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Mountaineer Casino Racetrack presents an eight-race card on Tuesday evening, December 2, 2025, featuring competitive claiming and allowance contests across various distances and class levels. The evening program begins at 7:00 PM ET and offers purses ranging from $8,000 to $19,000, with fields ranging from 6 to 14 horses. The card includes maiden claiming events, multiple claiming levels from $4,000 to $7,500, and a West Virginia-bred allowance optional claiming contest that serves as the featured race.
The racing conditions favor low-level claiming horses and state-bred performers typical of late-season Mountaineer programming. Several races feature competitive fields with horses dropping in class or seeking form reversals, creating opportunities for value plays and upset potential throughout the card.
Weather and Track Conditions
Current conditions at Mountaineer show cloudy skies with temperatures around 33 degrees Fahrenheit. The main dirt track is expected to be listed as fast, providing consistent footing throughout the evening. No precipitation is forecast for race time, allowing the racing surface to maintain its normal characteristics.
Winter weather in Chester, West Virginia, during early December typically brings cold temperatures ranging from the low 30s to mid-40s during the day, dropping into the 20s at night. These conditions are ideal for maintaining a fast, sealed racing surface that often amplifies the track’s existing speed bias. The cold weather may favor horses with recent action who are fit and ready to handle the brisk conditions.
Track Bias and Post Position Analysis
Mountaineer Casino Racetrack demonstrates a pronounced inside speed bias that significantly impacts handicapping strategy across all distances. Historical data confirms that posts 1-6 provide substantial advantages, especially during sprint races on fast track conditions. The one-mile oval configuration amplifies this bias, creating an inside speed advantage where front-runners from favorable positions often wire fields while outside horses struggle to make up ground.
In sprint races at six furlongs or less, inside posts provide maximum advantage due to the one-turn configuration with minimal straightaway. Outside posts face nearly impossible tasks unless clear early speed allows horses to angle in quickly before the turn. This bias becomes even more pronounced when the track is sealed, as the rail path offers the cleanest footing while outside horses encounter substantial kickback.
At the one-mile distance, horses must navigate two turns, somewhat diminishing the extreme rail bias seen in sprints. However, middle posts 4-7 still provide optimal positioning without forcing horses to navigate from the far outside. The clean path along the rail remains exceptionally valuable, and horses with tactical speed from favorable posts hold significant advantages over late-running types forced to overcome ground disadvantages.
The abbreviated distances of 4.5 and 5 furlongs create the most speed-favoring scenarios, with the winner almost certainly coming from horses establishing clear early leads or securing perfect stalking positions. In these ultra-short sprints, horses breaking alertly from inside posts gain overwhelming advantages securing position before any congestion develops.
Race 1 – Maiden Claiming $7,500
Post Time: 7:00 PM ET
Six Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $9,000. For maidens, fillies and mares three years old and upward. Three Year Olds, 121 lbs.; Older, 126 lbs. Nine horses entered.
Pace Analysis
This maiden claiming sprint should produce moderate to contested early fractions with several fillies showing early speed in their past performances. The six-furlong distance provides enough time for pace dynamics to develop, though the inside post bias will heavily favor those breaking alertly from posts 1-5. Expect two or three fillies to contest the early lead through the opening quarter, potentially setting up opportunities for closers if the pace becomes too heated. However, given the track’s speed bias, front-runners who can secure clear position while conserving energy have the tactical advantage.
Key Contenders
Clearly Inish draws post 3 with Brandon Tapara aboard for trainer Jay Bernardini. This three-year-old filly benefits from an ideal inside post position in a configuration that heavily favors early speed. The combination of favorable draw and proven jockey-trainer partnership makes her a logical contender. Tapara has solid connections at Mountaineer and understands how to capitalize on the inside bias.
Blue Opal enters from post 1 with Yuri Yaranga riding for trainer Inocencio Quezada. The rail post in maiden claiming sprints at Mountaineer provides a significant tactical advantage, allowing this filly to secure position without expending extra energy. If she breaks alertly, the inside path could prove decisive in a field lacking seasoned winners.
Somethingtosay represents the older division at four years old and draws post 4 with Kevin Gonzalez. This mare’s experience advantage over three-year-old rivals could prove valuable, particularly if she can track the pace from her mid-pack position and make a late run. Her maturity may help her handle the pressure of a competitive maiden claiming field.
Secondary Choices
Sunset Vibes enters from post 5 with Renzo Diaz riding for trainer Moises Valdez. This four-year-old mare has shown some ability in previous starts and the mid-pack post allows tactical flexibility. If the early pace becomes contentious, she could be positioned to capitalize from just off the leaders.
Christina of Milan draws post 6 with Charle Oliveros aboard for trainer Melinda Sanders. While the outside post is less favorable at this track, if she possesses sufficient early speed to secure position into the first turn, she could factor in the outcome. Sanders has modest success at the meet and Oliveros is a capable rider.
Longshots
Continue from post 7 represents a deeper closing type who will need a hot early pace to set up her late kick. At longer odds, she could provide exotic value if the favorites duel too aggressively through the opening half-mile.
Smoove Over exits post 8 under Luis Negron for trainer Juan Pablo Silva. While the wide post is challenging, Negron ranks among the leading riders at the meet with 96 wins. If anyone can overcome the post disadvantage, it’s a rider of Negron’s caliber, making this filly a potential upset candidate at a price.
Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles
Focus exotic wagers on horses drawn in posts 1-5, as the inside bias will be particularly pronounced in this maiden claiming field where horses lack experience rating their speed. Key Clearly Inish and Blue Opal in exacta and trifecta combinations, using Somethingtosay and Sunset Vibes underneath. A straight exacta box of the top three contenders provides solid value, while a trifecta wheel using Clearly Inish and Blue Opal over the field could produce a nice return if one of the outside runners closes for third.
For vertical wagers, this race serves as a potential single or key race in Pick 3 and Pick 4 sequences. The inside post bias makes Blue Opal and Clearly Inish the logical keys, though spreading to include Somethingtosay provides insurance against an upset.
Selections
Win: Clearly Inish
Place: Blue Opal
Show: Somethingtosay
Race 2 – Claiming $7,500
Post Time: 7:25 PM ET
One Mile, Dirt, Purse $9,000. For three year olds and upward which have never won two races. Three Year Olds, 121 lbs.; Older, 126 lbs. Eight horses entered.
Pace Analysis
The one-mile claiming route should produce an honest but not blistering early pace. With eight horses entered, several runners will show tactical speed without necessarily pressing for the outright lead through the opening half-mile. The two-turn configuration allows pace dynamics to develop more naturally than in sprints, though horses with forward positioning through the first turn maintain advantages on this track. Expect the field to string out through the backstretch with the winner likely coming from horses positioned in the first flight around the clubhouse turn.
Key Contenders
Reverend Jack draws post 6 with Bailey Weatherly riding for trainer Marion Cuttino. This five-year-old gelding has shown consistency in similar company and the middle-to-outside post allows tactical flexibility in routes. Weatherly ranks among the meet’s most reliable riders with 44 wins, and the jockey-trainer combination understands route racing at this level. Reverend Jack appears well-placed to make his presence felt.
One Destination exits the rail with Yuri Yaranga aboard for trainer Inocencio Quezada. The inside post in routes can be advantageous if the horse has sufficient early speed to secure position into the first turn without getting shuffled back. Yaranga is among the meet’s leading riders and should be able to work out a ground-saving trip from the rail.
My Mister Perfect draws post 7 with Deshawn Parker riding for trainer Brian Schling. This gelding drops in class after competing at Indiana in allowance company, suggesting connections are seeking an easier spot. Parker has 44 wins at the meet and Schling is a competent barn. The slight class drop combined with the experienced rider makes this one dangerous at a potential price.
Secondary Choices
Sugar Lips enters from post 3 with Ricardo Barrios for trainer Gary Welsh. The inside-to-middle post provides flexibility, and Barrios is a capable jockey who understands Mountaineer’s racing surface. If Sugar Lips can establish tactical position early, he could be involved in the outcome.
Monje Solaia draws post 5 with Limber Taboada Flores riding for Francisco Ramos. The middle post allows several tactical options, and Taboada Flores has shown competence with multiple mounts throughout the meet. This runner bears watching if showing improvement from recent efforts.
Longshots
Aloha Man from post 2 represents a live longshot for trainer Crystal Pickett with Kyle Gilbert in the irons. The inside post and quality rider provide tactical advantages that could lead to a surprise performance.
Dirbas exits the far outside post 8 with Luis Negron aboard. While the post is challenging, Negron’s riding skill could allow this gelding to overcome the disadvantage if he shows early speed to secure position into the first turn.
Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles
Route races at Mountaineer require balancing the inside speed bias with tactical considerations over two turns. Key Reverend Jack in horizontal exotic wagers, using One Destination and My Mister Perfect in exacta combinations. A trifecta box of these three runners provides coverage for various pace scenarios. For deeper value, consider adding Sugar Lips and Aloha Man to trifecta tickets using the top three on top.
In multi-race wagers, Reverend Jack appears solid enough to key in Pick 3 sequences, though My Mister Perfect offers value as an alternative if seeking a larger return.
Selections
Win: Reverend Jack
Place: One Destination
Show: My Mister Perfect
Race 3 – Allowance Optional Claiming
Post Time: 7:50 PM ET
5.5 Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $19,000. For accredited West Virginia-bred three year olds and upward which have never won three races or Claiming Price $12,500 for horses that have never won four races. Three Year Olds, 121 lbs.; Older, 126 lbs. Six horses entered.
Pace Analysis
This is the evening’s featured race with the highest purse, restricted to West Virginia-breds. The 5.5-furlong distance on Mountaineer’s speed-favoring surface creates a premium on early positioning. With only six horses, the pace should be honest but manageable, as fewer runners typically results in less early congestion. The abbreviated sprint distance means the winner will almost certainly come from horses establishing position through the opening quarter-mile. Late runners face difficult tasks unless the pace collapses.
Key Contenders
Prince Jeremy draws post 2 with Deshawn Parker riding for trainer Eddie Clouston. The inside post provides maximum advantage in this short sprint, and Clouston ranks second among trainers at the meet with 52 wins and over $552,000 in earnings. Parker’s 44 victories demonstrate his effectiveness at this track. The combination of favorable post, quality connections, and state-bred conditions makes this gelding formidable.
Dembe Zuma exits post 3 with Alejandro Gomez for trainer Jami Poole. This three-year-old gelding benefits from another inside draw and the weight allowance for younger horses. Poole operates a solid barn at Mountaineer, and the inside-to-middle post should allow Dembe Zuma to establish tactical position early in the abbreviated sprint.
Zealous Storm draws post 5 with Agustin Bracho aboard for Jami Poole. Having two runners from the same barn suggests confidence, and the middle post provides tactical options. This three-year-old also receives the weight allowance and could benefit if stablemate Dembe Zuma helps set the pace.
Secondary Choices
Why Winchill Why enters from post 1 with Bailey Weatherly riding for Crystal Richison. At seven years old, this veteran gelding brings experience to the contest. The rail post could prove advantageous if he breaks alertly, though older horses sometimes struggle against improving younger rivals in state-bred company.
Peaceful Warrior draws post 4 with Limber Taboada Flores aboard for trainer Jennifer Johnson. The middle post provides flexibility, and this four-year-old gelding appears competitively placed at this level. If the pace becomes contested, his mid-pack positioning could prove valuable.
Longshots
Hero’s Man exits the far outside post 6 at nine years old, making him the field’s elder statesman. While experience matters, the outside post combined with advanced age makes him a longshot in this abbreviated sprint. He would need a perfect trip and a collapsed pace to threaten the younger, better-positioned rivals.
Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles
With only six horses and a clear inside bias, focus on horses drawn in posts 1-3. Key Prince Jeremy in all exotic wagers, using Dembe Zuma and Zealous Storm in exacta and trifecta combinations. The Poole barn’s double entry creates interesting betting angles, as one horse may help set up the other. Consider a trifecta wheel keying Prince Jeremy on top over all combinations of the remaining five horses for maximum coverage.
This race offers strong single potential in multi-race wagers given the small field and clear bias toward inside posts with quality connections.
Selections
Win: Prince Jeremy
Place: Dembe Zuma
Show: Zealous Storm
Race 4 – Claiming $4,000
Post Time: 8:15 PM ET
Five Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $8,500. For fillies and mares three years old and upward which have not won a race since December 2, 2024. Three Year Olds, 121 lbs.; Older, 126 lbs. Fourteen horses entered.
Pace Analysis
This is the evening’s largest field with 14 fillies and mares entered in the ultra-short five-furlong dash. With this many runners in such an abbreviated sprint, the pace will be contested and chaotic through the opening quarter-mile. Multiple fillies will show early speed, creating inevitable traffic problems and forcing wide trips for outside runners. The combination of large field and short distance makes this race heavily trip-dependent, with the winner almost certainly coming from horses breaking alertly from inside posts. Closers face nearly impossible tasks over five furlongs with this many speed horses.
Key Contenders
Secret Seduction draws post 8 with Yuri Yaranga riding for Shane Spiess. While the middle-to-outside post is less than ideal, handicappers have identified this mare as possessing the best recent form in the field. She has been competitive in similar company and if she shows early speed to secure position before the first turn, could overcome the post disadvantage. Yaranga’s riding skill will be critical.
Lil But Delicious exits post 9 with Kyle Gilbert aboard for Frank Gerich. This four-year-old filly has shown consistent speed figures and the outside post, while challenging, provides a clean run to the first turn if she breaks sharply. With 14 horses, inside runners risk getting shuffled back in traffic, making the outside potentially viable for a true speed type who can establish clear position.
Future Flay draws post 10 with Limber Taboada Flores riding for Francisco Ramos. The far outside post is concerning, but Taboada Flores ranks among the meet’s busiest riders and Ramos operates a productive barn. If Future Flay possesses gate speed to cross over early, she could factor despite the wide draw.
Secondary Choices
Flowzano enters from post 1 with Kevin Gonzalez for trainer Terry Crago. The rail post provides maximum advantage in this crowded sprint, and if she breaks alertly she can secure position along the inside throughout. Gonzalez is a capable rider who should take advantage of the favorable draw.
Hidden Identity draws post 2 with Agustin Bracho riding for Jami Poole. Another inside post provides tactical benefits, and Poole’s barn has shown consistency throughout the meet. This mare could be positioned perfectly if she handles the pace dynamics.
Captain Anne exits post 7 with Alejandro Gomez for William Smith. The middle post provides some tactical options, though with 14 horses, navigating traffic will be challenging from this draw.
Longshots
Rock the Birdhouse from post 4 offers potential exotic value from an ideal inside post. If she shows more than expected early speed, the post advantage could carry her into the exotics at a price.
Knobiesmagicsonde draws post 5 with Charle Oliveros aboard. The middle post provides flexibility, and at longer odds this mare could surprise if finding her best effort.
Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles
With 14 horses in a five-furlong sprint, this race is inherently unpredictable and creates opportunities for value plays. The large field justifies spreading in exotic wagers while focusing on horses with tactical early speed from reasonable posts. Key Secret Seduction and Lil But Delicious in exactas, using the inside horses (Flowzano, Hidden Identity, Rock the Birdhouse) as potential upset runners underneath. A trifecta wheel might prove expensive but could produce significant returns given the field size.
Consider using multiple horses in Pick 3 and Pick 4 sequences through this race, as the large field and short distance create upset potential.
Selections
Win: Secret Seduction
Place: Lil But Delicious
Show: Future Flay
Race 5 – Claiming $4,000
Post Time: 8:40 PM ET
Six Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $8,500. For three year olds and upward which have not won a race in 2025. Three Year Olds, 121 lbs.; Older, 126 lbs. Eleven horses entered.
Pace Analysis
This claiming sprint features 11 horses restricted to non-winners in 2025, suggesting a field of chronic losers seeking any victory. The six-furlong distance allows slightly more time for pace dynamics than the ultra-short dashes, but with 11 entries, early positioning remains paramount. Expect a contested pace through the opening half-mile as multiple horses vie for position. The track’s speed bias means horses establishing tactical position through the first turn maintain significant advantages over deep closers.
Key Contenders
Joe Phillips draws post 9 with Deshawn Parker riding for Juan Pablo Silva. Despite the outside post, handicapping models have identified this gelding as a strong contender with solid win probability. Parker’s 44 victories and Silva’s leading trainer status suggest this combination can overcome the post disadvantage if the horse shows sufficient early speed. The trainer-jockey connection rates among the meet’s best.
Mitico exits post 6 with Luis Negron aboard for Juan Pablo Silva. The same connections using the meet’s leading rider on a stablemate signals serious intent. Negron has 96 wins and understands how to maximize tactical advantages. The middle post provides flexibility, and having two Silva runners suggests confidence in the barn’s form.
Act of Valor draws post 4 with Michael Pagan riding for Stephen Murtough. The inside-to-middle post offers tactical advantages, and the apprentice jockey weight allowance provides a pound advantage. If Act of Valor can secure forward position early, the favorable post could prove decisive.
Secondary Choices
Charli Michael enters from post 1 with Edgar Paucar aboard for Eddie Clouston. The rail post and quality trainer make this gelding dangerous. Clouston ranks second among trainers at the meet, and the inside draw could allow Charli Michael to save ground throughout.
Remys Gunsmoke draws post 5 with Kyle Gilbert riding for Marion Cuttino. The middle post provides tactical options, and Gilbert has shown competence throughout the meet. This gelding could be positioned well if rating comfortably behind the early pace.
Professional exits post 7 with Yuri Yaranga for Shane Spiess. The outside-middle post is workable, and Yaranga’s riding skill could prove valuable in navigating the 11-horse field.
Longshots
James Gang from post 2 represents a potential upset from the inside with Kevin Gonzalez aboard. The favorable post could prove decisive if this gelding shows unexpected improvement.
Cold Plunge draws post 10 with Ricardo Barrios riding for John Brown. The far outside post is challenging, but if he possesses gate speed to establish position, the clean run to the first turn could work in his favor.
Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles
Focus on the Silva barn’s double entry of Joe Phillips and Mitico, as the leading trainer clearly targets this race. Key both horses in exacta combinations, using Act of Valor and the inside horses as potential upset runners. A trifecta wheel keying Joe Phillips and Mitico on top over all combinations underneath provides coverage for various scenarios.
The competitive nature of this claiming race makes it ideal for spreading in multi-race wagers, though Joe Phillips and Mitico offer logical keys for bettors seeking singles.
Selections
Win: Joe Phillips
Place: Mitico
Show: Act of Valor
Race 6 – Maiden Claiming $4,000
Post Time: 9:05 PM ET
4.5 Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $8,000. For maidens, three years old and upward. Three Year Olds, 121 lbs.; Older, 126 lbs. Ten horses entered.
Pace Analysis
The ultra-short 4.5-furlong dash creates the most speed-favoring scenario on the card. With 10 maiden horses entered, the race will essentially be decided in the opening 100 yards. Gate break and immediate acceleration matter more than any other factors over this distance. The track’s speed bias becomes overwhelming in such short sprints, with horses breaking alertly from inside posts gaining decisive advantages. Any sluggish break or gate trouble proves unrecoverable over this abbreviated distance.
Key Contenders
Swervin Mervyn draws post 6 with Deshawn Parker riding for Julie Mathes. The middle post provides balance in this short dash, avoiding both the potential rail traffic and the far outside ground loss. Parker’s riding skill will be essential in securing position through the opening furlong. This gelding appears logically placed among these maidens.
Rufus exits post 2 with Bailey Weatherly aboard for John Brown. The inside post offers significant advantages in ultra-short dashes, allowing this three-year-old gelding to secure position immediately after the break. Weatherly has 44 wins at the meet and understands how to maximize favorable post positions. The combination of quality rider and ideal draw makes Rufus formidable.
Carolina Cherokee draws post 1 with Limber Taboada Flores riding for Jennifer Johnson. The rail post in a 4.5-furlong dash provides maximum tactical advantage, though it also carries risk if the horse stumbles or breaks slowly. If Carolina Cherokee handles the gate cleanly, the inside path could prove decisive.
Secondary Choices
Flashover enters from post 4 with Charle Oliveros for Alexis Cordero-Lopez. The inside-to-middle post provides tactical options, and if he shows early speed he could be positioned perfectly through the abbreviated sprint.
Gimme Gold draws post 5 with Kevin Gonzalez aboard for Sara Stanoszek. The middle post avoids the extremes, and Gonzalez should be able to work out a reasonable trip from this draw.
Ballot Box exits post 3 with Ricardo Barrios riding for Jessica Pizzurro. The inside post provides advantages, though this six-year-old horse has failed to win in 22 career starts, suggesting chronic issues. Still, the favorable post keeps him competitive.
Longshots
Springs from post 8 with Luis Negron aboard represents the most intriguing longshot. While the outside post is challenging in this short dash, Negron’s 96 wins demonstrate his ability to overcome disadvantages. If Springs breaks alertly and Negron can angle in quickly, this three-year-old colt could surprise at a price.
Siete Siete Siete draws post 9 with Yuri Yaranga riding. The far outside post makes him a deep longshot, though Yaranga’s skill provides some hope if the colt possesses exceptional gate speed.
Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles
Ultra-short dashes require focusing on horses drawn inside posts 1-4, as the outside runners face nearly impossible tasks. Key Rufus and Carolina Cherokee in exacta combinations, using Swervin Mervyn as the third horse. A straight exacta box of these three provides solid coverage. For deeper exotic value, consider adding Flashover and Ballot Box to trifecta tickets.
The inherent randomness of 4.5-furlong maiden dashes makes this race risky for single usage in multi-race wagers. Spread to multiple horses in Pick 3 and Pick 4 sequences.
Selections
Win: Rufus
Place: Carolina Cherokee
Show: Swervin Mervyn
Race 7 – Claiming $7,500
Post Time: 9:30 PM ET
Five Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $9,500. For fillies and mares three years old and upward which have never won three races. Three Year Olds, 121 lbs.; Older, 126 lbs. Eight horses entered.
Pace Analysis
This five-furlong filly and mare claiming sprint should produce contested early fractions with several speed types entered. The abbreviated distance means early positioning is paramount, though with only eight horses the field should string out more cleanly than in the larger 14-horse dash earlier on the card. The winner will almost certainly come from horses establishing position through the opening quarter-mile. Late runners face significant challenges on this speed-favoring surface over such a short distance.
Key Contenders
Sharp Attack draws post 6 with Deshawn Parker riding for Dino DiZeo. Handicappers have identified this four-year-old filly as having solid claims after a close third-place finish last time out. The middle-to-outside post provides tactical options, and Parker’s 44 wins demonstrate his effectiveness. DiZeo operates a productive barn at Mountaineer, making this combination formidable.
Mary Moonglow exits post 4 with Alexander Bendezu aboard for Dino DiZeo. Having two runners from the same trainer suggests confidence, and the inside-to-middle post offers advantages in this sprint. This three-year-old filly receives the weight allowance and could benefit from the favorable draw.
Third Tuesday draws post 5 with Renzo Diaz riding for Juan Pablo Silva. This filly comes off a recent victory, suggesting she’s found her best form. Silva ranks as the meet’s leading trainer, and the middle post provides tactical flexibility. The winning form combined with quality connections makes her a serious threat.
Secondary Choices
Carousing enters from post 1 with Brandon Tapara for Jessica Pizzurro. The rail post provides maximum advantage in this sprint, and if she breaks alertly she can save ground throughout. The inside draw keeps her competitive despite facing quality rivals.
Memosis draws post 3 with Luis Tapara riding for Jose Luna Silva. Another inside post from a leading trainer creates upset potential. Silva has 86 wins at the meet, ranking first among all trainers.
Longshots
Jasmines World from post 2 represents a potential surprise at longer odds. The inside post keeps her live despite facing tougher competition.
Kam’s Rockin Gold exits post 8 with Limber Taboada Flores aboard for Brian Schling. The far outside post is challenging, but if she possesses superior early speed she might overcome the disadvantage.
Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles
Focus on the DiZeo barn’s double entry of Sharp Attack and Mary Moonglow, as having two runners signals confidence. Key both in exacta combinations, using Third Tuesday and the inside horses in the second and third positions. A trifecta box of Sharp Attack, Mary Moonglow, and Third Tuesday provides solid coverage, while adding Carousing creates deeper value potential.
This race offers reasonable single potential in Pick 3 sequences, with Sharp Attack and Third Tuesday as the logical keys.
Selections
Win: Sharp Attack
Place: Third Tuesday
Show: Mary Moonglow
Race 8 – Claiming $4,000
Post Time: 9:55 PM ET
5.5 Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $9,000. For fillies and mares three years old and upward which have never won four races or which have not won a race in 2025. Three Year Olds, 121 lbs.; Older, 126 lbs. Ten horses entered.
Pace Analysis
The evening’s finale features 10 fillies and mares in a 5.5-furlong claiming sprint. The distance allows slightly more time for pace dynamics than pure dashes, though early positioning remains critical on this speed-favoring track. With 10 horses, traffic and trip will significantly impact outcomes. Expect multiple fillies to show early speed through the opening half-mile, potentially setting up opportunities for tactical types pressing the pace from good positions. The winner should come from the first flight through the early going.
Key Contenders
Kaitie Kait draws post 1 with Charle Oliveros riding for Alexis Cordero-Lopez. The rail post provides maximum tactical advantage in this sprint, allowing this four-year-old filly to save ground throughout. If she breaks alertly and secures position along the inside, the favorable trip could prove decisive against these claimers.
X Gene exits post 3 with Ricardo Barrios aboard for Virginia Demczyk. The inside-to-middle post offers advantages, and Barrios has shown consistent competence throughout the meet. This four-year-old filly appears well-placed at this level.
Whats Goin On draws post 7 with Limber Taboada Flores riding for Juan Carlos Gotera. The outside-middle post is workable, and Taboada Flores has multiple mounts on the card suggesting active connections. This six-year-old mare brings experience to the contest.
Secondary Choices
Flashy Too enters from post 2 with Bailey Weatherly for John Brown. The inside post combined with Weatherly’s 44 wins creates solid upset potential. The veteran rider should maximize the favorable draw.
Opulent Ways draws post 6 with Rocco Bowen riding. The middle post provides tactical options, and handicappers have shown some interest in this mare’s chances.
Alter the Stars exits post 5 with Yuri Yaranga aboard for Melinda Sanders. The middle post keeps her competitive, and Yaranga’s riding skill could prove valuable in the 10-horse field.
Longshots
Stagflation from post 4 with Michael Pagan receives the apprentice weight allowance. The inside-to-middle post combined with the weight break creates upset potential at longer odds.
Patty’s Having Fun draws post 9 with Luis Negron riding for Juan Carlos Gotera. While the outside post is challenging, Negron’s 96 wins demonstrate his ability to overcome disadvantages. This four-year-old filly could surprise if finding her best effort.
Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles
Focus on inside posts 1-4 in this competitive claiming finale. Key Kaitie Kait in exacta combinations, using X Gene and Flashy Too as potential running mates. A trifecta wheel keying Kaitie Kait on top over all combinations underneath provides coverage while emphasizing the rail runner. For deeper value, include Whats Goin On and Opulent Ways in multi-leg exotic wagers.
This race concludes the card’s Pick 4 and Pick 6 sequences, making post position and early speed particularly valuable handicapping factors.
Selections
Win: Kaitie Kait
Place: X Gene
Show: Flashy Too
Jockey Notes and Insights
Luis Negron leads all jockeys at the Mountaineer meet with 96 wins and earnings exceeding $978,000. His success rate and earnings demonstrate consistent competence across all claiming levels. Negron’s multiple mounts on the December 2 card include Smoove Over in Race 1, Dirbas in Race 2, Mitico in Race 5, Springs in Race 6, Arditamente in Race 7, and Patty’s Having Fun in Race 8. His broad book of business suggests active agent work and barn confidence. Pay particular attention to Negron-piloted horses from inside posts where he can maximize tactical advantages.
Bailey Weatherly has accumulated 44 wins and over $554,000 at the meet, ranking among the leading riders. Weatherly’s mounts on this card include Why Winchill Why in Race 3, Reverend Jack in Race 2, Rufus in Race 6, and Flashy Too in Race 8. He excels in route races where tactical positioning matters, and his success with trainer Marion Cuttino makes their partnership valuable to note. Weatherly understands Mountaineer’s inside speed bias and positions horses to capitalize on ground-saving trips.
Deshawn Parker has 44 wins at the meet and shows particular effectiveness with tactical speed types. His mounts include Prince Jeremy in Race 3, My Mister Perfect in Race 2, Joe Phillips in Race 5, Swervin Mervyn in Race 6, and Sharp Attack in Race 7. Parker’s success rate improves notably when paired with quality barns like Eddie Clouston and Juan Pablo Silva. His ability to rate horses behind pace pressure while maintaining striking position makes him valuable in competitive claiming races.
Brandon Tapara and Yuri Yaranga represent younger riders who have earned barn confidence through consistent efforts. Both show versatility across claiming levels and handle maiden races effectively. Tapara rides Clearly Inish in Race 1 and Carousing in Race 7, while Yaranga has mounts in Races 1, 2, 5, 6, and 8, indicating active agent work and multiple barn connections.
Limber Taboada Flores appears frequently on the card with mounts in Races 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8. His busy book of business suggests barn confidence, though his win rate trails the leading riders. Taboada Flores shows effectiveness when paired with trainer Francisco Ramos and handles claiming races across multiple levels.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Jose Luna Silva dominates the Mountaineer trainer standings with 86 wins and earnings of $847,884. His success rate at approximately 23% makes any Silva-trained runner worthy of consideration. Silva has multiple horses on this card including Third Tuesday in Race 7 and Joe Phillips and Mitico in Race 5. The trainer’s double entry in Race 5 signals serious intent to win that particular race, as leading barns don’t waste entries on longshot hopes.
Eddie Clouston ranks second with 52 wins and over $552,000 in earnings. Clouston shows particular strength with maiden and lower-level claiming horses, making his entries Prince Jeremy in Race 3 and Charli Michael in Race 5 noteworthy. When Clouston pairs with capable riders like Deshawn Parker and Edgar Paucar, the combinations show enhanced win percentages.
Juan Pablo Silva operates a productive barn with multiple wins throughout the meet. Silva runners appear in multiple races including Smoove Over in Race 1, Joe Phillips and Mitico in Race 5, and Springs in Race 6. The barn shows particular effectiveness with claiming horses and demonstrates solid placement skills.
Dino DiZeo maintains consistent success with fillies and mares, as evidenced by his double entry of Sharp Attack and Mary Moonglow in Race 7. DiZeo-trained horses often show early speed and tactical versatility, making them effective on Mountaineer’s speed-favoring surface. His success rate improves when paired with experienced riders like Deshawn Parker and Alexander Bendezu.
Brian Schling operates a solid claiming barn with wins across multiple levels. His horses appear competitive in claiming races, as demonstrated by My Mister Perfect in Race 2 and Kam’s Rockin Gold in Race 7. Schling shows effectiveness when dropping horses in class or finding soft spots in the condition book.
Francisco Ramos demonstrates consistency with claiming-level horses throughout the meet. Ramos entries include Monje Solaia in Race 2 and Future Flay in Race 4. The barn pairs effectively with jockey Limber Taboada Flores, suggesting a working relationship that produces positive results.
Crystal Pickett maintains multiple horses at Mountaineer and shows competence across claiming levels. While not among the leading trainers by wins, Pickett’s placement skills keep her horses competitive when properly spotted.
John Brown trains multiple entries on this card including Rufus in Race 6, Flashy Too in Race 8, and Cold Plunge in Race 5. Brown operates a claiming barn that targets opportune spots, and his horses often show value at square prices when properly placed.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
The pronounced inside speed bias at Mountaineer creates systematic advantages for horses drawn in posts 1-6, particularly in sprint races. Bettors should emphasize post position analysis when constructing exacta and trifecta tickets, focusing on inside runners with tactical speed while using outside posts only as deep closing options or upset possibilities.
The track’s speed bias becomes most pronounced in ultra-short races like the 4.5-furlong and 5-furlong dashes in Races 4, 6, and 7. In these abbreviated sprints, horses establishing position through the opening furlong gain overwhelming advantages that are difficult to overcome. Focus exotic wagers on horses breaking from posts 1-5 in these races, as outside runners face nearly impossible tasks unless possessing exceptional early speed.
Route races at one mile show slightly less extreme bias, though tactical speed from middle posts 4-7 remains valuable. The two-turn configuration allows pace dynamics to develop more naturally, creating opportunities for pressing types who can track honest fractions while saving ground through the turns. In Race 2, the one-mile claiming event, focus on horses who can secure tactical position through the first turn without expending excessive energy.
Trainer angles provide significant value throughout this card. Jose Luna Silva’s double entry in Race 5 with Joe Phillips and Mitico signals serious targeting of that particular race. Leading trainers with entries exceeding 20% win rates don’t waste entries on longshots, making both Silva horses logical keys in horizontal and vertical exotic wagers. Similarly, Dino DiZeo’s double entry in Race 7 with Sharp Attack and Mary Moonglow suggests confidence and creates exacta and trifecta wheeling opportunities.
The large 14-horse field in Race 4 creates significant upset potential and justifies deeper exotic plays. With so many fillies and mares entered in a five-furlong dash, trip and traffic will significantly impact outcomes. The race offers opportunity for longshot scores in trifectas and superfectas, as even the most talented horse can encounter trouble in such crowded conditions. Consider constructing trifecta tickets using multiple inside horses on top while wheeling all runners in the third position for maximum coverage at reasonable cost.
Multi-race wagers require balancing singles with spreads based on field size and race type. Race 3, the West Virginia-bred allowance with only six horses, offers strong single potential with Prince Jeremy from the inside post and quality connections. The small field and clear inside bias make keying logical. Conversely, Races 4 and 6, with their large fields and ultra-short distances, justify spreading to multiple horses in Pick 3 and Pick 4 sequences.
Value plays exist throughout the card with horses drawn to inside posts paired with leading riders facing lesser rivals. Rufus in Race 6 from post 2 with Bailey Weatherly represents solid value given the favorable post and quality rider in a maiden dash. Similarly, Kaitie Kait in Race 8 from the rail post offers value as a potential closer in the evening’s finale.
Vertical exotic value emerges when targeting races with clear bias advantages. A Pick 3 combining Race 3 (Prince Jeremy), Race 4 (spreading to multiple horses), and Race 5 (Silva barn’s double entry) creates logical structure with one single, one spread race, and one barn focus. The cost remains manageable while covering the most likely scenarios.
Late Pick 4 wagers should emphasize post position bias in the abbreviated sprints while respecting leading barns’ targeted entries. A conservative approach might single Prince Jeremy in Race 3, spread in Race 4, key the Silva barn in Race 5, and use multiple horses in Races 6-8. More aggressive bettors might add singles in Races 7 and 8 with Sharp Attack and Kaitie Kait, both benefiting from favorable post positions.
The consistent fast track conditions and clear speed bias make Mountaineer’s December 2 card highly predictable from a tactical standpoint, even if individual race results create variance. Bettors who respect post position advantages, target leading barns’ focused entries, and construct exotic wagers emphasizing inside speed types should find profitable opportunities throughout the eight-race card.
