity to trip out if he breaks sharply. John Ennis has had success with similar inside-drawn maiden claimers, and a ground-saving route could make Brea From Three (1) a threat to hang around for a share at a price.

Summer Sounds (8) shows prior illness-related scratches in February but is spotted at an appropriate level and comes from the Kelsey Danner barn, which has done well with lightly raced 3-year-olds on synthetic surfaces. Victor Carrasco is capable of producing an efficient tracking trip, and Summer Sounds (8) could be sitting in the first flight with every chance if the health issues are behind him.

Paired (2) also shows scratch history due to illness but now returns in a realistic spot for a barn that is not shy about moving a horse forward off the bench when sound. Gerardo Corrales is one of the strongest finish riders at Turfway, and Paired (2) projects as a mid-pack grinder who can take advantage if the leaders come back in the lane.

Longshots

Usain Th (Uruguay) (4) ships in for Pavel Matejka and may be overlooked in the wagering, but the foreign form and unknown Tapeta ability introduce upside if he takes to the surface. With Oscar Villarreal up, Usain Th (4) could be in a stalking role and is the type of horse that can spice up exotics with minimal improvement.

Baytown Anubis (6) and Bravazomoso (13) both appear on the scratch report with prior issues, and their recent form lines are not overly compelling. However, Baytown Anubis (6) has the kind of back early speed that can occasionally steal a race if left alone, while Bravazomoso (13) could clunk up late if a wide, collapsing pace develops.

Iknowyoucanwait (7), Summer Sounds (8), Coach Rudy (10), and Daunted (12) all fit more as underneath or exotic candidates, with each needing improvement or racing luck to threaten the top slot. In this kind of full-field, lower-level maiden claimer, spreading in the lower rungs of trifectas and superfectas is justified.

Selections

Selections

Win Nehalem (11)
Place Dokkodo (9)
Show State Of Attack (5)

Betting Strategy and Angles

In verticals, a win bet on Nehalem (11) paired with exacta boxes using Dokkodo (9) and State Of Attack (5) makes sense, while using Brea From Three (1), Paired (2), and Summer Sounds (8) underneath in tris and supers can create coverage. For horizontal players, Nehalem (11), Dokkodo (9), and State of Attack (5) are the primary A's, with Brea From Three (1) and Paired (2) as B-level backups in multi-race tickets at reasonable cost.

2nd Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 27th, 2026

Maiden claiming, 1 mile Tapeta, fillies and mares, 3 and up, with a 30,000 top price and nine entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 6:25 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

This race has more defined early types than the opener, with Combattante (4), Low Moon (5), and Halfin (8) each showing profiles consistent with forward placements. Crystal Frost (1) from the rail may also be urged away from the gate by Gabriel Saez to protect position, creating a steady pace into the first turn.

Union Empress (6), Marble Arch (7), and In For A Spin (9) are more likely to sit in the second flight, hoping to pounce on any tiring leaders in the lane. With the Tapeta route profile favoring stalkers and mid-pack runners, a horse that can settle and finish should have the edge.

Key Contenders

Cool American (from Race 8 example) is not in this race; here the key contender from the rail is Crystal Frost (1), who gets a top local rider and an inside draw in a race without a standout favorite. Crystal Frost (1) should enjoy a ground-saving trip and has enough tactical pace to avoid getting shuffled back going into the first turn.

Marble Arch (7) is a logical major player out of the Medina barn, with Vincent Cheminaud capable of executing the kind of patient, well-timed ride that wins Turfway routes. The mare is drawn well toward the middle, keeping her clear of inside traffic but not losing ground, and should be set up to make a sustained run from just behind the leaders.

In For A Spin (9) drops from a prior maiden special weight try into this maiden claiming level, which is a significant class relief move that often produces immediate improvement. Luan Machado is a strong fit for this type, and the outside draw gives him the chance to watch the pace unfold and decide whether to tuck in or track wide in clear air.

Secondary Choices

Low Moon (5) attracts Dylan Machado and comes from a barn that can move one up on the drop, particularly when stretching or turning back at Turfway. From the middle draw, Low Moon (5) can be part of the early pace picture and may stick around for a share.

Combattante (4) shows prior scratch history from a 15,000 maiden claimer and now resurfaces at 30,000, suggesting she may have been better than the earlier placement indicated. With Martin Garcia aboard, Combattante (4) projects to be among the front rank, and if the pace is not too hot, she could prove stubborn in the lane.

Union Empress (6) for Jimmy Corrigan is the kind of lightly raced filly who may be improving with experience, and Yarmarie Correa's ability to nurse mid-pack runners into contention makes Union Empress (6) a viable underneath and backup win candidate.

Longshots

Teralee's Charm (2) and Senora D'oro (3) are both longer-priced on typical maiden claiming lines, with each requiring a step forward in form and trip to make an impact. Halfin (8) is more of a wild card; with Walter Rodriguez up, she can be hustled into the race early but may be vulnerable late given the likely pressure.

Selections

Selections

Win In For A Spin (9)
Place Marble Arch (7)
Show Crystal Frost (1)

Betting Strategy and Angles

This is a good spot to lean on In For A Spin (9) and Marble Arch (7) in horizontals, as both possess the combination of class relief and trip potential that fits the race shape. In verticals, key In for a Spin (9) on top of Marble Arch (7), Crystal Frost (1), Low Moon (5), Union Empress (6), and Combattante (4) in exactas and trifectas, while being cautious with deep closers unless the earlier races show an exaggerated closer bias.

3rd Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 27th, 2026

Claiming 5,000, non-winners of three, 1 mile Tapeta, with 10 older runners.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 6:55 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

This field has several potential pace contributors, notably Iconic Rock (4), Nico's Derby Run (5), and Pierce Elevated (9), all of whom project to be forward or pace-pressing types. Blue Coast (1) on the rail may also be sent to secure a spot, especially returning from an illness scratch where a sharp work pattern would suggest readiness.

With multiple horses capable of being within a length or two of the lead early, the race could set up for a stalker such as Personal Creed (3) or Ghost Prince (8) who can sit in the second flight and find clear lanes in the lane. The Tapeta mile profile again supports that kind of running style, particularly in multi-runner claiming fields.

Key Contenders

Ghost Prince (8) for Anthony Quartarolo comes into this at the right class level and has the tactical speed to stay in contact while preserving his finish. Luis Contreras is adept on synthetic and should be able to place Ghost Prince (8) in a stalking position, making him a top win candidate.

Personal Creed (3) from the Brownfield barn looks like a grinder who fits the NW3L condition well and should benefit from an honest pace. With Joseph Ramos retaining the mount, Personal Creed (3) figures to save ground early and angle out in upper stretch, giving him a realistic shot at the win if he gets decent fractions to run at.

Blue Coast (1) has scratch history for illness but is a reasonable class fit and draws the rail, which can be a positive in these mile claimers if the horse breaks cleanly. Conor Murphy often has his runners fit, and Danny Sheehy has demonstrated solid rail-riding skills at Turfway.

Secondary Choices

Brogue (7) is a solid, consistent type for William Cowans, and with Rafael Hernandez up, Brogue (7) projects as a mid-pack runner who could slip into contention if others falter. His style is suited to Tapeta routes where grinding, sustained runs are often rewarded.

Memphis Pharoah (2) is a more experienced 6-year-old who has seen his share of claiming company, but the veteran presence and Rodney Prescott's patient riding style make Memphis Pharoah (2) a candidate to pick up pieces late. Merlotti (6) and Garden Leave (10) are similar in that they are capable of hitting the board with a good trip but need race-shape help.

Longshots

Iconic Rock (4) and Nico's Derby Run (5) are both possible pace players that could be used as longshot inclusions in exactas and trifectas, especially if the track plays more kindly to speed than expected. Pierce Elevated (9) has the outside post and could be caught wide into the first turn, but if he breaks sharply and clears, he is another that might outrun odds.

Selections

Selections

Win Ghost Prince (8)
Place Personal Creed (3)
Show Blue Coast (1)

Betting Strategy and Angles

Key Ghost Prince (8) as a win and horizontal A, with Personal Creed (3) and Blue Coast (1) as co-second choices on multi-race tickets. In verticals, play Ghost Prince (8) on top of Personal Creed (3), Blue Coast (1), Brogue (7), and one or two of the pace longshots for exactas and trifectas, leaning against deep closers unless the earlier races show a pronounced collapse pattern.

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

Claiming 15,000, non-winners of two, 1 mile Tapeta, fillies and mares with a full field of 14.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 7:25 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

This is a big, competitive field with multiple pace possibilities. Gio Linh (2), Love Knicks Hart (3), Quirky Ride (4), and Quince (5) all have profiles that suggest they will be near or on the early lead. From the outside, Coda Mia (14) and Run Mama Run (13) could also show some pace to avoid being hung out wide on the first turn.

The net effect should be a lively and contested early tempo, making this race ripe for a stalking or mid-pack trip from the likes of True Class (7), Lyric Street (10), and Star Watch (12). A horse capable of rating comfortably and finishing strongly will have a significant advantage.

Key Contenders

Gio Linh (2) is very live here for Brad Cox with Fernando De La Cruz up, combining top barn, proven synthetic competence, and an inside post that should secure position without excessive early exertion. Gio Linh (2) can either take the lead or sit just off it, and that tactical versatility in a big field is a major asset.

Quince (5) for Kelsey Danner with Adam Beschizza is another strong player, especially if she has shown any prior affinity for the Tapeta and can sit a pocket trip behind the front line. The combination of Danner and Beschizza has worked well at Turfway, particularly with lightly raced fillies rising through the claiming ranks.

True Class (7) represents the Paulo Lobo barn and gets Alberto Burgos, with a running style that points to a mid-pack stalking position. She appears well placed at the NW2L level and should be finishing late if the pace is as contested as expected.

Secondary Choices

Love Knicks Hart (3) with Gabriel Saez and Quirky Ride (4) for Michael Maker both merit respect as forwardly placed types from strong barns. If the track is not playing against speed, either could take this field a long way.

Lyric Street (10) and Lil' Hottie (9) both present as logical mid-range threats who should be running on late and are usable in exactas and tris at potentially fair prices. Star Watch (12) is an interesting class-dropper with John McKee up and a trainer who spots shrewdly in this tier.

Longshots

Tiz Salty (1), Nan O'hara (6), Tale Of Lady Maria (8), Call Me Toni (11), Run Mama Run (13), and Coda Mia (14) all deserve mention as exotic fillers in such a large field. Several have scratch or also-eligible histories, and while their win prospects may be limited, any one could get the right trip to grab a minor award.

Selections

Selections

Win Gio Linh (2)
Place Quince (5)
Show True Class (7)

Betting Strategy and Angles

With a big field, this is an important spread race in horizontals, where Gio Linh (2), Quince (5), and True Class (7) should be A-level inclusions. In verticals, consider exactas and trifectas using Gio Linh (2) and Quince (5) over True Class (7), Lyric Street (10), Star Watch (12), and one of the speed longshots, while keeping ticket cost controlled by focusing on core opinions rather than blanket coverage.

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

Maiden special weight, 6 1/2 furlongs Tapeta, fillies and mares, purse 100,000, full field of 14.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 7:55 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

This is the first sprint of the night and a large field of lightly raced or debut runners, so the pace is likely to be quick and potentially chaotic. Some Sweet Gal (1), Morana (2), American Surfer (5), Serena's Surprise (7), Wing Queen (8), and Ability (11) each project as candidates to show speed or tactical pace based on barn patterns and sprint placement.

Mid-pack stalkers like Sassari (3), Marital Trust (10), and Arlo's Gammy (12), along with closers such as Taqdeer (9) and Once Upon A Time (14), may find the race coming back to them late if the early fractions are strong.

Key Contenders

Some Sweet Gal (1) for Brad Cox is a prime player from the rail with Fernando De La Cruz, benefiting from a high-percentage trainer and an inside draw in a sprint where position counts. She should be prominent early and, if she relaxes, tough to overhaul.

Sassari (3) for Graham Motion with Rafael Hernandez up fits this kind of Tapeta sprint very well as a high-quality barn runner with likely stamina and finishing kick. Her outside-of-the-rail draw allows a stalking trip, and Motion's horses often move forward sharply second time or when placed in maiden special weight company on synthetic.

Marital Trust (10) from the Delacour barn with Victor Carrasco is another high-profile MSW runner who should appreciate the distance and surface, and she projects to sit in the second flight behind the early burners.

Secondary Choices

Wing Queen (8) has prior illness history but is returning to MSW company, and Michelle Lovell's record with Tapeta sprinters gives her some upside if she is back to full health. Ability (11) for Justin Wojczynski with Gerardo Corrales has the kind of tactical speed and rider combo that can be very dangerous in these races.

Once Upon A Time (14) has outer-draw challenges but may benefit if the early pace collapses, as Samuel Bermudez has shown a capacity to time big late runs in sprints. American Surfer (5) and Arlo's Gammy (12) round out the main secondary group as mid-priced options with the right connections and distance profile.

Longshots

Morana (2), Artella (4), Wella (6), Serena's Surprise (7), Taqdeer (9), M's Mabee Baby (13), and others are not without hope in a race where unknowns abound, especially if a first-timer takes to the Tapeta unexpectedly well. In deep tickets, a case can be made for including at least one or two longshots beneath main keys in tris and supers.

Selections

Selections

Win Some Sweet Gal (1)
Place Sassari (3)
Show Marital Trust (10)

Betting Strategy and Angles

This is a good race to lean on trainer and rider intent; focus horizontals around Some Sweet Gal (1), Sassari (3), Marital Trust (10), and Ability (11) as primary inclusions. In verticals, play Some Sweet Gal (1) and Sassari (3) over Marital Trust (10), Wing Queen (8), Ability (11), and one or two price horses such as Once Upon A Time (14) for trifectas and superfectas, while keeping win bets modest due to maiden uncertainty.

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

Starter allowance, 1 mile Tapeta, 3-year-olds that have started for 50,000 or less or in a maiden auction, NW1X, with 12 runners.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 8:25 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

This race features a blend of early and tactical speed. Hayes Goal (1), Dewy's Denali (2), Midway Munny (5), Swamp King (8), and Culoir (10) all figure to be part of the early mix based on barns, trip patterns, and post needs. Petoskey Stones (9) and Stackin Sats (12) can sit just behind the leading group, with Ghost Tales (6) and Hardtoblame (7) likely mid-pack types.

With a crowded run into the first turn and multiple speed elements, a strong pace is plausible, which would build the race around those who can finish while conserving ground.

Key Contenders

Petoskey Stones (9) for Brad Cox with Fernando De La Cruz is one of the key players, combining class, tactical speed, and the right trip profile for this configuration. His running style should have him sitting just behind the pace while clear of the inside traffic.

Stackin Sats (12) from the outermost gate gets Rafael Hernandez and could sit a stalking or pressing trip while avoiding traffic, with the Cowans/Beckman-type profile suggesting a horse improving through conditions. The wide draw is not ideal, but it can be mitigated by a clean break and forward placement.

Hardtoblame (7) for Jeremiah O'Dwyer with Luan Machado fits well here as a mid-pack runner who should be finishing late if the early pace is hot. The barns that have targeted this starter condition often do so with horses capable of stringing wins together, and Hardtoblame (7) may be on that trajectory.

Secondary Choices

Hayes Goal (1) with Danny Sheehy and Dewy's Denali (2) with William Antongeorgi are both early pace factors who can remain in the outcome if the pace is controlled rather than scorching. Midway Munny (5) and Swamp King (8) are similarly in the mix as pace/press types with some upside.

Ghost Tales (6) for Julien Leparoux and Mountain Wolf (11) for Rodney Prescott are both possible late-running or grinding types to be used underneath in vertical wagers.

Longshots

Seal Bay (4) and Culoir (10) both have more to prove but could be part of the early puzzle, and if they slip loose, might threaten to hold on for minor shares. The main longshot upset candidates are those who can sit off a hot pace and time a run if the leaders fold, but without strong prior form, they are mostly exotic fillers.

Selections

Selections

Win Petoskey Stones (9)
Place Hardtoblame (7)
Show Stackin Sats (12)

Betting Strategy and Angles

Use Petoskey Stones (9), Hardtoblame (7), and Stackin Sats (12) as primary keys in horizontal bets, recognizing that the starter allowance condition often produces logical winners. For verticals, play Petoskey Stones (9) on top of Hardtoblame (7), Stackin Sats (12), Hayes Goal (1), Dewy's Denali (2), and one of the mid-range prices such as Midway Munny (5), looking to capitalize if a pace collapse boosts your closers.

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

Claiming 15,000, NW2L, 1 mile Tapeta, mixed-gender field with 14 slots including one mare, Saweetie Girl (13).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 8:55 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

Early speed should come from Halter Boy (1), Air Cav (3), Game Point (5), Mystandards (7), Prototype (9), and Concrete Cruiser (14), each of whom can be forwardly placed based on their profiles. The presence of multiple early types suggests another honest to fast pace, particularly with the outer-drawn speed types needing to use energy to get position.

Stalkers and mid-pack runners like Romantic Lead (2), Wish Carefully (8), Up To No Good (10), Goodmenarescarce (11), and Jus Too Fly (12) should get a good setup.

Key Contenders

Wish Carefully (8) for Michelle Lovell with Danny Sheehy is very well spotted here, with form and running style that tag him as one of the prime closers in a pace-rich race. He should be sitting in the second flight and unleashing a late run if the leaders soften each other up.

Goodmenarescarce (11) for Jimmy Corrigan with Adam Beschizza figures as a strong mid-pack grinder with upside in only his second or third try at this condition. His outside-mid post allows him to avoid inside traffic but still save some ground.

Up To No Good (10) is another strong contender for Keith Kinmon with Rafael Hernandez aboard, combining tactical speed and finish in a spot where a stalk-and-pounce trip is ideal.

Secondary Choices

Romantic Lead (2) with Edgar Morales, Air Cav (3) for Ismael Bahena with Luis Contreras, and Game Point (5) for Phil Sims with Fernando De La Cruz all rate as secondary win threats, especially if the pace is not as hot as projected. Jus Too Fly (12) and Halter Boy (1) can round out the upper tiers of exotics with the right trips.

Longshots

Phraseologism (6), Mystandards (7), Prototype (9), Saweetie Girl (13), and Concrete Cruiser (14) are all longshot candidates who may find themselves involved early or mid-race but likely need race-shape luck and big improvements to win. Nevertheless, any of them can fill out the lower rungs of tri and super tickets at strong odds.

Selections

Selections

Win Wish Carefully (8)
Place Up To No Good (10)
Show Goodmenarescarce (11)

Betting Strategy and Angles

From a wagering standpoint, this is a good race to play with a closing bias angle, focusing win bets and exacta keys around Wish Carefully (8), Up To No Good (10), and Goodmenarescarce (11). In horizontals, use these three as A's, with Romantic Lead (2), Air Cav (3), and Game Point (5) as B-level backups to catch the race if early speed proves more durable than expected.

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

Maiden claiming 50,000, 1 mile Tapeta, 3-year-old fillies, nine entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 9:25 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

Cool American (2) profiles as a forwardly placed filly, with Romper (1), Souperrazzledazzle (4), Howyoudosomething (7), and Rocky World (8) also likely to attend the pace. My Secret Dreams (5) and Got What I Got (6) are more mid-pack or stalking types, with Zena Cat (9) being more of a closer based on available performance figures and running style summaries.

Given the number of pace-pressers, the race should have a genuine tempo, likely setting up a bit for horses who can settle and finish.

Key Contenders

Cool American (2) is a clear key contender, with strong figures, tactical speed, and a positive rider-trainer profile according to available consensus data. From post 2, she should secure a forward trip without overexerting, making her very dangerous as a logical favorite or co-favorite.

Romper (1) is also highly regarded, with a good morning line, positive connections, and the rail draw that virtually guarantees an inside, ground-saving trip. If she breaks well and handles the Tapeta, Romper (1) could either set or sit just off the pace and have first run turning for home.

Zena Cat (9) sits as a strong closer with above-average performance and style ratings for a fast-closing type. The outside post is not ideal but gives her a clear look at the field, and if the pace does in fact come back, Zena Cat (9) is well placed to pick up the pieces late.

Secondary Choices

Souperrazzledazzle (4) has solid underlying numbers and a stalking or pressing style that fits this trip. With Edgar Morales up and a mid-gate draw, Souperrazzledazzle (4) can secure a good position and stay in the mix throughout.

My Secret Dreams (5) is another key secondary choice, with an established stalking style and respectable class lines that should play well in this spot. Got What I Got (6) is projected as a leader or near-leader and could hang on longer than expected if the pace is not too heated.

Howyoudosomething (7) and Rocky World (8) are more mid-range prices with profiles that place them in mid-pack or pressing roles, requiring some improvement or racing luck to win but usable in exotics.

Longshots

My Secret Dreams (5) and Got What I Got (6) will not be huge longshots, but the bigger numbers are likely on Howyoudosomething (7), Rocky World (8), and possibly Zena Cat (9) depending on tote action. One or more of these should be used beneath main keys to take advantage of the potential for pace meltdown.

Selections

Selections

Win Cool American (2)
Place Romper (1)
Show Zena Cat (9)

Betting Strategy and Angles

This race shapes up as a solid single or heavy lean on Cool American (2) in horizontal wagers, with Romper (1) as a backup A if you want extra coverage. Vertically, consider exactas using Cool American (2) over Romper (1), Zena Cat (9), Souperrazzledazzle (4), and My Secret Dreams (5), as well as trifectas with Zena Cat (9) as a key underneath to capitalize on her closing style.

9th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 27th, 2026

Allowance optional claiming, 1 1/2 miles Tapeta, fillies and mares, high-class route with a 102,000 purse and 14 entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 9:55 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

This is a marathon distance where pace projection is more complex. Malibu Smart (1), Worry Be Gone (2), Tricky Kitty (4), Sol D'oro (5), and Les Is Best (12) are all capable of being forwardly placed, with some likely to try to control the tempo. Horses like Celtic Charm (3), Smokin Hot Blonde (6), Meg's A Star (7), Cleopatra's Nile (9), Oraia (10), Jalila (11), Taco Cat Backwards (13), and Goodbetterbest (14) are more likely to sit off the pace and conserve energy for the long trip.

Marathons on Tapeta generally favor horses who can relax and finish, with strong staying ability and rider patience worth more than raw speed.

Key Contenders

Worry Be Gone (2) from Brad Cox with Luan Machado is a key player, combining top barn, talented rider, and a running style that should have her targeting a forward or just-off-the-pace position. Her recent form suggests she has the stamina and class to handle this extended distance.

Malibu Smart (1) for Michael Maker with Gerardo Corrales is another top-level contender, with extensive synthetic experience and Maker's proven success in longer Tapeta routes. From the rail, Malibu Smart (1) should enjoy a ground-saving trip and could either set or sit just behind the pace.

Taco Cat Backwards (13) with Gabriel Saez is a dangerous closer, particularly if the pace is more aggressive than expected. The outside draw is a concern, but the ability to drop in and make one sustained run is an asset at this trip.

Secondary Choices

Celtic Charm (3) for Maker with Fernando De La Cruz is a logical secondary contender, with the barn's strong long-distance synthetic profile and good rider synergy. Sol D'oro (5) from Joe Sharp with Alex Achard has prior scratch history for illness but fits the condition and brings class that could translate well over this trip.

Meg's A Star (7), Oraia (10), Jalila (11), and Les Is Best (12) all have roles as mid-pack stalkers or closers who can pick up shares if the race shape becomes more demanding late.

Longshots

Smokin Hot Blonde (6), Freak City (8), Cleopatra's Nile (9), and Goodbetterbest (14) are longer priced but capable of landing in the exotics if they stay the trip and get a good pace to chase. With marathons often prone to upsets, sprinkling one or two of these into the bottom of trifectas and superfectas is sensible.

Selections

Selections

Win Worry Be Gone (2)
Place Malibu Smart (1)
Show Taco Cat Backwards (13)

Betting Strategy and Angles

In horizontals, Worry Be Gone (2) and Malibu Smart (1) are the primary A's, with Taco Cat Backwards (13) and Celtic Charm (3) as B or C-level backups depending on budget. Vertically, consider exactas and trifectas keying Worry Be Gone (2) and Malibu Smart (1) on top of Taco Cat Backwards (13), Celtic Charm (3), Sol D'oro (5), and one deep longshot such as Goodbetterbest (14) to maximize value.

10th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 27th, 2026

Claiming 5,000, 1 mile Tapeta, older horses, 14 entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 10:25 PM Eastern.

Pace Analysis

The nightcap features several early speed candidates: American Pure (1), Some R Blessed (4), Driftwood (6), Vast Horizons (7), P K Wood (8), and Boys Code (14) all have the potential to be part of the early mix. Leave It To Kitten (3), Hold Your Applause (5), Royally Bitter (9), and Del Mo (13) are more mid-pack runners, with Purrfect Girl (2), Ioya Again (10), Race Day Rebal (11), and Comedic Timing (12) likely to sit mid to back and look to run late.

Given the number of pace types, an honest to quick tempo is expected, potentially tilting the race towards stalkers and closers.

Key Contenders

Driftwood (6) for Jake Radosevich with Luan Machado is a key player, with blinkers and previous synthetic form making him a strong pace presence who may still finish. If he can control the race or sit just off a speed rival, Driftwood (6) will be hard to pass.

American Pure (1) with John McKee has the rail and the kind of tactical ability that could secure a ground-saving, pace-pressing trip. At this level, inside trips on Tapeta routes can be decisive, especially if the horse breaks sharply.

Purrfect Girl (2) is a mare facing males but gets a weight break and Joe Sharp's placement, making her an intriguing closer/stalker type who may get a favorable setup behind a contested early pace.

Secondary Choices

Hold Your Applause (5), Vast Horizons (7), and Royally Bitter (9) all merit secondary consideration, each with mid-range form and running styles that can produce competitive efforts with the right trip. Ioya Again (10), Race Day Rebal (11), Comedic Timing (12), and Del Mo (13) all slot in as potential board hitters, particularly if the race collapses late.

Some R Blessed (4) and P K Wood (8) can both factor early but may be vulnerable late if hooked into a duel; still, either could hang on for a minor award if the track favors speed.

Longshots

Leave It To Kitten (3), Boys Code (14), and others in the deeper part of the field would need significant improvement or trip advantage to win but serve as logical superfecta and back-end trifecta candidates at big prices.

Selections

Selections

Win Driftwood (6)
Place Purrfect Girl (2)
Show American Pure (1)

Betting Strategy and Angles

For the late daily double and closing legs of horizontals, lean on Driftwood (6), Purrfect Girl (2), and American Pure (1) as primary inclusions, with Vast Horizons (7) and Hold Your Applause (5) as secondary backups. Vertically, use Driftwood (6) on top of Purrfect Girl (2), American Pure (1), Vast Horizons (7), Royally Bitter (9), and one or two deep closers in trifectas and superfectas, seeking to exploit a potential pace collapse scenario.

Jockey Notes and Insights

The Turfway colony features several riders with strong Tapeta and Turfway-specific records this meet, including Gerardo Corrales, Luan Machado, Fernando De La Cruz, Rafael Hernandez, and Adam Beschizza. Corrales tends to excel with tactical speed types and stalkers, making his mounts like Malibu Smart (1, Race 9), Ability (11, Race 5), and Paired (2, Race 1) particularly interesting when they project to sit in the second flight.

Luan Machado is one of the better pace readers on the Tapeta, and his mounts like Dokkodo (9, Race 1), American Surfer (5, Race 5), Hardtoblame (7, Race 6), Worry Be Gone (2, Race 9), and Driftwood (6, Race 10) generally benefit from well-timed moves that maximize finishing energy. Fernando De La Cruz is reliable on inside-drawn horses, which boosts Some Sweet Gal (1, Race 5), Gio Linh (2, Race 4), Celtic Charm (3, Race 9), Petoskey Stones (9, Race 6), and others drawn low.

Rafael Hernandez is particularly effective at judging pace and timing runs on synthetic routes and sprints, bolstering the chances of Sassari (3, Race 5), Brogue (7, Race 3), Lyric Street (10, Race 4), Stackin Sats (12, Race 6), Les Is Best (12, Race 9), and Up To No Good (10, Race 7). Adam Beschizza is a strong finisher who shines when given a horse with a late kick, supporting horses such as Brea From Three (1, Race 1), Quince (5, Race 4), Got What I Got (6, Race 8), and Goodmenarescarce (11, Race 7).

Riders like Danny Sheehy and Edgar Morales have produced good value on mid-range and price horses and are worth attention in races like Blue Coast (1, Race 3), Cool American (2, Race 8), Wish Carefully (8, Race 7), and Souperrazzledazzle (4, Race 8).

Trainer Notes and Insights

The card is dominated by a handful of powerful barns with strong Turfway and synthetic profiles: Brad Cox, Michael Maker, Paulo Lobo, Kelsey Danner, Joe Sharp, and Jeremiah O'Dwyer among them. Cox sends out several live runners including Gio Linh (2, Race 4), Some Sweet Gal (1, Race 5), Petoskey Stones (9, Race 6), and Worry Be Gone (2, Race 9), each logically placed and typically well-prepared off short rest.

Maker has Malibu Smart (1, Race 9) and Celtic Charm (3, Race 9), among others, and his synthetic-staying horses are almost always live at extended distances. Lobo's True Class (7, Race 4) and Midway Munny (5, Race 6) are examples of his type—well-prepared router types who tend to run their race and can outperform odds when conditions suit.

Kelsey Danner appears multiple times on the card with Summer Sounds (8, Race 1), Quince (5, Race 4), Arlo's Gammy (12, Race 5), and Got What I Got (6, Race 8), and her barn has been a reliable source of synthetic performers in the region. Joe Sharp's Sol D'oro (5, Race 9) and Purrfect Girl (2, Race 10) are both well-spotted, with Sharp having a good record placing horses in extended routes and lower-level claimers.

Smaller or mid-size barns like William Cowans (Dokkodo (9, Race 1), Brogue (7, Race 3), Oraia (10, Race 9)), Jimmy Corrigan (Union Empress (6, Race 2), Goodmenarescarce (11, Race 7)), and Michelle Lovell (Wing Queen (8, Race 5), Wish Carefully (8, Race 7), Cool American (2, Race 8)) offer value-oriented runners that often go off at fair prices.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The card presents several strong opinion anchors for multi-race exotics like the early and late Pick 5s, as well as the Pick 4s. In the early sequence, Nehalem (11, Race 1), In For A Spin (9, Race 2), Ghost Prince (8, Race 3), and Gio Linh (2, Race 4) form a core of logical, formful contenders around which to build tickets. Spreading more in the big-field claiming races while leaning on horses like Some Sweet Gal (1, Race 5) and Petoskey Stones (9, Race 6) as mid-card keys can create structured tickets with solid upside.

In the late sequence, Cool American (2, Race 8) and Worry Be Gone (2, Race 9) are logical key singles or heavy leans in Pick 4 and Pick 5 structures, with Driftwood (6, Race 10) as a primary closing leg opinion. An example late Pick 4 skeleton could be: Race 7: 8, 10, 11; Race 8: 2, 1, 9; Race 9: 2, 1, 13; Race 10: 6, 2, 1, 7, 5, adjusting for budget and value tolerance.

From a value perspective, mid-priced horses like Brea From Three (1, Race 1), Marble Arch (7, Race 2), Brogue (7, Race 3), True Class (7, Race 4), Ability (11, Race 5), Hardtoblame (7, Race 6), Goodmenarescarce (11, Race 7), Souperrazzledazzle (4, Race 8), Taco Cat Backwards (13, Race 9), and Purrfect Girl (2, Race 10) all project as viable overlay candidates if the morning line or early wagering discounts their chances. Targeting these horses in exacta keys, verticals, and as B-level singletons in multi-race tickets is a practical way to extract value from a card that will otherwise be heavily bet toward the major barns and short-priced favorites.

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