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Del Mar Racetrack – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the August 16, 2026 card

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Del Mar Race Day Overview — Sunday, August 16, 2026

Sunday's card at Del Mar arrives on the heels of a productive Saratoga weekend that saw Survie capture the GI Christophe Clement Stakes and Englishman confirmed as a target for the H. Allen Jerkens. The action now shifts to the Pacific, where the seaside oval serves up a 13-race Sunday program headlined by the Grade 3 Rancho Bernardo Handicap in Race 5. The card spans both turf and dirt surfaces, with a heavy mix of maiden, claiming, and optional claiming company spread across the afternoon and evening.

Today's feature, the Rancho Bernardo Handicap, is carded at 1 3/8 miles on the main track and offers $100,000 in purse money. It draws a small but competitive six-horse field anchored by a pair of John Sadler trainees and the Richard Baltas barn, each sending out two runners. The undercard offers several sharp opportunities in the optional claiming division on both turf and dirt, and the maiden ranks provide a pair of contentious puzzles to open the card.

The Fair Hill betting coup story that emerged this week — involving Angel Quiroz-linked runners creating a six-figure betting coup in the UK — casts an interesting shadow over any barn with California connections to the mid-Atlantic corridor, though no direct link to today's Del Mar runners has been established. Separately, the NTL/Forbes controversy involving Randall Lane has no bearing on today's wagering action.

Race 1

Post time for Race 1 is 5:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM PT.

Weather and Track Conditions

Del Mar in mid-August operates under the marine layer influence that characterizes Southern California's coast during summer. Typical conditions for Sunday, August 16 call for morning overcast that burns off by early afternoon, with high temperatures in the low-to-mid 70s Fahrenheit and a steady westerly ocean breeze. No significant precipitation is expected, which keeps both the main track and the Jimmy Durante Turf Course in top shape.

The main track at Del Mar is rated fast and is expected to remain so throughout the card. The turf course is firm, which is standard for this time of year and favors horses that prefer a consistent, true-running surface rather than soft ground specialists. Humidity will be moderate, and the ocean breeze picks up in the afternoon, which can affect pace dynamics slightly — notably in the stretch run when horses are coming toward the stands.

The Del Mar main track has historically played fair in recent years, with no dramatic surface maintenance issues noted. The turf course at Del Mar is noted for its true-running nature on firm footing, which rewards horses with genuine class and turf ability rather than those benefitting from soft ground.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

Del Mar's main track in summer tends to be a speed-favoring surface, particularly at sprint distances. The one-turn sprints at 6.5 furlongs (1100f converted to furlongs is approximately 5.5 furlongs) and similar distances have historically rewarded horses that can secure a forward position in the early going. At route distances on the dirt, the bias flattens out considerably, and closers get a fairer shot, though early position on the rail heading into the first turn is still advantageous.

On the turf course at Del Mar, the rail is generally not a significant disadvantage at this time of year when the course is firm. The Jimmy Durante Turf Course runs with the rail out, and horses in the four through seven posts tend to get the best of things at sprint distances. At route distances on the turf, the bias is negligible, and the race shapes up as the primary determinant of outcome.

Post position tendencies for today's card: In the turf sprints (Races 4 and 9), middle posts should be advantaged. In the two-turn turf routes (Races 1 and 7), outside posts are less punishing given the open layout, but a clean break is essential to avoid early traffic. On the dirt, front-runners and pace-pressers remain favored in the sprints.

RACE 1 — Post 5:00 PM PT — 1870f | Turf | Starter | Maiden Special Weight | BUN | Purse $80,000

This is a maiden special weight event restricted by a starter qualification condition, run at approximately 9.5 furlongs on the Del Mar turf. Six horses are entered, presenting a manageable field for handicappers. The distance slightly favors horses with stamina and tactical versatility, as the pace on the grass at this trip tends to be honest enough to expose pure speed without staying power.

Pace Analysis

With six runners, this figures to be a moderate-pace affair. Royal Rumor (1) from the Carla Gaines barn is likely to press or stalk early. Bull Shoals (4) is the morning line favorite and will dictate how the pace scenario unfolds based on his tactical style. Going Nowhere (5) from the Ryan Hanson stable has a name that belies its competitive chance and will likely be positioned mid-pack. Expect a measured early pace on turf at this trip, which sets up for a closers' race if the front end dawdles.

Key Contenders

Bull Shoals (4) is the 1-1 morning line favorite trained by Jena M. Antonucci and ridden by Jose E. Morelos. Antonucci is a sharp conditioner when presenting horses in maiden special weight grass routes, and the heavy favoritism here reflects some underlying confidence in this runner's preparation and works. At a distance of nearly 10 furlongs on the turf, a horse needs to demonstrate genuine stamina, and Bull Shoals (4) presumably has the pedigree and training pattern to match. The Antonucci-Morelos combination is a live one when they show up at these odds.

Royal Rumor (1) from Carla Gaines is listed at 3-1 and draws the rail in a turf route, which at Del Mar is not a severe disadvantage given the configuration of the Jimmy Durante course at this trip. Gaines is a competent grass conditioner with a solid record placing maiden runners on the Del Mar turf. Jockey Edwin Jaramillo has been active and in good form at this meet. This horse shapes up as the main price threat to the favorite, and handicappers should take the 3-1 seriously.

Secondary Choices

Big Vengeance (3) at 5-1 from Antonio C. Garcia's barn with Victor Espinoza up is a logical secondary choice. Espinoza's veteran presence on the turf is always worth noting — he knows the Del Mar turf intimately and manages pace masterfully at routes. Garcia's barn has shown the ability to produce ready-to-run maiden turf horses, and Big Vengeance (3) is live at a fair price.

Going Nowhere (5) at 4-1 from Ryan Hanson's barn with Armando Ayuso in the irons is another contender. Ayuso has been riding frequently on this circuit and provides decent value in the 4-1 range for a horse that Hanson appears to have readied for this spot.

Longshots

Doing Time (2) at 8-1, trained by Felix Rondan and ridden by Abel Lezcano, is an honest longshot. Rondan is a journeyman trainer with a limited but not hopeless record in maiden grass routes. At 8-1, there is some interest, but the public will likely keep this one from being a true overlay.

Chalky's Gold (6) at 12-1 from Leonard Powell's barn with Cesar Belmont up is the longest shot on the board here. Powell does not have a standout record in turf maiden routes, and at 12-1 the win potential is limited, though this horse can be used as a long-odds filler in exotic tickets if the price is right.

Betting Strategy

This race sets up as a win bet on Royal Rumor (1) at 3-1 with Bull Shoals (4) underneath in the exacta. The 1-1 on the favorite is too short for a maiden turf route. A small exacta wheel — Royal Rumor (1) over Bull Shoals (4) and Big Vengeance (3) — represents the best value structure. Include Bull Shoals (4) on top for safety.

Selections

Win: Royal Rumor (1) Place: Bull Shoals (4) Show: Big Vengeance (3)

RACE 2 — Post 5:29 PM PT — 1210f | Dirt | Claiming | Claiming $16,000 n3L | BUM | Purse $31,000

A full eight-horse field in a 6-furlong claiming sprint on the main track, restricted to horses that have not won three lifetime. This is standard mid-level claiming fare, and the trainer-jockey combinations and recency of form are the primary analytical tools in this spot.

Pace Analysis

With eight horses in a 6-furlong dirt sprint, the pace should be honest and perhaps fast early. Pretty Cecy (4) at 2-1 will likely be forwardly placed. Jasmina (7) at 3-1 from the same barn — Victor L. Garcia — means the trainer is dual-entered, which often signals a tactical play from the connections. The presence of two Garcia runners could impact pace: one might be used to soften things up for the other. Running Super (6) from Vladimir Cerin is a potential pace factor as well. The pace here sets up as moderate-to-quick, and a closer could have a chance if the front runners hook up early.

Key Contenders

Jasmina (7) at 3-1, also from Victor L. Garcia's barn with Kyle Frey riding, shapes up as the sharper of Garcia's two entries here. When a trainer enters two horses in the same claiming race, the one that attracts the better jockey or gets slightly lower morning line odds often reveals the stable's preference, and Jasmina (7) at 3-1 with Frey looks like the preferred Garcia runner on the morning line. At this class level, a horse from an active, winning barn with a capable rider should be respected.

Pretty Cecy (4) at 2-1 is the morning line favorite from the same Garcia barn with Tiago Pereira riding. The 2-1 morning line makes this horse the public choice, and Garcia clearly believes in both runners. Pretty Cecy (4) likely offers more speed and early position than Jasmina (7), and at a 6-furlong trip, breaking alertly and securing good position early is critical. Both Garcia runners need to be on any legitimate ticket.

Secondary Choices

Chasing Kat (5) at 5-1 from George Papaprodromou with Roxane Liegeois aboard is a live secondary choice. Papaprodromou is one of the more active conditioners on the Southern California circuit and has solid numbers in claiming races. Liegeois is an emerging rider at this circuit and has been getting opportunities from capable barns.

Running Super (6) at 5-1 from Vladimir Cerin's barn with E. Maldonado riding is worth including in exotics. Cerin's barn can be effective at the claiming level with fresh and consistent horses, and 5-1 in this field is a fair price if the horse fires its best effort.

Longshots

Bear's Board (2) at 6-1 from Jorge Farias with Edwin Jaramillo up is the most interesting of the deeper prices. Farias is not a barn that generates a lot of noise, but at 6-1 with a capable rider, Bear's Board (2) deserves a spot in the exotics.

How Lovely (3) at 10-1 from Isidro Tamayo with Armando Aguilar has a lengthy price and limited expectations at 6 furlongs in this company. Tamayo's barn is workmanlike and occasionally springs an upset, but the 10-1 asks for a high degree of form reversal.

Lovely Medaglia (8) at 8-1 from D. Wayne Baker with Epifanio Garcia riding is a name worth noting. Baker can produce competitive runners in this class range, and 8-1 might be a slight overlay depending on recent form, but the outside post is a modest disadvantage in a sprint.

Stars Hollow (1) at 20-1 is an extreme longshot from Jerry Wallace's barn with Jose Bravo up. At 20-1 in a field this competitive, Stars Hollow (1) is a throwout for win purposes, though a $1 inclusion in large exacta or trifecta tickets costs little.

Betting Strategy

The Garcia barn dominating the morning line here suggests a stable that is confident. Bet Jasmina (7) to win at 3-1 and structure an exacta box of Jasmina (7) and Pretty Cecy (4), then include Chasing Kat (5) and Running Super (6) in the trifecta underneath those two. A small exacta partial wheel: Jasmina (7) / Pretty Cecy (4), Chasing Kat (5), Running Super (6) is the recommended structure.

Selections

Win: Jasmina (7) Place: Pretty Cecy (4) Show: Chasing Kat (5)

RACE 3 — Post 6:04 PM PT — 1320f | Dirt | Maiden Special Weight | AON | Purse $80,000

A full ten-horse field in a one-mile maiden special weight dirt event, restricted to all-other (AON) conditions. This is the deepest maiden field on the card and offers legitimate puzzle-solving opportunities. Michael W. McCarthy sends out the morning line favorite, and the large field creates significant trifecta and superfecta overlays.

Pace Analysis

Ten horses at a mile on the dirt will create a genuine pace scenario. Angel's Ember (1) from the inside post could be a pace factor. With Repo (7) at 2-1 likely tracking off a quality pace, the race shape appears to favor closers with one-turn mile ability. Empire Of Ash (2) and Little King (5) from the Papaprodromou barn — dual entries — could set a contested early pace. Is That You Wing (3) has sprinter-type name associations but its placement in this mile suggests tactical versatility. The pace should be honest and set up for a sustained rally.

Key Contenders

Repo (7) at 2-1, trained by Michael W. McCarthy and ridden by Umberto Rispoli, is the class of the field by morning line. McCarthy is one of the better trainers in Southern California with an excellent record in maiden dirt routes, and Rispoli is among the most accomplished turf riders on the West Coast but is equally adept on the main track. Repo (7) from post 7 should be able to find a comfortable trip just off the early pace. The 2-1 is not generous for a first-time starter or lightly-raced maiden, but McCarthy's barn getting this short means the horse has been very impressive in training.

Angel's Ember (1) at 4-1 from Antonio Garcia's barn with Juan J. Hernandez aboard is the main price threat. Garcia regularly spots maiden horses well at Del Mar, and Hernandez is riding at a high clip on this meet. The rail post in a one-turn mile on the dirt can be advantageous if the horse breaks cleanly.

Secondary Choices

Empire Of Ash (2) at 5-1 from Papaprodromou with Antonio Fresu up is a credible secondary choice. Papaprodromou sending in a second runner with Little King (5) at 6-1 means the barn is confident in at least one of them. Empire Of Ash (2) with the lower post and the slightly lower morning line odds of the two may be the intended runner.

Vern Gosdin (6) at 8-1 from Steve Knapp with Edwin Jaramillo riding carries some interest. Knapp also has Goodtimesntanlines (10) at 12-1 in this field — another dual entry. Vern Gosdin (6) as the slightly preferred of the two by odds is worth a look in the trifecta.

Longshots

Little King (5) at 6-1 is the second Papaprodromou entry with Jose Bravo up. Bravo is a veteran who gets the job done, and if the barn is using Empire Of Ash (2) to set pace, Little King (5) could be set up to benefit.

Is That You Wing (3) at 8-1 from Daniel Blacker with Armando Ayuso up is a reasonable price for a Blacker trainee. Blacker occasionally produces sharp firsters and first-time maidens.

Scam Alert (4) at 12-1 from Felix Rondan with Kyle Frey is a moderate longshot with possible trainer intent but significant market resistance.

Goodtimesntanlines (10) at 12-1 is Knapp's second entry. In the far outside post in a one-turn mile, this horse faces a wide trip and figures to need some luck to factor.

Cupid Cowboy (8) at 20-1 from Edwin Alvarez's barn with Abel Lezcano up is a stretch bet at best. Lezcano's presence helps slightly, but 20-1 in this field suggests limited expectations.

Olympian Thirst (9) at 20-1 from Adan Farias with Francisco Monroy up is similarly priced and unlikely to factor for win purposes, but a dollar in the superfecta costs nothing.

Betting Strategy

Repo (7) is the play to win, but the 2-1 calls for exacta structuring rather than a straight win bet at marginal value. The best bet here is an exacta: Repo (7) on top over Angel's Ember (1), Empire Of Ash (2), and Vern Gosdin (6). A trifecta key of Repo (7) on top with Angel's Ember (1) and Empire Of Ash (2) in the second and third spots, spread wide, makes sense.

Selections

Win: Repo (7) Place: Angel's Ember (1) Show: Empire Of Ash (2)

RACE 4 — Post 6:38 PM PT — 1100f | Turf | AO | Optional Claiming $20,000 n1X | BUN | Purse $81,000

An eight-horse optional claiming field at approximately 5.5 furlongs on the Del Mar turf. This is a competitive field in the optional claiming ranks, and the turf sprint at Del Mar at this distance is a sharp race type. Craig Dollase sends out the morning line second choice, while Luis Mendez has three runners in the same race.

Pace Analysis

In a turf sprint with multiple pace scenarios, the race shape becomes critical. Piper's Causeway (6) from Jesus Uranga with Edwin Jaramillo up could be a front-runner. Its A Cinch (1), Arkadelphia (2), and I'm A Bad Boy (4) — all from the Luis Mendez barn — create an interesting dynamic. Three entries from one barn in an 8-horse field means Mendez's runners could be positioned throughout the field, potentially setting up one of the three. Disko Tribute (3) at 3-1 and Scene By Me (5) at 4-1 are likely the intended main closers at this distance.

Key Contenders

Disko Tribute (3) at 3-1 from Craig Dollase's barn with Kazushi Kimura up is the logical top selection. Dollase has exceptional numbers on the Del Mar turf sprint, and this is his home track in every practical sense. Kimura has become one of the more reliable turf riders on the circuit, and a 3-1 morning line on a Dollase turf sprinter is a price worth respecting. Dollase's training patterns on the turf are meticulous, and Disko Tribute (3) in post 3 gets a clean path early.

Scene By Me (5) at 4-1 from Mark Glatt with Joel Rosario up is the premier secondary threat. Glatt is a consistent top trainer at Del Mar with excellent turf numbers, and Joel Rosario is one of the elite jockeys in North American racing regardless of circuit. Rosario-Glatt at 4-1 in a turf sprint is always live. Scene By Me (5) from post 5 should get an optimal tracking trip.

Secondary Choices

Hacking It Up (8) at 4-1 from Peter Miller with Antonio Fresu up is a strong secondary contender. Miller is arguably the best turf sprint trainer in Southern California history and consistently produces live runners in this exact race type. Hacking It Up (8) at 4-1 with Miller's record in optional claiming turf sprints is a legitimate overlay candidate. The outside post at a sprint distance can be a disadvantage, but Miller horses tend to overcome such inconveniences.

Piper's Causeway (6) at 5-1 from Jesus Uranga with Edwin Jaramillo up shapes up as a pace factor. Uranga's barn has had success with turf sprinters, and if Piper's Causeway (6) can get to the lead and control a moderate pace, this runner could be very tough on the front end.

Longshots

Its A Cinch (1) at 4-1 is Mendez's lowest-priced runner at morning line and gets the rail post. In a turf sprint, the rail can be golden if the horse breaks clean. Mendez's triple entry suggests the barn has scouts in every portion of the running order.

Arkadelphia (2) at 12-1 is the longest-shot of the Mendez trio and is likely the intended pacemaker or sacrificial entry to set up one of the other two.

I'm A Bad Boy (4) at 15-1 is Mendez's third runner and at this price is difficult to endorse for win play.

Kerry Gold (7) at 15-1 from Dan Azcarate with Kyle Frey up is a longshot with limited expectations at the price.

Betting Strategy

This race screams for a trifecta approach around Disko Tribute (3), Scene By Me (5), and Hacking It Up (8). The Dollase-Kimura combination deserves a small win bet at 3-1. The best exotic play is a trifecta: Disko Tribute (3), Scene By Me (5), Hacking It Up (8) in any order — a $1 box costs $6 and captures the three most logical finishers. Add Piper's Causeway (6) and Its A Cinch (1) as spreads in large tickets.

Selections

Win: Disko Tribute (3) Place: Scene By Me (5) Show: Hacking It Up (8)

RACE 5 — Post 7:10 PM PT — 1430f | Dirt | Grade 3 | Rancho Bernardo Handicap G3 | BUM | Purse $100,000

The featured race of the day. Six fillies and mares contest the Grade 3 Rancho Bernardo Handicap at 1 3/8 miles on the main track. This is a genuine test of stamina and class, and the field has a clear top layer with Thermal (1) and Sweet Azteca (5) sharing the 1-1 morning line favoritism. John Sadler saddles two runners — Thermal (1) and Catalina Cocktail (2) — while Richard Baltas also goes double with Sweet Azteca (5) and Sweet Gal Of Mine (6).

Pace Analysis

With two Sadler runners and two Baltas runners in a six-horse field at a demanding 1 3/8-mile trip, the pace scenario hinges on the tactical styles of the co-favorites. Catalina Cocktail (2) at 20-1 from Sadler with Edwin Jaramillo up looks like a potential rabbit, potentially sent to the lead to soften things up for Thermal (1). Similarly, Sweet Gal Of Mine (6) at 12-1 from Baltas with Mike Smith up could be used in a supporting role for Sweet Azteca (5). If both connections deploy their secondary runners aggressively early, the pace could get hot and set things up for a major late run. Antifona (3) from Vladimir Cerin with Kent Desormeaux up at 20-1 could also factor as a pace element.

Key Contenders

Thermal (1) at 1-1, trained by John Sadler and ridden by Joel Rosario, is a standout in this field. Rosario riding the Sadler ace in a Grade 3 on the main track at Del Mar is a potent combination. Sadler trains on this track as well as anyone in California, and his horses are typically at their peak fitness coming into handicap and stakes spots at the summer Del Mar meet. Thermal (1) from the rail post in a two-turn route on the dirt is not at a disadvantage — in fact, the rail in a nine-furlong-plus dirt route can be a significant advantage in saving ground. If the pace scenario plays into Rosario's hands with the secondary Sadler runner pressing early, Thermal (1) becomes a formidable proposition.

Sweet Azteca (5) at 1-1 from Richard Baltas with Juan J. Hernandez is Thermal (1)'s co-equal at morning line. Baltas is a sharp conditioner for fillies and mares, and Hernandez has ridden for this barn successfully. Sweet Azteca (5) from post 5 gives Hernandez options to put the horse wherever it needs to be in a small field.

Secondary Choices

Sweet Gal Of Mine (6) at 12-1 from Baltas with Mike Smith is technically a secondary entry, but Mike Smith on a Baltas filly at 12-1 in a Grade 3 deserves serious consideration. Smith does not ride secondary entries without believing in them, and his presence here suggests the horse is fit and ready.

Fire Ban (4) at 12-1 from Brian Koriner with Armando Ayuso up is an honest secondary longshot. Koriner's barn has limited stakes presence, but 12-1 in a six-horse field is attractive if the horse has any legitimate chance.

Longshots

Catalina Cocktail (2) at 20-1 and Antifona (3) at 20-1 are throwouts for win purposes. Both could be pace-setters used to benefit their stablemates, and neither is a realistic win play at this level. However, if either leads into the stretch and holds on for any kind of minor placing, the trifecta and superfecta payouts would be boosted significantly — worth a dollar inclusion in the third and fourth spots of superfecta tickets.

Betting Strategy

The co-favorite situation at 1-1 is unappealing for win bet value. The best play in the Rancho Bernardo is a trifecta: Thermal (1) and Sweet Azteca (5) on top, with Sweet Gal Of Mine (6) and Fire Ban (4) underneath. Alternatively, a straight exacta box of Thermal (1) and Sweet Azteca (5) is the high-probability but low-payout play. If forced to choose one co-favorite, Thermal (1) with Rosario and the rail post and Sadler's tactical options gets the edge. Play the exacta box of Thermal (1) / Sweet Azteca (5) and key both in trifecta with Sweet Gal Of Mine (6).

Selections

Win: Thermal (1) Place: Sweet Azteca (5) Show: Sweet Gal Of Mine (6)

RACE 6 — Post 7:43 PM PT — 1870f | Dirt | Maiden Claiming | Maiden $16,000 | BUN | Purse $27,000

A wide-open eleven-horse maiden claiming field at approximately 9.5 furlongs on the dirt. This is the most chaotic race on the card — a large field of maiden claimers at a route distance, with trainers ranging from Jeff Mullins down to journeymen. Joel Rosario rides My Man Joe Roldan (4), which stands out immediately given the rider's caliber in this company.

Pace Analysis

Eleven horses at a route distance in maiden claiming creates a chaotic early pace scenario. With multiple potential pace setters in this large field, the race could develop into a slow-pace affair if no one wants to lead, or conversely, a speed duel that collapses the front runners. Whynotanotherone (6) at 3-1 is the morning line favorite and figures to be positioned off the pace. Rapid Ascent (10) at 4-1 from Antonio Garcia could be a forward runner. King Of Success (2) and My Man Joe Roldan (4) are middle-order options in terms of pace.

Key Contenders

Whynotanotherone (6) at 3-1 from R.B. Hess Jr. with Armando Ayuso up is the morning line choice. Hess has a solid record in maiden claiming routes on the Southern California circuit, and 3-1 at this level means the barn has confidence. Ayuso aboard a Hess runner at a route distance is a reliable combination.

Rapid Ascent (10) at 4-1 from Antonio Garcia with Edwin Jaramillo up is the main threat to the favorite. Garcia consistently places horses well at Del Mar, and Jaramillo is riding in good form. Rapid Ascent (10) in the far outside post of an 11-horse maiden claiming field faces a wide trip, but a router that can settle back and come through traffic has chances.

Secondary Choices

My Man Joe Roldan (4) at 6-1 from Aggie Ordonez with Joel Rosario is the most intriguing secondary choice. The presence of Rosario on a 6-1 shot in a $16,000 maiden claiming race is a significant angle. Elite jockeys at this level signal either barn confidence or a past-post situation, and either way ROSARIO UP demands attention.

King Of Success (2) at 6-1 from Jeff Bonde with Tiago Pereira up is another legitimate contender. Bonde is a steady hand at the maiden claiming level and frequently has horses ready to win first or second off a layoff or in a new spot.

Low Tox (8) at 6-1 from Papaprodromou with Jeremy Laprida up is a price play in a wide-open field. Papaprodromou's barn continues to show up in multiple races today with live runners.

Longshots

Hoosick Falls (1) at 8-1 from Jeff Mullins with Kyle Frey is interesting. Mullins is too good a trainer to have his name in a $16,000 maiden claiming race without reason, and Frey is a capable rider. Worth a spot in trifecta tickets.

H Q Wilson (7) at 12-1 from Philip D'Amato with Kazushi Kimura up is notable for the quality of trainer. D'Amato and Kimura in a $16,000 maiden claimer on the dirt could be a situational spot for a horse that needs to break its maiden in this spot before graduating.

Cano For The Win (9) at 12-1 is the second Papaprodromou runner with Roxane Liegeois up. At 12-1, this is a secondary inclusion in larger tickets.

War Artist (3) at 20-1, Texas Wildcat (5) at 20-1, and Disillusioned (11) at 20-1 are all long prices with limited expectations and serve primarily as filler in superfecta bottom legs.

Betting Strategy

This race is better approached as an exotic investment than a win play. The wide-open nature makes the trifecta the primary vehicle. Key Whynotanotherone (6) and My Man Joe Roldan (4) on top, spread wide underneath. The Joel Rosario angle on My Man Joe Roldan (4) at 6-1 is the best win bet value on the card in this race.

Selections

Win: My Man Joe Roldan (4) Place: Whynotanotherone (6) Show: Rapid Ascent (10)

RACE 7 — Post 8:18 PM PT — 1760f | Turf | AO | Optional Claiming $50,000 n1X | BUM | Purse $81,000

A seven-horse optional claiming field at one mile on the Del Mar turf. This is a competitive field in the upper optional claiming tier, and it features several horses from prominent barns. Bob Baffert sends out Cipriani (4), while Peter Eurton, Philip D'Amato, and Doug O'Neill all have entrants.

Pace Analysis

Seven horses at a mile on the turf shapes up as a moderate-pace affair. Miso Phansy (2) and Yoga Master (5) from Leonard Powell's barn are dual entries, and the barn may use one to set pace for the other. Goodies (1) at 3-1 from Philip D'Amato's barn likely has a stalking style. Midnight Horizon (7) at 2-1 from Daniel Blacker is the morning line favorite and could be a closer in this field. Misleading (3) from Eurton with Mike Smith up figures as a pace-presser or stalker.

Key Contenders

Midnight Horizon (7) at 2-1 from Daniel Blacker with Umberto Rispoli is the morning line favorite. Rispoli is one of the best turf riders in the country and a particularly lethal weapon for Blacker at Del Mar. Blacker has become one of the go-to turf trainers on the Southern California circuit, and Midnight Horizon (7) in post 7 at a one-mile turf optional claiming level at 2-1 is well-positioned. The outside post in a seven-horse field at a mile on the turf is not a significant disadvantage with Rispoli in the saddle — he will find a way to get the horse into the race.

Goodies (1) at 3-1 from Philip D'Amato with Hector Isaac Berrios up is the main challenger. D'Amato's turf record at Del Mar is among the best on the circuit. Goodies (1) from the inside post at a mile on the turf gets a clean early position. Berrios has been an emerging rider on the circuit and gets a prime opportunity here.

Secondary Choices

Cipriani (4) at 4-1 from Bob Baffert with Juan J. Hernandez up is never to be ignored at any price. Baffert's barn, even at a lower optional claiming level, produces horses in peak condition when they show up at Del Mar. Cipriani (4) is the logical third horse in any exotic ticket, and at 4-1, there is legitimate value if this is a Baffert reclamation project aimed at breaking a maiden or getting a first win.

Misleading (3) at 6-1 from Peter Eurton with Mike Smith up is a fair-priced secondary choice. Eurton's turf record is respectable, and Smith is always dangerous on the grass at this trip.

Longshots

Miso Phansy (2) at 8-1 is the lower-odds Powell entry with Armando Ayuso up. In a dual Powell entry, this is the more interesting of the two by price if the barn is using Yoga Master (5) to set up Miso Phansy (2).

Yoga Master (5) at 8-1 with Joel Rosario up is fascinating — Rosario on what might be a secondary Powell entry at 8-1 is an angle. Rosario does not ride throwaway horses, and if Powell gave Rosario the live one, Yoga Master (5) is worth including in exotics.

Ima Joker (6) at 8-1 from Doug O'Neill with Jose Bravo up is a legitimate longshot play. O'Neill's barn wins regularly at Del Mar, and Bravo is a veteran who picks his spots.

Betting Strategy

Midnight Horizon (7) at 2-1 is the play, but the price is thin. The best approach is an exacta box of Midnight Horizon (7) and Goodies (1), with a trifecta adding Cipriani (4) in third. Include Yoga Master (5) as a price alternate in larger tickets.

Selections

Win: Midnight Horizon (7) Place: Goodies (1) Show: Cipriani (4)

RACE 8 — Post 8:49 PM PT — 1760f | Dirt | Claiming | Claiming $8,000 | BUN | Purse $25,000

An eleven-horse field in the lowest claiming level on the card — $8,000 claimers at one mile on the dirt. This race type is the hardest to handicap with precision, as horses at this level tend to be inconsistent and form cycles are difficult to read. The morning line is topped by Mongolian Max (1) at 2-1 and Leyas Candy (9) at 3-1.

Pace Analysis

Eleven cheap claimers at a mile on the dirt creates a chaotic pace scenario. Speed duels are common in this company, and the late closers often benefit. Mongolian Max (1) from the rail could be a forward runner. Cowboy Mike (8) at 4-1 from Tim Yakteen with Joel Rosario up is the key speed indicator — Yakteen's horses in $8,000 claiming sprints are typically sent from the front. Leyas Candy (9) from Andrew Harris with E. Maldonado is likely a stalker.

Key Contenders

Leyas Candy (9) at 3-1, trained by Andrew Harris with E. Maldonado up, is the morning line second choice and shapes up as the most professional-looking horse in the field. At this level, class and recent form are primary factors, and Leyas Candy (9) at 3-1 is presumably showing the best recent numbers.

Mongolian Max (1) at 2-1 from Steven Miyadi with Antonio Fresu up is the morning line favorite. Miyadi has a track record of presenting low-level claiming horses in peak condition, and Mongolian Max (1) at 2-1 from the rail in a route on the dirt gets every benefit.

Secondary Choices

Cowboy Mike (8) at 4-1 from Tim Yakteen with Joel Rosario up is the prime secondary angle. Yakteen is a trainer who wins with purpose, and Rosario at $8,000 claiming level means someone thinks this horse is the best animal in the race. This is the Rosario-angle horse for this race.

Cupid's Crusader (10) at 8-1 from Genaro Vallejo with Jose Bravo up is a secondary exotic play. Bravo's presence again in the exotics is worth noting.

Longshots

Big Juanito (2) at 8-1 from R.B. Hess with Abel Lezcano is an honest longshot.

Duran (11) at 12-1 from Isidro Tamayo with Kyle Frey up is worth a dollar in the trifecta.

Tariff (5) at 12-1, Cathal (3) at 12-1, and Smiling Jojo (6) at 12-1 are all in the same price tier and can serve as bottom-of-ticket filler in superfectas.

Shortman (7) at 20-1 and Levon (4) at 30-1 are throwout prices for win purposes.

Betting Strategy

Use Cowboy Mike (8) and Leyas Candy (9) in an exacta box, key Mongolian Max (1) underneath both in the trifecta. This is a race best played modestly — small trifecta investments and leaving significant capital for Races 9 and 10.

Selections

Win: Leyas Candy (9) Place: Mongolian Max (1) Show: Cowboy Mike (8)

RACE 9 — Post 9:19 PM PT — 1100f | Turf | AO | Optional Claiming $50,000 n1X | BUN | Purse $81,000

An eleven-horse optional claiming field at 5.5 furlongs on the Del Mar turf — one of the most competitive races on the card by quality. Multiple live barns represented, and the Neil Drysdale entry of Sir Rocket (10) with Umberto Rispoli is an immediate eye-catcher. Peter Miller sends out Nasty Habit (1), and Mark Glatt has Private Gem (2).

Pace Analysis

In a turf sprint with eleven horses, pace dynamics are everything. The inside posts will have the natural advantage to press or stalk in good position. Nasty Habit (1) from the rail with Hector Isaac Berrios could be a pace-setter. Del Mar Jerry (4) from Steven Miyadi with Antonio Fresu up at 6-1 is also a potential front-runner — the name alone suggests track familiarity. Gettinby (8) at 4-1 is the morning line co-favorite alongside Private Gem (2) at 6-1. The pace here will be honest given the number of horses and the sprint distance.

Key Contenders

Gettinby (8) at 4-1, trained by Sean Williams with Juan J. Hernandez up, is the morning line co-favorite and the primary selection. Williams is an emerging trainer who has been effective with turf sprint types, and Hernandez has been among the most active and effective riders on this circuit. Gettinby (8) from post 8 at a turf sprint distance has a manageable draw — not too far outside, with enough room to find a stalking trip.

Nasty Habit (1) at 5-1 from Peter Miller with Hector Isaac Berrios is the other key contender. Miller, as noted in Race 4 analysis, is the preeminent turf sprint conditioner in Southern California. Nasty Habit (1) at 5-1 from the rail in a turf sprint is a very live Miller runner, and Berrios has been effective for this barn in recent meetings.

Secondary Choices

Private Gem (2) at 6-1 from Mark Glatt with Julien Leparoux up is a major secondary player. Glatt's turf horses are always competitive, and Leparoux — a former leading rider at multiple tracks — is an excellent turf rider. Private Gem (2) at 6-1 is potentially the best price on the board in this race for the quality of connections.

Sir Rocket (10) at 6-1 from Neil Drysdale with Umberto Rispoli is the angle play of the race. Drysdale is one of the most accomplished trainers in the history of California racing, and while he no longer dominates the standings, when he shows up with a runner in a $50,000 optional claiming turf sprint and puts Rispoli on it, attention is mandatory. Sir Rocket (10) at 6-1 is a legitimate overlay candidate.

Del Mar Jerry (4) at 6-1 from Steven Miyadi with Antonio Fresu is another live runner in the secondary tier. Miyadi's horses tend to be forwardly positioned and fit.

Longshots

Dhitjari (6) at 8-1 from John Sadler with Joel Rosario up is worth noting. Rosario on a Sadler turf horse at any price is a live combination. At 8-1 in a field this competitive, Dhitjari (6) deserves a spot in the trifecta.

Gabaldon (9) at 10-1 from Jose Francisco D'Angelo with Edwin Jaramillo up is a price play. Jaramillo has been effective in turf sprints at this circuit and the D'Angelo barn can produce competitive horses.

Double Jab (5) at 12-1 from Andy Mathis with Armando Ayuso is a reasonable trifecta inclusion at double-digit odds.

Legal Heir (3) at 12-1 from Vann Belvoir with Kazushi Kimura is a modest longshot.

Bullwhacker (11) at 15-1 from Luis Mendez with E. Maldonado is a distant shot in an outside post in an eleven-horse turf sprint.

The Rabbi (7) at 20-1 from Ronald Ellis with Kyle Frey is a throwout for win purposes.

Betting Strategy

This is a race worth significant investment. Private Gem (2) at 6-1 and Sir Rocket (10) at 6-1 represent the two best value plays on the card. Gettinby (8) is the public play at 4-1, and Nasty Habit (1) from Miller is always live. A trifecta box of Private Gem (2), Sir Rocket (10), and Gettinby (8) at $1 costs $6 and represents legitimate value. Add Nasty Habit (1) and Dhitjari (6) as spreads in larger tickets.

Selections

Win: Private Gem (2) Place: Gettinby (8) Show: Sir Rocket (10)

RACE 10 — Post 9:49 PM PT — 1210f | Dirt | Maiden Claiming | Maiden $12,500 | BUM | Purse $23,000

The finale is a large thirteen-horse field in a maiden claiming sprint at 6 furlongs on the dirt. This is a classic “closer” race for the card — low-level maiden claimers with an army of horses that have not yet broken their maiden. The morning line shows Let It Begin (13) at 3-1 as the favorite, with Melba Montgomery (2) and Stylishly Big (9) at 4-1 as co-secondary choices.

Pace Analysis

Thirteen horses at six furlongs in maiden claiming produces a very full gate and almost certain early speed duel. Multiple speed horses will be competing for position early, which should set up the closers or horses with one tactical gear. Let It Begin (13) from the far outside post at 3-1 with Joel Rosario will have to navigate significant early traffic. Melba Montgomery (2) from Knapp's barn could be forwardly placed. Stylishly Big (9) from Sadler with Juan J. Hernandez will likely stalk.

Key Contenders

Let It Begin (13) at 3-1 from Ryan Hanson with Joel Rosario up is the heavy morning line favorite. The Rosario factor is once again the dominant angle — Rosario riding a 3-1 morning line favorite in the card's final race is the most public of all plays, but it is also the most reliable. Post 13 in a six-furlong sprint is a challenge, but Rosario will get the horse in a good spot with an early rush to position.

Stylishly Big (9) at 4-1 from John Sadler with Juan J. Hernandez carries strong connections for a maiden claimer finale. Sadler placing a horse in a $12,500 maiden claimer suggests this runner is ready to graduate. The Sadler barn's track record at Del Mar in the finale positions on a Sunday card is worth noting.

Secondary Choices

Melba Montgomery (2) at 4-1 from Steve Knapp with Armando Ayuso up is a legitimate secondary choice. Knapp has shown up with multiple runners today, and Melba Montgomery (2) with Ayuso at 4-1 is the barn's best play in this race. Early post position, competent rider, capable trainer.

Remember April (6) at 6-1 from Tim Yakteen with Welfin R. Orantes is a secondary play. Yakteen's barn produces sharp maiden claimers and has a solid record at the six-furlong maiden claiming level.

Longshots

Little Sandy Bee (4) at 5-1 from Francisco Rodriguez with Kazushi Kimura is an interesting mid-price play. At 5-1, this is a horse that deserves inclusion in exotic tickets given the competent rider and trainer combination.

Willow In The Wind (5) at 8-1 from Ruben Gomez with Armando Aguilar is a distant chance at this price.

She's Back (10) at 8-1 from Jamey Thomas with Jeremy Laprida is worth a spot in bottom-of-ticket exotics.

Diva Dazzle (12) at 8-1 is the second Knapp entry with E. Maldonado. Dual Knapp entries in the finale means the barn has two chances at this.

List My Biz (8) at 12-1 from Antonio Garcia with Adrian Escobedo is a modest price shot.

Joy The Image (1) at 20-1, Champagnia (3) at 30-1, Palace Mischief (7) at 30-1, and Southern Riff (11) at 30-1 are all throwouts for win purposes but can fill exotic tickets.

Betting Strategy

Use Let It Begin (13) and Stylishly Big (9) in the exacta — both ways — and add Melba Montgomery (2) in the trifecta. A $2 exacta box of Let It Begin (13) and Stylishly Big (9) is the recommended play to close the card.

Selections

Win: Let It Begin (13) Place: Stylishly Big (9) Show: Melba Montgomery (2)

Jockey Notes and Insights

Joel Rosario is the standout rider on today's card, with mounts in Race 4 (SCENE BY ME — Post 5), Race 5 (THERMAL — Post 1), Race 6 (MY MAN JOE ROLDAN — Post 4), Race 7 (YOGA MASTER — Post 5), Race 8 (COWBOY MIKE — Post 8), and Race 10 (LET IT BEGIN — Post 13). When Rosario accepts a mount, especially in lower-level races, it signals stable intent. His presence on My Man Joe Roldan (4) in the maiden claiming route and on Cowboy Mike (8) in the $8,000 claimer are the most significant angles on the card.

Umberto Rispoli rides Repo (7) in Race 3 and Midnight Horizon (7) in Race 7. Rispoli is one of the finest turf riders in the country and has built an excellent reputation at Del Mar specifically. Both rides are in fields where he should be able to use his tactical intelligence effectively. When Rispoli is on the morning line favorite or near-favorite, the public tends to underbet him slightly on exotics — a useful tendency to exploit.

Edwin Jaramillo is extremely busy today, with rides in Race 1 (ROYAL RUMOR — Post 1), Race 2 (BEAR'S BOARD — Post 2), Race 3 (VERN GOSDIN — Post 6), Race 4 (PIPER'S CAUSEWAY — Post 6), Race 6 (RAPID ASCENT — Post 10), and Race 9 (GABALDON — Post 9). Jaramillo has been one of the most active riders at the current Del Mar meet and has been riding in good form. His best opportunities today are Royal Rumor (1) in Race 1 and Rapid Ascent (10) in Race 6.

Kyle Frey has a strong book of mounts and is reliable in lower-level claiming and maiden races. His best chance today is Jasmina (7) in Race 2.

Juan J. Hernandez is Baltas's go-to rider and also pilots Gettinby (8) in Race 9 and Stylishly Big (9) in Race 10. Hernandez has the best book of top-line rides today after Rosario.

Julien Leparoux, a perennial Del Mar turf specialist, rides Private Gem (2) in Race 9 — this is the best odds-to-quality ratio for a jockey on the entire card.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Craig Dollase's record in turf sprints at Del Mar is exceptional. Disko Tribute (3) in Race 4 is his primary play of the day and carries the highest confidence level of any selection on the card.

Peter Miller's turf sprint record in Southern California is without parallel. Nasty Habit (1) in Race 9 is Miller's bet of the day, and Hacking It Up (8) in Race 4 gives him a secondary play in the optional claiming turf sprint. Any Miller turf sprinter at 4-1 or better warrants strong consideration.

John Sadler has the featured race with Thermal (1) in Race 5, and also sends out Dhitjari (6) in Race 9 and Stylishly Big (9) in Race 10. Sadler's Del Mar record is impeccable, and his runners in these spots should all be played.

George Papaprodromou appears in multiple races today: Empire Of Ash (2) and Little King (5) in Race 3, Chasing Kat (5) in Race 2, Low Tox (8) and Cano For The Win (9) in Race 6, and Midnight Horizon (7) in Race 7. The Papaprodromou barn is exceptionally active today, and trainers with high volume cards sometimes save their sharpest runner for one key spot — Midnight Horizon (7) in Race 7 appears to be that spot.

Note: Midnight Horizon (7) in Race 7 is listed under trainer Daniel Blacker, not Papaprodromou. Papaprodromou's best single play today is Chasing Kat (5) in Race 2 with Roxane Liegeois aboard.

Michael W. McCarthy with Repo (7) in Race 3 is the standout single trainer angle on the entire card — McCarthy's barns produce maiden winners at Del Mar with high efficiency.

Philip D'Amato has Goodies (1) in Race 7 and H Q Wilson (7) in Race 6. D'Amato in a turf one-miler optional claiming race is always competitive, making Goodies (1) a key inclusion in Race 7 exotics.

Neil Drysdale with Sir Rocket (10) in Race 9 is the angle play of the day. Drysdale's appearances on a Sunday card at Del Mar with a competitive price horse demand respect from longtime Southern California handicappers.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The best single win bet of the day is Private Gem (2) in Race 9 at 6-1 morning line, pairing the Glatt-Leparoux combination in a competitive turf sprint with legitimate upside. The Sir Rocket (10) in Race 9 at 6-1 with Drysdale and Rispoli is the angle play of the card.

For those playing Pick 3 sequences, the recommended structures are:

Race 5 through Race 7: Thermal (1) / Sweet Azteca (5) — My Man Joe Roldan (4) / Whynotanotherone (6) — Midnight Horizon (7) / Goodies (1). This sequence covers the feature and two competitive races at a manageable price.

Race 8 through Race 10: Leyas Candy (9) / Cowboy Mike (8) — Private Gem (2) / Gettinby (8) / Sir Rocket (10) — Let It Begin (13) / Stylishly Big (9). This is the best sequence on the card for value given the multiple live prices in Race 9.

For the Pick 4 spanning Races 7 through 10: Midnight Horizon (7) / Goodies (1) — Leyas Candy (9) / Mongolian Max (1) — Private Gem (2) / Gettinby (8) / Sir Rocket (10) — Let It Begin (13) / Stylishly Big (9). This is a 2x2x3x2 ticket that costs $24 for $1 base and represents the best structure for a larger exotic investment today.

The best exacta of the day is Private Gem (2) over Sir Rocket (10) in Race 9, with a reverse as well. At 6-1 and 6-1 respectively, a winning exacta in this combination could return a significant overlay relative to the quality of the connections.

The most underrated race on the card for exotic wagering is Race 4 — the optional claiming turf sprint — where Disko Tribute (3), Scene By Me (5), and Hacking It Up (8) all carry strong trainer angles and the trifecta box at $1 costs just $6 with legitimate triple-digit return potential.

Avoid heavy investment in Race 6 (the eleven-horse maiden claimer on the dirt) and Race 8 (the $8,000 claiming mile) for exotic purposes beyond modest trifecta plays. These are the two most chaotic races on the card and do not reward deep structural investment.

The value play of the entire card is Sweet Gal Of Mine (6) in Race 5 at 12-1. Mike Smith riding a Richard Baltas filly in a six-horse Grade 3 is never a throwout at any price. Including Sweet Gal Of Mine (6) in the trifecta underneath Thermal (1) and Sweet Azteca (5) costs a dollar and provides excellent overlay if either co-favorite underperforms in the stretch.

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


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