Saratoga Race Course News for Saturday, July 26, 2025
Overview and Feature Stakes Events
Today’s program at Saratoga Race Course promises a marquee afternoon, anchored by two major graded stakes: the Grade II Jim Dandy, an important midsummer classic for three-year-olds, and the Grade III Lake George for top three-year-old turf fillies. Both races attract national attention and set the stage for future stars targeting the Travers and other late-season features. Expect sizable crowds, lively betting pools, and strong participation from leading trainers and jockeys.
Weather and Track Conditions
Forecasts call for warm summer weather with temperatures in the mid-80s. While scattered clouds are possible, there is currently no significant threat of rain, ensuring both the main track and turf course remain in excellent condition. Expect fast dirt and firm turf, which should be conducive to fair racing throughout the card.
Trainer and Jockey Notes
With two graded events and deep undercard races, all major barns are live on today’s card. Todd Pletcher and Chad Brown are well-represented in stakes races and continue to ship in elite talent. Jockeys Irad Ortiz Jr., Jose Ortiz, and Flavien Prat hold numerous live mounts, especially in afternoon feature races. Several new faces from the mid-Atlantic and Kentucky circuits are present, taking advantage of Saratoga’s visibility. Connections will be hoping to secure a valuable victory on one of the season’s signature weekends.
Race-by-Race Analysis and Picks
The card is highlighted by deep fields, especially in the two main stakes. Several allowance and maiden races provide intriguing betting opportunities and showcase up-and-coming horses.
Race 1: Maiden Special Weight (2YO Fillies, 6 Furlongs Dirt)
The opener introduces a crop of promising two-year-old fillies, many making first starts. Watch for well-bred runners from top barns, particularly those from the Pletcher and Asmussen pipelines. Picks: First-time starter from Pletcher’s barn, followed closely by any filly showing sharp morning drills.
Race 2: Allowance Optional Claiming (3YO&UP, 1 Mile Turf)
A tough allowance group assembles, with a mix of established turf runners and allowance-level claimers. Chad Brown’s turf entries generally attract heavy play, especially under the Ortiz brothers. Picks: Brown-trained runner to win, with a live longshot exacta involving a horse with strong local turf experience.
Race 3: Claiming (3YO Up, 7 Furlongs Dirt)
This competitive sprint features veteran claimers cycling into peak form. Speed has held advantage in the meet’s early dirt sprints. Picks: Early speed types; consider older horses dropping in class off a sharp last effort.
Race 4: Maiden Special Weight (2YO Colts, 5½ Furlongs Turf)
Juvenile colts line up for their turf debut. Watch for Wesley Ward’s starters, always dangerous on grass. Monitoring the tote for live money is advised. Picks: Ward-trainee for win consideration; second pick is the top local barn’s best-bred entry.
Race 5: Allowance (3YO, 1 1/8 Mile Dirt)
Several runners have graded stakes experience or close finishes at this level. Horses on the stretch-out from sprint distances tend to fare well. Picks: Horses with prior route experience; logical contenders from Pletcher or Mott stables.
Race 6: Grade III Lake George Stakes (3YO Fillies, 1 Mile Turf)
The first graded feature draws a talented field of sophomore turf fillies. Turf specialist trainers like Chad Brown and Christophe Clement appear well-positioned. Expect a contentious race with several graded stakes-placed fillies. Picks: Brown-trained filly for win, with Clement’s runner and a stalking type for exotics.
Race 7: Starter Allowance (3YO Up, 1 1/16 Mile Dirt)
A well-matched allowance affair favoring horses showing tactical speed and recent local success. Picks: Horse with best local dirt form; proven Saratoga runners generally receive preference.
Race 8: Grade II Jim Dandy Stakes (3YO, 1 1/8 Mile Dirt)
The day’s co-feature showcases sophomore stars prepping for the Travers. The likely field includes top finishers from the Triple Crown and other major spring races. Connections hope to use the Jim Dandy as a springboard into late-summer classics. Picks: Horse exiting a credible run in the Belmont is favored; monitor trainer/jockey combinations with stakes pedigree.
Race 9: Allowance Optional Claiming (3YO Up, 1 Mile Turf)
Turf specialists and recent claimers vie in a wide-open heat. Thorough handicapping of trips and pace scenarios is crucial. Picks: Horse with proven closing kick; look for those racing second time off a layoff.
Race 10: Maiden Special Weight (3YO Up, 1 1/8 Mile Dirt)
The finale offers a classic Saratoga maiden test over a distance of ground. Horses with improving speed figures, sharp drills, or strong sibling form are logical merits. Picks: Pletcher- or Brown-trained runner based on pedigree, plus a longer-priced horse with prior experience at the trip.
Special Events and On-Track Activities
In addition to top-tier racing, today’s program features events benefiting the broader Saratoga community, including PDJF Day (Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund), where fans and connections support injured riders through special promotions and charitable collections on site. Expect a festive yet meaningful atmosphere throughout the grandstand and clubhouse.
Key Takeaways for Bettors and Fans
Today’s Saratoga card presents a blend of elite stakes action and deep undercard fields. Watch for evolving track biases based on early races. Hold ticket combinations featuring runners from Saratoga’s top training and riding combinations, especially in the graded features. Warm, dry weather is set to provide optimal conditions for both competitors and fans, ensuring another memorable day in the heart of the Spa’s iconic summer meet.
