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Presque Isle Downs presents an eight-race card today featuring a mix of claiming events and competitive fields across dirt and potentially turf surfaces. The card begins at 3:30 PM local time and runs through 6:30 PM, offering horseplayers a solid afternoon of racing action. Today’s races include claiming events with purses ranging from $14,000 to $23,000, providing opportunities for both favorites and longshots to deliver value.

Weather Forecast and Track Conditions

The weather forecast for Presque Isle on September 17, 2025, calls for temperatures reaching a high of 68°F with a low of 46°F. Light drizzle is expected in the early morning hours, with overcast skies persisting throughout the day. September typically brings moderate rainfall to the area, with an average of 12 days of precipitation during the month and approximately 3.3 inches of total rainfall.

The track surface is currently listed as fast, though conditions should be monitored throughout the day given the possibility of light precipitation. Racing surfaces at Presque Isle Downs typically drain well, but any sustained moisture could affect going conditions, particularly for the later races.

Race-by-Race Analysis

Race 1 – Claiming (1 Mile, Dirt)

Distance: 1 mile on dirt surface
Purse: $23,000
Field: 7 runners

AI selection: Candy Jane (6) at 3-1 odds with trainer T.E. Hamm and jockey J. Stokes.

Key analysis focuses on the one-mile distance favoring horses with proven stamina and tactical speed. The claiming level suggests competitive depth, with form cycles and recent workouts being crucial factors. Pace analysis indicates a moderate setup with opportunities for both early speed and closing types.

Race 2 – Claiming (6 Furlongs, Dirt)

Distance: 6 furlongs on dirt
Purse: $14,000
Field: 6 runners

AI selection: Leonard’s Legacy (4) at 2-1 odds with trainer R.R. Russell and jockey G.A. Martinez.

Recent form shows Leonard’s Legacy finishing second in a seven-horse field, beaten by 2½ lengths after vying in the stretch. Bear Creek finished third in a recent six-furlong event, while Summerfest and Keystone Hank show mixed recent form. The sprint distance favors horses with early speed and the ability to sustain their effort through the final furlong.

Race 3 Detailed Analysis

Race Overview

Race 3 – Maiden Special Weight

• Post Time: 4:24 PM EDT
• Distance: 1 mile on dirt surface
• Purse: $36,000 added
• Field Size: 6 runners
• Winner’s Share: $22,680

This maiden special weight event represents one of the more competitive races on today’s card, featuring a mix of experienced maidens and promising first-time starters over the classic one-mile distance.

Key Contenders Analysis

Expo City (USA) – Morning Line Favorite 3-5

Jockey: A.A. Gallardo | Trainer: E.G. Harty

Expo City enters as the heavy favorite after showing promise in his recent local effort. In his last start at Presque Isle Downs in August, he stepped slow and bobbled at the start but still managed to finish third of six in a similar maiden event behind A Million Dreams. The fact that he was able to overcome early trouble and still finish in the money suggests natural ability and resilience.

The presence of leading jockey Antonio A. Gallardo is significant, as he leads the Presque Isle colony with 60 wins from 250 starts and over $1.1 million in earnings. Trainer E.G. Harty’s decision to keep the horse at this level rather than drop him into maiden claiming indicates confidence in the colt’s ability.

AI Selection: Expo City (3) at 9-5 odds

Gosh Sakes (USA) – 9-5

Recent Form: Hit gate, drifted upper, finished 5th of 6, beaten 3¾ lengths behind Colt Forty Seven at Colonial Downs over 1 mile on good turf in September

Gosh Sakes brings experience from his recent Colonial Downs effort, though the surface switch from turf to dirt presents questions. The fact that he hit the gate and drifted during the race suggests potential behavior issues that could resurface. However, the one-mile distance appears suitable, and any improvement from his debut effort could make him competitive at generous odds.

Sealand (USA) – 17-10

Recent Form: Set press pace, weakened, finished 4th of 5, beaten 9 lengths behind Jes See Me in a 5-furlong maiden at Presque Isle Downs in August

Sealand showed early speed in his last effort before fading badly in the stretch. The step up to one mile could actually benefit him if he can settle better early and conserve energy for a late kick. His experience at the track is a positive factor, and the price suggests some betting value if he can improve his finish.

Secondary Choices and Longshot Analysis

The Big Con – First-Time Starter

Breeding: Dark Angel colt out of Nakuti

This first-time starter brings intriguing bloodlines to the table. Dark Angel has been a successful sire, particularly with his early-developing offspring. The fact that connections are starting him in a maiden special weight rather than maiden claiming suggests they believe in his ability. First-time starters can be dangerous in maiden races, especially when well-bred.

Mr. Hooligan (USA) – First-Time Starter

Breeding: Tapwrit colt out of Travel Wish

Another debut runner with solid breeding credentials. Tapwrit has shown the ability to sire competitive horses, and the decision to debut in a maiden special weight indicates trainer confidence. Without published works or gate training information, this horse presents the biggest unknown in the field.

Grab My Tab (USA) – 16-1 Longshot

Recent Form: Ran wide in second turn, showed no rally, finished last of 7, beaten 30½ lengths behind Viva Vienne at Presque Isle Downs in September

The extreme longshot of the field based on his dismal last performance. Being beaten by over 30 lengths in his most recent start suggests either significant issues or a particularly bad racing luck scenario. At 16-1, he would need dramatic improvement to factor, though maiden races can sometimes produce surprising results.

Pace Analysis

The pace setup appears moderate to contested based on the recent running styles shown by the field. Sealand has demonstrated early speed but struggled to sustain it, while Expo City has shown the ability to track the pace and make a move. The first-time starters add an element of uncertainty to the pace scenario.

With only six runners, the pace is unlikely to be overly aggressive, which could favor horses with tactical speed like Expo City. The one-mile distance should allow for a developing pace that rewards horses who can position well and finish strongly.

Key Angles to Consider

Track Familiarity: Expo City and Sealand both have recent experience over the Presque Isle surface, providing them with a significant advantage over horses making their debuts or coming from other tracks.

Jockey Factor: A.A. Gallardo’s presence on the favorite represents a major positive, given his leading status at the meet and strong winning percentage.

Class Relief: Several horses in this field have been competing at similar levels, suggesting the race should be decided more on current form and fitness than class differences.

Surface Switch: Gosh Sakes is moving from turf to dirt, which represents both a potential positive (some horses improve on surface changes) and a concern (unknown how he’ll handle the dirt).

Wagering Angles and Selections

Win Selection: Expo City represents the most logical choice despite the short price. His recent form shows ability, and the combination of Gallardo and track familiarity makes him difficult to oppose.

Value Play: The Big Con offers intriguing value as a first-time starter with solid breeding. If he shows any early pace or tactical speed, he could surprise at a price.

Exacta Strategy: Key Expo City on top with The Big Con and Gosh Sakes underneath. The reverse exacta of either longshot over the favorite could provide substantial value.

Trifecta Approach: Use Expo City as the key horse in multiple combinations, including both first-time starters and Sealand as potential third-place finishers.

Final Race Prediction

Expo City appears to have the most going for him in this spot, with track experience, a top jockey, and recent form that suggests he’s ready to break his maiden. The main concerns will be whether he can overcome his tendency to start slowly and if the heavy favoritism creates unrealistic expectations.

The first-time starters The Big Con and Mr. Hooligan represent the most likely upset scenarios, as their connections clearly believe they belong at this level. In maiden races, breeding and training often trump published form, making both dangerous at their likely odds.

Suggested Selections:

• Win: Expo City
• Place: The Big Con
• Show: Gosh Sakes
• Longshot Value: The Big Con for the upset

This race should provide a solid betting opportunity with a logical favorite who appears ready to graduate, while offering enough uncertainty from the first-time starters to create exotic wagering value for players willing to take a chance on the unknowns.

Race 4 – Claiming

AI selection: Runningforjoy (6) at 7-2 odds with trainer L. Hayes and jockey A.A. Gallardo.

Race 5 Detailed Analysis

Race Overview

Race 5 – Maiden Special Weight

• Post Time: 5:18 PM EDT
• Distance: 6 furlongs on dirt surface
• Purse: $36,000 added
• Field Size: 8 runners
• Winner’s Share: $22,680

This maiden special weight event over six furlongs presents a competitive field of horses still seeking their first victory. The race features a mix of experienced maidens with recent form and potential first-time starters looking to make an immediate impact.

Key Contenders Analysis

King Reigert (USA) – Morning Line Co-Favorite 17-10

Recent Form: Pressed pace, led, game effort, caught late for second of eight, beaten 1¼ lengths behind Snovember at Presque Isle Downs in a one-mile maiden on fast dirt in September

King Reigert enters this contest coming off his best career effort, showing tactical speed and gameness in defeat. His ability to press the pace and maintain his position through the stretch demonstrates the kind of maturity that often translates to maiden success. The cutback from one mile to six furlongs should favor his tactical speed, and his experience at the track provides a significant edge.

The key concern is whether he can find that extra gear needed to get his nose in front after coming so close in his recent attempt. His pressing style suggests he should be well-positioned throughout this shorter distance.

Warrior’s Mission (USA) – Co-Favorite 17-10

Recent Form: Vied for the lead early, gave way badly, finished last of six, beaten 16¼ lengths behind Chubs Rocket at Presque Isle Downs in a six-furlong maiden on fast dirt in August

Despite sharing favoritism, Warrior’s Mission presents significant concerns based on his dismal last performance. Being beaten by over 16 lengths in his most recent start at this exact distance raises questions about his current form and ability. The fact that he vied early but gave way so dramatically suggests potential fitness or confidence issues.

However, his shared favoritism indicates connections believe the poor performance was an aberration. Maiden races can be unpredictable, and horses sometimes bounce back dramatically from disappointing efforts.

Not Right Now (USA) – 19-10

Recent Form: Dug in gamely but was outkicked late, finished second of six, beaten ¾ length behind Chubs Rocket at Presque Isle Downs in a six-furlong maiden on fast dirt in August

Not Right Now brings solid recent form to this contest, finishing a close second in the same race where Warrior’s Mission faded badly. His ability to dig in and battle suggests the kind of determination needed to break his maiden. The narrow defeat by less than a length indicates he’s very close to winning and may have learned from that experience.

This horse appears to be progressing positively and could be the type to improve off his near-miss effort. His tactical approach of staying close and finishing strongly should serve him well in this spot.

Hope She Comes (USA) – 17-4

Recent Form: Circled six-wide making a late gain, finished second of six, beaten 3½ lengths behind Take Charge Boo at Presque Isle Downs in a six-furlong maiden on fast dirt in September

Hope She Comes showed promising late speed in her recent effort, circling the field wide and gaining ground in the stretch. While beaten by 3½ lengths, her wide trip and late rally suggest untapped potential. If she can secure a more favorable trip closer to the pace, she could be dangerous.

The wide move demonstrates her willingness to overcome trouble, which is a positive sign for future efforts. Her recent form at this track and distance makes her a legitimate contender.

Shannonia (USA) – 8-1 Longshot

Recent Form: Best stride late with a strong gaining effort, finished second of seven, beaten just ½ length behind Il Cavallino at Presque Isle Downs in a six-furlong maiden on fast dirt in September

AI Selection: Shannonia (5) at 5-2 odds with trainer T. Connelly and jockey W. Martinez

Shannonia presents the most intriguing value proposition in the field. Her recent second-place finish, beaten by just half a length, demonstrates she’s extremely close to breaking her maiden. The fact that she showed her best stride late suggests she’s learning to rate properly and time her move effectively.

At 8-1 morning line odds but listed as 5-2 by AI, there appears to be significant value discrepancy that savvy players should note. Her late-running style could be perfectly suited to this pace setup.

Secondary Choices and Longshot Analysis

Double Up Larry (USA) – 4-5 Previous Favorite

Recent Form: No match for the winner but kept on well, finished second of six, beaten 4½ lengths behind Bengal Cat at Presque Isle Downs in a one-mile maiden on fast dirt in September

Double Up Larry has been consistent in hitting the board but struggles to find that winning gear. His status as a heavy favorite in previous starts suggests connections believe in his ability, though he’s yet to capitalize on that confidence. The cutback to six furlongs might help him, as his keeping-on style could be more effective over the shorter distance.

Justice Is Sweet (USA) – First-Time Starter

Breeding: Peace And Justice gelding out of Sweet Like Candy

This first-time starter brings unknown quantities to the race. Peace And Justice has sired competitive horses, and the decision to debut in a maiden special weight rather than maiden claiming suggests trainer confidence. Without published workouts or gate training information, he represents the biggest wildcard in the field.

Dancing On Air (USA) – 17-4 Extreme Longshot

Recent Form: Through early, faded to finish last of six, beaten 26¾ lengths behind Bengal Cat at Presque Isle Downs in a one-mile maiden on fast dirt in September

Dancing On Air’s recent form shows significant regression, being beaten by over 26 lengths in her last start. This represents one of the poorest recent efforts in the field and suggests either physical issues or a complete loss of form. At 17-4 odds, she would need a dramatic turnaround to factor.

Pace Analysis

The pace setup appears moderate with several horses showing tactical speed capabilities. King Reigert and Warrior’s Mission both have early speed, which could set up a pressing scenario early. This should benefit late runners like Shannonia and Hope She Comes, who have demonstrated strong finishing kicks.

The six-furlong distance typically favors horses with tactical speed who can position within striking distance and have enough left for a final surge. The relatively small field of eight should allow for clean trips and reduce the impact of racing luck.

Key Angles to Consider

Track Experience: Most of the field has recent experience at Presque Isle Downs, which levels the playing field and reduces the advantage typically held by track specialists.

Distance Preferences: Several horses are returning to six furlongs after trying longer distances, which could provide the optimal distance for their running styles.

Form Cycles: The horses finishing second in their recent starts (King Reigert, Not Right Now, Hope She Comes, Shannonia, and Double Up Larry) suggest a competitive group ready to take the next step.

Class Considerations: This maiden special weight level represents the appropriate class for most of these runners, with no obvious class relief or disadvantage scenarios.

Wagering Angles and Selections

Win Selection: Shannonia offers the best combination of recent form and value. Her half-length defeat in her last start suggests she’s ready to break through, while her 8-1 morning line odds provide excellent value.

Place/Show Safety: King Reigert provides the most reliable option for place and show betting based on his recent consistency and tactical speed.

Exacta Strategy: Key Shannonia over King Reigert and Not Right Now. The reverse exacta with King Reigert over Shannonia could provide solid value if the favorite gets up.

Trifecta Approach: Use Shannonia and King Reigert in the top two positions with Hope She Comes, Not Right Now, and Justice Is Sweet filling out the bottom of trifecta combinations.

Longshot Special: Justice Is Sweet represents the best longshot value as a first-time starter with solid breeding who could surprise at a price.

Final Race Prediction

This race appears to set up perfectly for a late-running type to capitalize on early pace pressure. Shannonia’s recent near-miss effort combined with her late-running style makes her the most logical choice to finally break through. Her value odds make her even more appealing.

King Reigert provides the main competition with his tactical speed and recent good effort, while Not Right Now has shown the consistency to factor in the finish. The first-time starter Justice Is Sweet adds an element of unknown that could disrupt the expected order of finish.

Suggested Selections:

• Win: Shannonia (value play)
• Place: King Reigert (safety)
• Show: Not Right Now (consistency)
• Longshot Special: Justice Is Sweet (first-time starter upside)

The race should provide excellent wagering opportunities with a logical pace setup favoring closers and enough uncertainty to create value in the exotic wagering pools. Focus on combinations that include the late-running types while respecting the tactical speed of the co-favorites.

Race 7 – Claiming

AI selection: Speight the Snow (2) at 9-5 odds with trainer R.G. Potts and jockey H. Villa-Gomez.

Race 8 – Claiming (1 Mile, Dirt)

Field: 8 runners including Stroke of Luck, Tango Zulu, Eastern Sunrise, and others

AI selection: Eastern Sunrise (8) at 12-1 longshot odds with trainer C. Davis and jockey A.A. Gallardo.

Stroke of Luck enters as a strong contender after winning a maiden race by 6½ lengths at this track. Eastern Sunrise finished second in a recent one-mile event, beaten by just ¾ length. Tango Zulu shows solid recent form with a fourth-place finish, while the field includes several other competitive runners.

Jockey Notes and Insights

A.A. Gallardo appears multiple times on the card with mounts in races 3, 4, 6, and 8, suggesting confidence from connections in key spots. Gallardo’s presence on the longshot Eastern Sunrise in the finale could indicate value at 12-1 odds.

W. Martinez has two mounts today in races 2 and 5, both with competitive odds. G.A. Martinez rides the 2-1 favorite Leonard’s Legacy in race 2.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Several trainers have multiple entries today, with R.G. Potts training Speight the Snow in race 7. The presence of established local trainers suggests competitive fields with horses that know the track well.

Trainer patterns and recent success rates should be considered when evaluating selections, particularly in claiming events where trainer intentions can vary significantly.

Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The most intriguing value play appears to be Eastern Sunrise in race 8 at 12-1 odds. Despite the longshot status, the horse’s recent second-place finish by less than a length suggests competitive ability.

For horizontal wagers, consider connecting the AI selections across multiple races, particularly focusing on races 2, 3, and 6 where the selections carry reasonable odds.

Exacta and trifecta opportunities exist throughout the card, with several races showing competitive spreads that could produce meaningful payouts. Focus on races with 6-8 runners for optimal exotic wagering scenarios.