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Mountaineer closes out a late-season Monday card on December 1 with eight dirt races, all on the main track, featuring lower- to mid-level claimers plus a maiden special for two-year-olds. Distances range from ultra-short 2-furlong dashes to 5½-furlong sprints and one-mile routes.

The overall profile of the card:

• Races 1 and 4 are 2-furlong dashes at the 4,000 claiming level, one for open company and one for fillies and mares. These will be heavily trip- and break-dependent.
• Races 2, 5, 6, and 8 are claiming races at 6 furlongs, 4½ furlongs, and 5½ furlongs for various non-winners-of-2025 or lifetime conditions, typical Mountaineer late-season fields where class relief and current form matter.
• Race 3 is a 5½-furlong maiden special weight for two-year-olds, the classiest race on the card.
• Race 7 is a one-mile starter allowance for horses who have run for 4,000 or less, often one of the more reliable spots for honest efforts.

Multiple long-term track profiles agree that Mountaineer’s dirt strongly rewards early speed in both sprints and routes, with particular emphasis on early position in one-turn races. Inside-to-middle posts are generally favorable, and the rail is rarely a disadvantage when the surface is listed fast. This bias will shape the preferred approach in most of tonight’s races.​

Public handicappers focusing on this card generally land on Ee Yah in Race 1, Bootsy’s Merlot in Race 2, Mr. Cardenas in Race 3, Miss Nuckols in Race 4, Erlan in Race 5, El Kozan in Race 6, Khozando in Race 7, and S S Trackside Fun in Race 8 as the top win candidates.​

Weather and Track Conditions

Forecasts for the Chester/New Cumberland, West Virginia area, where Mountaineer is located, call for cold late-fall conditions. Hourly forecasts for Chester show temperatures hovering around 27–30 degrees Fahrenheit through the afternoon and evening with mostly cloudy to cloudy skies and essentially zero precipitation probability during that window. A separate forecast for New Cumberland gives a December 1 high around the mid-30s Fahrenheit and a low below freezing with partly cloudy conditions and no measurable precipitation on the day.​

Recent weather observations in New Cumberland for the prior 24 hours show temperatures near the freezing mark, with periods of overcast skies and some light snow early in the morning but no significant continuing precipitation as of early daytime hours.​

Track-specific information:

• The racetrack’s own conditions page and standard scratch/change feeds list the main dirt track as fast for this timeframe.​
• No turf racing is scheduled tonight; all eight races are on dirt.

Taken together, expect a cold, dry evening with a fast dirt surface. Cold, dry conditions at Mountaineer typically maintain or enhance the existing speed-favoring nature of the main track, assuming no late-day moisture or aggressive harrowing intervenes.​

Track Bias and Post Position Notes

Multiple quantitative studies and long-term profiles of Mountaineer’s main track point to a clear, persistent theme: early speed is a major asset in both sprints and routes.​

Key bias and post-position tendencies:

• Dirt sprints (4½ to 6 furlongs): Early pace types win a high share of these races. One major study notes that more than 35 percent of 5½-furlong races are won gate-to-wire or by horses with clear early speed. Outside posts are workable if the horse is quick enough to clear, but inside to mid posts (roughly 1–6) are more efficient, especially on a fast surface.​
• One-mile dirt routes: The bias toward speed softens slightly but remains present. Tactical speed from inside-to-middle posts is ideal; deep closers who drop far behind early have a hard time overcoming the short stretch and modest pace scenarios that are common at this level.​
• Very short dashes (2 furlongs and 4½ furlongs): Break and acceleration matter more than almost anything else. Horses who break sharply from inside or mid posts and immediately secure position are extremely difficult to reel in. Any gate issue or sluggish break is often unrecoverable over these distances.
• Path bias: Some technical bias reports have at times noted advantages for certain parts of the track, but the more durable signal across years is style and post, not a consistent outside-lane path bias.​

Practical implications for tonight:

• In the 2-furlong and 4½-furlong races (Races 1, 4, and 6), downgraded chances for horses relying on late runs, and upgrade those expected to be among the first two or three out of the gate.
• In the one-mile races (Races 2 and 7), prefer horses with tactical speed who can secure a forward or pressing trip from posts 1–6 without being used too hard early.
• In the 5½- and 6-furlong events (Races 3, 5, and 8), forward position and ground-saving trips from inside-to-mid gates should be strongly preferred, especially in large fields like Race 8.

Race 1 – Claiming 4,000, 2 Furlongs, 3up (Dirt)

Field: Gimme Gold, Ee Yah, Markhamian, Smart Coverage, Flowerpecker, Skylas Gold, Cash Customer, Brd Computing, Krusin Rocket

Post Time

Scheduled post: 7:00 PM ET

Two furlongs, dirt, claiming 4,000 for three-year-olds and upward.

Pace Analysis

Over 2 furlongs, this is essentially a gate drill at race speed. The horse that breaks best and accelerates fastest in the opening 100 yards holds a massive advantage. The Mountaineer bias toward early speed only amplifies that effect in a dash like this.​

The field is mainly older geldings with plenty of racing behind them. Prior running lines for Gimme Gold show him as a horse who has tended to sit off the pace and finish with some run at longer sprint distances, including a rallying second over 5½ furlongs here on November 24. That profile suggests he may be doing his best work late, which is difficult to leverage at two furlongs.​

Ee Yah and Markhamian come off recent veterinarian-related scratches in October and November at Mahoning Valley.[Scratch Watch] That does not tell us their running styles tonight but is a mild caution sign as to physical reliability.

Overall, expect a wild scramble early, with the race effectively determined in the first jump. Any runner showing real gate sharpness in the warm-up or prior 2- or 3-furlong workouts would have a serious edge, but those specifics are not publicly available here.

Key Contenders

Ee Yah – Several public handicappers make Ee Yah the horse to beat in this opener. He draws inside of many key rivals, and in a 2-furlong dash at this track, an inside or middle draw with a clean break is a concrete advantage. The endorsement from multiple handicapping sources suggests he combines at least reasonable current form with projected early foot for this configuration.​

Gimme Gold – The past performances show a seven-year-old gelding who has had repeated chances but remains a maiden, with 0-for-9 lifetime overall and 0-for-9 at Mountaineer, though he has earned minor checks including a solid second at 5½ furlongs in maiden 4,000 company on November 24. TimeformUS pace figures label him as more of a late-running type (Early 63, Late 40), and his race lines show him rallying from off the pace. The cutback from 5½ furlongs to 2 furlongs is extreme; however, his familiarity with the surface and some semblance of late foot could still allow him to pick up pieces if the blazing early pace collapses among older, cheap claimers.​

Krusin Rocket – Draws widest, which can be problematic in these dash races, but as an older gelding at this level, he has likely been around short sprints before. Without detailed PPs, the exact shape of his form is unclear, but his presence on a 2-furlong card suggests at least some historical speed. In a field containing several veterans with question marks, he deserves some inclusion behind the main contender.

Secondary Choices

Markhamian – Comes off a recent veterinarian scratch in a starter 5,000 event at Mahoning Valley on November 19.[Scratch Watch] The class of starter company is usually a touch tougher than straight 4,000 claimers, so, assuming he is sound tonight, this could be a softer spot from a claiming-class standpoint. The lack of fresh, positive recent race lines is a concern, but in a 2-furlong chaos event, that may still be enough to land him in the frame.

Smart Coverage – Mid-gate draw and an older horse profile. If he can break and sit among the top group, he could easily stick around for a minor award. Without precise pace figures available here, his appeal is largely structural: experience and position in a race where many will be spinning their wheels.

Longshots

Gimme Gold – Morning line of 12–1 in the DRF indicates he is being priced as a longshot. While the distance cutback is severe, the combination of recent local form and some demonstrated late punch makes him at least mildly interesting to fill out exotics if the top pick is overbet and the rest of the field fails to fire.​

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

The most reliable angle in a 2-furlong dash at Mountaineer is simply to upgrade any runner with projected gate speed and a clean draw. With handicappers strongly siding with Ee Yah, the simplest play is to treat him as the key.

Given the uncertainty about the condition of horses coming off recent veterinarian scratches and the limited value of late-running styles at this trip, consider a tight focus on the primary speed candidate and one or two others.

Possible approaches:

• Win bet on Ee Yah if the price floats above the morning consensus and lands close to 3–1 or better.
• Exacta keying Ee Yah over Gimme Gold and one of Markhamian or Krusin Rocket, looking for a square price on the underneath horses.
• Avoid spreading too wide; these dashes are extremely volatile, and wide exotic coverage can quickly erode value.

Selections

Win: Ee Yah
Place: Gimme Gold
Show: Markhamian

Race 2 – Claiming 7,500, 1 Mile, Fillies and Mares, NW2 in 2025

Field: Jolly Miss Jill, Bootsy’s Merlot, Catti La Belle, Fortunata Italia, Hot Dame, Chasing Daylight, Memphis Cash Queen, Tootsie Toes, Perfectly Wicked, Carly’s Flight, Market of Stocks

Post Time

Scheduled post: 7:25 PM ET

One mile, dirt, claiming 7,500 for fillies and mares that have not won two races in 2025, with some allowances; non-winners at a mile since November 1 receive a weight break.

Pace Analysis

At one mile around two turns at Mountaineer, forward or tactical speed is a recurring advantage. Winners are often sitting first flight into the first turn, not deep closers. This race has several older mares who have been grinding at lower levels, which usually produces an honest but not blazing pace.​

Public handicappers show a strong consensus on Bootsy’s Merlot, and a separate algorithmic “smart pick” service also isolates the 2 as a place bet key, suggesting she projects to be in a good tactical spot and finish strongly. Without full PPs, the detailed early-late pace distribution is not visible, but the consensus support indicates she combines adequate early position with staying power.​

Expect a moderate, controlled pace rather than a meltdown, favoring those who can secure a stalk-and-pounce trip from inside or mid posts.

Key Contenders

Bootsy’s Merlot – Draws post 2 with a full field and is the clear consensus top choice among handicappers. That inside draw is a major asset at this distance, allowing her to secure the rail or a pocket trip into the first turn if she breaks cleanly. The non-winners-of-2025 condition suggests she has at least some recent winning form this year, and her presence in this spot rather than a cheaper claimer hints that connections believe she belongs at 7,500. The additional endorsement from an independent smart-pick system that recommends a place bet on the 2 further reinforces her status as both a key win and underneath player.​

Jolly Miss Jill – The rail filly for trainer Juan C. Vazquez. Having both this mare (post 1) and Chasing Daylight (post 6) under the same barn could indicate a two-pronged attack, often with one going forward and the other rating. Without specific pace lines, it is difficult to know which will adopt which role, but logically the 1 is well-positioned to go forward early. Inside tactical speed is golden at this trip, and barn intent can turn Jolly Miss Jill into a key pace presence.

Chasing Daylight – A more class-exposed mare who has seen higher-level allowance company at major circuits, including a prior scheduled start in a New York allowance where she was scratched by the stewards.[Scratch Watch] Dropping into a Mountaineer claiming event from that sort of background can be a wake-up angle if the mare retains any of her previous ability. The presence of a top local rider like Luis Negron on other similar-class horses in recent weeks suggests this barn can deliver live runners when placed correctly.​

Secondary Choices

Tootsie Toes – From a mid-gate draw with a relatively fresh four-year-old profile, Tootsie Toes looks like one who can stalk and get a ground-saving trip behind the inside pair. Trainer Moises Valdez has sent out multiple winners at this meet in sprint and route claimers, often with horses showing solid finishing ability. If the pace up front gets even slightly contested, she is a logical beneficiary.​

Perfectly Wicked – Draws outside but has a capable jock and a relatively lightly-raced four-year-old profile in a field with many older, exposed mares. From the outside gate she will need to avoid being floated wide into the first turn; if she can drop in behind the first flight, her youth and potential for incremental improvement could land her in the trifecta.

Longshots

Carly’s Flight and Market of Stocks – The Geraldine Rodak pair from posts 10 and 11 will have difficult trips from wide draws but might be overlooked on the tote. In large one-mile fields like this, wide-drawn mares occasionally clunk up for a piece at big prices when the inside runners get shuffled or duel too hard. They rank below the main inside trio but may offer some exotics spice if betting action over-concentrates on Bootsy’s Merlot and the other obvious names.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race sets up cleanly around Bootsy’s Merlot as the primary key:

• Focus win betting on Bootsy’s Merlot if she stays near or above the expected 7/2–9/2 range; avoid taking a heavy underlay if she is pounded well below that.
• Use Bootsy’s Merlot as a strong key in exactas over Jolly Miss Jill, Tootsie Toes, and one of Chasing Daylight or Perfectly Wicked.
• Consider backing up with a smaller exacta using Jolly Miss Jill over Bootsy’s Merlot in case the rail mare clears and wires.

Selections

Win: Bootsy’s Merlot
Place: Jolly Miss Jill
Show: Tootsie Toes

Race 3 – Maiden Special Weight, 5½ Furlongs, Two-Year-Olds

Field: Team Mischievous, Runslikelightning, Left Him Behind, Candy for Cynthia, A Ok, Mr. Cardenas, Ocata

Post Time

Scheduled post: 7:50 PM ET

5½ furlongs, dirt, maiden special weight for two-year-olds.

Pace Analysis

Maiden special weight sprints for two-year-olds at Mountaineer usually feature several first- or lightly-raced juveniles with speed. At 5½ furlongs, early speed is again important, and winners are frequently on or near the lead by the time they pass the three-eighths pole.​

Public handicappers are split here between Mr. Cardenas (6) and A Ok (5). One prominent handicapper lists Mr. Cardenas as the top selection, while an independent algorithmic system calls for a place bet on the 5. That divergence often signals a race where two runners stand out on figure or talent but may have different running styles or trip requirements.​

Without detailed race lines, assume a fairly honest to fast early tempo, with the inside trio and the 5 and 6 likely among those vying for position early. Horses breaking poorly will be up against it given the track’s sprint profile.

Key Contenders

Mr. Cardenas – Chosen by several handicappers as the top pick. Trainer Juan Pablo Silva has been in strong recent form at Mountaineer, sending out multiple winners at the meet, including allowance and claiming types with early speed and finishing ability. As a juvenile gelding in a modest local MSW, Mr. Cardenas projects as a runner with either the best figures so far or the best workout pattern according to those observers. From post 6, he should have every chance to carve out a stalking or pressing trip in the clear.​

A Ok – The 5 draws well in a small field and is the focus of an algorithmic smart-pick that recommends a place bet on him in this race. That suggests a profile of consistent finishing ability or strong projected pace/figure matchup, even if he may or may not be the outright fastest on raw times. If the race becomes a duel between Mr. Cardenas and one or more early burners, A Ok is a logical candidate to grind past tired rivals in the final sixteenth.​

Left Him Behind – From post 3 with a capable local rider in Kevin Gonzalez, this gelding fits the pattern of a juvenile who could improve with experience. With several public handicappers emphasizing Mr. Cardenas and A Ok, Left Him Behind may be overlooked, yet inside posts with tactical juveniles can be deadly in these races. If he breaks cleanly and can sit just behind the lead, the ground-saving trip could allow him to stay on for a top-three finish.

Secondary Choices

Team Mischievous – Rail colt from a small barn. If he breaks sharply, the rail at 5½ furlongs remains a strong position on a fast surface. Without detailed data, he rates as a pace wildcard; a clean jump and aggressive ride could put him into the mix early.​

Runslikelightning – The name hints at speed, but with no assumption about his actual pace profile, his primary appeal comes from drawing inside and getting a weight allowance with a bug rider. If he can leverage that weight and an inside trip, he could hang around for a minor award.

Longshots

Ocata – The outside two-year-old, carrying low weight, will have to work out a trip from post 7. Wide early in a Mountaineer sprint is not ideal, but if the race implodes up front, an unexposed gelding from the outside who can drop in and finish late can occasionally clunk up at a price. His appeal is mainly as a trifecta or superfecta filler under the core contenders.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This is a race where the main edge is simply recognizing the likely superiority of the 5 and 6 on projections:

• Win bet preference to Mr. Cardenas, with A Ok as a strict backup if odds drift too far apart.
• Consider an exacta box of A Ok and Mr. Cardenas if both are reasonable prices, or a cold exacta with Mr. Cardenas over A Ok if the latter is more heavily bet.
• For trifectas, lean on the 5 and 6 in the top two slots and sprinkle in Left Him Behind and Team Mischievous in the third slot.

Selections

Win: Mr. Cardenas
Place: A Ok
Show: Left Him Behind

Race 4 – Claiming 4,000, 2 Furlongs, Fillies and Mares

Field: Light Hearted, Misty Sunday, Signature Ring, Echo Vision, Devin On Earth, Stratogale, Lunar Prayer, Shake It Baby, Miss Nuckols, Can She Scoot, Castle Lights, Coastalness

Post Time

Scheduled post: 8:15 PM ET

2 furlongs, dirt, claiming 4,000 for fillies and mares three and up.

Pace Analysis

Like Race 1, this is another 2-furlong dash, now restricted to fillies and mares. The same principles apply: break and first-step acceleration dominate, and inside-to-middle posts are modestly preferred as long as the horse breaks sharply.​

Several runners have recent scratch notes: Misty Sunday was scratched by a veterinarian in a Hawthorne claiming event on November 2, and Stratogale was scratched by the stewards in a local allowance November 3.[Scratch Watch] Those notes add risk but do not tell us about tonight’s pace.

The large 12-horse field makes trip more important; horses drawn in posts 1–6 who break alertly can hug the fence, while those drawn outside must either break exceptionally well or risk losing ground.

Key Contenders

Miss Nuckols – Public handicappers strongly favor Miss Nuckols as the leading win candidate. She draws gate 9, which is not ideal in a 2-furlong dash, but her endorsement by multiple observers suggests she either has clear speed or significantly better recent form than these. The main question is whether she can cross and clear without getting hung wide into the sharp first bend of the sprint portion of the course.​

Light Hearted – The 9-year-old mare on the rail, with Bailey Weatherly aboard. The rail trip in a 2-furlong dash is a distinct asset if she breaks well. Older mares at this level often either go or they do not; if Light Hearted hits the gate running, she can stay glued to the fence and potentially fend off the wide-drawn favorites.

Signature Ring – Draws post 3 and has a light impost with a bug rider. The combination of inside position and weight relief can be lethal at this distance, especially if the top choice from the outside loses some ground. Signature Ring is a logical inclusion as a key pace player capable of grabbing a slice.

Secondary Choices

Devin On Earth – A 5-year-old mare for Sara Stanoszek, who has been very active at the meet. From post 5, she is well-placed to stalk the speed and jump on any inner-rail hole that opens as they blaze down the lane. Trainer and barn patterns this meet have focused on grinding claimers who can earn checks rather than blow fields away, but that is still plenty relevant for exotics.

Stratogale – Has back-class in allowance company but comes in off a stewards’ scratch last month.[Scratch Watch] If she is right physically, her prior competitive level suggests she could simply be better than typical 4,000-level mares. The question is whether she can adapt to the 2-furlong dash after routing or longer sprints.

Longshots

Can She Scoot – An 11-year-old mare, but experience and toughness sometimes matter in these chaotic short dashes. From post 10, she will need a perfect break and aggressive ride to avoid being hung out, but her age and battle-hardened history at lower levels could allow her to pick up a late check when some less-seasoned mares falter.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race is inherently volatile due to distance and field size. The most rational approach is to keep investments modest and leverage the favorite in simple structures:

• Win bet on Miss Nuckols only if she holds value; in ultra-short sprints, taking a very short price is dangerous.
• Exactas with Miss Nuckols over Light Hearted, Signature Ring, and Devin On Earth; back up smaller exactas using Light Hearted and Signature Ring over Miss Nuckols.
• In multi-race sequences, consider spreading slightly deeper in this leg rather than singling; 2-furlong chaos races have historically produced some surprising outcomes.

Selections

Win: Miss Nuckols
Place: Light Hearted
Show: Signature Ring

Race 5 – Claiming 7,500, 6 Furlongs, 3up, NW2 in 2025

Field: Courthouse Cove, Burton Way, Jack Bob and Larry, Reverend Jack, Latin Casino, Erlan, Iconic Legacy, Face Abarrio, Jura, New Year Surprise

Post Time

Scheduled post: 8:40 PM ET

6 furlongs, dirt, claiming 7,500 for horses who have not won two races in 2025, with a non-winners-since-November allowance.

Pace Analysis

At 6 furlongs on this track, early speed is again a key asset, but the longer sprint distance allows a bit more time for a pressing or stalking type to get involved than at 4½ or 5½ furlongs. In non-winners-of-the-year claimers like this, it is common to see several horses with early speed but questionable stamina, leading to races that can either be wire jobs or set up for a stalker if the pace gets too hot.​

The consensus top choice is Erlan, suggesting he either owns the best current figures or a favorable class drop that positions him well at this level.​

Key Contenders

Erlan – Draws post 6 with Ricardo Barrios. Barrios has delivered multiple sprint winners at Mountaineer this season, including several forward-going types in allowance and claiming races from similar gates. Erlan’s selection by multiple handicappers indicates he is likely well-positioned in terms of class and early pace, perhaps dropping from higher-level company to this 7,500 tag. From post 6 he can either stalk outside the early leaders or press from just off the flank.​

Jack Bob and Larry – Charle Oliveros rides for Sara Stanoszek. Oliveros has guided several local winners this meet, including Rose’s Pepino in a prior Mountaineer route, showing his comfort on the surface. Jack Bob and Larry’s mid-pack draw at post 3 should allow for a ground-saving trip tracking inside speed; if Erlan and others duel, he has the rider and tactical style to take advantage.​

Courthouse Cove – From the rail with Kevin Gonzalez. Inside speed at 6 furlongs can be very effective, and if Courthouse Cove breaks sharply, he could either set or sit just behind the pace while saving all the ground. The question is whether he retains enough finishing kick; however, the combination of rail draw and a competent local rider secures him as a key pace and trip player.

Secondary Choices

Iconic Legacy – From post 7 with Luis Negron aboard, this gelding represents the Vazquez barn, which has been active and successful this meet. A stalking or pressing trip from the outside is workable if he can avoid being parked three wide into the turn. He profiles as a logical trifecta horse who could upgrade to win threat if the main choices falter.​

Latin Casino – Post 5 with Deshawn Parker, another rider who has enjoyed consistent success at Mountaineer over the years. He is likely to secure a first-flight position and stay involved as long as his current form allows. In a race with several question marks, rider strength and tactical ability can separate outcomes.​

Longshots

Face Abarrio – Has a recent stewards’ scratch on October 19 in a similar 4,000 non-winners race.[Scratch Watch] That kind of unexplained scratch sometimes precedes a form reversal; however, without clearer context, he must be treated as an underneath longshot who might outrun his price if he shows his old speed.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race is a better wagering opportunity than the 2-furlong dashes, as the 6-furlong configuration allows class and quality to play a greater role.

Potential approaches:

• Win bet on Erlan as the key if he is not hammered below a reasonable price.
• Exacta keys with Erlan over Jack Bob and Larry, Courthouse Cove, and Iconic Legacy.
• Trifecta structure using Erlan on top, the same trio in the second tier, and spreading a bit wider (including Latin Casino and Face Abarrio) in the third.

Selections

Win: Erlan
Place: Jack Bob and Larry
Show: Courthouse Cove

Race 6 – Claiming 4,000, 4½ Furlongs, 3up, NW2 Lifetime

Field: Cenzontle, Baby Dog, Blanton, My Balboa, Mr. Pollo, Guilted, Dudewithaname, The Irish Ranter, Warrior of Gold, El Kozan, Tapintoyourbeer

Post Time

Scheduled post: 9:05 PM ET

4½ furlongs, dirt, claiming 4,000 for horses that have never won two races.

Pace Analysis

At 4½ furlongs, the race plays very similarly to the 2-furlong dashes, but with slightly more time for a presser or late-running sprinter to make a move on the turn. Mountaineer’s 4½-furlong profile still leans strongly to early speed, with front-runners winning a high proportion of races at the trip.​

Several entrants carry scratch notes: Baby Dog, Blanton, Guilted, My Balboa, and Tapintoyourbeer all have recent veterinarian or stewards’ scratches within the last six weeks, including a scratched allowance optional claimer and various non-winners-of-two claimers.[Scratch Watch] This increases uncertainty about their reliability.

Consensus handicappers strongly favor El Kozan from post 10, indicating he likely owns the best recent figure set or the clearest early speed profile despite the wide draw.​

Key Contenders

El Kozan – The 10-hole is not ideal at this short trip, but El Kozan’s selection by multiple handicappers suggests he is viewed as the fastest or most reliable of these. With Charle Oliveros aboard, a rider who has repeatedly executed successful forward rides at this track, the combination of break, speed, and rider make him a major win player despite the post. If he breaks sharply and can clear or press from just outside, he should be very tough.​

Warrior of Gold – From post 9 with Alexander Bendezu, this three-year-old may be one of the more lightly raced and still-improving types in a field of cheap claimers. If he shows enough gate speed to track El Kozan and hold a good position through the turn, he can be right there at the wire.

Mr. Pollo – Post 5 with Luis Negron and trainer Juan Pablo Silva, a combination that has produced repeat winners at this meet. As a three-year-old gelding in a non-winners-of-two spot, Mr. Pollo may still have upside relative to some of the older, more exposed horses. His mid-gate draw is ideal for a pressing or stalking trip.​

Secondary Choices

Cenzontle – From the rail, he is likely to be sent hard to protect position. If he makes the front or sits an inside pocket just off the leader, the 4½-furlong configuration and inside-speed bias give him a very real chance to stick for a piece.

Dudewithaname – Post 7 with Kevin Gonzalez. He projects as a middle-of-the-gate runner who can adjust to the early flow: forward if the inside is not too contentious, or a stalking type if the rail horses duel. His ceiling may be more underneath than win, but he is properly in the mix for exactas and trifectas.

Longshots

Baby Dog and Blanton – Both have recent veterinarian scratches in higher-level or similar non-winners-of-two spots.[Scratch Watch] If one of them returns fully sound and near prior best form, they could outrun likely odds; however, the scratch history and competitive field keep them more in the longshot-exotics category than as primary win candidates.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Given the strong consensus on El Kozan and the bias profile:

• Use El Kozan as a primary win key; his wide draw should ensure a fair price, as some bettors will over-discount that factor.
• Exactas with El Kozan over Mr. Pollo, Warrior of Gold, and Cenzontle.
• Trifectas with El Kozan on top, the same trio in the second tier, and Dudewithaname plus one of the scratch-prone longshots in third.

Selections

Win: El Kozan
Place: Mr. Pollo
Show: Warrior of Gold

Race 7 – Starter Allowance, 1 Mile, 3up (Started for 4,000 or Less, 2023–2025)

Field: Rose’s Pepino, Hapi Hapi, Sixwillberich, Khozando, High Rolling Dude, Cavendish, Blurt, Major Contender, Captain Creed, Torrefactor

Post Time

Scheduled post: 9:30 PM ET

1 mile, dirt, starter allowance for horses that have started for a claiming price of 4,000 or less since 2023.

Pace Analysis

Starter allowances at this level typically draw hardened claimers who have found their niche and are capable of running honest races. The one-mile distance at Mountaineer usually produces controlled but not walking paces, with multiple horses having enough tactical speed to prevent a single runner from completely walking the dog on the lead.​

In this field, there are several experienced route runners. With a relatively full gate and multiple pace-capable horses, expect an honest, moderately strong pace rather than a crawl. Horses with tactical speed who can sit third to fifth, two to three lengths off the front, are often best suited.

Key Contenders

Khozando – Draws post 4 and is the consensus top selection among handicappers. Previous Mountaineer results show Khozando appearing prominently in competitive claiming races at this track, including finishing in key spots in recent fall races. From an inside-middle draw and with Yuri Yaranga aboard, Khozando looks well-positioned to secure a ground-saving tactical trip just behind the leaders. His prior experience over the surface and at similar distances makes him a legitimate favorite.​

Rose’s Pepino – Winner of a prior Mountaineer route under Charle Oliveros, as recorded in Daily Racing Form results for September 15. That victory evidences both stamina and affinity for the local mile configuration. From the rail, Rose’s Pepino has two main options: send to secure the lead or sit a pocket trip behind the speed. With a known winning pattern at the track, he is a serious threat to repeat that kind of performance if the pace scenario is favorable.​

Major Contender – From gate 8 with Bailey Weatherly, Major Contender is aptly named: he has appeared in competitive starter and claiming company locally and should be able to sit just off the pace outside the main inside trio. While the outside draw is less ideal, his experience and position can still yield a winning trip if the inside horses hook up a bit early.

Secondary Choices

Cavendish – Stablemate to High Rolling Dude for trainer Larry Reed, who has been actively campaigning solid route horses at the meet. Cavendish, drawn in post 6, is well-placed to track Khozando and Rose’s Pepino and look to grind past in the final furlong. He looks like a strong candidate for underneath slots and could threaten the win spot if the primary contenders underperform.

Captain Creed – With Luis Negron aboard, Captain Creed has the benefit of an in-form rider who has captured multiple local races for different barns at this meet. From post 9 he will need to work out a trip, but his presence in this starter allowance rather than a cheaper claimer indicates at least a mid-level of recent form.​

Longshots

Hapi Hapi – The eight-year-old gelding in post 2 gets a considerable weight break and could be sent aggressively from the inside to try to steal it on the front end. Age and class wear-down are issues, but in a field where many will be content to stalk, an unexpectedly aggressive ride from an inside longshot can sometimes upset the apple cart.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This is one of the more handicappable spots on the card and a strong candidate for key wagering:

• Key Khozando on top in exactas over Rose’s Pepino and Major Contender, with Cavendish and Captain Creed as additional underneath options.
• Consider a win saver on Rose’s Pepino if the price is significantly higher than Khozando’s, given his proven winning form under today’s jock at this track.​
• For trifectas, structure around Khozando and Rose’s Pepino in the top two spots and spread with Major Contender, Cavendish, and Captain Creed in third.

Selections

Win: Khozando
Place: Rose’s Pepino
Show: Major Contender

Race 8 – Claiming 4,000, 5½ Furlongs, 3up, NW4L or NW in 2025

Field: Holy Saint, You Are Awesome, Crow’s Nest, Cold Plunge, Bledsoe, Remys Gunsmoke, Stubbornkindafella, S S Trackside Fun, Citadino, Crepe Yarns, Joe Phillips, Ingersoll, Mitico, You’re in Corey

Post Time

Scheduled post: 9:55 PM ET

5½ furlongs, dirt, claiming 4,000 for horses that have never won four races or have not won in 2025.

Pace Analysis

At 5½ furlongs, the Mountaineer bias for early speed is very strong, with a high percentage of winners on or very near the lead. In this 14-horse field, there will almost certainly be multiple speed elements. The most likely scenario is a contested pace among several inside and mid-gate runners, with outside horses needing superior talent or trip to overcome ground loss.​

Several entrants carry recent scratch notes: Mitico and Stubbornkindafella were scratched in 7,500 non-winners-of-a-year races in late November, and S S Trackside Fun was scratched from an allowance on November 16.[Scratch Watch] Those notes add risk but also suggest those horses have been competing or intended for slightly better spots than tonight’s 4,000 claiming level.

Key Contenders

S S Trackside Fun – Consensus top selection among handicappers in this large finale. Recent form includes a victory over Gimme Gold in a 5½-furlong maiden event on November 24, where he drew away from that rival late. That indicates both early position and finishing ability at this exact trip and surface. Dropping into this 4,000 claiming condition with that kind of recent performance is a powerful angle; the main concern is navigating traffic from post 8.​

Crepe Yarns – With Charle Oliveros aboard and drawing post 10, Crepe Yarns figures as a high-ability sprinter with enough tactical speed to get into the race early. Oliveros’ track record with local sprinters and routes suggests he can work out a decent trip even from a wider gate. If the pace is honest but not suicidal, Crepe Yarns is one of the likeliest horses to be right there at the quarter pole.​

Citadino – Draws post 9 with Eddie Clouston as trainer, and Clouston has been a leading source of winners in Mountaineer sprint claimers this fall. Citadino’s barn form alone demands respect; Clouston horses often show sharp readiness and tactical speed, ideal traits in this kind of crowded sprint.​

Secondary Choices

Holy Saint – From the rail with Bailey Weatherly, Holy Saint is in position to take full advantage of the inside-speed bias if he breaks cleanly. In large fields, rail sprinters can either get bottled up or enjoy dream, ground-saving trips; if Holy Saint can secure the latter scenario, he could well outrun expectations.​

Crow’s Nest – Post 3 with Deshawn Parker, another Mountaineer sprint specialist. The inside-mid draw and experienced rider make Crow’s Nest a solid candidate to sit just behind the early leaders and get first run turning for home.​

Longshots

Mitico and Stubbornkindafella – Both have recent scratches from higher-level 7,500 claimers with non-winners-of-the-year conditions.[Scratch Watch] If they show up fully sound tonight, they may be overqualified for the 4,000 level. From posts 13 and 7, respectively, they will need racing luck, but in a wide-open finale, including at least one of them in deeper exotics could pay off at a price.

You’re in Corey – Post 14 and a wide gate make his task difficult, but occasionally an outside horse can sit a wide stalking trip and swoop if the inside collapses. As a likely longshot, his best use is as a deep superfecta inclusion.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This is a race where value is possible if the public over-commits to the obvious names:

• Win bet on S S Trackside Fun is justified based on recent local victory and consensus support, but only if the price remains fair given the field size.
• Exacta keys: S S Trackside Fun over Crepe Yarns, Citadino, and Holy Saint, with a small reverse exacta using Citadino and Crepe Yarns over S S Trackside Fun to guard against trip trouble.
• For exotic players, consider using S S Trackside Fun as an anchor in horizontal wagers and pressing tickets where he is the main single, while allowing for small backup tickets that spread in this leg with the core trio and one or two longshots.

Selections

Win: S S Trackside Fun
Place: Crepe Yarns
Show: Citadino

Jockey Notes and Insights

Mountaineer’s 2025 meet has been characterized by a cluster of familiar local riders who consistently appear on winning horses across claiming and allowance levels.

Charle Oliveros – Has guided multiple Mountaineer winners this season in both sprints and routes, including Rose’s Pepino in a mile event and other allowance and claiming winners. His mounts tonight, notably Jack Bob and Larry in Race 5, El Kozan in Race 6, and Rose’s Pepino and Crepe Yarns in Races 7 and 8, tend to be well-placed and benefit from his ability to secure ground-saving yet aggressive trips.​

Luis Negron – Appears on live mounts in both claiming and allowance company at this meet, with multiple recorded wins for trainer Juan Pablo Silva and others in recent November races. His presence on horses like Iconic Legacy in Race 5, Mr. Pollo in Race 6, and Captain Creed or similar profiles in routes is a clear positive, especially when tactical positioning matters.​

Deshawn Parker – A long-time Mountaineer mainstay, Parker has continued to ride winners at this meet, including sprint and route claimers highlighted in recent result charts. His mounts such as Latin Casino in Race 5 and Crow’s Nest in Race 8 often draw respect on the tote, and he is particularly adept at nursing speed or stalking trips in dirt sprints.​

Alejandro Gomez – Has been part of winning connections with trainer Moises Valdez in local claiming and allowance races across the fall. His mount Tootsie Toes in Race 2 and any other Valdez-trained runners deserve extra consideration when trying to sort competitive mid-level claimers.​

Kevin Gonzalez – Regularly appears in local results and on competitive horses in Mountaineer sprints and routes. His bookings on Courthouse Cove in Race 5, Dudewithaname in Race 6, and S S Trackside Fun in Race 8 represent solid assignments and indicate that these horses are expected to show up ready.​

Bailey Weatherly and Joe Stokes – Have both ridden winners for multiple barns at this meet, including for trainers like Eddie Clouston and others in claimers and starter allowances. Weatherly’s mounts on Holy Saint and Major Contender and Stokes on Smart Coverage, Hot Dame, and High Rolling Dude can be upgraded slightly in contentious fields.​

In summary, riders like Oliveros, Negron, Parker, Gonzalez, Gomez, and Stokes should be viewed as positives on otherwise borderline contenders, often making the difference between a minor check and a top-three finish in tight races.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Several barns are especially relevant on this card based on their recent Mountaineer form.

Juan Pablo Silva – Has posted multiple wins at the meet in allowance and claiming events, particularly in sprints, with horses ridden by Luis Negron and Deshawn Parker. His runners tonight, including Mr. Cardenas in Race 3, Stratogale and Castle Lights in Race 4, Mr. Pollo in Race 6, and Joe Phillips and Mitico in Race 8, should be assumed to be well-prepared and capable of improvement or rebound.​

Eddie Clouston – One of the most active and successful local trainers, Clouston has saddled numerous winners in claimers and starter allowances in recent months, including multiple November victories recorded in Equibase results. His runners like Shake It Baby in Race 4, The Irish Ranter and Warrior of Gold competitors earlier in the meet, and Citadino in Race 8 typically show tactical speed and solid conditioning.​

Moises Valdez – Has recorded wins in claiming and allowance races this fall, often with horses who finish strongly from tactical positions. His mounts such as Tootsie Toes in Race 2 and Face Abarrio in Race 5 are often spotted for realistic conditions and can offer value when overlooked.​

Juan C. Vazquez – Regularly places runners in competitive spots, particularly in mid-level claimers and starter races. His horses tonight (including Jolly Miss Jill and Chasing Daylight in Race 2, Iconic Legacy in Race 5) represent a barn that often produces improved second and third local starts.

Sara Stanoszek – While her overall win percentage appears modest based on individual past performance notes for horses like Gimme Gold, she appears frequently on the card and is not afraid to place horses aggressively in spots like 2-furlong dashes and short sprints. Her horses often come with racing experience and can be exotics players rather than obvious win standouts.​

Ben Delong, Gregory Viands, and others – These trainers appear primarily in the later allowance and claiming races; recent results show occasional wins and in-the-money finishes in local company. Horses like Major Contender, Crepe Yarns, and Captain Creed under these barns should not be dismissed in competitive races, especially when paired with top local riders.​

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The card offers a mix of chaos races (the 2-furlong dashes) and more structured betting opportunities (the one-mile and longer sprints). A disciplined approach can focus bankroll on the more predictable spots while minimizing exposure to randomness.

Primary wagering focus:

• Race 2 – Bootsy’s Merlot at one mile: Strong consensus and a favorable inside draw make this one of the more reliable win candidates on the card. Use her as a key in exactas and in multi-race wagers.
• Race 5 – Erlan at 6 furlongs: Projects as a class and pace standout with a high-percentage sprint rider. A strong candidate for win bets and to anchor late doubles and pick sequences.
• Race 7 – Khozando at one mile: Proven local performer at route distances from an ideal post, with a pattern suggesting consistent effort. A high-confidence inclusion in horizontal wagers.

Value and longshot angles:

• Race 1 – Gimme Gold as exotics value: While the distance is likely too short for his late-running style, his recent strong second at 5½ furlongs and double-digit morning line suggest potential overlay status underneath the main speed.​
• Race 2 – Tootsie Toes: Trainer Valdez’s positive recent record makes Tootsie Toes an appealing value option to pair with Bootsy’s Merlot in exactas and trifectas.
• Race 3 – Left Him Behind: With attention focused on Mr. Cardenas and A Ok, Left Him Behind could slip through the cracks and offer a price in the show pools or in trifectas.
• Race 8 – Citadino and Holy Saint: In a field likely to overemphasize S S Trackside Fun, the combination of strong barn form (Citadino) and a rail-trip advantage (Holy Saint) could produce value in exactas and trifectas.

Strategic notes:

• Reduce wager sizes or treat Races 1 and 4 as spread legs in horizontal bets due to the inherent volatility of 2-furlong dashes.
• Emphasize vertical exotics in the more structured sprints (Races 5, 6, and 8) and the mile race (Race 7), where class, rider, and trainer edges can be more reliably exploited.
• In all races, remain alert to late scratches and track-condition updates on day-of scratch pages, particularly for horses with recent veterinarian or stewards’ scratches listed in the scratch watch, and adjust tickets accordingly.[Scratch Watch]​

This approach balances respect for Mountaineer’s strong early-speed and inside bias with a targeted focus on the card’s most reliable favorites and a few carefully chosen value plays.