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Remington Park kicks off Wednesday evening racing on December 17, 2025, with a competitive nine-race card featuring a balanced mix of claiming races, maiden events, and allowance conditions. First post is 6:00 PM Central Time. The card includes action for Oklahoma-bred horses, two-year-olds seeking their first career wins, and seasoned runners competing in competitive claiming and allowance company. The meet continues its strong finish heading toward the December 20 conclusion highlighted by the Grade 3 Springboard Mile.
Steven Asmussen continues his dominant run at the meet with 38 wins from 153 starts at a 25 percent strike rate, well ahead of Robertino Diodoro’s 24 wins. David Cabrera maintains his position as the leading rider, though Stewart Elliott and Erik Asmussen provide formidable competition in the jockey colony. Post position bias remains a critical handicapping factor, particularly in sprint distances where posts three, four, and seven have historically produced the highest win percentages.
Weather and Track Conditions
Wednesday’s weather forecast calls for temperatures reaching 54-55 degrees Fahrenheit during the day with lows dropping to 34-48 degrees by evening racing. A dense fog advisory remains in effect until 10:00 AM Central Time but will have cleared well before first post. No precipitation is expected for race day, and the main track should remain fast.
The mild temperatures and dry conditions favor speed-biased horses on the main dirt oval. The fast track surface combined with evening racing in cooler temperatures typically produces honest fractions without excessive early pace duels. Horses with tactical speed should be able to secure favorable positions without expending excessive energy in the opening furlongs.
Post Position Analysis and Track Bias
Remington Park’s track configuration presents distinct post position advantages that vary significantly by distance. The track relocated its starting gate away from the inside rail several years ago, fundamentally altering the bias patterns.
For sprint races between five and six and one-half furlongs, posts three, four, and seven demonstrate the strongest winning percentages. Post four historically produces approximately 26 percent of winners, while post three accounts for 25 percent of victories. Post five represents a significant disadvantage with only 11 percent of winners emerging from this position. Posts 11 and 12, when used in larger fields, show minimal success rates.
In route races exceeding one mile, the dynamics shift considerably toward outside posts. Post 10 demonstrates approximately 35.5 percent winners despite limited opportunities. Wire-to-wire winners account for roughly 35 percent of route victories, making tactical speed particularly dangerous in two-turn events. Horses capable of securing favorable position before the first turn consistently outperform deep closers who find themselves racing wide around both turns.
On turf races, inside posts regain their traditional advantage with position one generating over 15 percent of winners. Post nine on the grass proves difficult with only 7.8 percent of winners.
Race 1: $5,000 Claiming
Post Time: 6:00 PM
Six and one-half furlongs on dirt for three-year-olds and upward that have not won two races since December 17, 2024. Purse of $12,500. This bottom-level claiming race for older horses features seven runners with varied recent form.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears moderately contested with three horses possessing early speed credentials. Tenth Street Don from post two and Threefiftyseven from post six both showed willingness to press the pace in recent efforts. Gianno from the four hole also demonstrated tactical speed in his last start. The pace should develop honestly without becoming suicidal, potentially setting up for horses with closing kicks or tactical pressing styles.
Key Contenders
Tenth Street Don draws the rail-adjacent post two and drops to the lowest claiming level of his career after finishing fourth in a fast six and one-half furlong dash. The Wade Rarick trainee with Richard Eramia aboard gets the class relief needed to regain winning form. The drop in company combined with the favorable post position creates a legitimate win threat.
R Doc from post three occupies the historically productive stall and brings consistent form into this assignment. The Jory Ferrell trainee finished second in his last two starts against similar competition. Iram Diego Vargas picks up the mount on this six-year-old gelding who demonstrates the tactical speed necessary to secure position from the favorable draw. The combination of post position advantage and recent consistency makes him a logical key horse.
Ammenthedestroyer represents the Ferrell barn’s second entry from post seven, another historically successful position at this distance. The five-year-old gelding under David Cabrera gets the benefit of the leading rider at the meet. While facing a full field, the post position statistics favor this runner in a competitive claiming heat.
Secondary Choices
Define exits post five, the statistically weakest draw in the field, creating an immediate handicapping obstacle despite competitive recent efforts. The five-year-old gelding for trainer Marti Rodriguez and jockey Weston Hamilton possesses tactical ability but faces the dual challenges of the disadvantageous post and stronger competition on his inside.
Gianno represents trainer Stacey Rushton from the four post with Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez riding. The four-year-old gelding demonstrated pace-pressing ability in recent starts and draws a neutral post position. While not the top selection, this runner merits consideration in exotic wagers.
Wagering Strategy
The pace dynamics favor horses positioned to press or stalk the early leaders. Key R Doc on top in exacta and trifecta constructions, wheeling underneath Tenth Street Don and Ammenthedestroyer. The exacta box of R Doc with Tenth Street Don provides solid value given the favorable post positions for both runners. For deeper exotic coverage, include Ammenthedestroyer and Gianno in trifecta combinations while avoiding heavy investment on Define from the disadvantageous post five.
Selections
Win: R Doc
Place: Tenth Street Don
Show: Ammenthedestroyer
Race 2: Oklahoma-Bred Claiming Fillies
Post Time: 6:28 PM
Five furlongs on dirt for Oklahoma-bred fillies and mares three years old and upward that have never won two races. Claiming price $7,500 with a purse of $11,500. This sprint for state-bred females features seven runners.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears straightforward with multiple speed-inclined fillies likely engaging from the start. That Was Easy, Unbridled Kisses, and Mystical Code all demonstrated willingness to contest the early lead in recent efforts. The short five-furlong distance leaves minimal time for tactical maneuvers, favoring horses that break alertly and secure early position. Closers face significant challenges unless the pace becomes unsustainably fast.
Key Contenders
Mystical Code emerges as the consensus top selection from post six at morning line odds of 2-1. The five-year-old mare for trainer Michael Biehler and jockey Isaiah Wiseman demonstrated tactical speed with stalking ability in recent starts. Her position as the fastest stalker in the field combined with consistent recent form makes her the logical favorite despite previous scratches in the condition book.
That Was Easy represents trainer Mindy Willis from post one with Stewart Elliott in the saddle. The three-year-old filly demonstrated deep closing ability in her most recent start, winning at six furlongs before finishing fourth in her last at five and one-half furlongs. The inside post at this sprint distance presents challenges, but Elliott’s skill navigating traffic situations provides confidence. The morning line of 3-1 represents fair value.
Presleys Volley from post seven draws another historically favorable position for this distance under Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez. The three-year-old filly for trainer George Blatchford showed competitive efforts in recent starts and benefits from the outside draw that allows flexibility in early positioning. At 5-1 morning line odds, this runner offers value in exotic constructions.
Secondary Choices
Unbridled Kisses carries 30 starts of experience with moderate success for trainer Evans Komardley. Obed Sanchez takes the mount on this four-year-old filly who demonstrated mid-pack pace-pressing ability. While competitive in this level, the inconsistent recent form creates uncertainty.
Aunt Lottie brings veteran experience with 17 starts and a recent runner-up finish. The eight-year-old mare under Weston Hamilton demonstrated mid-pack tactical ability and gets the class relief needed. At 8-1 morning line odds, include in deeper exotic wagers.
Wagering Strategy
The sprint distance and pace dynamics favor horses with early speed or tactical position. Construct exacta tickets using Mystical Code and That Was Easy on top, wheeling underneath each other and Presleys Volley. The trifecta should include all three selections with Aunt Lottie and Unbridled Kisses filling the third position. Given the sprint distance and likely pace scenario, avoid backing deep closers in this race.
Selections
Win: Mystical Code
Place: That Was Easy
Show: Presleys Volley
Race 3: Maiden Special Weight Two-Year-Olds
Post Time: 6:56 PM
One mile on dirt for maiden two-year-olds with a purse of $38,000. This maiden special weight test at a demanding distance for juveniles features seven runners including two debut horses from the powerful Steven Asmussen barn.
Pace Analysis
The pace should develop moderately given the one-mile distance and inexperience level of the field. Several horses demonstrated willingness to press early in recent starts, but the demanding distance typically produces more reserved early fractions as riders conserve energy for the stretch drive. Expo City and Big Bang Boom both showed tactical speed in recent efforts. The two Asmussen debut runners represent unknown quantities in terms of early pace intentions.
Key Contenders
Expo City represents trainer Dick Cappellucci from post three with David Cabrera aboard. The two-year-old gelding compiled an impressive record of placings with two seconds and four thirds from five starts. The consistent form combined with Cabrera’s leading rider status and the historically favorable post three makes this runner the morning line favorite at 5-2. His tactical closing ability suits the one-mile distance, allowing him to sit off the pace before rallying.
Wadi Al Kouf makes his debut for the formidable Steven Asmussen barn from post six with Erik Asmussen riding. This son of Tapit carries strong pedigree credentials and the benefit of the most successful trainer at the meet. While debuting at a demanding one-mile distance, the Asmussen barn’s preparation methods and Erik’s tactical skills provide confidence. The 6-1 morning line odds offer value for a first-time starter with this combination.
Zilarro represents the second Asmussen entry, this time with Stewart Elliott in the saddle from post seven. The two-year-old gelding benefits from Elliott’s experience and the historically favorable post seven at this distance. While also debuting, the combination of elite trainer and jockey creates a formidable threat. Morning line odds of 5-2 reflect the market’s respect for this entry.
Secondary Choices
Big Bang Boom showed improvement when finishing third over course and distance in his most recent start for trainer Danny Pish. Weston Hamilton takes the mount on this runner who demonstrated tactical versatility. The improving form suggests potential for further advancement.
C P A Jim brings six starts of experience with one placing for trainer Dick Cappellucci. Floyd Wethey Jr. rides this runner who showed closing ability in recent efforts. While winless, the experience advantage over debut horses merits consideration in exotic wagers.
Longshots
Friday Night Fever debuts for trainer Ronnie Cravens III with Santos Rivera riding. While lacking the pedigree credentials of the Asmussen entries, the barn shows solid statistics with maiden horses. At 10-1 morning line odds, include in deeper trifecta coverage.
Coach Kev represents trainer Scott Corderman with Iram Diego Vargas aboard. Limited information exists on this debut runner, making him difficult to assess. The barn’s 26 percent win rate provides some confidence, but the lack of recent workouts creates uncertainty.
Wagering Strategy
The presence of two Asmussen debut horses creates challenging betting dynamics. Construct exacta tickets using all three key selections, with emphasis on Expo City for the win position based on his proven form. The trifecta should spread to include Big Bang Boom as the proven third option. Given the debut status of multiple runners, conservative betting approaches favor using the proven commodity Expo City as the anchor while spreading to the talented newcomers underneath.
Selections
Win: Expo City
Place: Wadi Al Kouf
Show: Zilarro
Race 4: Oklahoma-Bred Maiden Special Weight
Post Time: 7:24 PM
One and one-sixteenth miles on dirt for Oklahoma-bred maidens, three, four, and five years old. Purse of $38,000. This extended-distance maiden race for state-breds features seven older horses seeking their first career victory.
Pace Analysis
The demanding distance typically produces moderate early fractions as riders conserve energy for the two-turn journey. Rev’s Tomb and Get Dreamy both demonstrated tactical speed in recent efforts, suggesting they will establish the early pace. The route distance allows patient riders to stalk early before making their moves entering the far turn. Closers must begin their rallies by the half-mile pole to secure striking position for the stretch drive.
Key Contenders
Rev’s Tomb represents trainer Shawn Davis from post one with David Cabrera riding. The three-year-old gelding finished third as the beaten favorite in his last start going two turns. The inside post at this distance provides tactical advantages around both turns, allowing Cabrera to save ground throughout. The morning line of 2-1 reflects this runner’s status as the top selection based on recent form and rider advantage.
Get Dreamy draws post three for trainer Miguel Angel Silva with Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez aboard. The three-year-old colt demonstrated consistency with second or third-place finishes in his last four starts. The favorable post three combined with proven form at this level makes him a formidable threat. Morning line odds of 5-2 suggest the market recognizes his chances despite never reaching the winner’s circle.
Fully Funded brings significant experience with 27 starts but remains winless for trainer Miguel Angel Silva. Santos Rivera takes the mount on this four-year-old gelding who carries 124 pounds as an older horse. While the experience suggests some ability, the 27-start maiden tag raises questions about whether he possesses the necessary talent to break through. At 5-2 morning line odds, the value appears questionable given the long losing streak.
Secondary Choices
Code Eleven steps up in class while picking up Weston Hamilton for his first ride on this runner. The four-year-old gelding for trainer Steve Davis showed competitive efforts at lower levels. The class raise and new rider combination creates uncertainty, but Hamilton’s skill provides optimism.
Regal Son represents trainer Scott Young from post two with Belen Quinonez riding. The three-year-old gelding brings minimal experience and modest earnings. While the barn shows solid statistics, this runner appears overmatched against horses with more seasoning.
Longshots
El Gato Americano debuts for trainer Shawna Zuti with Brayan Pena riding. Limited information exists on this Oklahoma-bred, making evaluation difficult. The debut status and inexperienced connections suggest avoiding in primary exotic wagers.
Eura Happy Hippie rounds out the field for trainer J Sue Hunt with Kelsi Purcell aboard. The three-year-old gelding showed some ability in recent starts but appears outclassed in this company. Include only in the deepest trifecta coverage.
Wagering Strategy
The route distance and pace scenario favor horses with proven form at the distance. Construct exacta tickets keying Rev’s Tomb on top over Get Dreamy and Code Eleven. The combination of Cabrera’s riding skill and the inside post provides significant advantages in route races. For trifecta coverage, include Fully Funded despite concerns about his lengthy maiden streak, as experience sometimes translates to placings even without victories. Avoid overinvesting in the debut runner or horses with minimal experience at this demanding distance.
Selections
Win: Rev’s Tomb
Place: Get Dreamy
Show: Code Eleven
Race 5: Maiden Claiming Fillies Two-Year-Olds
Post Time: 7:52 PM
One mile on dirt for maiden fillies two years old. Purse of $21,000 with claiming prices of $20,000 and Oklahoma-bred claiming price of $25,000. This demanding distance for juvenile fillies features nine runners.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears contentious with several fillies demonstrating early speed in recent efforts. The one-mile distance for two-year-old maidens typically produces moderate fractions as trainers and riders respect the inexperience level. However, with nine runners and multiple speed types, the early pace could develop more aggressively than ideal. Fillies demonstrating tactical versatility hold advantages over pure early speed or deep closing types.
Key Contenders
Lookatthatgirlrun represents trainer Ronnie Cravens III from post three with Santos Rivera riding. The two-year-old filly draws the historically favorable post three and benefits from a barn that shows solid results with maiden runners. The morning line of 3-1 reflects competitive chances in this field of maidens.
Mrs Shirley provides Cravens with a second entry from post four, another statistically strong position. Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez takes the mount on this filly who represents the barn’s best chance based on recent workouts. The 3-1 morning line suggests equal market respect to her stablemate.
Dig Baby Dig comes from post five for trainer M Brent Davidson with Isaiah Wiseman riding. The five post historically underperforms at sprint distances, creating an immediate handicapping challenge. At 4.50 morning line odds, this filly offers some value if able to overcome the post position disadvantage through tactical speed.
Secondary Choices
Pretty Irene debuts for trainer Scott Corderman from post six with Iram Diego Vargas aboard. The barn’s strong 25 percent win rate provides confidence, but the debut status and lack of public workouts create uncertainty. Include in deeper exotic wagers at 14-1 morning line odds.
Gospel Judy represents trainer Steve Williams from post two with Leandro Goncalves riding. Limited recent form information makes evaluation difficult, though the connections show competence at this level.
Longshots
Shake That Thing draws post seven for trainer Federico Villafranco with Weston Hamilton aboard. Recent scratches raise questions about readiness, though the historically favorable post seven provides tactical advantages if fully prepared.
Topic Thunder rounds out the field from post nine for trainer Wade Rarick with Stewart Elliott riding. The outside post creates challenges at this distance for two-year-olds, though Elliott’s skills cannot be dismissed.
Wagering Strategy
The large field and maiden status of all runners creates unpredictability. Construct exacta tickets using the two Cravens entries on top, spreading underneath to Dig Baby Dig and Pretty Irene. The trifecta should include wider coverage given the inexperience level and potential for surprise performances. Consider using the two Cravens fillies in all positions while spreading to longer prices for value. The one-mile distance for two-year-old maiden fillies often produces upset results, warranting conservative betting approaches that emphasize value over heavy favorites.
Selections
Win: Lookatthatgirlrun
Place: Mrs Shirley
Show: Dig Baby Dig
Race 6: Oklahoma-Bred Maiden Claiming
Post Time: 8:20 PM
Six furlongs on dirt for Oklahoma-bred maidens, three, four, and five years old. Claiming price $20,000 with purse of $21,000. This sprint for older state-bred maidens features eight runners.
Pace Analysis
The six-furlong sprint distance leaves minimal time for tactical maneuvering, placing premium value on alertness from the gate and early speed. Multiple runners demonstrated pace-pressing tendencies in recent efforts, suggesting honest fractions without extreme pressure. Horses positioned within three lengths of the lead after the opening quarter mile hold significant advantages over deep closers who must overcome considerable ground disadvantage in the stretch.
Key Contenders
El Protonico represents trainer Mike Abney from post one with Luis Quinonez riding. The three-year-old gelding showed competitive efforts in recent starts against similar competition. The inside post at six furlongs presents challenges but allows tactical flexibility for experienced riders. Morning line odds and recent form suggest legitimate contention.
Chief Chitoz comes from the far outside post eight for trainer Scott Corderman with Osvaldo Quinonez-Lopez riding. The three-year-old gelding demonstrated quality in his debut effort and should improve with that experience. The outside post at six furlongs typically underperforms, but the barn’s strong statistics and the runner’s debut promise create hope for overcoming the positional disadvantage.
K Q Spirit draws post three for trainer Juan Padilla with Mario Fuentes aboard. The three-year-old gelding finished third at this level in his last start, demonstrating competitive ability. The favorable post three combined with proven form makes him a logical contender at 4-1 morning line odds.
Secondary Choices
Stoops Tornado represents trainer Federico Villafranco from post four with David Cabrera riding. The leading jockey provides significant advantages, and the historically strong post four creates optimism. Morning line odds of 8-1 offer value if the combination clicks.
Dr J Y G comes from post two for trainer Federico Villafranco with Santos Rivera aboard. The three-year-old gelding brings limited information, making evaluation challenging. The Villafranco barn enters two in this race, suggesting confidence in one or both entries.
Wagering Strategy
The sprint distance and pace dynamics favor horses with early speed or tactical position from favorable posts. Construct exacta tickets using K Q Spirit and El Protonico on top, wheeling underneath each other and Chief Chitoz. The trifecta should include Stoops Tornado given Cabrera’s riding advantage and the favorable post four. For deeper coverage, include the longer-priced Villafranco entry Dr J Y G as a potential surprise. The Oklahoma-bred maiden claiming condition creates opportunities for value given the inconsistent form patterns typical of this level.
Selections
Win: K Q Spirit
Place: El Protonico
Show: Chief Chitoz
Race 7: Maiden Special Weight Fillies and Mares
Post Time: 8:48 PM
Six and one-half furlongs on dirt for maiden fillies and mares three, four, and five years old. Purse of $38,000. This middle-distance sprint for older maiden females features seven runners including two from the Steven Asmussen barn.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears moderate with multiple fillies possessing tactical speed without extreme early velocity. Gun Twirl and Fossil Fuel both demonstrated willingness to press from the start in recent efforts. The six and one-half furlong distance allows tactical positioning flexibility, favoring horses that can settle within striking distance of the lead through the middle stages. The pace should develop honestly without becoming destructive, setting up for horses with finishing kicks.
Key Contenders
Gun Twirl represents the Steven Asmussen barn from post six with Erik Asmussen riding. The four-year-old filly finished second over course and distance in her last start, demonstrating competitive ability at this level. The combination of elite trainer, skilled jockey, and proven recent form makes her the top selection despite the 4-1 morning line odds. The post six provides tactical flexibility at this distance.
Fossil Fuel provides Asmussen with a second powerful entry from post one with Stewart Elliott aboard. The three-year-old filly debuts for the barn but carries the pedigree and work pattern suggesting readiness. Elliott’s experience navigating from the rail combined with Asmussen’s preparation methods creates a formidable threat. Morning line odds of 3-1 reflect market respect for this debut runner.
Gospel Clarity represents trainer Steve Williams from post two with Leandro Goncalves riding. The three-year-old filly brings experience and decent recent form. At 8-1 morning line odds, this runner offers value as an alternative to the favored Asmussen entries. The favorable post two provides tactical advantages in securing position early.
Secondary Choices
Paarl comes from post three for trainer Stacey Rushton with Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez aboard. The three-year-old filly draws the historically strong post three but brings inconsistent form. Include in trifecta coverage but avoid as a primary selection.
Melly’s Birkin represents trainer J Alan Williams from post four with Lindsey Hebert riding. Limited information exists on this runner, creating evaluation challenges. The post four advantage provides some appeal.
Longshots
Queen Clancy enters from post five for trainer Oscar Flores with David Cabrera riding. The five-year-old mare carries significant experience but remains winless. Cabrera’s presence warrants respect, but the lengthy maiden record raises concerns.
Dottie C rounds out the field from post seven for trainer Sarah Nicole Davidson with Santos Rivera aboard. Recent scratches due to veterinary issues create readiness questions. Avoid in primary wagers.
Wagering Strategy
The presence of two Asmussen entries dominates betting strategy. Construct exacta tickets using both Asmussen fillies on top, spreading underneath each other and Gospel Clarity. The combination of Gun Twirl’s proven form and Fossil Fuel’s debut potential with Elliott creates challenging betting dynamics. For trifecta coverage, include Paarl and Queen Clancy despite concerns about their form. The maiden special weight condition for older fillies often produces competitive races where experience meets talent in unpredictable combinations.
Selections
Win: Gun Twirl
Place: Fossil Fuel
Show: Gospel Clarity
Race 8: Allowance Fillies and Mares
Post Time: 9:16 PM
Five and one-half furlongs on dirt for fillies and mares three years old and upward that have never won a race other than maiden, claiming, starter, or state-bred or which have never won two races. Purse of $39,000. This competitive sprint for older females features seven runners.
Pace Analysis
The short five and one-half furlong distance creates a speed-favoring scenario where early position holds tremendous value. Letta’s Legacy and Haleakala both demonstrated tactical speed with the ability to secure favorable early position. The abbreviated distance leaves minimal time for deep closers to overcome positional disadvantages, placing premium emphasis on break from the gate and first-quarter positioning. The pace should develop honestly as multiple speed types engage from the start.
Key Contenders
Letta’s Legacy emerges as the overwhelming favorite from post one at morning line odds of 1.60. The four-year-old filly for trainer C R Trout with David Cabrera riding compiled impressive statistics with nine wins and 15 seconds from 18 starts. Her record demonstrates consistent ability to secure favorable position and sustain speed through the stretch. The combination of Cabrera’s leading rider status and the filly’s proven class makes her extremely difficult to beat despite the inside post at sprint distances. The fast deep running style suits the distance perfectly.
Haleakala represents trainer W Bret Calhoun from post two with Jose Alvarez riding. The three-year-old filly demonstrated fast leading ability in recent starts and draws a favorable inside post. Morning line odds of 3-1 reflect competitive chances against the heavy favorite. While facing a formidable top selection, the tactical speed and post position create legitimate upset potential.
Tapit First comes from post four for Steven Asmussen with Stewart Elliott aboard. The three-year-old filly carries moderate form but benefits from elite connections. At 6-1 morning line odds, this runner provides value as an alternative to the top two selections. Elliott’s tactical skills combined with Asmussen’s preparation methods warrant respect despite inconsistent recent results.
Secondary Choices
Flash Master draws post six for trainer Sarah Nicole Davidson with Mario Fuentes riding. The three-year-old filly brings solid experience with 15 starts and three victories. Recent form shows competitiveness at this level, making her a legitimate contender for the exotics at 5-1 morning line odds.
Everyone Nos Wendy represents trainer Juan Padilla from post three with Iram Diego Vargas aboard. The three-year-old filly demonstrated tactical versatility in recent starts. At 12-1 morning line odds, include in deeper trifecta coverage.
Wagering Strategy
The overwhelming favorite status of Letta’s Legacy creates challenging betting dynamics where value emerges primarily in exotic wagers. Construct exacta tickets using Letta’s Legacy on top with Haleakala and Tapit First underneath. The short distance favors the favorite’s speed, but the competitive nature of allowance conditions warrants spreading to alternatives. For trifecta coverage, include Flash Master and consider using Letta’s Legacy in multiple positions despite heavy favoritism. The five and one-half furlong distance leaves little room for error, making the proven commodity Letta’s Legacy extremely difficult to oppose despite short prices.
Selections
Win: Letta’s Legacy
Place: Haleakala
Show: Tapit First
Race 9: $10,000 Claiming
Post Time: 9:44 PM
One mile on dirt for three-year-olds and upward which have never won three races. Purse of $17,500 with claiming price of $10,000. This competitive route race for older claimers features 10 runners including multiple Steven Asmussen entries.
Pace Analysis
The one-mile distance with 10 runners creates complex pace dynamics. Seven Taylors and Curlins Incharge both demonstrated early speed tendencies, suggesting they will establish the pace through the opening stages. The route distance allows stalkers and closers tactical positioning advantages, particularly given the likelihood of moderate fractions. Horses positioned within four lengths of the lead at the half-mile pole hold significant advantages entering the stretch drive. The two-turn configuration rewards tactical speed over pure pace-pressing or deep closing styles.
Key Contenders
Seven Taylors represents Steven Asmussen from post eight with Erik Asmussen riding. The four-year-old gelding compiled a perfect 2-for-2 record at Remington Park with dominant victories by large margins. The combination of proven course form, elite connections, and improving trajectory makes him the logical favorite despite the outside post eight. Morning line odds of 5-2 reflect market confidence in his ability to overcome the positional challenge.
Rango provides Asmussen with a second powerful entry from post nine with Stewart Elliott aboard. The three-year-old gelding demonstrated fast closing ability in recent starts including a victory at the track. At 4-1 morning line odds, this runner offers value as an alternative to his stablemate. The combination of Elliott’s tactical skills and the gelding’s proven ability creates a formidable threat despite the far outside post.
Schifty’s Haloid comes from post 10 for trainer Dick Cappellucci with Floyd Wethey Jr. riding. The five-year-old gelding brings solid form and the benefit of an experienced barn showing strong statistics at the meet. The extreme outside post 10 historically performs well in route races at Remington Park, potentially providing a positional advantage. Morning line odds of 5-1 suggest value in a competitive field.
Secondary Choices
Haskelled represents trainer Matt Hebert from post three with Jose Alvarez riding. The six-year-old gelding finished second in his last two starts against similar competition, demonstrating consistent form. The favorable post three provides tactical advantages around both turns, making him a logical inclusion in exotic wagers at 11-1 morning line odds.
Cupid’s Thunder comes from post five for trainer Patrick Swan with David Cabrera aboard. The three-year-old gelding demonstrated tactical stalking ability in recent efforts. Cabrera’s riding skill combined with the midpack post position creates reasonable exotic potential.
Longshots
Curlins Incharge returns after a year layoff for trainer Guillermo Flores with Kelsi Purcell riding. The five-year-old gelding showed good recent workouts suggesting readiness. At 5-1 morning line odds, consider including in trifecta coverage despite the lengthy absence.
Papa Funny leads off from post one for trainer Lane Johnston with Travis Cunningham aboard. The five-year-old horse draws the inside post with tactical advantages but faces formidable competition. Include in deeper exotic wagers.
Wagering Strategy
The presence of two Asmussen entries dominates handicapping considerations. Construct exacta tickets using Seven Taylors and Rango on top, spreading underneath each other and Schifty’s Haloid. The combination of Asmussen’s dominance at the meet and both horses’ proven ability makes them difficult to oppose despite challenging outside posts. For trifecta coverage, include Haskelled from the favorable post three and consider Cupid’s Thunder with Cabrera aboard. The 10-horse field and one-mile distance create opportunities for value in exotic wagers where multiple logical contenders exist. Consider Pick 3 and Pick 4 sequences ending with this race, using the two Asmussen entries as singles or in combination with Schifty’s Haloid.
Selections
Win: Seven Taylors
Place: Rango
Show: Schifty’s Haloid
Jockey Notes and Insights
David Cabrera continues his dominance as the leading rider at Remington Park’s current meet with impressive statistics demonstrating both consistency and class. The Oklahoma native reached the milestone of 1,500 career victories in November 2021 and has won four consecutive Remington Park riding titles from 2018-2021. His winning percentage and in-the-money statistics place him among the elite riders at the meet, making any mount he accepts worthy of serious consideration. Cabrera’s tactical versatility allows him to win from various running positions, particularly excelling in route races where his patience and positioning skills prove decisive.
Stewart Elliott ranks among the most successful jockeys in Remington Park history with win rates approaching 32 percent and in-the-money percentages exceeding 50 percent. His experience and tactical awareness make him particularly dangerous on Steven Asmussen-trained horses where the combination produces consistent results. Elliott’s ability to rate speed and position horses for optimal stretch drives makes him formidable in both sprint and route distances.
Erik Asmussen has emerged as a rising talent in the jockey colony, benefiting tremendously from riding opportunities provided by his father Steven Asmussen’s powerful stable. The father-son combination produces strong results across all race types, with Erik demonstrating particular skill in maiden and allowance conditions. His 13 percent win rate and 46 percent in-the-money percentage show consistent competence, with the statistics improving when riding for his father’s barn.
Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez brings tactical versatility and strong work ethic to his assignments. While his overall statistics lag behind the top tier, he demonstrates competence in claiming and maiden races where tactical speed and positioning prove decisive. His mounts warrant consideration when drawn in favorable post positions and trained by competent barns.
Weston Hamilton earned the Eclipse Award as outstanding apprentice jockey at age 20, demonstrating exceptional talent early in his career. His statistics show developing consistency with improving win percentages. Hamilton exhibits particular strength in sprint distances where his aggressive riding style produces results. While not yet matching the elite tier of Cabrera and Elliott, his trajectory suggests continued improvement.
Santos Rivera provides solid riding capabilities across all race types and distances. His tactical awareness in route races creates value in longer distances where patience and positioning prove essential. Rivera’s statistics show competence without dominance, making his mounts logical inclusion in exotic wagers when other factors align favorably.
Mario Fuentes demonstrates consistent competence in claiming and allowance races. His recent results show improving form with multiple placings in competitive conditions. Fuentes’ tactical approach favors stalking positions, making him effective on horses with moderate early speed.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Steven M Asmussen’s dominance at Remington Park continues unabated with 38 wins from 153 starts representing a 25 percent strike rate and 59 percent in-the-money percentage. The all-time winningest trainer in North American history has captured 13 Remington Park training titles including 10 of 11 consecutive seasons from 2007-2017. Asmussen’s stable produces consistent results across all race types, with particular strength in maiden special weight events, allowance conditions, and route races.
The barn’s preparation methods emphasize proper foundation and gradual development, making debut horses from the Asmussen barn particularly dangerous when entered in maiden special weight company. His two-year-old program produces remarkable results with horses often winning or placing in their first career starts. The stable’s route horses demonstrate superior conditioning and tactical versatility, frequently rallying from off-pace positions to secure victories in the stretch.
Asmussen’s record of 102 wins in a single season at Remington Park (2009) stands as a testament to both the quality and quantity of his stable. The barn regularly fields multiple entries in competitive races, creating challenging betting dynamics where handicappers must evaluate multiple horses from the same connections. The consistent excellence makes any Asmussen runner worthy of serious consideration regardless of apparent form deficiencies or positional challenges.
Dick Cappellucci ranks among the meet’s leading trainers with 14 wins from 50 starts representing a 29 percent win rate and 58 percent in-the-money percentage. The veteran horseman demonstrates particular skill with maiden horses and older claimers seeking class relief. Cappellucci’s horses typically demonstrate improving form patterns, making second or third-time starters from his barn particularly dangerous. The stable shows strong statistics in route races where proper conditioning proves decisive.
C R Trout operates a smaller stable with selective placements producing a 19 percent win rate and 53 percent in-the-money percentage. The barn excels in allowance conditions with fillies and mares, demonstrating ability to develop consistent runners who improve with racing seasoning. Trout’s horses typically demonstrate tactical speed and versatility, performing effectively across various distances and surface conditions.
Scott E Young trains a larger string with 79 starts producing 11 wins for a 14 percent strike rate and 37 percent in-the-money percentage. The barn shows competence across multiple race types with particular strength in Oklahoma-bred conditions. Young’s horses often demonstrate improvement in second or third starts following claim or layoff, making his recent acquisitions worthy of attention.
Ronnie E Cravens III operates a moderate-sized stable producing consistent results with a 18 percent win rate from 51 starts. The barn demonstrates competence in maiden claiming and lower-level allowance races, with particular success developing two-year-old fillies. Cravens’ horses typically show tactical speed and willingness to engage early, making them effective in sprint distances.
Scott Corderman trains selectively with 35 starts producing nine wins for an impressive 26 percent strike rate and 49 percent in-the-money percentage. The barn shows particular strength with debut horses and horses returning from layoffs. Corderman’s preparation methods emphasize foundation and readiness, making his entries dangerous even at longer odds when fitness questions exist for other runners.
Juan Padilla operates with moderate success showing a 11 percent win rate from 67 starts. The barn demonstrates competence in claiming races and allowance conditions with moderate purses. Padilla’s horses typically require racing to achieve peak form, making second or third-time starters from his barn more appealing than first-time entries.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
The Wednesday card at Remington Park presents multiple wagering opportunities across various bet types. The nine-race program features favorable carryover potential in multi-race exotic wagers while offering single-race opportunities where post position bias and trainer patterns create value.
Early Pick 5 Strategy
The Pick 5 spanning Races 1-5 offers intriguing possibilities built around vulnerable favorites in several legs. Race 1 features competitive claiming horses where post position advantages favor R Doc and Tenth Street Don. Race 2 presents Mystical Code as a logical favorite but includes legitimate alternatives in That Was Easy and Presleys Volley. Race 3’s maiden special weight includes two Asmussen debut horses creating uncertainty around favorite Expo City. Race 4 features Rev’s Tomb as a solid favorite in the Oklahoma-bred maiden route. Race 5’s large field of two-year-old maiden claiming fillies offers the widest spread opportunity.
A conservative Pick 5 approach uses singles in Races 1 (R Doc) and 4 (Rev’s Tomb) while spreading in Races 2, 3, and 5. A more aggressive ticket spreads Race 1 to include Tenth Street Don and Ammenthedestroyer, Race 2 to include the top three selections, Race 3 to include all three key contenders plus Big Bang Boom, and Race 5 to include the two Cravens entries plus Dig Baby Dig and Pretty Irene. This creates a 3x3x4x1x4 ticket for 144 combinations at 50 cents totaling $72.
Late Pick 5 Strategy
The Late Pick 5 covering Races 5-9 presents different dynamics with the vulnerable Race 5 maiden claiming fillies leading into more predictable sequences. Race 6 features competitive Oklahoma-bred maiden claimers where post position provides clear advantages. Race 7 includes two Asmussen fillies who dominate the maiden special weight. Race 8 presents overwhelming favorite Letta’s Legacy in the allowance sprint. Race 9 concludes with multiple Asmussen entries in the claiming route.
Conservative Late Pick 5 construction spreads Race 5 to four or five horses while using Race 8 favorite Letta’s Legacy as a single, spreading Races 6, 7, and 9 to include multiple logical contenders. The ticket structure of 4x3x2x1x3 produces 72 combinations at 50 cents for $36, providing reasonable coverage while controlling costs through the single in Race 8.
Pick 4 Opportunities
The Primetime Pick 4 covering Races 6-9 offers the best value opportunity on the card. Race 6’s Oklahoma-bred maiden claimers present competitive dynamics with post position bias favoring K Q Spirit. Race 7 features the two Asmussen maiden fillies as controlling favorites. Race 8 presents Letta’s Legacy as an overwhelming choice. Race 9 concludes with the dual Asmussen threat in Seven Taylors and Rango.
An aggressive Primetime Pick 4 spreads Race 6 to include K Q Spirit, El Protonico, Chief Chitoz, and Stoops Tornado. Race 7 uses both Asmussen fillies Gun Twirl and Fossil Fuel with Gospel Clarity as coverage. Race 8 singles Letta’s Legacy despite short price. Race 9 spreads to include Seven Taylors, Rango, and Schifty’s Haloid. This creates a 4x3x1x3 ticket for 36 combinations at 50 cents totaling $18, offering tremendous value given the logical contenders in each race.
Exacta and Trifecta Value
Single-race exotic wagers offer value in races where favorites appear vulnerable or where post position bias creates clear advantages. Race 1’s claiming sprint features R Doc from the favorable post three at reasonable odds creating exacta value when wheeled over Tenth Street Don and Ammenthedestroyer. The post position statistics strongly favor this construction.
Race 3’s maiden special weight presents intriguing trifecta value using Expo City on top over the two Asmussen debut horses Wadi Al Kouf and Zilarro. The combination of proven form meeting talented debuts creates multiple finishing scenarios where all three horses represent logical contenders. A $1 trifecta box of these three costs $6 and offers value given morning line odds of 5-2, 6-1, and 5-2.
Race 7’s maiden fillies present exacta value using both Asmussen entries Gun Twirl and Fossil Fuel in exacta boxes. The combination of different running styles and jockeys creates scenario where either could prevail with the other finishing second. A $2 exacta box costs $4 and provides solid value given both horses’ legitimate chances.
Race 9’s claiming route offers trifecta value using the two Asmussen horses Seven Taylors and Rango with Schifty’s Haloid. Despite challenging outside posts, the quality and conditioning advantages make them logical top two finishers with Schifty’s Haloid offering value from the historically productive post 10 in routes. A $1 trifecta box of these three costs $6 with potential for significant returns given the competitive field.
Post Position Bias Exploitation
The documented post position statistics create clear betting advantages in specific races. Race 1’s six and one-half furlong claiming race perfectly illustrates the value of posts three, four, and seven where R Doc, potentially Gianno, and Ammenthedestroyer draw the historically productive positions. Constructing exacta and trifecta tickets emphasizing these posts while avoiding post five (Define) creates mathematical advantages based on long-term track bias patterns.
Race 2’s five-furlong sprint demonstrates similar dynamics where post positions three through seven dominate winning statistics. That Was Easy from post one faces challenges, but Mystical Code from post six and Presleys Volley from post seven occupy historically strong positions. Exacta wheels using these two over the field create value opportunities.
Trainer Pattern Exploitation
Steven Asmussen’s dominance at the meet creates wagering opportunities in races where his entries appear in favorable situations. Race 3 features two Asmussen debut horses in maiden special weight company where the barn historically excels. While Expo City brings proven form, the debut horses Wadi Al Kouf and Zilarro represent the barn’s strength in preparing first-time starters. Trifecta and superfecta constructions using all three create value despite the presence of a proven competitor.
Race 7’s maiden fillies present another Asmussen advantage where Gun Twirl brings proven form while Fossil Fuel debuts. The barn’s record with debut fillies in maiden special weight races warrants aggressive support, particularly in exacta constructions where both horses fill the top two positions. The different jockeys (Erik Asmussen and Stewart Elliott) provide tactical flexibility while maintaining the training advantage.
Race 9’s claiming route features both Seven Taylors and Rango from the Asmussen barn where the trainer’s 25 percent win rate and 59 percent in-the-money percentage create clear advantages. Despite challenging outside posts, the conditioning and talent advantages make both horses logical exacta and trifecta selections. The barn’s success in route races makes these entries particularly dangerous.
Daily Double and Pick 3 Sequences
The Daily Double linking Races 8 and 9 presents value through the overwhelming favorite Letta’s Legacy combined with the competitive claiming route. Constructing Daily Double tickets using Letta’s Legacy with the three key contenders in Race 9 (Seven Taylors, Rango, Schifty’s Haloid) costs $6 for $2 wagers and offers value given the predictable Race 8 favorite linked with competitive alternatives in the finale.
The Last Chance Pick 3 covering Races 7-9 creates intriguing opportunities starting with the competitive maiden fillies race. Spreading Race 7 to include both Asmussen fillies and Gospel Clarity, singling Letta’s Legacy in Race 8, and spreading Race 9 to the top three contenders produces a 3x1x3 ticket for nine combinations at 50 cents totaling $4.50. This provides excellent value given the logical structure and controlling favorites in key positions.
Value Play Summary
The Wednesday card rewards handicappers who exploit post position bias, recognize trainer patterns, and construct exotic wagers emphasizing logical contenders over heavy favorites. The presence of multiple Steven Asmussen entries across several races creates opportunities for exacta and trifecta tickets where the barn’s dominance produces consistent results despite challenging odds. Post position statistics in sprint races provide mathematical advantages that patient bettors exploit through selective wheel constructions. The multi-race exotic wagers offer the best value opportunities when constructed around singles in races with overwhelming favorites (Letta’s Legacy in Race 8, Rev’s Tomb in Race 4) while spreading in competitive maiden and claiming races where multiple logical contenders exist.
