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SunRay Park – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the April 25, 2026 card

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Race Day Overview — SunRay Park, April 25, 2026

SunRay Park opens its Saturday card with ten races spread across a full afternoon and evening program, anchored by the $75,000 Jack Cole Stakes in Race 9. The ten-race card features a mix of maiden, claiming, optional claiming, allowance, and stakes company, giving bettors a diverse menu of wagering opportunities. The Jack Cole is the marquee event of the day and will draw the sharpest attention from the serious handicapping community.

The card leans heavily toward routes and classic New Mexico-style claiming races on the main dirt track. Seven of the ten races are contested at 1430 feet, with two at 1540 feet and one sprint at 990 feet. Maiden claiming and maiden special weight races populate the early half of the card, transitioning into claiming, allowance, and stakes action late. The New Mexico-bred condition noted throughout the card means most of these horses have developed their form locally and can be assessed through a consistent set of class and pace benchmarks.

Gary Cross and his dual entries in Race 2 — South Of Richmond (POST 6) and Southern Caine (POST 7) — as well as Cappellucci's pair in Race 4 and Race 7 will command attention from strategic bettors watching for trainer barn angles. The Fincher barn fields two runners in the allowance, and Green fields multiple horses across the late card. These trainer patterns often signal strong stable form worth tracking throughout the day.

Weather and Track Conditions — April 25, 2026

SunRay Park in Farmington, New Mexico sits at roughly 5,300 feet above sea level in the San Juan Basin. Late April in the Four Corners region typically brings mild daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the upper 60s Fahrenheit, with the possibility of afternoon breezes off the mesa. April 25 forecasts suggest partly cloudy skies with temperatures around 62 degrees at post time for the first race, rising slightly through midcard before cooling into the mid-50s for the late stakes.

Wind out of the southwest at 10 to 15 mph is typical for this time of year and can have a modest effect on pace in the home stretch run. The track surface at SunRay is a standard dirt oval, and absent any recent precipitation, the track should be rated fast. No significant rain events are reported in the days leading up to the card. Expect a dry, firm racing surface throughout the day. The track drains well and holds its rating through multi-race programs without meaningful variation unless unexpected precipitation develops.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

SunRay Park's main track is a tight, one-turn oval configuration. The 1430-foot routes are the signature distance at this plant, and pace figures are shaped heavily by how horses handle the single turn. Speed horses breaking from inside posts — particularly posts 1 through 4 — have a slight advantage in establishing early position without wide trips, though the track has historically been fair enough that closers from mid-post positions can be competitive when pace scenarios set up correctly.

At the 990-foot sprint distance used in Race 6, the inside posts carry a more pronounced advantage. Horses breaking from posts 1 through 4 can reach the turn with minimal ground loss, while horses in posts 7 and above face additional ground loss around the bend. Bettors should discount outside posts slightly in Race 6 unless the horse's speed figures warrant overriding that concern.

At the longer 1540-foot route distance in Races 4 and 8, post position is somewhat neutralized by the additional ground, and class tends to dominate as a handicapping factor over gate position.

On days with southwest wind, horses racing on the far side of the track in the first half of the route can lose ground to the headwind before turning for home, which can blunt front-running fractions. Front-runners with high early pace figures should be evaluated with awareness that today's wind may force slightly honest fractions that benefit closers.

In terms of the rail, the inside path at SunRay can get beaten up by midcard on multi-race programs. For the late races, especially Races 9 and 10, horses dropping to the far outside or moving off the rail may find cleaner footing.

RACE 1 — Post 1:15 — 1430f | D | M | Md 10000 | BUM | Purse $13,500

This is a maiden claiming event for $10,000 on the main dirt track at 1430 feet. The purse of $13,500 reflects the lower-tier maiden claiming level that opens the card. With eight starters, this is a competitive maiden event by SunRay standards, and the morning line features multiple horses between 2-1 and 4-1, indicating no clear standout on paper. Pace figures at this level can be erratic, and maiden claiming races often come down to which horse is simply most ready to fire on the day.

Race 1

Pace Analysis

This field figures to see honest early fractions given the presence of multiple forward-running types. Toni The Grrreat (POST 7), the morning line favorite at 2-1, and Charlizeangelbaby (POST 8) at 3-1 are both expected to exert early pressure. If both horses go to the front and battle through the first half, the race could set up for a closer to pounce late. Haddonfield (POST 4) and Emotional Runaway (POST 6) at 4-1 apiece represent the mid-tier contenders who could benefit if the pace unravels.

Key Contenders

Toni The Grrreat (POST 7) draws the morning line favoritism at 2-1 under trainer Danny Hernandez, who also sends out Debbie Z (POST 1). Oscar Andrade Jr. gets the mount on the top choice, which is a positive sign for the Hernandez barn's primary runner in the race. At this level, trainer Hernandez is a solid presence at SunRay and knows how to have a maiden claiming horse cranked and ready. The 2-1 morning line suggests this horse has shown something in company that justifies short odds in this field.

Charlizeangelbaby (POST 8), trained by Martin Manuel Valdez-Cabral and ridden by Francisco Amparan, is positioned at 3-1 on the morning line. Amparan is one of the more active and effective riders at SunRay, and the outside post should not deter bettors at the 1430-foot distance where pace can shuffle the order. This is a horse that commands serious respect as the second choice.

Secondary Choices

Haddonfield (POST 4), trained by Casey T. Lambert and ridden by Aldo Arboleda, is listed at 4-1 and represents a legitimate contender from a competent barn. Lambert has solid numbers at SunRay and putting together horses for maiden claiming events is something his barn handles well. The favorable inside post keeps shipping costs down and allows for a stalking position.

Emotional Runaway (POST 6), trained by Joy I. Marlin and ridden by T.J. Hebert, also appears at 4-1. Hebert is an experienced rider who knows SunRay well and can be trusted to put this horse in a good spot early in the running. Two horses at 4-1 with live support from quality jockeys and trainers makes the exacta underneath the top two worth exploring.

Longshots

Debbie Z (POST 1), the Hernandez barn's second entry, is listed at 8-1 with J. Torres riding. As the stablemate to the favorite, this one may draw secondary betting interest, and trainer Hernandez occasionally fires with his second entry when the conditions are right. Worth a small exotic flyer.

Shenanigans Storm (POST 5) at 10-1 under trainer Luis Rojero and Medellin A in the irons is a horse that draws minimal support from the morning line but should not be completely dismissed. Rojero is a capable conditioner at this level.

Desert Hope (POST 3) at 12-1, Yield Curve (POST 2) at 20-1, and any other remaining longshots should be considered only for wide exactas or trifecta coverage. There is not enough evidence at morning line to warrant single-game investments in these horses.

Selections

Win: Toni The Grrreat (POST 7) Place: Charlizeangelbaby (POST 8) Show: Haddonfield (POST 4)

Betting Strategy: Trifecta box of Toni The Grrreat (POST 7), Charlizeangelbaby (POST 8), and Haddonfield (POST 4) provides solid coverage at this maiden claiming level. A small win play on Emotional Runaway (POST 6) at 4-1 as an alternate WIN investment offers value if the pace scenario favors the closers.

RACE 2 — Post 1:40 — 1430f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BON | Purse $30,300

The second race steps up considerably in class from the opener, offering a $30,300 purse for New Mexico-bred maiden special weight entrants. Eight runners line up at 1430 feet on the main dirt, and this is a much more interesting and potentially deeper field than the first race. The presence of two Gary Cross entries — South Of Richmond (POST 6) and Southern Caine (POST 7) — adds a barn angle worth considering.

Race 2

Pace Analysis

With Comfort Cash (POST 4) at 2-1 as the morning line choice, the pace will likely be set by the early types. South Of Richmond (POST 6) and Southern Caine (POST 7) from the Cross barn could press or stalk depending on running style, and Nightly Peace (POST 8), co-trained by Buechler alongside Comfort Cash (POST 4), could factor as a late runner if pace develops hot enough. Moderate fractions seem likely given the maiden special weight conditions, which tend to produce more measured pace.

Key Contenders

Comfort Cash (POST 4), trained by Simon J. Buechler and ridden by Francisco Amparan, is the morning line choice at 2-1. Buechler is one of the more accomplished trainers at SunRay Park, consistently posting competitive win percentages with well-prepared stock. Amparan riding the barn's top choice reinforces confidence here. The inside post at 4 is workable at this distance, and the combination of a sharp trainer and an active, reliable jockey makes this horse the one to beat.

South Of Richmond (POST 6), from the Gary Cross barn with Oscar Andrade Jr. up, is listed at 3-1. Cross sending out two horses and keeping Andrade Jr., arguably one of the meet's leading riders, on this one rather than his stablemate is a signal. When a trainer with multiple entries gives the call rider the slot, that horse is typically the preferred choice. This is a legitimate threat to Comfort Cash (POST 4).

Secondary Choices

Southern Caine (POST 7), also from the Cross barn with Enrique Portillo Gomez, comes in at 4-1. The Cross barn in good form means both entries deserve respect. With Gomez up, this horse has a solid rider and inside knowledge of the trainer's intentions. Exacta players should include both Cross entries underneath and on top of each other.

Nightly Peace (POST 8), Buechler's second entry with Medellin A, is at 4-1. Buechler operating the second Buechler entry as a secondary target is worth noting. If Comfort Cash (POST 4) becomes compromised in the race, Nightly Peace (POST 8) is positioned to pick up the pieces from a closing position.

Longshots

Winter Finishes (POST 2) at 8-1, trained by Jeff Hudson and ridden by J. Torres, is a potential live longshot if the pace collapses and a fresh closer finds racing room. Hudson is a capable trainer and Torres is a known commodity at this track.

Driving Money (POST 3) at 10-1 under Dick Cappellucci and Luis Valenzuela has trainer appeal, as Cappellucci is a consistent winning trainer at SunRay. The 10-1 morning line may understate this one's chances slightly.

Comfortafterchaos (POST 5) at 12-1 and Top Shelf B B (POST 1) at 20-1 are deeper longshots that belong in the bottom of trifecta tickets only.

Selections

Win: Comfort Cash (POST 4) Place: South Of Richmond (POST 6) Show: Southern Caine (POST 7)

Betting Strategy: Exacta wheel with Comfort Cash (POST 4) on top of South Of Richmond (POST 6), Southern Caine (POST 7), and Nightly Peace (POST 8). The Buechler stable angle with two entries at 2-1 and 4-1 alongside the Cross barn double is an interesting exotic scenario. Consider a small trifecta box of the top four for added coverage.

RACE 3 — Post 2:05 — 1430f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUM | Purse $30,300

Another maiden special weight at $30,300, this time for New Mexico-bred fillies and mares at 1430 feet. Eight fillies go to the gate in what shapes up as a wide-open affair at the maiden special weight level. The morning line shows Pass The Test (POST 2) as the 2-1 choice with Dreamily (POST 8) at 3-1 as the primary contenders.

Race 3

Pace Analysis

Pass The Test (POST 2) figures to set or press the pace from the inside post under the Green barn. Dreamily (POST 8) from trainer Sherry Armstrong and Gomez may prefer a stalking position. Seis Taco's (POST 4) and Mixtery (POST 5), both at 4-1, add pace pressure from the middle of the gate. If multiple horses fight for position early, the fractions should set up for the closers in this field.

Key Contenders

Pass The Test (POST 2), trained by Greg Green and ridden by M.A. Perez, is the 2-1 morning line choice. Green is a legitimate training presence at SunRay Park who wins at a respectable clip, and Perez is among the more reliable riders on the circuit. An inside post in a maiden fillies' sprint route often means the pace setter goes uncontested early, which could allow this one to dictate comfortable fractions and carry them to the wire.

Dreamily (POST 8), trained by Sherry Armstrong and ridden by Enrique Portillo Gomez, is the morning line second choice at 3-1. Armstrong has shown a good eye for developing fillies at SunRay, and Gomez from the outside post will likely rate this one behind the speed and make a late run. The outside draw at this distance is manageable, and if Pass The Test (POST 2) faces serious pace pressure, Dreamily (POST 8) could swoop past.

Secondary Choices

Seis Taco's (POST 4), trained by Hermengildo Aldavaz and ridden by Oscar Andrade Jr., is at 4-1. Andrade Jr. on a 4-1 shot is always compelling, given his status as one of the top pilots on the SunRay circuit. Aldavaz is a smaller operation but capable of firing with fit horses at competitive odds.

Mixtery (POST 5), from the Lambert stable with Luis Valenzuela, is also 4-1. Casey Lambert's consistent presence at SunRay is a positive sign for any of his horses. Valenzuela is a highly capable jockey at this track and this horse deserves serious inclusion in exacta and trifecta combinations.

Longshots

Hallie's Gal (POST 7) at 8-1 from Joel Marr's barn with Luis Ramon Rodriguez merits a token exotic inclusion. Marr is a competent trainer and this could easily outrun a 8-1 morning line.

Dragonessa (POST 6) at 10-1 under Jose R. Gonzalez Jr. with T.J. Hebert in the irons is a deeper shot with a capable jockey, worth a small exotic play.

Venus Rocks (POST 1) at 12-1, Mendocina (POST 3) at 20-1 from the Cross barn — the same barn that runs a pair in Race 2 — are deeper shots. Mendocina (POST 3) for Cross despite a wide morning line is not completely without merit given the trainer's strong local record, but this looks like a barn third-stringer.

Selections

Win: Pass The Test (POST 2) Place: Dreamily (POST 8) Show: Seis Taco's (POST 4)

Betting Strategy: Exacta using Pass The Test (POST 2) and Dreamily (POST 8) both ways. Trifecta key with Pass The Test (POST 2) on top, using Dreamily (POST 8), Seis Taco's (POST 4), and Mixtery (POST 5) underneath. Include Hallie's Gal (POST 7) as an added trifecta saver.

RACE 4 — Post 2:30 — 1540f | D | C | Clm 5000b | BUN | Purse $14,800

The first claiming route of the day, going 1540 feet on the dirt. The New Mexico-bred claiming condition at $5,000 is relatively modest, and this field features horses who have been at this level or are dropping into it. The Cappellucci barn operates two entries in Touch Of Glam (POST 3) and Epic Battle (POST 5), making this a trainer-angle race worth watching closely.

Race 4

Pace Analysis

Touch Of Glam (POST 3) at 2-1 is positioned as the morning line choice and will likely set the tempo from a favorable inside post. Epic Battle (POST 5) from the same barn at 3-1 is positioned to stalk. If these two work in tandem — intentionally or not — they could control the race from wire to wire. Vinniebob (POST 2) at 4-1 and Sanger (POST 7) at 4-1 are the likeliest challengers to Cappellucci's pair.

Key Contenders

Touch Of Glam (POST 3), trained by Dick Cappellucci and ridden by Luis Valenzuela, is the 2-1 morning line choice. Cappellucci running two horses in the same race and keeping Valenzuela on the top selection is a clear signal of preference. The inside post at 3 suits a horse that wants to roll early. Valenzuela is sharp at this track and will likely have this one in front or pressing from the jump.

Epic Battle (POST 5), also from Cappellucci with Enrique Portillo Gomez, sits at 3-1. Gomez is every bit as capable as Valenzuela on any given day, and a Cappellucci barn double is not something to take lightly. This horse could be the tactical closer to his stablemate and should be used in all exacta combinations.

Secondary Choices

Vinniebob (POST 2), trained by Filiberto Quiroz and ridden by Jose Miguel Vazquez, is at 4-1. Quiroz sends out horses that are usually well-prepared at the claiming level, and Vazquez is a solid book rider at SunRay. The post just outside the rail is effective at this route distance.

Sanger (POST 7), trained by Carlos C. Gonzalez with M.A. Perez, is also at 4-1. Perez on a 4-1 horse in the late going at a mile-plus is a reliable combination. This horse should be tracked for late-running pace scenarios.

Longshots

Daddy What If (POST 1), from Gary Cross with Oscar Andrade Jr., is listed at 8-1. Cross and Andrade Jr. teaming up on an 8-1 horse at a modest claiming level is an angle that deserves at least a trifecta line. This barn can fire at any price.

Ohhh Daddy (POST 8) at 10-1, Red Frost (POST 6) at 12-1, and Lord Wimborne (POST 4) at 20-1 round out the tail of the field. These three are likely trifecta fillers at best. Lord Wimborne (POST 4) at 20-1 with Erick Medellin is a deep shot that rarely wins at this kind of morning line.

Selections

Win: Touch Of Glam (POST 3) Place: Epic Battle (POST 5) Show: Vinniebob (POST 2)

Betting Strategy: Exacta box of Touch Of Glam (POST 3), Epic Battle (POST 5), and Vinniebob (POST 2). The dual Cappellucci entry creates a natural exacta opportunity. Trifecta using Touch Of Glam (POST 3) on top with Epic Battle (POST 5), Vinniebob (POST 2), and Sanger (POST 7) completing. Include Daddy What If (POST 1) as a deep trifecta backup.

RACE 5 — Post 2:55 — 1430f | D | CO | OClm 7500 | BUN | Purse $16,660

An optional claiming race at $7,500, going the standard 1430-foot SunRay route for New Mexico-breds. Seven runners enter, making this one of the smaller fields on the card. Optional claiming races at this level attract horses that can either run for the tag or not. Seven starters means the field is manageable and pace angles are sharper.

Race 5

Pace Analysis

Mister Mafioso (POST 5) at 2-1 is the morning line choice and figures to be prominent early. Lovesunfair (POST 3) at 3-1 will also apply forward pressure. If these two lock up early, Pray For Me Ray (POST 1) and Corie's Boy (POST 2), both at 4-1, could benefit from a pace meltdown. The six-horse field without early single speed makes honest pace likely, which should produce a fair test.

Key Contenders

Mister Mafioso (POST 5), trained by Vaughn Long and ridden by Medellin A, is the 2-1 choice. Long operates a stable that consistently produces competitive horses at the optional claiming level at SunRay, and Medellin A is a top rider who will put this horse in the right spot from post 5. The mid-post draw at this distance is fine, and a forward-running style should suit the conditions.

Lovesunfair (POST 3), from the Danny Hernandez barn with Oscar Andrade Jr., is at 3-1. Hernandez fields multiple horses across this card, which speaks to a healthy barn in good form. Andrade Jr. on a 3-1 horse in an optional claimer is a strong combination. This horse should be respected as a legitimate win candidate.

Secondary Choices

Pray For Me Ray (POST 1), trained by Jeffrey J. Trujillo with Enrique Portillo Gomez, is at 4-1. The rail post at 1430 feet can be advantageous for a horse that wants to press the pace or sit just off it without losing ground on the turn. Trujillo is a capable trainer and Gomez is effective.

Corie's Boy (POST 2), from the Green barn with M.A. Perez, is also at 4-1. Green and Perez have been a productive tandem at SunRay and this horse at 4-1 warrants consideration. Green fields horses that tend to run to their number consistently.

Longshots

Teddy's Triumph (POST 6) at 6-1, trained by James E. Crotts and ridden by Luis Valenzuela, is the most interesting longshot in the race. Valenzuela on a 6-1 optional claimer from a lesser-known trainer could represent genuine value if this horse has been pointing for this spot.

Grifter (POST 7) at 8-1, trained by Luis Rojero with Aldo Arboleda, is a fair longshot from a competent local barn. Can be used on the bottom of trifectas.

Lewis Bere (POST 4) at 15-1 with Francisco Amparan is a significant outlier in the morning line and should be considered only for wide exotic plays.

Selections

Win: Mister Mafioso (POST 5) Place: Lovesunfair (POST 3) Show: Pray For Me Ray (POST 1)

Betting Strategy: Exacta box of Mister Mafioso (POST 5), Lovesunfair (POST 3), and Pray For Me Ray (POST 1). Trifecta key using Mister Mafioso (POST 5) on top, spreading underneath to the top four in the morning line. Teddy's Triumph (POST 6) at 6-1 with Valenzuela is a value play worth a small win ticket if the price holds at 6-1 or better.

RACE 6 — Post 3:20 — 990f | D | C | Clm 7500b | BUN | Purse $21,060

The only sprint on the card, going 990 feet on the main dirt. Nine starters enter the gate in this $7,500 claiming event for New Mexico-breds, making it the largest field of the day. At the sprint distance of 990 feet, post position bias is pronounced and speed from inside posts will have a meaningful advantage.

Race 6

Pace Analysis

With nine runners at 990 feet, early fractions will be contested. Held For Ransom (POST 1), Blingo (POST 2), and Blazing To Gold (POST 3) are positioned in the three inside posts with morning line numbers of 4-1, 4-1, and 5-1 respectively. Multiple speed horses from inside posts could create a genuine speed duel that opens the door for a closer from mid-post. Brandyn (POST 9) at 4-1 from the outside post is the most intriguing pace scenario divergence — if pace collapses up front, a closer from the outside could sweep past.

Key Contenders

Held For Ransom (POST 1), from Joel Marr's barn with Luis Ramon Rodriguez, is a 4-1 morning line choice from the premier post position in this race. At the 990-foot sprint distance, the rail is golden. Rodriguez is a reliable rider who knows how to win from the inside position without getting shuffled back. Marr's barn is respectable at SunRay and this one carries a legitimate chance from the best draw.

Blingo (POST 2), trained by Oscar Carrete and ridden by Alfredo Sigala, is also at 4-1. Another favorable post with a live morning line number. Carrete is not as high-profile as some trainers in this field, but Sigala is a capable jockey who can move quickly out of the gate at the sprint distance. Two horses at 4-1 from the top two posts is a strong pace scenario that could result in a speed duel.

Speed Bump Bob (POST 8), from Lillian N. Silva's barn with Victor M. Castro, is at 4-1 despite the outside post at 990 feet. This morning line number from a tough post requires serious form justification to follow at face value. Worth monitoring for closing ability at this sprint distance.

Brandyn (POST 9), trained by Arturo Chavez and ridden by Enrique Portillo Gomez, is also at 4-1. Gomez from the outside post at a sprint distance is a closer's role, and if the pace up front collapses, Brandyn (POST 9) could sweep cleanly. The 4-1 price for a nine-horse outside post at 990 feet is not generous, but Gomez is skilled enough to navigate.

Secondary Choices

Blazing To Gold (POST 3), trained by Jeffrey Trujillo and ridden by J. Torres, is at 5-1 from a favorable post. Trujillo fields horses well at the claiming sprint level and Torres is sharp at this track. This horse could stalk the speed and inherit the race if Held For Ransom (POST 1) and Blingo (POST 2) tire.

Leap Day (POST 5) at 9-1, trained by Terrill Tsosie and ridden by Blake Nunnally, is a mild longshot worth including in trifectas. Mid-post at the sprint gives this one a clean run.

Longshots

Bye Bye Matty P (POST 4) at 10-1, Storm Leader (POST 7) at 12-1, and Hold Me Only (POST 6) at 15-1 are deeper shots that complete the field. Storm Leader (POST 7) with Medellin A from a less favorable outside post at 12-1 is not without appeal if pace sets up perfectly, but the morning line odds are not particularly inviting. Hold Me Only (POST 6) from the Gary Cross barn with Andrade Jr. is interesting purely on trainer-jockey appeal at 15-1. Cross and Andrade Jr. have been active all card and a 15-1 price is worth a small exotic flyer.

Selections

Win: Held For Ransom (POST 1) Place: Blazing To Gold (POST 3) Show: Blingo (POST 2)

Betting Strategy: At the sprint distance with nine runners, the race can develop chaotically. Exacta box of Held For Ransom (POST 1), Blingo (POST 2), and Blazing To Gold (POST 3) takes advantage of the inside post bias. Include Brandyn (POST 9) in trifecta plays as the primary deep closer. A small win bet on Hold Me Only (POST 6) at 15-1 from the Cross-Andrade Jr. combination is a value play worth exploring.

RACE 7 — Post 3:45 — 1430f | D | A | Alw 31780n2l | BUM | Purse $31,780

The first allowance race on the card, going 1430 feet for New Mexico-breds that have not won two lifetime. The purse of $31,780 is the highest non-stakes purse on the card and will attract the best conditioned horses on the grounds. Eight runners go to the gate with Marka (POST 5) as the 2-1 morning line choice. This race should produce sharp pace figures and a meaningful result for handicappers trying to establish class benchmarks for the late card.

Race 7

Pace Analysis

Marka (POST 5), trained by Todd W. Fincher and ridden by Luis Valenzuela, is the morning line choice and figures to be prominent. Thatsaterriblidea (POST 4) at 3-1 from Cappellucci's barn is the likely pace rival. If these two lock into a pace duel, Equity Search (POST 1) at 4-1 and F S Liberty Belle (POST 7) at 4-1 from the Lambert barn could benefit. This pace scenario creates a classic speed-versus-late-pace allowance race scenario.

Key Contenders

Marka (POST 5), from Todd Fincher's barn with Luis Valenzuela, is the 2-1 favorite. Fincher also fields Equity Search (POST 1) and is clearly the dominant training presence in this race. When a trainer enters two horses and the call jockey Valenzuela is on Marka (POST 5), that is the barn's primary choice. Fincher is an accomplished trainer at SunRay Park and has a solid win percentage with well-prepared horses at this level. Valenzuela riding from post 5 in an allowance route gives this horse a clean trip stalking from the outside of the pace.

Thatsaterriblidea (POST 4), from Cappellucci's barn with Medellin A, is at 3-1. Cappellucci has been active across this card and is one of the top trainers in the SunRay condition book. Medellin A is the barn's trusted partner. This horse sitting at 3-1 with Cappellucci and Medellin A in an allowance is a serious threat to the Fincher favorite.

Secondary Choices

Equity Search (POST 1), also from the Fincher barn with Oscar Andrade Jr., is at 4-1. As the second Fincher entry, this horse is less preferred, but Andrade Jr. riding from the rail gives it every opportunity. In a Fincher versus Fincher scenario, the second entry sometimes fires when the first is compromised. Worth including in exacta combinations.

F S Liberty Belle (POST 7), from Casey Lambert's barn with Luis Ramon Rodriguez, is at 4-1. Lambert is a consistent winner at SunRay and this horse at 4-1 with Rodriguez from post 7 could be the overlooked allowance horse of the card. Rodriguez is a dependable rider who can rate a horse and make a late run.

Longshots

Tucum Kari (POST 8) at 8-1, trained by Bernadette Barrios and ridden by Erick Medellin, is a mild longshot that can be included in the bottom of trifectas. Hush's Ghost (POST 3) at 10-1, from Buechler's barn with Gomez, is an interesting deeper shot given Buechler's strong overall track record at SunRay. Walk On Whiskey (POST 2) at 12-1 under Larry Chavez and Kelsi Purcell is a deeper shot that likely needs pace help to factor. Pat's Diem (POST 6) at 20-1 from Ever Olguin is a long price that belongs only in the deepest trifecta combinations.

Selections

Win: Marka (POST 5) Place: Thatsaterriblidea (POST 4) Show: F S Liberty Belle (POST 7)

Betting Strategy: Exacta using Marka (POST 5) on top of Thatsaterriblidea (POST 4), Equity Search (POST 1), and F S Liberty Belle (POST 7). Trifecta with Marka (POST 5) on top, Thatsaterriblidea (POST 4) second, and Equity Search (POST 1) and F S Liberty Belle (POST 7) in the third. The Fincher double is the primary narrative but Cappellucci-Medellin A at 3-1 is too good to dismiss.

RACE 8 — Post 4:10 — 1540f | D | C | Clm 12500n2l | BUN | Purse $21,600

A $12,500 claiming route at 1540 feet for horses that have not won two races. Eight runners enter this mid-level claiming event. Stand Up Guy (POST 6) at 3-1 from Todd Fincher's barn is the morning line choice. The 1540-foot distance rewards tactical horses with stamina and class, and this race shapes up as a genuine test.

Race 8

Pace Analysis

Stand Up Guy (POST 6) at 3-1 from the Fincher barn is positioned as the class of the field based on morning line. Sgt Muskett (POST 2) at 4-1 and Blameitonblantons (POST 8) at 4-1 are the primary pace rivals. With the longer route distance, pace will be more honest and horses that run evenly over 1540 feet have a stamina edge. Onefortheditch (POST 5) at 5-1 from Green's barn with Perez is the primary pace horse to watch.

Key Contenders

Stand Up Guy (POST 6), trained by Todd W. Fincher and ridden by Luis Valenzuela, is the 3-1 morning line choice. Fincher appears again in the late card and Valenzuela continues to ride his top choices. This is the third Fincher entry across the day's card, and in allowance and claiming events at SunRay, Fincher's horses with Valenzuela win at a respectable rate. The mid-post draw is favorable at a route, and this horse should be considered the primary threat.

Blameitonblantons (POST 8), from Greg Green's barn with Enrique Portillo Gomez, is at 4-1. Green fields two horses in this race — Blameitonblantons (POST 8) and Onefortheditch (POST 5) — and Gomez riding one at 4-1 is the preferred entry. Green is one of the more active and successful trainers on the card.

Secondary Choices

Sgt Muskett (POST 2), trained by Jose A. Gonzalez and ridden by Jose Miguel Vazquez, is at 4-1. Gonzalez is a workmanlike trainer at SunRay and Vazquez is a capable jockey. Post 2 at the route distance is an excellent draw and this horse deserves serious consideration as an exacta partner.

Onefortheditch (POST 5), the Green barn's second entry with M.A. Perez, is at 5-1. When Green runs two horses and Perez rides the second choice at 5-1, it suggests this one has live form that the trainer respects. Worth including in trifecta combinations.

Longshots

Nativity (POST 4) at 7-1, from Jeff Hudson's barn with Medellin A, is a mild longshot worth tracking. Hudson is a competent trainer and Medellin A on a 7-1 horse is always worth a small exotic investment.

Bill (POST 1) at 6-1, from the Valdez-Cabral barn with Amparan, is another mid-price horse from an active trainer. The rail post at 1540 feet is neutral, and Bill (POST 1) could sit a stalking position and factor late.

Sapello Riddler (POST 3) at 8-1 and I'llhaveanotherwon (POST 7) at 10-1 round out the field as deeper shots. Sapello Riddler (POST 3) from trainer Miguel L. Hernandez with Erick Medellin is a reasonable trifecta inclusion given the capable rider.

Selections

Win: Stand Up Guy (POST 6) Place: Blameitonblantons (POST 8) Show: Sgt Muskett (POST 2)

Betting Strategy: Exacta box of Stand Up Guy (POST 6), Blameitonblantons (POST 8), and Sgt Muskett (POST 2). Trifecta key with Stand Up Guy (POST 6) on top, using the field underneath. Bill (POST 1) at 6-1 from the Valdez-Cabral-Amparan combination is a worth-while trifecta add in the second and third slot.

RACE 9 — Post 4:35 — 1430f | D | N | JackCole75k | BUN | Purse $75,000

The Jack Cole Stakes at $75,000 is the centerpiece of the SunRay Park card on April 25. Nine New Mexico-bred runners line up for this prestigious local stakes event at 1430 feet on the main dirt track. Corrina Corrina (POST 9) opens as the 2-1 morning line choice from the Cross-Hebert combination, with Marking Canyon (POST 6) at 3-1 and Mojica (POST 7) at 4-1 as the primary challengers. This is the most competitive, most meaningful race on the card and deserves the most careful analysis.

Race 9

Pace Analysis

Corrina Corrina (POST 9) from the Gary Cross barn draws the outside post, which in a nine-horse stakes at 1430 feet means T.J. Hebert will need to manage the turn without losing ground. Marking Canyon (POST 6) at 3-1, trained by Leroy Fincher and ridden by Aldo Arboleda, figures to be prominent early from a better post. Mojica (POST 7) at 4-1 from the Quiroz barn with Vazquez will likely sit in a stalking position. If Marking Canyon (POST 6) goes to the front unchallenged, it can control fractions and prove difficult to catch. If multiple horses put pressure on the early pace, Corrina Corrina (POST 9) and Leave Them Behind (POST 4) could close ground in the stretch.

Key Contenders

Corrina Corrina (POST 9), trained by Gary Cross and ridden by T.J. Hebert, opens as the morning line favorite at 2-1. Cross is one of the most active and successful trainers in the SunRay condition book and has already fielded multiple entrants today. Putting T.J. Hebert on the 2-1 morning line choice in the day's feature is a strong signal of barn confidence. The outside post in a stakes is a legitimate concern, but Cross and Hebert are experienced enough to manage the trip. If this horse has class and form advantages, the post is manageable.

Marking Canyon (POST 6), trained by Leroy Fincher and ridden by Aldo Arboleda, is the 3-1 second choice. Leroy Fincher — separate from Todd Fincher earlier in the card — is a known stakes trainer at SunRay Park, and Marking Canyon (POST 6) from post 6 with an inside trip into the first turn is well-positioned. Arboleda is a sharp jockey who excels on front-running types and in stakes races. This horse is the one most likely to unset the 2-1 favorite.

Mojica (POST 7), from Filiberto Quiroz's barn with Jose Miguel Vazquez, is at 4-1. Quiroz is an experienced trainer at this circuit and fields stakes-level horses periodically. Vazquez has been effective all day and riding a 4-1 shot in the feature with a competent stable is a solid angle.

Secondary Choices

Leave Them Behind (POST 4), trained by Sherry Armstrong and ridden by Enrique Portillo Gomez, is at 6-1. Armstrong's barn has been present throughout this card and 6-1 in the Jack Cole is a price worth considering for a horse that might get a clean trip from a favorable inside post. Gomez is the top jockey of the day by active ride count and has shown range across race types.

Short Round Bound (POST 1), from the Lambert barn with Luis Valenzuela, is at 8-1. Lambert has saddled quality horses across the card and Valenzuela is riding in nearly every race. From the rail post in a nine-horse stakes field, this one will need either a perfect setup or class advantages to overcome a tough trip scenario on the inside in traffic.

Longshots

Antonios Mark (POST 5) at 12-1, from the Jose R. Gonzalez Jr. barn with Andrade Jr., is an interesting deep shot given the jockey. Andrade Jr. on a 12-1 horse in the stakes always warrants at least a trifecta line. Ghostly Chance (POST 8) at 12-1, from Greg Green's barn with M.A. Perez, is another deep shot from a respected trainer. Green having a horse in the Jack Cole at 12-1 is worth noting — he rarely enters horses above their level. Probate (POST 2) at 15-1 from Alberto Amparan with Francisco Amparan is a family operation that occasionally fires big longshots. My Peaches Q (POST 3) at 20-1 from Quiroz — the same trainer as Mojica (POST 7) — is a deep long shot that should be limited to large trifecta-superfecta combinations.

Selections

Win: Corrina Corrina (POST 9) Place: Marking Canyon (POST 6) Show: Mojica (POST 7)

Betting Strategy: This is the primary race for exotic investment on the card. Exacta box of Corrina Corrina (POST 9), Marking Canyon (POST 6), and Mojica (POST 7). Trifecta using Corrina Corrina (POST 9) and Marking Canyon (POST 6) on top, spreading to Mojica (POST 7), Leave Them Behind (POST 4), and Ghostly Chance (POST 8) in the third slot. A superfecta using the top three along with Short Round Bound (POST 1) and Ghostly Chance (POST 8) is recommended for bettors willing to invest in the highest potential payout on the card.

RACE 10 — Post 5:00 — 1430f | D | C | Clm 5000b | BUN | Purse $14,800

The card closes with a $5,000 claiming event at 1430 feet for New Mexico-breds. Nine horses enter the final race and One Mark (POST 7) at 2-1 is the morning line favorite from the Green barn. Be A Pro (POST 8) at 3-1 from Valdez-Cabral rounds out the two primary contenders. This is a straightforward claiming race to close the day.

Race 10

Pace Analysis

Ready To Storm (POST 5) at 4-1 from Dan Dennison's barn with Luis Valenzuela is expected to be a pace-setter. One Mark (POST 7) at 2-1 from Green with Gomez likely tracks the pace. If Ready To Storm (POST 5) sets honest fractions, One Mark (POST 7) and Be A Pro (POST 8) could position for late kicks. The nine-horse field creates pace scenarios that could benefit closers late in a long day when the track surface may be wearing.

Key Contenders

One Mark (POST 7), trained by Greg Green and ridden by Enrique Portillo Gomez, is the 2-1 morning line choice. Green has been one of the most active trainers on the entire card, running in Races 3, 8, 9, and 10. When a trainer is this busy across a single day's card, overall barn form is likely strong. Gomez on the favorite in the closer is a natural pairing — he has logged strong numbers all day and should be sharp for the finale.

Be A Pro (POST 8), from the Valdez-Cabral barn with Medellin A, is at 3-1. Valdez-Cabral has been active today as well and Medellin A is riding nearly every race on the card. From post 8 at a route distance, this horse will need to find pace scenarios that set up for a wide run, but Medellin A is capable of making that work.

Secondary Choices

Ready To Storm (POST 5), trained by Dan Dennison and ridden by Luis Valenzuela, is at 4-1. Dennison is a competent trainer at this level and Valenzuela on a 4-1 claiming horse is always a live threat. Post 5 at 1430 feet gives this one room to operate and establish a good position early.

Holland (POST 6) at 6-1, from Rojero's barn with Alfredo Sigala, is a credible secondary threat. Rojero fields horses throughout this card and the 6-1 morning line for a SunRay claiming regular could be attractive if pace sets up favorably.

Longshots

Gogo Oxbow (POST 9) at 10-1, trained by Terri Rust with Aldo Arboleda, is a mild longshot to consider for trifecta inclusion. Arboleda is active all day and Rust is a local trainer worth tracking at this level.

Jetfire (POST 1) at 8-1 from Bernadette Barrios with Erick Medellin is worth a small exotic flyer. Barrios has already fielded Tucum Kari (POST 8) in Race 7 and running a second horse in Race 10 shows an active barn.

Capital Joke (POST 4) at 12-1 with Luis Ramon Rodriguez, Thruthestorm (POST 2) at 15-1 with M.A. Perez, and Ryders Up (POST 3) at 20-1 with J. Torres are the deeper longshots. Thruthestorm (POST 2) from Carlos Gonzalez with Perez is a mild interest play given the jockey but the 15-1 morning line is steep for a claiming closer.

Selections

Win: One Mark (POST 7) Place: Be A Pro (POST 8) Show: Ready To Storm (POST 5)

Betting Strategy: Exacta box of One Mark (POST 7), Be A Pro (POST 8), and Ready To Storm (POST 5). Trifecta key with One Mark (POST 7) on top. Include Holland (POST 6) as a live trifecta piece at 6-1. Gogo Oxbow (POST 9) at 10-1 as a superfecta add in the fourth slot for bettors looking to maximize payout value to close the card.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Oscar Andrade Jr. is riding in almost every race on the card and commands the most attention as the top book rider at SunRay Park for this meeting. He draws prime mounts from multiple top stables including the Hernandez, Fincher, Lambert, Cross, and Gonzalez barns. Bettors should track his cumulative riding performance through the early card to gauge sharpness. He rides Toni The Grrreat (POST 7) in Race 1, South Of Richmond (POST 6) in Race 2, Seis Taco's (POST 4) in Race 3, Daddy What If (POST 1) in Race 4, Lovesunfair (POST 3) in Race 5, Hold Me Only (POST 6) in Race 6, Equity Search (POST 1) in Race 7, and Antonios Mark (POST 5) in Race 9. That kind of daily book reflects a jockey at the top of the rider standings.

Luis Valenzuela is similarly active and has the call on several Todd Fincher horses, which is among the most prestigious assignments at SunRay Park. He rides Driving Money (POST 3) in Race 2, Mixtery (POST 5) in Race 3, Touch Of Glam (POST 3) in Race 4, Teddy's Triumph (POST 6) in Race 5, Marka (POST 5) in Race 7, Stand Up Guy (POST 6) in Race 8, Short Round Bound (POST 1) in Race 9, and Ready To Storm (POST 5) in Race 10. Fincher-Valenzuela combinations in Races 7 and 8 are the headline matchups to follow.

Enrique Portillo Gomez is active throughout the card with mounts from Green, Cross, Cappellucci, and Armstrong. He rides Southern Caine (POST 7) in Race 2, Dreamily (POST 8) in Race 3, Epic Battle (POST 5) in Race 4, Pray For Me Ray (POST 1) in Race 5, Brandyn (POST 9) in Race 6, Hush's Ghost (POST 3) in Race 7, Blameitonblantons (POST 8) in Race 8, Leave Them Behind (POST 4) in Race 9, and One Mark (POST 7) in Race 10. His workload reflects confidence from multiple top stables and he is a rider to watch for live 4-1 and under plays.

M.A. Perez is the other cornerstone jockey, riding primarily for the Green barn but appearing across multiple other stables. He takes Pass The Test (POST 2) in Race 3, Sanger (POST 7) in Race 4, Corie's Boy (POST 2) in Race 5, MARKA-adjacent mounts in the allowance, and will factor in the evening races. Perez's consistent presence on Green horses makes any Green-Perez combination worth elevated attention.

Francisco Amparan provides coverage across the card with mounts in maiden and claiming events, and his Role on Comfort Cash (POST 4) in Race 2 is among his most compelling rides of the day. T.J. Hebert's ride on Corrina Corrina (POST 9) in the Jack Cole Stakes is his most prominent assignment and one of the most watched pairings on the card.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Gary Cross is the trainer with the most entries across today's card, fielding horses in Races 1 through 3, and Races 6 through 10, including the day's feature. His pair in Race 2 — South Of Richmond (POST 6) and Southern Caine (POST 7) — represents a tactical stable deployment worth tracking. When Cross runs multiple horses in the same race and assigns Andrade Jr. to one of them, the Andrade Jr. mount should be treated as the primary intention. His placement of T.J. Hebert on Corrina Corrina (POST 9) in the Jack Cole is a significant confidence signal.

Todd Fincher fields horses in Races 7 and 8, both at allowance and claiming levels, with Valenzuela carrying the primary assignment in each. Fincher is one of the elite conditioners at SunRay Park and his horses typically arrive fit and ready to fire. The Fincher-Valenzuela tandem in the back half of the card is one of the strongest trainer-jockey combinations on the New Mexico circuit.

Dick Cappellucci has entries in Races 2, 4, and 7, demonstrating an active card. His dual entry in Race 4 — Touch Of Glam (POST 3) and Epic Battle (POST 5) — is the purest form of trainer angle on the card. When Cappellucci runs two horses and uses Valenzuela on Touch Of Glam (POST 3), that is the intended winner. His 3-1 shot Thatsaterriblidea (POST 4) in Race 7 with Medellin A may represent his best overall win probability on the day.

Greg Green is the most prolific trainer by race count, with entries in Races 3, 5, 8, 9, and 10. The Green barn in good form means horses throughout the late card should be respected. His presence in the Jack Cole with Ghostly Chance (POST 8) at 12-1 alongside his Race 10 favorite One Mark (POST 7) suggests a stable that is firing on multiple cylinders today.

Casey Lambert fields horses in Races 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, showing consistent activity throughout the card. His allowance entry F S Liberty Belle (POST 7) in Race 7 and his Jack Cole entry Short Round Bound (POST 1) in Race 9 are the headline assignments. Lambert consistently produces horses that are fit and ready, and Valenzuela or Rodriguez as the jockey selection is a reliable indicator of barn confidence.

Simon J. Buechler fields two horses in Race 2 — Comfort Cash (POST 4) and Nightly Peace (POST 8) — and adds Hush's Ghost (POST 3) in Race 7. Buechler's record at SunRay in maiden special weight events is strong, and Comfort Cash (POST 4) at 2-1 with Amparan represents his clearest win intention today.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The single best value play on the card is Hold Me Only (POST 6) in Race 6 at 15-1. The Cross-Andrade Jr. combination in a nine-horse sprint at the $7,500 claiming level has trainer-jockey appeal that the morning line does not fully account for. A small win investment or exotic inclusion at that price represents meaningful overlay potential.

The primary Pick 4 sequence to target is Races 7 through 10 — the allowance, the mid-level claiming route, the Jack Cole Stakes, and the closing claimer. This sequence carries a manageable structure for bettors willing to use three to four horses in each leg:

In Race 7, single Marka (POST 5) or double with Thatsaterriblidea (POST 4). In Race 8, use Stand Up Guy (POST 6), Blameitonblantons (POST 8), and Sgt Muskett (POST 2). In Race 9, use Corrina Corrina (POST 9), Marking Canyon (POST 6), and Mojica (POST 7). In Race 10, use One Mark (POST 7) and Be A Pro (POST 8).

A $1 Pick 4 with 2 horses in Race 7, 3 in Race 8, 3 in Race 9, and 2 in Race 10 costs $36 and carries substantial exotic payout potential anchored by the $75,000 Jack Cole Stakes in Race 9.

For the Pick 3 in Races 8, 9, and 10: using Stand Up Guy (POST 6) and Blameitonblantons (POST 8) in Race 8, all three top choices in the Jack Cole in Race 9, and One Mark (POST 7) and Be A Pro (POST 8) in Race 10 creates a manageable $12 investment at $1 base that could return handsomely if Corrina Corrina (POST 9) wins at 2-1 and the closer races pay fair exacta prices.

The Jack Cole exacta and trifecta are the primary large-wager targets of the day. The trifecta combining Corrina Corrina (POST 9), Marking Canyon (POST 6), Mojica (POST 7), and Leave Them Behind (POST 4) in the third slot with a small Ghostly Chance (POST 8) addition creates meaningful payout diversity. A $0.50 trifecta box of Corrina Corrina (POST 9), Marking Canyon (POST 6), and Mojica (POST 7) costs $3 and represents strong value relative to the stakes-race payout potential.

Teddy's Triumph (POST 6) at 6-1 in Race 5 with Valenzuela is the secondary standalone value play of the day. Valenzuela is typically reserved for higher-priority assignments across the card and his presence on a 6-1 longshot in an optional claimer from a lesser-known trainer suggests this horse may be further along in training than the morning line reflects. A modest win investment at 6-1 or better is recommended.

The dual Cappellucci entry in Race 4 — Touch Of Glam (POST 3) at 2-1 and Epic Battle (POST 5) at 3-1 — creates an interesting exacta combination. If bettors key Touch Of Glam (POST 3) on top of Epic Battle (POST 5), the payout will be modest given the low combined odds, but this is a high-probability play. Reversing the exacta covers both outcomes and the return will outpace a simple win bet in most scenarios.

For daily double bettors, the Race 9 to Race 10 daily double combining Corrina Corrina (POST 9) with One Mark (POST 7) is a natural single-ticket play that anchors the closing sequence of the day's card and represents the clearest top choice alignment on the program.

Before wagering, check the Latest Race Scratches, Changes, and Conditions post for any last-minute scratches or race changes.


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