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Horseshoe Indianapolis presents an exciting 12-race card on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, featuring a strong mix of maiden races, allowance conditions, and highlighted stakes action. The afternoon’s centerpiece is the $150,000 To Much Coffee Handicap in Race 9, a competitive 16-horse field going 1 mile and 110 yards on the dirt. The program also features the Circle City Stakes as the evening finale in Race 10.
The racing action begins at 7:10 PM Eastern with a maiden claiming event and continues through the evening with competitive fields and purses ranging from $21,000 for maiden claimers to six-figure stakes company. Horseshoe Indianapolis continues its reputation as Indiana’s premier thoroughbred racing venue, offering the state’s only live racing action.
Weather Forecast and Track Conditions
Ideal racing weather is forecast for Horseshoe Indianapolis today, with sunny skies and a high temperature of 81°F (27°C) dropping to a comfortable 55°F (13°C) in the evening. No precipitation is expected, with 0mm rainfall probability and light winds. The track surface should remain fast and consistent throughout the afternoon and evening cards.
The pleasant October weather provides optimal conditions for both horses and horseplayers, with clear visibility and no concerns about track surface changes due to weather. The dirt track is expected to maintain its fast rating, favoring speed and tactical pace positioning.
Race-by-Race Analysis
Race 1 – $21,000 Maiden Claiming (6 Furlongs, Dirt)
Key Contenders: Amazing Mike enters as the 5/2 morning line favorite for trainer J. Haran with jockey E.A. Roman aboard. This son of Normandy Invasion showed improvement in his last start, finishing a solid second while beaten 3 1/4 lengths behind Save My Town in a similar maiden event last month.
Secondary Choices: Bozaano at 7/2 offers solid value as the second choice, having shown early speed in recent starts despite fading late. The colt trained by an undisclosed barn has tactical speed that could prove useful in this sprint distance.
Longshot Consideration: Mordecai at 5/1 represents intriguing value from the outside posts. Despite a disappointing fifth-place finish last time when trying the mile distance, the return to sprinting could unlock improvement.
Pace Analysis: The race appears to set up with moderate early pace, allowing Amazing Mike to settle just off the leaders and make his move turning for home. The presence of several speed-leaning types suggests a honest pace throughout.
Key Angles: First-time starters deserve attention in maiden claiming events, while horses dropping significantly in claiming price from previous starts often show improvement when facing easier competition.
Suggested Selections: Win: Amazing Mike, Place: Bozaano, Show: Mordecai
Race 2 – $43,520 Maiden Special Weight
The second race at Horseshoe Indianapolis presents a competitive maiden special weight contest for 2-year-old fillies running 5 1/2 furlongs on dirt with a solid purse of $43,520. This distance favors early speed and tactical sharpness, making it an ideal showcase for juveniles making their racing debuts or seeking their first victory.
Key Contenders Analysis
Leslie’s Time emerges as the morning line favorite at 5/2 odds, representing the powerhouse stable of Eclipse Award-winning trainer Brad Cox. This Not This Time filly out of Leslie’s Harmony brings impressive breeding credentials, as her sire has been a consistent source of precocious 2-year-olds. Cox’s remarkable 2023 season included 12 Grade 1 victories and over $30 million in earnings, establishing him as one of North America’s premier trainers. The veteran Fernando De La Cruz takes the mount, adding experience to this promising debut.
Tap Now represents another training titan in Steven Asmussen, who has accumulated over 10,000 North American wins throughout his Hall of Fame career. This Tapit filly brings exceptional pedigree power, as her sire remains one of the most influential stallions in American racing. Erik Asmussen handles the riding duties, providing a family connection that often translates to sharp preparation. The 6/1 morning line odds suggest respect for both the connections and the breeding.
Street Twirl rounds out the top tier of contenders at 5/1 odds, offering value for handicappers seeking alternatives to the chalk. This Street Boss filly out of Agave Queen brings solid bloodlines and represents trainer John Alexander Ortiz with Rave Danilo Grisales in the saddle.
Secondary Choices
Linked Up commands 4/1 odds as the second choice, making her a legitimate threat in this competitive field. This Connect filly out of Take Charge Tressa brings proven bloodlines through her dam’s family. Trainer Dallas Stewart teams with jockey Cristian Torres, forming a combination that could surprise at attractive odds.
Hollen Drive at 10/1 odds represents interesting value from a breeding perspective. This Practical Joke filly out of Indian Miss brings the speed influence of her sire, who has emerged as a reliable source of early runners. Trainer William Walden pairs with jockey Axel Concepcion for this debut effort.
Longshot Considerations
Legit Chick carries significant question marks after finishing last of 11 runners at Churchill Downs in September, trailing by 19 1/2 lengths. However, at 8/1 odds, she represents potential value if that debut effort can be excused. Trainer Stephen Dunn and jockey Samuel Bermudez will need significant improvement to factor.
She’s High Proof brings the prestigious Calumet Farm colors and represents trainer Brendan Walsh. This Hightail filly out of Proof shows quality breeding but faces long odds at 12/1. The March 17, 2023 foal could surprise if forward enough for this debut.
Pace Analysis
The 5 1/2-furlong distance typically favors horses with tactical speed who can secure favorable early positioning without overextending themselves. Leslie’s Time and Tap Now both bring breeding patterns suggesting early engagement, potentially setting up a pace scenario that could benefit closers like Linked Up or Street Twirl.
The presence of multiple well-bred debut runners suggests a potentially honest pace, as several fillies may show natural speed from quality bloodlines. This scenario often benefits horses with professional ride tactics and superior conditioning.
Key Angles
The trainer angle heavily favors the Cox and Asmussen entries, as both conditioners excel with 2-year-olds and maintain exceptional strike rates in maiden special weight company. Cox’s recent dominance includes leading Kentucky trainers in earnings with over $12 million in 2024.
The breeding angle supports several contenders, particularly those by proven juvenile sires like Not This Time, Tapit, and Practical Joke. These stallions consistently produce runners capable of winning on debut or in early career starts.
Wagering Strategy
Win Selection: Leslie’s Time offers the most reliable combination of trainer, breeding, and preparation.
Exacta Play: Key Leslie’s Time over Tap Now, Street Twirl, and Linked Up in a 1/2,3,4 exacta wheel.
Trifecta Strategy: Use Leslie’s Time and Tap Now as the top two choices, then spread underneath with Street Twirl, Linked Up, and Hollen Drive.
Horseshoe Indianapolis Race 4 Analysis – ITOBA Stallion Season Handicap
The ITOBA Stallion Season Handicap represents one of the premier restricted stakes races for Indiana-bred 3-year-old colts and geldings at Horseshoe Indianapolis. This $100,000 guaranteed purse race at 1 mile 70 yards on dirt features progeny of donated stallions that sold at ITOBA live or RNA internet auctions, creating a competitive field of locally-bred talent. The race conditions reflect the strength of Indiana breeding programs, with 33 nominations closed on September 17, 2025.
Key Contenders Analysis
Dr. Alex Is In
This 3-year-old gelding from trainer Michelle Elliott represents the class of the field based on recent form and connections. With Fernando De La Cruz aboard, the gelding carries high weight at 122 pounds, indicating respect from the handicapper. Elliott has demonstrated competence with Indiana-bred stock, and Dr. Alex Is In has earned $91,248 lifetime with three wins from eleven starts. The gelding finished third in his most recent start on August 16 at this track in a similar distance race, showing he handles the Horseshoe Indianapolis surface well.
Catch a Nite Train
Randy Klopp saddles this gelding as part of his successful partnership with Roger Spiess. Klopp has been a dominant force at Horseshoe Indianapolis, winning three consecutive leading owner titles in partnership with Spiess and earning over $834,000 in purse money. The trainer’s statistics show remarkable consistency with 794 wins from 6,378 starts and career earnings exceeding $12.2 million. Klopp’s success with Indiana-bred stakes horses, including previous wins in major restricted events, makes this gelding a serious threat.
Mondavila
Another Randy Klopp trainee creates a powerful entry in this race. Joseph D. Ramos takes the mount, and this combination has proven successful in the past. Ramos captured the leading jockey title at Horseshoe Indianapolis with 109 wins, edging Fernando De La Cruz by a single victory. The gelding carries 122 pounds, suggesting the handicapper views him as a major threat.
Secondary Choices Analysis
Sir Bahjy
This Bahjatty gelding trained by Genaro Garcia represents strong connections. Garcia earned his fifth leading trainer title in seven years at Horseshoe Indianapolis, setting a track record for most money earned by a trainer in a single season with over $1.7 million. The gelding is owned by Justice Farm and represents solid Indiana breeding stock. Marcelino Pedroza Jr. takes the mount, bringing experience to the partnership.
Breezy Justice
Tomas Medina trains this Lantana Mob gelding who has shown stakes-winning ability. The gelding captured the Indiana Futurity in November 2024, paying $139.60 to win and demonstrating his ability to perform at the stakes level. Owned by Justice Farm, Breezy Justice has earned $93,234 lifetime and represents proven class in restricted company. Luis Contreras rides, bringing solid experience to the partnership.
Gin and Whiskey
Devarus Douglass trains this Elnaawi colt who has shown recent improvement. The colt won “The Salute the Heroes” stakes on November 11, 2024, paying $6.20 to win and demonstrating his ability to capture stakes races. Samuel Bermudez takes the mount, and the colt has shown consistency in recent starts at this track.
Longshot Considerations
Concho’s Prayer
Tim Eggleston trains this gelding with Andres Ulloa aboard. While carrying lighter weight at 118 pounds, this runner could benefit from the pace scenario and represents potential value at longer odds.
Terminally Handsom
This gelding from trainer Tianna Richardville with Orlando Mojica riding carries 120 pounds and could benefit from a pace meltdown. The connections may not be as prominent, but the horse could offer value in exotic wagers.
Pace Analysis
The pace should develop moderately with several horses showing tactical speed. Dr. Alex Is In likely settles in mid-pack position, while the Klopp entries may press the early pace. Breezy Justice has shown the ability to stalk and strike, suggesting he could benefit from a contested early pace. The 1 mile 70-yard distance favors horses with tactical speed and a strong finishing kick, particularly those who can secure good position around the far turn.
Key Angles
The trainer angles strongly favor Randy Klopp’s dual entry, given his dominance at this track and success with Indiana-bred stakes horses. The jockey battle between Fernando De La Cruz and Joseph Ramos continues their rivalry from the 2024 meet. Michelle Elliott’s improvement with Dr. Alex Is In and the gelding’s familiarity with the track present another compelling angle. Stakes winners like Breezy Justice and Gin and Whiskey bring proven class to restricted company.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Selection: Dr. Alex Is In offers the best combination of class, recent form, and proven ability at this track distance.
Place/Show: Catch a Nite Train represents solid value given Randy Klopp’s success and the trainer’s expertise with Indiana-bred stakes horses.
Exacta Plays: Box Dr. Alex Is In with both Klopp entries (Catch a Nite Train and Mondavila) for the most logical finish scenarios.
Trifecta: Include Sir Bahjy and Breezy Justice as the third horse in trifecta combinations, given their connections and proven stakes ability.
Longshot Value: Gin and Whiskey at longer odds could provide value given his recent stakes victory and improving form pattern.
Race 6 – Allowance Race
Key Contenders: Four Top emerges as the 7/2 second choice for trainer Mike Maker with Francisco De La Cruz riding. Jeopardy Theory appears as the slight favorite in this competitive allowance field.
Secondary Choices: Frosty Indulgence rounds out the top three choices at 5/1, representing a live longshot in what appears to be an open allowance race.
Suggested Selections: Win: Four Top, Place: Jeopardy Theory
Horseshoe Indianapolis Race 7 Analysis – ITOBA Stallion Season Fillies Handicap
Race Overview
The ITOBA Stallion Season Fillies Handicap stands as the premier restricted stakes race for 3-year-old Indiana-bred fillies at Horseshoe Indianapolis, featuring a $100,000 guaranteed purse at 1 mile 70 yards on dirt. With 43 nominations closed on September 17, 2025, this race showcases the depth and quality of Indiana’s thoroughbred breeding program. The field of 11 fillies represents progeny of donated stallions sold at ITOBA auctions, creating a competitive showcase of locally-bred talent.
Key Contenders Analysis
Innisfree Lass
This bay filly by Csaba carries the imposing high weight of 122 pounds and represents the morning line favorite at 3/1 odds. Trained by John Haran with Alberto Burgos aboard, Innisfree Lass brings exceptional current form to this assignment. Her recent victory in the Checkered Flag Handicap in June 2025 demonstrates her ability to handle stakes company at this track. The filly’s 2025 campaign has been remarkably successful, with three consecutive victories including wins on April 23 at 16/1 odds, May 15 at 4/1, and June 4 at 3/1. Her form line shows consistent improvement, progressing from a rating of 58 to 68, indicating she is a developing horse hitting peak form. Despite the high impost, her class advantage and proven ability at this distance make her the horse to beat.
Molly’s Potion
Dawn Fontenot’s trainee carries equal top weight of 122 pounds and brings impressive credentials as the 2024 Indiana-Sired 2-Year-Old Filly champion. This dark bay daughter of Pataky Kid scored a decisive victory in the 2024 Indiana Stallion Stakes, paying $8.80 for the win. Owned by Jorge Rivera-Castaner and bred by her trainer, Molly’s Potion represents the successful partnership between owner, breeder, and trainer. Her recent form includes a victory at Horseshoe Indianapolis in August, beating Foxy Justice by 1 1/4 lengths over 6 furlongs on a fast track. Samuel Bermudez takes the mount, and the filly’s proven stakes-winning ability at this track provides strong credentials despite the weight burden.
Sakra’s Quest
Randy Klopp sends out this Forever D’oro filly with Fernando De La Cruz aboard, carrying 120 pounds in this competitive assignment. Owned and bred by Klopp in partnership with Dennis Claramunt, Sakra’s Quest represents the successful breeding and training operation that has dominated Indiana racing. Klopp’s partnership with Roger Spiess has earned consecutive leading owner titles at Horseshoe Indianapolis, with their combined operation setting track records for purse earnings. The trainer’s expertise with Indiana-bred stakes horses, combined with De La Cruz’s race-riding ability, creates a formidable combination.
Secondary Choices Analysis
Spooky Ridge
John Langemeier conditions this Forever D’oro filly out of Amberly Village, with Joseph Ramos handling the riding duties. Listed at 4/1 in early odds, Spooky Ridge brings solid breeding and connections to this stakes assignment. The Forever D’oro sire line has proven effective with Indiana-bred fillies, and Langemeier’s training record suggests this filly has been well-prepared for this opportunity. Ramos finished as the leading jockey at Horseshoe Indianapolis with 109 wins in 2024, demonstrating his effectiveness at this track.
Seeyouinabit
Genaro Garcia trains this Bahjatty filly out of Strapless, with Emmanuel Esquivel taking the mount at 120 pounds. Garcia captured his fifth leading trainer title in seven years at Horseshoe Indianapolis, earning over $1.7 million in 2024 and setting a track record for seasonal earnings. Seeyouinabit has shown ability in stakes company, including a recent effort in the Indiana First Lady Handicap where she competed against similar caliber fillies. The filly demonstrated early speed in previous starts, leading inside before giving way in the Indiana First Lady.
Turbo Lady
Randy Klopp’s second entry represents another strong contender despite carrying lighter weight at 118 pounds. Owned by Cynthia Claramunt and Randy Klopp, and bred by Dennis Claramunt, Cynthia Claramunt, and Randy Klopp, this filly represents the successful breeding operation. Walter Rodriguez rides, and the filly recently finished third at 9/10 favorite, showing she was stalking in third position before making a late rally. The lighter impost compared to Sakra’s Quest could provide tactical advantage in the Klopp barn.
Longshot Considerations
Gatling Girl
Robert Gorham trains this filly with Santo Sanjur aboard, carrying the minimum weight of 118 pounds. Listed at 12/1 in early odds, Gatling Girl could benefit from the light impost and provide value in exotic wagers.
Midnight Caper
Also from the Robert Gorham barn with Luis Contreras riding, this filly represents another potential longshot at 15/1 odds. The dual Gorham entry creates interesting wagering scenarios with different jockeys and running styles.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears favorable for closers, with several fillies likely to show early speed including Seeyouinabit, who has demonstrated gate speed in previous starts. Molly’s Potion has shown versatility in running styles, while Innisfree Lass has proven effective stalking the early pace. The 1 mile 70-yard distance should allow tactical horses to secure good position and finish strongly. Randy Klopp’s dual entry provides flexibility, with Turbo Lady potentially pressing the early pace while Sakra’s Quest settles behind horses.
Key Angles
The weight distribution heavily favors the proven stakes winners Innisfree Lass and Molly’s Potion, both carrying 122 pounds, indicating handicapper respect for their class. The trainer angles strongly favor Klopp’s dual entry, Garcia’s recent success, and Haran’s expertise with stakes horses. The jockey factor includes De La Cruz and Ramos, who finished first and second in the 2024 jockey standings. The breeding angle emphasizes Forever D’oro offspring and proven Indiana sire lines.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Selection: Innisfree Lass represents the strongest combination of current form, class, and proven ability at this track and distance despite the high weight.
Place/Show: Molly’s Potion offers value as the defending juvenile champion with proven stakes ability, despite carrying top weight.
Exacta Plays: Box Innisfree Lass with Sakra’s Quest and Molly’s Potion for the most logical finish scenarios.
Trifecta: Include Spooky Ridge and Seeyouinabit as the third horse in trifecta combinations, given their connections and competitive odds.
Longshot Value: Consider Turbo Lady from the powerful Klopp barn at lighter weight as a potential upset candidate in exotic wagers.
Horseshoe Indianapolis Race 8 Analysis – Piedi Bianchi Handicap
Race Overview
The Piedi Bianchi Handicap represents the premier contest for Indiana-bred fillies and mares at Horseshoe Indianapolis, featuring a $150,000 guaranteed purse at 1 mile 70 yards on dirt. Named after a past Indiana champion, this prestigious handicap drew 24 nominations and features a competitive field of 14 starters representing the best older female talent bred in the Hoosier State. The race conditions favor proven stakes performers, with high weights assigned to the most accomplished runners and preference given to lifetime earnings.
Key Contenders Analysis
Corningstone
Kenneth McPeek’s 5-year-old Kantharos mare enters as the defending Mistletoe Stakes winner and represents the class of the field. Owned by Payson Stud Inc., Corningstone captured her first open stakes victory in December 2024 at Oaklawn Park, powering to a 4 1/4-length victory over favored Taxed. The mare demonstrated remarkable improvement in her 2025 campaign, winning four of six starts including victories in the Indiana First Lady Handicap and Cardinal Handicap. Joseph Bealmear rides, and despite carrying top weight of 126 pounds, her proven class at this distance and track makes her the probable favorite. Her recent form shows consistent ability at the 1 1/16-mile distance, with victories at Horseshoe Indianapolis in July and August 2025.
Under the Palms
McPeek’s second entry brings impressive credentials as the 2024 Champion 3-Year-Old Indiana-Bred Filly. This 4-year-old daughter of Paynter carries 126 pounds with Colby Hernandez aboard. The filly secured her first stakes victory in the Cardinal Handicap, defeating stablemate Corningstone at this track and distance. Her championship season included multiple stakes victories and demonstrated her ability to compete with older mares. The McPeek dual entry creates strategic opportunities, with Under the Palms likely to benefit from a strong pace scenario.
Lil Gin N Class
Tim Eggleston conditions this 4-year-old Coal Front filly who reunites with Luis Saez for this stakes assignment. The filly brings proven stakes ability, having finished second multiple times at Churchill Downs and Keeneland in 2024, including a runner-up effort behind Wailua at Keeneland. Her 2025 form shows three wins from seven starts, including victories in May at 4/7 odds and April at 4/7 odds. Saez guided her to several strong efforts in 2024, including second-place finishes at Churchill Downs and Keeneland that demonstrated her ability in open company. The Coal Front bloodline has proven effective with Indiana-bred fillies, and her tactical speed should benefit from the pace scenario.
Secondary Choices Analysis
Three Coats
Michael Lauer trains this 4-year-old Paynter filly who carries top weight of 126 pounds with Jaime Torres riding. The filly scored a stunning upset victory in a Governor’s Handicap event, paying $96.80 for the win and demonstrating her ability to perform at long odds. Her connections have shown success with Indiana-bred stakes horses, and the Paynter bloodline has proven effective in stakes company. The filly’s form line shows consistent efforts in competitive allowance and stakes company.
Crosley
John Langemeier saddles this homebred 4-year-old Pass Rush filly owned by Spooky Hollow Racing. Samuel Bermudez takes the mount on this versatile runner who captured the Checkered Flag Handicap earlier in 2025. The filly demonstrated her class by cruising to victory in stakes company, and her breeding suggests effectiveness at longer distances. Langemeier’s hands-on approach with his homebred stock and the Cincinnati-themed naming pattern reflects his attention to detail. The Pass Rush sire line has proven effective with Indiana-bred fillies competing in restricted stakes.
Louder Than Words
Anthony Granitz conditions this 6-year-old mare who carries the highest impost at 126 pounds. With Marcelino Pedroza Jr. aboard, this veteran mare brings extensive experience and proven ability at this track. The mare’s maturity and race experience could prove valuable in a competitive handicap field, particularly if the pace develops favorably for closers.
Michelle Elliott Triple Entry
Elliott saddles three horses in this competitive field, demonstrating her stable’s strength with Indiana-bred fillies. Her recent training triple at Horseshoe Indianapolis showcased her expertise with local stock. Rafaella, Americana Anna, and Sudden Rise represent different tactical approaches, with the trainer’s ability to develop Indiana-bred talent evident in her recent success.
Longshot Considerations
Get Even Kid
John Haran trains this 3-year-old filly who benefits from the minimum weight assignment of 120 pounds. Alberto Burgos rides, and the significant weight advantage could prove crucial in a competitive handicap. The filly’s youth and light impost create potential for improvement against older competition.
Tiz Bayou
Tim Eggleston’s second entry with Mitchell Murrill riding carries 124 pounds and represents value in exotic wagers. The trainer’s success with Indiana-bred fillies and the tactical flexibility of a dual entry create wagering opportunities.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario favors tactical horses, with several fillies likely to press the early pace including Lil Gin N Class and potentially Crosley. Corningstone has demonstrated the ability to stalk and finish strongly, while Under the Palms could benefit from a contested early pace. The 1 1/16-mile distance allows horses to secure good position and make sustained moves around the far turn. McPeek’s dual entry provides tactical flexibility, with different running styles represented.
Key Angles
The trainer angles heavily favor Kenneth McPeek’s dual entry, given his success with Indiana-bred stakes horses and recent Mistletoe Stakes victory. The jockey factor includes Luis Saez’s proven success with Lil Gin N Class and his experience in major stakes competition. The breeding angles emphasize proven Indiana sire lines including Kantharos, Paynter, and Coal Front. Elliott’s triple entry creates multiple exotic wagering opportunities with varying odds.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Selection: Corningstone represents the strongest combination of current form, proven stakes ability, and class despite carrying top weight.
Place/Show: Under the Palms offers solid value as the reigning champion with tactical speed and the benefit of stablemate pace dynamics.
Exacta Plays: Box the McPeek entry (Corningstone and Under the Palms) with Lil Gin N Class for the most logical finish scenarios.
Trifecta: Include Crosley and Three Coats as potential third-place finishers, given their proven stakes ability and competitive connections.
Longshot Value: Get Even Kid at 120 pounds represents significant value given the weight advantage and potential for improvement against older competition.
Race 9 – $150,000 To Much Coffee Handicap (1 Mile 110 Yards)
The To Much Coffee Handicap stands as one of the premier contests for Indiana-bred males at Horseshoe Indianapolis, featuring a $150,000 guaranteed purse at 1 1/16 miles on dirt. Named after a beloved Indiana-bred champion, this handicap drew 26 nominations with 16 horses entered, though the race is limited to 12 starters. Daily Racing Form featured this as their Wednesday Race of the Day, describing it as a competitive field with no clear-cut favorite. The race conditions strongly favor colts and geldings, with preference given to high weights and lifetime earnings.
Key Contenders Analysis
Run Away Rojo
Steven Asmussen conditions this 5-year-old chestnut son of Run Away and Hide, with Keith Asmussen aboard carrying 126 pounds. Owned by West Point Thoroughbreds and James Nichols, this gelding captured the $100,000 Bucchero Handicap on August 20, paying $12.00 for the win in an impressive late-closing effort. The victory marked his second stakes triumph, adding to his 2023 Hoosier Breeders Sophomore Handicap victory. Keith Asmussen noted the gelding “looked super” in the paddock before his Bucchero victory and demonstrated improved tactics, giving him more motivation than in previous starts. Originally purchased for $40,000 as a yearling, Run Away Rojo has earned over $300,000 in his career. His recent form shows consistent improvement under the Asmussen barn, and the father-son training-riding combination provides tactical advantages.
Highest Memories
Tim Eggleston saddles this 5-year-old Santiva gelding fresh off a spectacular victory in the $100,000 Empire Handicap on September 10. Owned by 514 Racing LLC and ridden by Andres Ulloa, Highest Memories scored at 20-1 odds, powering through traffic to win by 1 1/4 lengths. The victory marked his second consecutive Empire Handicap triumph and seventh career win. With over $250,000 in career earnings, the gelding has shown remarkable improvement since joining the Eggleston barn, winning two of six starts in 2025. His tactical speed and ability to navigate traffic, combined with Ulloa’s riding partnership, make him a formidable competitor. The gelding’s recent form line shows consistent efforts at this distance, with victories at 1 1/16 miles and 1 mile 70 yards.
Hoosier Daddy Now
John Langemeier trains this 4-year-old Charming Kitten gelding who earned the distinction of Indiana-Sired Claiming Gelding champion. Owned by Stuart Kendall, Hoosier Daddy Now upset the $100,000 Snack Handicap on Indiana Derby Day, demonstrating his ability to perform on big occasions. The gelding finished second to Highest Memories in the recent Empire Handicap, showing he belongs in elite company. Marcelino Pedroza Jr. takes the mount, and their partnership has produced strong efforts including a recent victory over open company that paid $14.80. The gelding’s breeding by Elizabeth Kuhn and Elise Kendall reflects solid Indiana bloodlines, and his improvement pattern suggests continued development.
Kingsbury Road
Robert Gorham conditions this 4-year-old Unbridled Express gelding who carries top weight of 126 pounds with Luis Contreras aboard. With career earnings of $138,225, Kingsbury Road captured the 2024 ITOBA Stallion Season Handicap, demonstrating his ability in restricted stakes company. The gelding finished third in the recent Empire Handicap behind Highest Memories and Hoosier Daddy Now, showing he can compete with the division’s best. Gorham’s training record includes multiple stakes winners, and the gelding represents solid value given his proven class. His recent form shows consistency at this distance, and the return to restricted company could benefit his chances.
Secondary Choices Analysis
C.J.’s Storm
John Haran saddles this 5-year-old Indiana-bred gelding who captured the William Henry Harrison Handicap earlier in 2025. Alberto Burgos takes the mount on this stakes winner who seeks his second career victory at the highest level. The gelding’s breeding and tactical speed make him a threat in a competitive handicap field, particularly with Haran’s expertise in preparing stakes horses.
Follow the Money
Randy Klopp’s 6-year-old gelding brings extensive experience with Fernando De La Cruz riding. The partnership between Klopp and Roger Spiess has dominated Indiana racing, winning consecutive leading owner titles. Their success with older geldings in stakes competition provides confidence in this runner’s chances.
Chocolate Moose
Also from the Klopp barn with Samuel Bermudez aboard, this 4-year-old gelding represents another strong entry from the leading partnership. The dual Klopp entry creates tactical opportunities and demonstrates the stable’s depth in stakes competition.
Longshot Considerations
Takeitandrun
Tim Eggleston’s second entry with Luis Saez riding presents intriguing value at 124 pounds. The trainer’s success with Highest Memories demonstrates his current form with Indiana-bred stock, and Saez brings major stakes experience to the partnership.
King Ice
Genaro Garcia trains this 5-year-old with Emmanuel Esquivel aboard. Garcia captured his fifth leading trainer title at Horseshoe Indianapolis in 2024, earning over $1.7 million and setting track records. This gelding could provide value in exotic wagers.
Chicory Blaze
Robert Dobbs Jr. conditions this 3-year-old gelding with Rodney Prescott riding. The gelding finished second to Run Away Rojo in the Bucchero Handicap, demonstrating ability to compete with top-level horses. The weight advantage and proven class make him an intriguing longshot.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears favorable for tactical horses, with several geldings likely to show early speed. Run Away Rojo has demonstrated effective late-closing ability, while Highest Memories possesses the tactical speed to secure good position. The 1 1/16-mile distance allows horses to develop their moves gradually, favoring those with sustained stamina. The Klopp dual entry provides pace flexibility, while the Eggleston duo creates interesting tactical scenarios with different running styles represented.
Key Angles
The trainer angles strongly favor proven stakes conditioners including Asmussen, Eggleston, and Klopp, all of whom have demonstrated success with Indiana-bred horses at this level. The recent form angle heavily favors Highest Memories and Run Away Rojo, both coming off impressive stakes victories. The jockey factor includes elite riders like Luis Saez, Fernando De La Cruz, and Keith Asmussen, providing tactical advantages. The breeding patterns emphasize proven Indiana sire lines and successful local bloodstock programs.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Selection: Highest Memories offers the strongest combination of current form, proven ability at this distance, and tactical speed coming off his impressive Empire Handicap victory.
Place/Show: Run Away Rojo represents excellent value given his recent Bucchero Handicap triumph and the proven Asmussen father-son combination.
Exacta Plays: Box Highest Memories and Run Away Rojo with Hoosier Daddy Now for the most logical finish scenarios based on recent form.
Trifecta: Include Kingsbury Road and C.J.’s Storm as potential third-place finishers, given their proven stakes ability and competitive connections.
Longshot Value: Takeitandrun from the hot Eggleston barn with Luis Saez represents significant value, while Chicory Blaze could provide upset potential given his runner-up effort to Run Away Rojo.
Race 10 – Circle City Stakes
The Circle City Stakes represents the premier contest for Indiana-bred 2-year-olds at Horseshoe Indianapolis, featuring a $100,000 purse at 6 furlongs on dirt. With 27 nominations closed on September 17, 2025, this race showcases the best juvenile talent bred in the Hoosier State. The race conditions strongly favor colts and geldings over fillies, with weight assignments based on previous wins and a scale of 122 pounds for multiple winners down to 118 pounds for non-winners. The 2024 winner Jazzole, a Mitole colt, established this as a meaningful stakes race for Indiana-bred juveniles.
Key Contenders Analysis
Geole
Steven Asmussen conditions this 2-year-old Mitole colt, the full brother to 2024 Circle City Stakes winner Jazzole. Erik Asmussen takes the mount on this promising colt who carries 120 pounds. Bred by Deann Baer and Greg Baer DVM out of Kisses From Kate, Geole shares identical breeding with the defending champion, creating a compelling repeat angle. The colt has one win from three starts and demonstrated his class in his most recent victory, where he “vied in the two path, dueled late and prevailed under a steady drive” against Basil. The Asmussen father-son training-riding combination provides tactical advantages, particularly given their success with Mitole offspring. The fact that both full brothers competed in this same race with Jazzole winning creates a powerful storyline and breeding angle.
Q’s Topnotch
Genaro Garcia saddles this 2-year-old Qurbaan gelding who carries the highest weight assignment at 122 pounds, indicating multiple victories. Marcelino Pedroza Jr. rides this gelding who demonstrated impressive ability with a dominant 6 1/2-length victory over Longstrider at Horseshoe Indianapolis in July. However, his most recent effort at Prairie Meadows was disappointing, where he “lost action entering the turn and dropped back” in the Prairie Meadows Freshman Stakes. Garcia captured his fifth leading trainer title at Horseshoe Indianapolis in 2024, setting track records with over $1.7 million in earnings. The trainer’s dominance at this track and the gelding’s proven ability when sharp make him a major threat despite the high weight and poor last race.
Unbridled Intent
Robert Gorham trains this 2-year-old homebred gelding who carries 120 pounds with Mitchell Murrill aboard. Bred and owned by Robert Gorham, this Unbridled Express colt represents the trainer’s successful breeding operation. The gelding has shown competitive form in Indiana-bred company and finished ahead of Troubleonthegreen in their August 27 encounter. Gorham’s hands-on approach with his homebred stock and proven success at Horseshoe Indianapolis make this gelding a contender despite lesser credentials than the top choices.
Secondary Choices Analysis
Young Angus
Randy Matthews conditions this promising gelding who has been described as having “stakes in his future”. Joseph Ramos takes the mount on this colt who demonstrated ability by defeating Troubleonthegreen in previous competition. The trainer’s reputation and the positive comments about the gelding’s potential suggest he could outrun his odds in this competitive field.
Troubleonthegreen
Anthony Granitz trains this 2-year-old World of Trouble gelding with Fernando De La Cruz riding. The gelding has shown improvement with multiple victories, including wins over Speedy Spirit and other juveniles. De La Cruz brings proven stakes-riding experience to this partnership, and the World of Trouble sire line has produced effective juveniles.
Unattainable Love
Anthony Cunningham conditions this gelding carrying 120 pounds with Rodney Prescott aboard. The higher weight suggests multiple victories, and the connections represent competent training and riding combinations for this stakes assignment.
Longshot Considerations
Socorro’s Prayer
John Haran trains this 2-year-old colt with Alberto Burgos riding at the minimum weight of 118 pounds. Haran’s success with stakes horses and the significant weight advantage create potential value in exotic wagers.
Basil
Pavel Matejka conditions this gelding with Sophie Doyle aboard, carrying 118 pounds. The gelding finished second to Geole in their previous encounter, demonstrating competitive ability against the favorite.
Most Amazing
Michael Lauer trains this gelding with Jose Gutierrez riding at 118 pounds. The trainer’s proven success and the minimum weight assignment could provide value opportunities.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears favorable for tactical horses, with several colts likely to show early speed given their breeding patterns. Q’s Topnotch demonstrated gate speed in his dominant victory, while Geole has shown the ability to press the pace and sustain his effort. The 6-furlong distance favors horses with natural speed and the ability to maintain their momentum through the final furlong. The combination of inexperienced 2-year-olds and competitive spirits should create an honest pace that sets up closing opportunities.
Key Angles
The breeding angle strongly favors Geole as the full brother to the defending champion, with identical Mitole bloodlines proving effective in this specific race. The trainer angles favor proven stakes conditioners including Steven Asmussen and Genaro Garcia, both of whom have demonstrated success with juvenile stakes horses. The track bias at Horseshoe Indianapolis tends to favor tactical speed, which suits both Q’s Topnotch and Geole. The jockey factor includes experienced riders like De La Cruz, Pedroza Jr., and Erik Asmussen, providing tactical advantages in a competitive field.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Selection: Geole represents the strongest combination of breeding, connections, and proven ability, particularly given his full-brother relationship to the 2024 winner and recent victory over quality competition.
Place/Show: Q’s Topnotch offers solid value despite his poor last race, given his dominant local victory and Garcia’s training expertise at this track.
Exacta Plays: Box Geole and Q’s Topnotch with Unbridled Intent for the most logical finish scenarios based on form and connections.
Trifecta: Include Young Angus and Troubleonthegreen as potential third-place finishers, given their proven competitive ability and positive trainer comments.
Longshot Value: Socorro’s Prayer with the minimum weight and proven trainer John Haran represents potential value in exotic wagers, while Basil offers rematch appeal against Geole.
Horseshoe Indianapolis Race 11 Analysis – Back Home Again Stakes
Horseshoe Indianapolis Race 11 Analysis – Back Home Again Stakes
The Back Home Again Stakes stands as the premier contest for Indiana-bred 2-year-old fillies at Horseshoe Indianapolis, featuring a $100,000 purse at 6 furlongs on dirt. Named after Indiana’s state song, this prestigious race drew 29 nominations and showcases the finest juvenile fillies bred in the Hoosier State. The weight scale ranges from 122 pounds for multiple winners down to 118 pounds for fillies yet to win outside of claiming company, creating a competitive field with proven performers carrying the highest imposts.
Key Contenders Analysis
Spirited Justice
Tomas Medina conditions this standout 2-year-old Lantana Mob filly who carries the highest weight at 122 pounds, indicating multiple victories. Owned by Justice Farm and ridden by Luis Contreras, Spirited Justice brings exceptional current form to this assignment. She captured her most recent start on July 31 as the 8/11 favorite, demonstrating her class with a front-running victory at this track. Her breeding combines the speed of Lantana Mob with the quality of She Fox, an Into Mischief mare, creating a potent combination for juvenile competition. The filly finished second in her previous start on July 2, showing consistency at the highest level. Medina’s success at Horseshoe Indianapolis and the proven partnership with Contreras make her the horse to beat despite the high weight burden.
Eltinge
John Langemeier saddles this promising 2-year-old Unbridled Express filly out of Amberly Village (by Flatter) carrying 120 pounds with Marcelino Pedroza Jr. aboard. Owned and bred by Spooky Hollow Racing (Langemeier’s operation), Eltinge captured her breakthrough victory on September 17 as the 2/5 favorite, demonstrating significant improvement from her runner-up effort. She finished a strong second to Sahara Hottie on August 27, showing she belongs with this caliber of competition. The filly’s breeding combines the proven Indiana sire Unbridled Express with quality East Coast bloodlines through Flatter, suggesting she could continue improving as distances stretch. Langemeier’s hands-on approach with his homebred stock and recent training success make this filly a serious threat.
Sahara Hottie
Robert Gorham trains this 2-year-old Sahara Sky filly who carries 120 pounds with Fernando De La Cruz riding. This dark bay filly defeated Eltinge on August 27 in impressive fashion, establishing herself as a top-tier Indiana-bred juvenile. The Sahara Sky sire line has proven effective with early-developing fillies, and her victory over quality competition demonstrates her class credentials. De La Cruz brings proven stakes-riding experience, having finished as the co-leading jockey at Horseshoe Indianapolis in 2024. The combination of proven ability and tactical riding makes her a formidable opponent.
Starry Eye Justice
Randy Klopp conditions this 2-year-old filly sired by Harry’s Holiday, carrying 120 pounds with Joseph Ramos aboard. Owned by the successful partnership of Spiess Stable and Randy Klopp, this filly represents the leading owner-trainer combination at Horseshoe Indianapolis. The Harry’s Holiday sire line has produced multiple stakes winners including Hard Luck Justice and Holy Justice, suggesting this filly has inherited quality bloodlines. Klopp’s partnership with Roger Spiess earned consecutive leading owner titles, demonstrating their success with Indiana-bred stock. Ramos captured the leading jockey title with 109 wins, providing tactical advantages in competitive stakes company.
Secondary Choices Analysis
Kaboom
Michael Lauer trains this 2-year-old Tapiture filly out of Imallaboutthatbass, carrying 120 pounds with Jaime Torres riding. Bred by Michael and Penny Lauer, this filly represents a successful breeding operation that has dominated Indiana-bred stakes competition. The Lauers won three of four state-bred stakes in a single evening, demonstrating their expertise with local bloodstock. Kaboom’s recent maiden victory establishes her as a competitive member of this field. The Tapiture sire line has proven effective with juvenile fillies, particularly those showing early speed.
Red Iolla
Jonathan Nance conditions this 2-year-old filly carrying 120 pounds with Rodney Prescott aboard. The higher weight assignment suggests a previous victory, and the trainer-jockey combination represents competent connections for this stakes assignment.
Diva Las Vegas
Terry Burdess trains this filly with Alvin Ortiz riding at 120 pounds. The weight assignment indicates proven ability, and the connections suggest this filly has earned her place in stakes company.
Longshot Considerations
Prayer Unbridled
Terry Phillips conditions this filly carrying the minimum weight of 118 pounds with Alex Achard aboard. The significant weight advantage could prove crucial in a competitive field, and the trainer may have found improvement since her last start.
Dreaming Bonita
Joseph Davis trains this filly with Samuel Bermudez riding at 118 pounds. The minimum weight assignment and proven jockey provide potential value in exotic wagering scenarios.
Party in the Club
Devarus Douglass conditions this filly with Mitchell Murrill aboard at 118 pounds. The weight advantage and connections suggest she could outrun her odds in this competitive field.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears favorable for tactical fillies, with several horses likely to show early speed including Spirited Justice, who demonstrated front-running ability in her recent victory. Eltinge has shown the versatility to stalk the pace and finish strongly, while Sahara Hottie proved effective pressing the early leaders. The 6-furlong distance favors fillies with natural speed and the ability to sustain their effort through the stretch. The combination of inexperienced juveniles and competitive spirits should create an honest pace that rewards tactical speed.
Key Angles
The weight assignments heavily favor proven winners, with Spirited Justice carrying 122 pounds as the only multiple winner in the field. The trainer angles emphasize proven stakes conditioners including Medina, Klopp, and Langemeier, all of whom have demonstrated success with Indiana-bred juveniles. The breeding patterns favor proven Indiana sire lines including Lantana Mob, Unbridled Express, and Harry’s Holiday. The Justice Farm connection appears throughout the field, suggesting a strong breeding program focused on quality juveniles.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Selection: Spirited Justice represents the strongest combination of proven ability, current form, and class despite the high weight assignment, coming off an impressive favorite’s victory.
Place/Show: Eltinge offers excellent value given her recent breakthrough victory and proven ability against this caliber of competition.
Exacta Plays: Box Spirited Justice with Eltinge and Sahara Hottie for the most logical finish scenarios based on recent form and competitive connections.
Trifecta: Include Starry Eye Justice and Kaboom as potential third-place finishers, given their breeding and proven trainer success with Indiana-bred fillies.
Longshot Value: Prayer Unbridled at 118 pounds represents significant value given the weight advantage, while Party in the Club could provide upset potential from the improving Douglass barn.
Jockey Notes and Insights
Francisco De La Cruz commands significant attention today with multiple mounts for trainer Brad Cox, including Leslie’s Time in Race 2 and Four Top in Race 6. De La Cruz’s partnership with Cox has proven successful throughout the Horseshoe Indianapolis meet.
Luis Contreras brings veteran experience to his mounts, particularly in the stakes races where his tactical riding style often proves decisive in competitive fields.
Edgar Asmussen represents the rising generation of the famous Asmussen racing family, with his mount Geole in the Circle City Stakes offering both value and proven stakes experience.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Brad Cox operates multiple horses on today’s card, with his runners consistently showing class and preparation advantages in competitive spots. Cox’s success rate at the allowance and stakes level makes his entries automatic considerations.
Steve Asmussen brings his Hall of Fame credentials to the Circle City Stakes with Geole, offering both the training expertise and jockey booking to compete at the highest level.
Mike Maker has established strong form at Horseshoe Indianapolis, particularly in allowance company where his tactical approach often produces value winners.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
Daily Double Strategy: Connect Leslie’s Time in Race 2 with logical contenders in Race 3 to start the Pick 3 and Pick 4 sequences effectively.
Stakes Betting Value: The To Much Coffee Handicap offers excellent exotic betting opportunities with its 16-horse field, creating potential for significant trifecta and superfecta payouts when connecting the right longshots.
Pick 4 Value Play: Focus on Brad Cox runners throughout the card while incorporating Steve Asmussen’s Circle City Stakes contender for sequence plays.
Exacta Strategies: Target races with clear pace scenarios, particularly in the maiden events where late-running horses can provide value underneath speed types.
Summary of Previous Day’s Racing
Racing action concluded Monday evening at Horseshoe Indianapolis with competitive fields and solid handle. The track maintained its fast surface throughout the card, with several maiden graduates earning their first career victories. Trainer Brad Cox continued his strong form at the meet with multiple winners, while the jockey colony remained competitive with Francisco De La Cruz and Luis Contreras leading the standings.
