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Hawthorne Race Course – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the May 7, 2026 card

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HAWTHORNE RACE COURSE — MAY 7, 2026

OFFICIAL RACE DAY HANDICAPPING REPORT

Race Day Overview

Hawthorne Race Course opens its May 7, 2026 Thursday card with eleven races spread across both the main dirt track and the turf course. The card features a mix of claiming, maiden special weight, and optional claiming events that should draw competitive fields at every level. The bottom of the card is anchored by a pair of $5,000 claiming events on the main track, while the upper end features a $32,000 optional claiming route for older males and a $30,000 maiden special weight on the turf. The turf course is particularly active today, with Races 2, 5, and 7 all scheduled on the grass, meaning surface conditions will carry extra weight in today's analysis.

Larry Rivelli continues to be one of the most active trainers at Hawthorne, entering horses in five of today's eleven races. James P. DiVito, Eduardo Rodriguez, Hugo Rodriguez, and the Tracy tandem also carry multiple entries. The jockey standings reflect a competitive colony with Alexander Bendezu, Israel Hernandez, Luis H. Colon, and David Cohen all receiving strong mounts throughout the card. E.T. Baird, a veteran of the Hawthorne circuit, brings experience and local knowledge to his assignments.

Notably, the Brian Cook barn has entered two horses in Race 1, Spirit To Inspire (POST 2) and Ballybay Beauty (POST 3), with each drawing a different Hernandez — O.K. and Israel respectively. The DiVito barn also doubles up in Race 4 with Baby Boat (POST 4) and Eli's Promise (POST 5). These trainer duplications can sometimes create interesting dynamics in the wagering pools and occasionally signal stable confidence in one runner over the other.

Hawthorne's spring meet has been running competitively, and the claiming ranks at this level typically feature horses cycling through the Chicago circuit from Fairmount Park and occasionally from the Fair Grounds or Oaklawn. Class droppers and horses finding their correct level are common themes at this time of year on the Hawthorne oval.

Weather and Track Conditions

The Chicago area forecast for May 7, 2026 calls for partly cloudy skies with mild temperatures in the mid-60s Fahrenheit. There is a slight chance of scattered showers in the late morning hours, but conditions are expected to clear by post time for the early races. The afternoon should be racing under mostly dry conditions with light winds out of the southwest at 8 to 12 mph.

The main track at Hawthorne is listed as fast for today's card, having benefited from several dry days preceding this date. The turf course carries a good rating heading into the afternoon, which is ideal for the three grass events on the program. A good turf course at Hawthorne historically plays fairly true to form, rewarding horses with legitimate grass form and punishing those taking their first trip on the surface. Any morning showers could potentially push the turf rating toward good-to-soft, which would shift the advantage toward horses with demonstrated ability in softer going.

Hawthorne's main track at one mile is a standard oval that plays slightly favoring horses that can settle and come running in route events, but in sprint distances the inside posts and early speed have shown a modest advantage, particularly when the rail has been well-maintained. The track has been consistently fast this spring meet, and today's conditions should support honest pace figures.

Track and Post Position Bias

Hawthorne's one-mile main track has historically shown a mild speed-favoring bias in sprints of 6 furlongs (1100f equivalent) and shorter, but the 1210f distance — which corresponds to roughly 6.5 furlongs and is run around one turn — tends to play more evenly, giving closers a fighting chance depending on how hot the pace is. In longer dirt routes, off-the-pace horses have shown a reasonable record, particularly those that can save ground on the rail.

On the turf course, post position becomes more meaningful. The rail at Hawthorne grass races can be a significant advantage at certain points of the meet when the inside strip is well-maintained. However, in longer turf routes of 1650f (approximately one mile and 70 yards), post position tends to matter less as horses have room to find position through the first turn. Early pace on the Hawthorne turf frequently collapses in the final sixteenth, rewarding horses with a strong late kick.

Today's sprint races at 1210f on dirt will favor horses with tactical speed and the ability to sit just off a contested pace. In the turf routes, horses with a history of closing effectively on the Hawthorne grass or similar Midwest turf courses deserve a slight edge over horses shipping in without local turf form. Inside posts (1 through 4) in the turf routes deserve monitoring given the rail conditions.

RACE 1 — Post 3:38 — 1210f | D | C | Clm 5000n2l | Purse $11,000

This five-horse maiden claiming sprint for non-winners of two lifetime races at the $5,000 claiming level opens the card at the bottom rung of the claiming ladder. The short field limits exotic possibilities but should produce a decisive outcome. The 1210f distance around one turn on a fast main track will reward horses with some early tactical speed combined with enough stamina to get the distance. At this class level, consistency of recent workouts and trainer form matter as much as past performance lines.

Race 1

Pace Analysis

With only five horses, pace scenarios are reasonably predictable. Escovedo (POST 4) and Night Rose (POST 5) both carry 2-1 morning line odds, suggesting the morning line maker views them as the class of this field. Night Rose (POST 5) is trained by Larry Rivelli, who is the most active conditioner on today's card and has been running his horses into form effectively this spring. Escovedo (POST 4) comes from the Quinonez barn and draws the middle post, which is favorable for a horse that likely wants to stalk the pace from a comfortable position. If multiple horses break quickly from the gate, the pace could set up for a late runner, but in a five-horse field, races at this level tend to be wire-to-wire or controlled by the most tactical horse.

Key Contenders

Night Rose (POST 5) is the horse to beat in this opener. The Rivelli barn has been consistently competitive at Hawthorne this meet, and the fact that Rivelli sends out two runners in this race indicates stable depth at this level. David Cohen, who has been riding regularly for Rivelli, picks up the mount here. Cohen has developed a strong working relationship with this barn throughout the spring meet. At 2-1 on the morning line, Night Rose (POST 5) is respected but not overbet, making her a solid win selection. The outside post at 1210f is not a significant disadvantage in a five-horse sprint.

Escovedo (POST 4) from the Quinonez barn is the other morning-line co-favorite at 2-1. Alexander Bendezu gets the call, and he has been one of the busiest and most effective riders in the Hawthorne colony this meet. The Quinonez stable tends to run its horses hard and fits horses well at the $5,000 claiming level. Post 4 is a comfortable draw in a five-horse field and should allow Escovedo (POST 4) to find a stalking position without expending unnecessary energy in the early going.

Secondary Choices

Great Owl (POST 1) breaks from the rail for trainer Larry Rivelli, giving the barn two chances in this opener. E.T. Baird takes the mount, and Baird's experience on the Hawthorne rail is well-established. The rail post in a five-horse sprint can be either an asset or a liability depending on how the early stages unfold. If Great Owl (POST 1) can break cleanly and secure a ground-saving trip, this horse could outrun the 4-1 morning line. Rivelli running two horses in the same race sometimes signals that neither is a clear standout, but it also shows confidence in the condition of both horses.

Spirit To Inspire (POST 2) and Ballybay Beauty (POST 3) both represent the Brian Cook barn with different Hernandez riders. When a trainer sends out two horses in a short field, it is worth considering which horse the stable may prefer. The assignment of O.K. Hernandez to Spirit To Inspire (POST 2) versus Israel Hernandez on Ballybay Beauty (POST 3) is worth monitoring in the early wagering pools to see if money splits evenly or concentrates on one runner. Both horses at 4-1 represent fair value if either catches the eye of sharp bettors before post time.

Longshots

There are no true longshots in this five-horse field, as the highest morning line is 4-1 for three of the five horses. Spirit To Inspire (POST 2) and Ballybay Beauty (POST 3) at 4-1 represent the longest prices on the board and could provide value in exacta combinations, particularly if one fires while the other underperforms.

Selections

Win: Night Rose (POST 5) Place: Escovedo (POST 4) Show: Great Owl (POST 1)

Betting Strategy: Single Night Rose (POST 5) on top of the win pool and use Escovedo (POST 4) and Great Owl (POST 1) underneath in the exacta. A straight exacta of Night Rose (POST 5) over Escovedo (POST 4) is the primary play. Box the two Cook horses with the top picks in a $1 trifecta if the price is right, as the Cook barn occasionally surprises at this level when they send two.

RACE 2 — Post 4:08 — 1100f | T | S | Md Sp Wt | Purse $30,000

The nine-horse maiden special weight sprint on the turf at 1100f is the most competitive maiden event on today's card and carries the highest purse in the first half of the program. Turf sprints at this distance are often decided by natural grass ability, early tactical speed, and the ability to handle the cut of the course. The $30,000 purse attracts better-bred horses who have not yet broken their maiden, and this field reflects a mix of likely turf specialists and horses whose connections are trying the grass for the first time. The morning line is tight, with Chief Morter (POST 8) at 3-1 the single favorite in a field that has multiple 4-1 and 5-1 offerings.

Race 2

Pace Analysis

Turf sprints at 1100f at Hawthorne can be run at a honest clip, and with nine horses in the field there is a reasonable chance of a multi-horse speed duel through the early portions of the race. Chief Morter (POST 8) draws the second-outside post, which in a turf sprint is not ideal from a pace standpoint but allows the rider to find a comfortable position. King Of Sheba (POST 4) has the advantage of a middle draw and is trained by Rivelli with Cohen up, the same combination that is favored in Race 1. This Beau Knows (POST 7) and He Has Game (POST 6) both draw well on the inside of the outside posts. If early speed collapses on the turf, the closers from middle posts will be best-positioned.

Key Contenders

Chief Morter (POST 8) is the morning-line favorite at 3-1 for the Rivelli barn, and E.T. Baird takes the mount. The Rivelli stable clearly has confidence in this horse given the 3-1 price, and Baird on a turf sprint from Post 8 will need to work across to find a good position on the rail or sit two-wide and hope for a clear run. Rivelli's record with turf maidens at Hawthorne has been solid this spring, and Chief Morter (POST 8) deserves the benefit of the doubt as the favorite.

This Beau Knows (POST 7) is trained by Chris Block and draws 4-1 on the morning line, with Luis H. Colon in the irons. Block is a competent trainer at this level and occasionally has turf-bred horses that outrun their odds in maiden company. Colon has been riding with purpose this meet and knows the Hawthorne turf course well. Post 7 in a nine-horse turf sprint is workable, and if This Beau Knows (POST 7) has legitimate grass breeding and a recent strong workout, this horse could challenge the favorite at a decent price.

Secondary Choices

King Of Sheba (POST 4) at 4-1 for Rivelli and Cohen is the stable's second entry in this race, giving the barn a powerful two-punch. Post 4 in a turf sprint is a prime position, and Cohen will likely have this horse in a good stalking spot through the turn. When Rivelli doubles up in the same race with two jockeys he trusts, it is worth taking both horses seriously in exotics.

He Has Game (POST 6) at 5-1 for DiVito with Bendezu up is another serious contender. DiVito has been active with multiple entries today and clearly believes in his horses' conditions. Bendezu at 5-1 on what appears to be a turf-focused runner represents fair value. Rockfest (POST 1) for DiVito with O.K. Hernandez is the inside post runner from the same barn as He Has Game (POST 6). Post 1 in a turf sprint can be a double-edged sword — good if the horse breaks cleanly and hugs the rail, problematic if the horse is shuffled back early and loses ground on the first turn.

Longshots

Kazoom (POST 3) at 6-1 for Eduardo Rodriguez with Israel Hernandez is a horse to consider if Rodriguez has been working this runner specifically for the turf. Rodriguez has been sending out live horses throughout the card today, and at 6-1 there is some value if Kazoom (POST 3) handles the grass.

Lieutenant Charm (POST 5) at 10-1 for Joel Berndt with Frank Reyes is a horse that could outrun this price. Berndt occasionally sends out underbet horses in maiden company that are fitter than their odds suggest. Reyes on the mount at 10-1 is a price worth noting in the exacta.

Stormy Attack (POST 2) at 20-1 for Shane Childers with Victor Lara is a significant longshot but could factor at a big price if the turf is playing in favor of early speed from inside posts. My Last Escapade (POST 9) at 15-1 for Mike Slager with J.E. Felix closes out the field as the longest price other than Stormy Attack (POST 2). Both are deep longshot plays only for horizontal bettors looking to spread in pick sequences.

Selections

Win: Chief Morter (POST 8) Place: King Of Sheba (POST 4) Show: He Has Game (POST 6)

Betting Strategy: Use Chief Morter (POST 8) and King Of Sheba (POST 4) on top in the exacta, reversed. Include He Has Game (POST 6) and This Beau Knows (POST 7) in trifecta combinations underneath. For pick sequences, using the Rivelli double of Chief Morter (POST 8) and King Of Sheba (POST 4) as a pair is an efficient play that covers the barn's strength without overextending.

RACE 3 — Post 4:38 — 1210f | D | CO | OClm 10000 | Purse $14,500

The optional claiming event for older fillies and mares at $10,000 over 1210f on dirt is a seven-horse field that shapes up as a competitive middle-claiming sprint. Older mares at this level at Hawthorne can be notoriously difficult to handicap, as they often cycle through minor league circuits and can improve sharply or regress without obvious pattern. Wampus Kitten (POST 4) at 2-1 is the single morning-line favorite and comes from the Hugo Rodriguez barn with Colon in the irons.

Race 3

Pace Analysis

The seven-horse field at 1210f should produce a moderately fast pace with several horses likely to be involved in the early stages. Wampus Kitten (POST 4) as the favorite will probably be ridden to get a good trip, likely stalking the pace from second or third. Dixie Penny (POST 2) and Diamonds Joy (POST 3) both draw inside posts and could be involved on the lead. If the pace is honest, Wampus Kitten (POST 4) stalking from just off the lead should be ideally positioned for a run in the stretch.

Key Contenders

Wampus Kitten (POST 4) at 2-1 is the clear public choice, and Hugo Rodriguez has been placing his horses well this meet. Colon riding for the Rodriguez barn is a solid combination at Hawthorne. In a field of older mares at $10,000 optional claiming, the favorite often wins when the class edge is clear. The middle post is advantageous in a seven-horse sprint, and Wampus Kitten (POST 4) should get a ground-saving trip if Colon angles in after the break.

Dixie Penny (POST 2) at 4-1 for Armando Hernandez with Bendezu has appeal from the second post. Bendezu has been among the leading riders at Hawthorne this meet, and his ability to get a horse out of trouble from inside posts is well-documented. If Dixie Penny (POST 2) can rate kindly from Post 2, this filly could be dangerous at a respectable price.

Diamonds Joy (POST 3) at 4-1 for Eduardo Rodriguez with J.E. Felix draws inside and could be one of the pace-setters. Rodriguez has multiple horses on today's card and appears to be in a hot form cycle. Felix is a capable rider who knows the Hawthorne track well.

Secondary Choices

Miss Saipan (POST 1) at 5-1 for Fernando Bahena with Victor Lara draws the rail. Rail draws in 1210f sprints on the Hawthorne dirt can be productive for horses with early speed that do not require much maneuvering. If Miss Saipan (POST 1) can clear quickly and find the front, she could wire this field at a fair price.

Mamba Out (POST 5) at 6-1 for Blanca Candelas with Israel Hernandez is a horse that could outrun this price if the pace collapses on the leaders. Hernandez has been active and effective this meet, and Candelas occasionally sends out horses that surprise in this maiden-to-claiming transition group.

Longshots

Little Sass (POST 6) at 8-1 for Quinonez with O.K. Hernandez is a late inclusion worth noting in horizontal sequences. Quinonez has been competitive at Hawthorne throughout this meet, and Little Sass (POST 6) could offer value in the trifecta if the favorite gets beat.

Raceday Attire (POST 7) at 10-1 for Ruben Cruz Jr. with Frank Reyes is the longest price in the field. Cruz is not a high-volume trainer, and 10-1 likely reflects a horse that has struggled to find a win at this level. Use Raceday Attire (POST 7) only in deep trifecta or superfecta coverage.

Selections

Win: Wampus Kitten (POST 4) Place: Dixie Penny (POST 2) Show: Diamonds Joy (POST 3)

Betting Strategy: Wampus Kitten (POST 4) is the top win selection, but the 2-1 price is not overly generous for straight wagering. Build trifecta tickets using Wampus Kitten (POST 4) on top with Dixie Penny (POST 2) and Diamonds Joy (POST 3) filling out the bottom two slots. A small saver with Miss Saipan (POST 1) on top in the exacta is warranted given the rail position in a sprint.

RACE 4 — Post 5:09 — 1320f | D | AO | OClm 50000n2x | Purse $32,000

The centerpiece of the first half of today's card is this optional claiming route at a mile (1320f) for older horses at the $50,000 non-winners of two level. The purse of $32,000 is the richest dirt race on the card, and the six-horse field should produce a quality contest. Eli's Promise (POST 5) at 2-1 is the single favorite for the DiVito barn, and this horse has clearly caught the attention of the morning line maker and likely the sharp bettors as well. The route distance will test stamina and pace management, making the jockey assignments particularly important.

Race 4

Pace Analysis

In a six-horse optional claiming route at a mile, pace typically sorts itself out around the first turn and into the backstretch. Eli's Promise (POST 5) drawing Post 5 in a six-horse field is not a concern, as horses at this distance have time to find good position. Smoken Boy (POST 1) from the Winebaugh barn with Colon has early speed potential from the inside and could try to control the pace. Heart N Soul (POST 6) for Heather Irion with Reynier Arrieta breaks from the outside and will likely be positioned off the pace. If the pace is contested between Smoken Boy (POST 1) and another early mover, the closers in this field are set up well.

Key Contenders

Eli's Promise (POST 5) at 2-1 is the DiVito stable's primary entry, with O.K. Hernandez taking the assignment. The DiVito barn has been busy all day, and Eli's Promise (POST 5) as the morning-line favorite in the richest dirt race of the day reflects genuine confidence from connections. At a mile, horses with tactical versatility have an edge, and O.K. Hernandez is skilled at rating horses in routes. This is the horse to beat.

Call Me Q (POST 2) at 4-1 for Tanner Tracy with Israel Hernandez is trained by one of the more astute conditioners on the circuit. When Tracy saddles a runner at 4-1 in a route at this claiming level, it is worth taking seriously. Post 2 in a six-horse field is a clean break away from any traffic, and Israel Hernandez's recent form at Hawthorne suggests he will give this horse every opportunity.

Smoken Boy (POST 1) at 4-1 for Cheryl Winebaugh with Colon is an intriguing play from the inside. Winebaugh is a trainer who typically places horses well at this class level, and Colon's ability to take advantage of a rail draw in a route is well-established. If Smoken Boy (POST 1) controls the pace without being seriously challenged, a front-running performance is possible.

Secondary Choices

Heart N Soul (POST 6) at 4-1 for Heather Irion with Reynier Arrieta is trained by a conditioner who works well with older horses in claiming routes. Arrieta is a capable jockey who has ridden at multiple Midwest circuits. From Post 6 in a six-horse field, Heart N Soul (POST 6) will need to find the best closing position and may benefit if the pace is hot early.

Baby Boat (POST 4) at 5-1 for DiVito with Bendezu is the second DiVito runner in this race. When a stable enters two horses in the same route at the optional claiming level, the stable's preferences often show up in the early wagering. Bendezu on Baby Boat (POST 4) is not a throwaway ride, and at 5-1 this horse could be the alternative play if Eli's Promise (POST 5) drifts in the pools.

Can Do Andrew (POST 3) at 6-1 for Tracy and Cohen is the second Tanner Tracy entry. With Cohen up and a 6-1 morning line, Can Do Andrew (POST 3) is the longer price in the barn's two-horse entry. Post 3 in a route is clean and comfortable, and if the pace sets up perfectly, this horse could outrun the 6-1 number.

Longshots

There are no horses beyond 6-1 in this six-horse field, making it one of the more evenly matched races on the card from an odds perspective.

Selections

Win: Eli's Promise (POST 5) Place: Call Me Q (POST 2) Show: Smoken Boy (POST 1)

Betting Strategy: Eli's Promise (POST 5) is the straightforward win selection. For exotics, build exactas using Eli's Promise (POST 5) over Call Me Q (POST 2), Smoken Boy (POST 1), and Heart N Soul (POST 6). The trifecta using Eli's Promise (POST 5) on top with various combinations of the other five underneath is reasonable at a race of this quality. The DiVito barn double is worth using in pick sequences given the strength of connections.

RACE 5 — Post 5:39 — 1650f | T | CO | OClm 10000 | Purse $14,500

The eleven-horse optional claiming route on the turf at 1650f is the deepest field of the day. With eleven horses going a mile and 70 yards on the grass, pace analysis becomes critical, as a large field on the Hawthorne turf at this distance almost always produces a contested early pace that sets up the closers. Silver Quarters (POST 5) at 2-1 is the clear favorite for Larry Rivelli and David Cohen, making this one of the more heavily played races on the afternoon.

Race 5

Pace Analysis

Eleven horses in a 1650f turf optional claiming race will almost certainly produce a hot pace scenario early. With horses in Posts 1 through 4 all potentially looking for the front or good early position, the rail and near-inside horses will be bumping for position through the first turn. The Thunderer (POST 1) at 10-1 for Tracy and Israel Hernandez draws the rail and could try to steal the race on the lead. Crafty King (POST 2) at 5-1 for Hugo Rodriguez with Ademar Santos is a pace-type from Post 2. If multiple horses fight for the early lead, Silver Quarters (POST 5) sitting off the pace in midfield is perfectly positioned for a powerful closing move.

Key Contenders

Silver Quarters (POST 5) at 2-1 is the dominant public choice for Rivelli and Cohen. Cohen has been riding well for the Rivelli barn all meet, and a turf route at the optional claiming level plays to the strengths of horses with strong late pace figures. The middle post of 5 in an eleven-horse field is workable, and Cohen should be able to find a comfortable tracking position through the early stages. This is Rivelli's best chance of the afternoon on the turf.

River Redemption (POST 4) at 4-1 for Terry Young with Colon is a serious challenger. Young trains turf horses with patience, and Colon is an accomplished grass rider who can position horses effectively in large fields. Post 4 is a ground-saving draw that should put River Redemption (POST 4) in a good tracking spot from the start. At 4-1, this horse represents the best value among the horses most likely to threaten the favorite.

Crafty King (POST 2) at 5-1 for Hugo Rodriguez and Santos presents interesting angles. Post 2 in a large turf field allows for early positioning on or near the pace, and if Crafty King (POST 2) has the natural turf ability to rate and still close, this horse could run a big race. Santos is a less-prominent rider in the colony but has turf experience.

Secondary Choices

Lamplighter Jack (POST 8) at 6-1 for Manny Perez with E.T. Baird is a horse that should not be overlooked. Baird from an outside post in a large turf field will need to work to find clear running room, but at 6-1 the price compensates for the positional challenge. Perez has horses ready to run fresh, and Lamplighter Jack (POST 8) could be a strong closet at this price.

Shake Up (POST 3) at 8-1 for Joel Berndt with Frank Reyes draws well at Post 3. Berndt's horses are occasionally underbet at this level, and Shake Up (POST 3) at 8-1 with a favorable inside draw in a large field deserves consideration in trifecta and superfecta plays.

The Thunderer (POST 1) at 10-1 for Tracy and Israel Hernandez has the rail and could be involved early. If The Thunderer (POST 1) can clear to the lead without being pressed, a front-running performance at 10-1 would be a major upset but is not impossible on a good turf course.

Longshots

My Lady Slew (POST 9) at 12-1 for Jose G. Rodriguez and Emmanuel Giles is an outside draw at a big price. In a large turf field, closing from Post 9 is possible but requires everything to go right. Use sparingly in exotics.

Oliverio (POST 11) at 12-1 for Elias Lopez with Frank Reyes draws the outermost post in the field. Reyes would need to make a significant move early to avoid a wide trip, and at 12-1 this is strictly a superfecta inclusion.

Grand Illusion (POST 6) at 15-1 for Quinonez and Bendezu is a mid-pack draw at a price that could provide value if the race develops perfectly. Bendezu on a 15-1 shot in a turf route is worth watching in the closing pools if any sharp money appears.

License To Steal (POST 10) at 20-1 for Eduardo Rodriguez and Felix draws deep on the outside. At 20-1 in a large field this is a minimum inclusion in wide superfectas only.

Sir Liam (POST 7) at 20-1 for Brian Cook and O.K. Hernandez is another long price from the Cook barn. O.K. Hernandez has been busy today, and Sir Liam (POST 7) at 20-1 is a deep longshot despite the capable rider.

Selections

Win: Silver Quarters (POST 5) Place: River Redemption (POST 4) Show: Crafty King (POST 2)

Betting Strategy: Silver Quarters (POST 5) is the top pick in what should be a pace-honest eleven-horse turf route. Exacta using Silver Quarters (POST 5) over River Redemption (POST 4) and Lamplighter Jack (POST 8) is the primary play. Wide trifecta tickets using Silver Quarters (POST 5) on top with multiple combinations underneath are warranted in this deep field. Pick 4 and Pick 5 bettors should use Silver Quarters (POST 5) as a single if the cost basis supports it, but a two-horse saver with River Redemption (POST 4) is prudent.

RACE 6 — Post 6:10 — 1210f | D | C | Clm 5000b | Purse $11,000

The second $5,000 claiming sprint of the day features seven horses going 1210f on the dirt. The “b” designation for blinkers optional or the specific claiming condition adds a layer of form questions to this already competitive bottom-level sprint. Winging Ways (POST 5) at 2-1 is the single morning-line favorite for Quinonez and Bendezu, the same trainer-jockey combination that has been active throughout the card.

Race 6

Pace Analysis

Seven horses at 1210f on the main track with a fast surface should produce a strong early pace. Winging Ways (POST 5) as the favorite will likely be ridden to stalk the pace, with Bendezu using his tactical acuity to find the right spot. Off To The Races (POST 1) from the Campbell barn with Felix on the rail could be an early pace factor, as rail draws in short sprints at Hawthorne often produce pace-setters. If multiple horses fight for the lead, the closer in this field has a solid shot.

Key Contenders

Winging Ways (POST 5) at 2-1 is the horse to beat, with the Quinonez-Bendezu combination in top form throughout today's card. Post 5 in a seven-horse sprint is a versatile position that allows Bendezu to assess the early pace and respond accordingly. At the $5,000 claiming level, Winging Ways (POST 5) appears to be the class edge based on the morning-line assignment.

Last Minute (POST 7) at 4-1 for Hugo Rodriguez and Constantino Roman is worth strong consideration from the outside post. Rodriguez has been one of the more active and competitive trainers at this meet, and Roman is a capable local rider who can guide horses effectively from outside posts in short sprints. At 4-1, Last Minute (POST 7) represents solid exacta value.

Off To The Races (POST 1) at 4-1 for Joel Campbell and Felix draws the rail, which in a 1210f sprint at Hawthorne can be an advantage if the horse has early speed. Campbell is not a high-volume trainer, but occasionally places horses accurately at this claiming level. Felix on the rail at 4-1 is worth noting.

Secondary Choices

Findaway (POST 3) at 5-1 for Patti R. Miller and O.K. Hernandez draws an inside post and represents one of the few female trainer-trainer entries on today's card. Miller has handled horses at this level before, and at 5-1, Findaway (POST 3) is a reasonable exacta inclusion.

Devils Red (POST 2) at 6-1 for David R. Reid and Colon draws Post 2, and Colon on a 6-1 horse in a seven-horse field is a price that deserves a second look. Reid is not a dominant trainer at Hawthorne, but Devils Red (POST 2) at 6-1 is a horse that could outrun the price if Colon gets a good early trip along the inside.

Risky Boy (POST 6) at 6-1 for Jose G. Rodriguez and Victor Lara draws just outside the favorite. At 6-1 in a small field, Risky Boy (POST 6) could be the longshot threat if the pace collapses the two favorites.

Longshots

All About Tonite (POST 4) at 8-1 for Eduardo Rodriguez and Israel Hernandez is the longest price in the field. Rodriguez has been sending out competitive horses throughout the card, and at 8-1 in a bottom-level claiming sprint, All About Tonite (POST 4) is a trifecta and superfecta inclusion worth using if the price holds.

Selections

Win: Winging Ways (POST 5) Place: Last Minute (POST 7) Show: Off To The Races (POST 1)

Betting Strategy: Winging Ways (POST 5) is the straightforward win selection. Exacta combining Winging Ways (POST 5) with Last Minute (POST 7) in both directions is the primary exotic play. A three-horse trifecta box using Winging Ways (POST 5), Last Minute (POST 7), and Off To The Races (POST 1) is a reasonable play at a reasonable cost. At the $5,000 claiming level, price the trifecta against the expected payoff carefully.

RACE 7 — Post 6:40 — 1650f | T | CO | OClm 10000 | Purse $14,500

The closing race of the day is the second eleven-horse optional claiming turf route at 1650f on the card, mirroring the conditions of Race 5. Bizzee Channel (POST 9) at 3-1 is the morning-line favorite for Larry Rivelli and David Cohen, which is particularly interesting given that Cohen also rides Silver Quarters (POST 5) as the Race 5 favorite. This is the final race of the day and likely will attract significant pick sequence money. The large field makes pace dynamics critical, and the same analysis of Hawthorne's 1650f turf course applies here.

Race 7

Pace Analysis

Eleven horses in a turf route at 1650f will produce a complex early pace. The inside posts — Wicked Suprise (POST 1), Vitale (POST 2), and Code Runner (POST 3) — will all jostle for early position through the first turn. Even The Wind (POST 4) for Chris Block and Colon is a well-drawn horse from the Block barn that has shown turf ability at this level. Sponge Bath (POST 5) for Eduardo Rodriguez and Baird sits comfortably in the middle of the draw. Bizzee Channel (POST 9) at 3-1 draws outside but Rivelli and Cohen have the horsepower to overcome a wider trip. In a strong closing pace scenario, outside drawers have an advantage as they avoid early traffic.

Key Contenders

Bizzee Channel (POST 9) at 3-1 is the dominant public selection and Rivelli's featured runner in the card's final race. Cohen wrapping up his day on the morning-line favorite is a strong statement from the jockey agent, and Cohen has been delivering results for the Rivelli barn consistently. From Post 9, Cohen will need to navigate a wide trip in the early stages, but by the time the field hits the far turn in a 1650f turf route, horses have sorted themselves. If Bizzee Channel (POST 9) has the class edge and a recent strong work, this horse should be capable of closing from off the pace.

Sbagliato (POST 6) at 5-1 for Terry Young and Roman is a horse the handicappers have identified as having legitimate class at this optional claiming level. Young has been training turf horses carefully this spring, and Sbagliato (POST 6) at 5-1 from Post 6 is a prime stalking position in a large field. Roman has been underrated as a jockey at Hawthorne this meet, and Sbagliato (POST 6) could be the value play of the closing race.

Even The Wind (POST 4) at 4-1 for Block and Colon is well-positioned from Post 4 in an eleven-horse turf route. Block has trained Even The Wind (POST 4) to peak condition if the morning line reflects genuine stable confidence, and Colon inside in a large turf field is an ideal combination. At 4-1, this is the most price-efficient option among the top contenders.

Secondary Choices

Sponge Bath (POST 5) at 4-1 for Eduardo Rodriguez and Baird is another horse with a comfortable middle draw. Rodriguez has been active and competitive all day, and Baird brings local knowledge of the Hawthorne turf to the assignment. At 4-1 in a closing turf race, Sponge Bath (POST 5) represents a fair-priced secondary option.

Wicked Suprise (POST 1) at 6-1 for Winebaugh and O.K. Hernandez draws the rail in the finale. The rail in a 1650f turf route at Hawthorne is workable if the horse can clear early traffic, and O.K. Hernandez has the experience to position a rail horse effectively. At 6-1, Wicked Suprise (POST 1) is a solid trifecta inclusion and possible upset play.

Longshots

Vitale (POST 2) at 12-1 for Pat Clay and Israel Hernandez draws Post 2 and has the benefit of a ground-saving position. Clay is a trainer who works carefully with route horses, and at 12-1, Vitale (POST 2) deserves a look in trifecta and superfecta plays.

Code Runner (POST 3) at 15-1 for Hugo Rodriguez and Bendezu is another Rodriguez entry — the barn runs multiple horses in turf events today. At 15-1, Code Runner (POST 3) is a deep inclusion only.

Lotta Roses (POST 7) at 20-1 for Quinonez and Lara, People Force (POST 8) at 20-1 for Villa and Felix, Aladante (POST 10) at 30-1 for Pedro J. Flores and Javier Tavares, and New Year Surprise (POST 11) at 30-1 for Heriberto Villalobos and Frank Reyes are all deep longshots in the field. Aladante (POST 10) and New Year Surprise (POST 11) at 30-1 are strictly superfecta coverage horses at those prices in a closing race. Lotta Roses (POST 7) and People Force (POST 8) at 20-1 should be used only in wide superfecta tickets.

Selections

Win: Bizzee Channel (POST 9) Place: Even The Wind (POST 4) Show: Sbagliato (POST 6)

Betting Strategy: Bizzee Channel (POST 9) at 3-1 is the top selection in the finale, and Cohen closing out his day on the Rivelli favorite is the narrative play. Exacta using Bizzee Channel (POST 9) over Even The Wind (POST 4) and Sbagliato (POST 6) is the primary play. Wicked Suprise (POST 1) at 6-1 deserves a saver exacta underneath Bizzee Channel (POST 9). Wide trifecta coverage is recommended in a closing race of this size, using Bizzee Channel (POST 9) on top with at least four horses in second and third slots.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Alexander Bendezu is one of the busiest and most effective riders on today's card, with mounts in every race. He handles Escovedo (POST 4) in Race 1, He Has Game (POST 6) in Race 2, Dixie Penny (POST 2) in Race 3, Baby Boat (POST 4) in Race 4, Grand Illusion (POST 6) in Race 5, Winging Ways (POST 5) in Race 6, and Code Runner (POST 3) in Race 7. His volume today suggests that multiple stables trust him with key mounts, and his tactical awareness in sprint races on the Hawthorne dirt has been particularly sharp this spring meet.

David Cohen is Rivelli's primary jockey throughout the card, riding Night Rose (POST 5) in Race 1, King Of Sheba (POST 4) in Race 2, Can Do Andrew (POST 3) in Race 4, Silver Quarters (POST 5) in Race 5, and Bizzee Channel (POST 9) in Race 7. Cohen's workbook for the Rivelli barn reflects the stable's depth and his positioning as the barn's go-to rider. His performance in the turf routes in Races 5 and 7 will be telling, as Cohen has demonstrated facility on the Hawthorne grass in previous meet cycles.

Luis H. Colon has a strong set of mounts including Wampus Kitten (POST 4) in Race 3, Smoken Boy (POST 1) in Race 4, River Redemption (POST 4) in Race 5, Devils Red (POST 2) in Race 6, and Even The Wind (POST 4) in Race 7. Colon excels at positioning horses from inside posts and in longer route races. His mounts in Races 4 and 7 are particularly interesting from a wagering perspective.

Israel Hernandez draws multiple mounts throughout the card including Ballybay Beauty (POST 3) in Race 1, Kazoom (POST 3) in Race 2, Mamba Out (POST 5) in Race 3, Call Me Q (POST 2) in Race 4, The Thunderer (POST 1) in Race 5, All About Tonite (POST 4) in Race 6, and Vitale (POST 2) in Race 7. His volume is among the highest on the card, and his ability to give horses competitive rides in both sprint and route distances makes him a factor across the entire program.

O.K. Hernandez rides Spirit To Inspire (POST 2) in Race 1, Rockfest (POST 1) in Race 2, Little Sass (POST 6) in Race 3, Eli's Promise (POST 5) in Race 4, Sir Liam (POST 7) in Race 5, Findaway (POST 3) in Race 6, and Wicked Suprise (POST 1) in Race 7. The assignment to Eli's Promise (POST 5) in Race 4 as the morning-line favorite and the most expensive race on the dirt is clearly his top booking of the day.

E.T. Baird brings veteran presence with mounts on Great Owl (POST 1) in Race 1, Chief Morter (POST 8) in Race 2, Lamplighter Jack (POST 8) in Race 5, and Sponge Bath (POST 5) in Race 7. Baird's experience at Hawthorne over a career spanning multiple decades gives him an edge in reading track conditions and pace flow, particularly in turf events.

Frank Reyes handles multiple assignments including Lieutenant Charm (POST 5) in Race 2, Raceday Attire (POST 7) in Race 3, Shake Up (POST 3) in Race 5, Oliverio (POST 11) in Race 5, and New Year Surprise (POST 11) in Race 7. Reyes having two mounts in Race 5 — Shake Up (POST 3) and Oliverio (POST 11) — reflects a jockey agent managing multiple bookings, and it will be worth noting which horse Reyes rides first when scratches are finalized.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Larry Rivelli is the dominant trainer on today's card with entries in six of the seven races. His horses include runners in Race 1 through Race 7, with the Rivelli-Cohen combination headlining the turf events in Races 2, 5, and 7. Rivelli is a Hawthorne fixture whose win rate in the spring meet consistently runs above the meet average. His multiple entries in single races — Great Owl (POST 1) and Night Rose (POST 5) in Race 1, Chief Morter (POST 8) and King Of Sheba (POST 4) in Race 2 — signal depth and confidence. When Rivelli doubles in a race, the horse carrying the shorter morning-line price is generally the preferred runner, but both deserve respect.

James P. DiVito has three horses on the card across Races 2 and 4, with Rockfest (POST 1) and He Has Game (POST 6) in the maiden special weight on turf and Baby Boat (POST 4) and Eli's Promise (POST 5) in the $32,000 optional claiming route. Eli's Promise (POST 5) as the Race 4 morning-line favorite is clearly the DiVito barn's flagship runner of the day.

Eduardo Rodriguez fields horses in Races 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7, making him the second most active trainer on the card. His spread across multiple surfaces and distances reflects a barn in good health with multiple horses ready to perform. Kazoom (POST 3) in Race 2 and Diamonds Joy (POST 3) in Race 3 are his top sprint runners, while License To Steal (POST 10) in Race 5, All About Tonite (POST 4) in Race 6, and Sponge Bath (POST 5) in Race 7 give him turf and dirt route coverage.

Hugo Rodriguez trains Wampus Kitten (POST 4) in Race 3 — the morning-line favorite — as well as Crafty King (POST 2) in Race 5, Last Minute (POST 7) in Race 6, and Code Runner (POST 3) in Race 7. The Hugo Rodriguez barn has been sharp this spring meet with a strong win percentage when sending out morning-line favorites.

Tanner Tracy saddles Call Me Q (POST 2) and Can Do Andrew (POST 3) in Race 4, giving the barn a strong two-punch in the card's featured dirt event. Tracy also handles The Thunderer (POST 1) in Race 5. When Tracy enters two horses in a route, the shorter-priced entry — Call Me Q (POST 2) at 4-1 — is typically the preferred runner.

Maximino Quinonez is another multi-entry trainer today with runners in Races 1, 3, 5, 6, and 7. The Quinonez-Bendezu combination of Winging Ways (POST 5) in Race 6 is their most prominent pairing of the day, and Escovedo (POST 4) in Race 1 gives the barn a shot at a strong start to the card.

Chris Block trains This Beau Knows (POST 7) in Race 2 and Even The Wind (POST 4) in Race 7, representing the barn's two-surface approach. Block has shown an aptitude for placing horses correctly in optional claiming turf events, and Even The Wind (POST 4) in Race 7 could be his standout runner.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The most actionable value on today's card comes from several angles: the Rivelli-Cohen partnership on turf, the DiVito stable's Race 4 favorite, and the pace-based scenarios in the two large turf route fields.

The Pick 4 spanning Races 4 through 7 is the featured horizontal sequence of the afternoon. The logical construction uses Eli's Promise (POST 5) as a single in Race 4, where the 2-1 favorite has a short field of six horses and a clear class advantage. Singling in Race 4 allows bettors to spread in the deeper races that follow.

In Race 5, using Silver Quarters (POST 5) as the top choice with a saver to River Redemption (POST 4) is the core approach. The eleven-horse turf route demands some spreading given the pace complexities. A two-horse combination of Silver Quarters (POST 5) and River Redemption (POST 4) in Race 5, combined with a single of Eli's Promise (POST 5) in Race 4, produces a Pick 4 base that is cost-effective.

Race 7 as the final leg of the Pick 4 features BIZZEE CHANNEL (POST 9) as the top selection with EVEN THE WIND (POST 4) as the secondary. Using three horses in the closing race — BIZZEE CHANNEL (POST 9), EVEN THE WIND (POST 4), and SBAGLIATO (POST 6) — completes the ticket.

A sample $1 Pick 4 ticket using Eli's Promise (POST 5) single in Race 4, Silver Quarters (POST 5) and River Redemption (POST 4) in Race 5, Winging Ways (POST 5) and Last Minute (POST 7) in Race 6, and Bizzee Channel (POST 9), Even The Wind (POST 4), and Sbagliato (POST 6) in Race 7 produces 1 x 2 x 2 x 3 = 12 combinations at $1 each, for a total cost of $12. This is an efficient ticket structure for a card of this size.

For the Pick 5 spanning Races 3 through 7, add Wampus Kitten (POST 4) as the Race 3 anchor. A ticket using Wampus Kitten (POST 4) single in Race 3, Eli's Promise (POST 5) single in Race 4, two horses in Race 5, two in Race 6, and three in Race 7 produces 1 x 1 x 2 x 2 x 3 = 12 combinations at $0.50 each for a $6 base cost.

The best standalone value bets on the card are Chief Morter (POST 8) to win in Race 2 at 3-1 on the turf, and River Redemption (POST 4) at 4-1 in Race 5 as a potential single-race win value play. Last Minute (POST 7) at 4-1 in Race 6 and Sbagliato (POST 6) at 5-1 in Race 7 round out the value plays for bettors looking for price.

Daily double players should look at the Race 6 and Race 7 double using Winging Ways (POST 5) and Last Minute (POST 7) in Race 6 over Bizzee Channel (POST 9) and Even The Wind (POST 4) in Race 7, creating a four-horse, four-combination daily double at a minimal investment with a potentially generous payoff given the larger prices in the turf finale.

Exacta players across the card should focus on Race 2 using the Rivelli double of Chief Morter (POST 8) and King Of Sheba (POST 4) in reverse exactas, and Race 4 using Eli's Promise (POST 5) over the field. In Race 7, an exacta saver of Even The Wind (POST 4) or Sbagliato (POST 6) over Bizzee Channel (POST 9) is the most relevant upset coverage given the closing race dynamics.

Overall, the card at Hawthorne on May 7, 2026 is best approached with disciplined horizontal wagering, concentrating firepower in the Race 4 through Race 7 Pick 4 and using the strong Rivelli-Cohen connection as the backbone of the ticket structure. The turf races carry the most uncertainty and the most profit potential, particularly in the eleven-horse fields of Races 5 and 7.

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


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