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Finger Lakes Racetrack – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the September 23, 2026 card

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The Pick Pony Handicapper's Report is published daily and provides analysis of all races on the card. A Pick Pony analyst prepares the report, so selections may differ from the Pick Pony Expert Picks, which are based on the consensus of all Pick Pony analysts.

 

Do our stated chances come true?

Every horse our AI Win Probability model rated, grouped by the chance we gave it, against how often that group actually won.

What we saidWhat happened
0%16%32%47%63%3%7%13%18%26%38%What we said — 3.4%What we said — 7.4%What we said — 12.5%What we said — 18.0%What we said — 25.6%What we said — 38.3%What we saidWhat happened — 2.5%What happened — 7.0%What happened — 13.6%What happened — 21.7%What happened — 31.6%What happened — 51.1%What happened

Where the two lines meet, the published percentage was exactly right.

Show the numbers
WeekWhat we saidWhat happened
3%3.4%2.5%
7%7.4%7.0%
13%12.5%13.6%
18%18.0%21.7%
26%25.6%31.6%
38%38.3%51.1%

Race Day Overview — Finger Lakes Racetrack, September 23, 2026

Finger Lakes Racetrack in Farmington, New York presents a nine-race Wednesday card highlighted by a pair of maiden special weight events carrying $32,600 purses and several claiming races at the $5,000 level that should produce tight, competitive fields. The card opens with an allowance sprint before cycling through the full range of conditions typical of a Finger Lakes mid-week program. With the Jockey Club Gold Cup generating buzz on the national circuit this weekend, the local Finger Lakes horsemen are focused on their own autumn campaign, and the stable activity reflects a track deep in its fall meeting.

The card features prominent local trainers including Paul Barrow, M. Anthony Ferraro, Rachel Sells, Timothy Murphy, Chris Englehart, and Jonathan Buckley, all of whom are active with multiple starters today. Jockey-wise, the colony is well represented by reliable veterans including O. Gomez, Keiber J. Coa, Andre Worrie, and L.E. Perez, who each carry multiple mounts through the card.

No major scratches have been reported that would significantly alter the shape of any race, and the full fields appear intact heading into first post at 12:55 PM Eastern.

Weather and Track Conditions — September 23, 2026

Farmington, New York is forecast to see partly cloudy skies on September 23 with temperatures in the mid-60s Fahrenheit at post time, dropping slightly through the afternoon. Winds are expected out of the northwest at 8 to 12 mph. No significant precipitation is anticipated, and the Finger Lakes main dirt track is expected to be rated fast by the time the card begins.

The Finger Lakes strip has shown consistent “fast” ratings through the early part of the fall meet, and track superintendent maintenance has kept the surface in reliable condition. A fast or good rating today is the operating assumption for all pace and speed figure projections throughout this card.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis — Finger Lakes

Finger Lakes is a one-mile oval with a relatively tight configuration. Historical patterns on the main dirt track during fall conditions — when the surface tends to firm up under lower humidity and cooler temperatures — generally favor horses that can secure a clean early position without burning excessive energy. True front-runners face pressure if multiple horses are vying for the lead, particularly in sprint distances.

In routes at the Finger Lakes oval (1830f distances appearing multiple times on today's card), inside posts carry a meaningful advantage early in the fall meet, as horses breaking from posts one through three can settle into the first turn without wide sweeping losses of ground. Posts four through six in route races require jockeys to be alert to traffic positioning coming out of the gate.

In sprint distances (1210f and 1320f), the Finger Lakes strip has historically been relatively even across post positions, though the rail can play slightly slow in heavy use periods. With a fast surface expected today, speed from the inside posts tends to get first run and hold up reasonably well in shorter sprints, particularly in maiden and lower-claiming company where pace pressure is often moderate to light.

The inner posts in today's route races deserve a slight positional edge. Speed figures at this level are tightly clustered, and a clean trip from a favorable post frequently makes the difference between winning and finishing second.

RACE 1 — Post (12:55)/11:55/10:55/9:55 — 1830f | D | A | Alw 26900n3l | BUN | Purse $26,900

This six-horse allowance route at one mile and 70 yards opens the card for older horses that have not won two races at the allowance level or above. With only six entries, the field is manageable, and pace analysis becomes critical in a longer route where class and fitness are the separating factors.

Pace Analysis

Hey Pal (6) and Sweet Tone (5) profile as the likely early pace setters based on their positional tendencies at this level. If Hey Pal (6) establishes himself on the front end from the outside post, he may set a pace that benefits a closer. Specialagentjonson (1) from the rail looks like a presser who could track the pace efficiently and pounce in the stretch. Take The Gold (3) and First Pitch (4) both carry closer profiles that could benefit from a genuine pace duel up front. With only six horses, however, any contested early fractions are unlikely to be overly demanding, and the front-runners have a fair chance of lasting.

Key Contenders

Hey Pal (6) draws the most attention from handicappers heading into this opener. Trained by M. Anthony Ferraro, who is one of the most active and capable operators at Finger Lakes, Hey Pal (6) carries morning line favoritism at 2-1, suggesting broad respect from the track's oddsmaker. Keiber J. Coa picks up the mount, and Coa has been among the leading riders at Finger Lakes with a strong win percentage on Ferraro horses specifically. The horse exits a recent effort that should have him well-primed for a route of this length. Ferraro is adept at placing horses in spots where they can win, and the allowance conditions here fit Hey Pal (6) squarely.

Specialagentjonson (1) trained by Paul Barrow draws the rail and gets O. Gomez up. Barrow is a consistent presence at the top of the Finger Lakes trainer standings and knows how to get his horses ready for routes. The 3-1 morning line reflects legitimate class consideration. Gomez is a capable pilot and will use the inside post to his advantage, likely settling just off the pace and angling for a ground-saving run into the stretch. Handicappers note this horse as the main danger to the favorite.

Secondary Choices

Take The Gold (3) trained by M. Anthony Ferraro at 4-1 gives the barn a two-pronged attack in this opener. While Hey Pal (6) profiles as the stronger of the two Ferraro horses, Take The Gold (3) should not be dismissed. Joel Cruz takes the mount, and Cruz has been sharp on Ferraro horses. The 4-1 price offers some value if the barn has this one pointed just right for a return to form or a peak effort.

Sweet Tone (5) trained by Rafael Jose Rohena at 5-1 with L.E. Perez aboard provides pace pressure from post five. Rohena is a competent small-meet conditioner, and Sweet Tone (5) may be dangerous if allowed to lead without significant pressure. Perez is a reliable journeyman who can control pace effectively.

Longshots

First Pitch (4) trained by Jose L. Jimenez at 6-1 with Reylu Gutierrez in the irons is a legitimate price player if pace dynamics set up favorably for a late runner. The 6-1 morning line likely reflects some concern about consistency, but at a route distance, closers always have a chance.

Bolt To Run (2) trained by Ramon Vasquez at 10-1 with Luis Pena is the longest shot in the field and will need significant pace help to factor. Vasquez is a limited-book trainer at this level, and the 10-1 reflects the morning line expectation that this one is in the field to fill a spot. Use underneath only in exotics at generous odds.

Selections

Win: Hey Pal (6) Place: Specialagentjonson (1) Show: Take The Gold (3)

Betting Strategy: Key Hey Pal (6) over Specialagentjonson (1) and Take The Gold (3) in exactas. The Ferraro stable has two horses in this race, and while trainer splits are always a factor, Hey Pal (6) is the one getting the higher-profile rider in Coa. A small saver on Specialagentjonson (1) to win is worth consideration given the rail advantage in a route.

RACE 2 — Post (1:24)/12:24/11:24/10:24 — 1210f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | AON | Purse $32,600

The first maiden special weight of the day goes six furlongs for older horses, and this six-horse field produces a tantalizing battle between two co-favorites at 2-1 from two accomplished barns.

Pace Analysis

Locked Horns (1) from the inside post could gun to the lead under O. Gomez, who is an aggressive rider capable of establishing pace from a favorable gate position. Silver Knight (6) from the outside is likely to come from off the pace under Shaun Bridgmohan, a veteran rider who typically rates horses patiently and asks for late runs. Playinmindgames (4) is the middle speed horse in the race who could slot into a stalking position. If Locked Horns (1) gets an uncontested lead, the pace could be comfortable enough for him to wire the field. If Playinmindgames (4) presses early, the race opens up for closers.

Key Contenders

Locked Horns (1) trained by Paul Barrow at 2-1 morning line with O. Gomez aboard benefits from the rail in a six-furlong sprint on a day when the inside is expected to play fairly. Barrow's win percentage with first-time or lightly raced maidens is solid at Finger Lakes, and Gomez is the correct tactical choice here. The co-favorite status reflects justified respect.

Silver Knight (6) trained by Melanie Giddings at 2-1 is the outside co-favorite with Shaun Bridgmohan, one of the most accomplished and decorated jockeys to ride at Finger Lakes. Bridgmohan's presence alone elevates any horse he rides, and Giddings places horses intelligently. From post six, Bridgmohan will need to work a bit wider early but should have horse late if the pace develops favorably. Handicappers give this one excellent finishing credentials.

Secondary Choices

Playinmindgames (4) trained by Michael Ferraro at 4-1 with L.E. Perez gets the Ferraro barn's primary runner in this maiden sprint. At 4-1 with a leading trainer and a reliable jockey, this one should not be overlooked. The Ferraro stable has I'm A Happy Man (2) and Barna Boy (3) also entered, giving the barn three horses in the race. The presence of three Ferraro runners at various post positions suggests the barn is aggressive with its maiden stock, but Playinmindgames (4) draws the attention from handicappers as the one most likely to run well for the connections.

Roadhouse Warrior (5) trained by Melanie Giddings at 5-1 with Andre Worrie gives Giddings a second entry. The stable split between Silver Knight (6) and Roadhouse Warrior (5) bears watching, as both are legitimate contenders. Roadhouse Warrior (5) could offer value at a generous price if Bridgmohan is on the barn's second choice.

Longshots

I'm A Happy Man (2) trained by M. Anthony Ferraro at 6-1 with Keiber J. Coa is the middle Ferraro entry and gets a top rider despite the 6-1 odds. Coa's presence is worth noting, as top jockeys sometimes find their way onto underestimated barn horses. A legitimate price play in exotics.

Barna Boy (3) trained by M. Anthony Ferraro at 8-1 with Joel Cruz rounds out the Ferraro trio. With three horses from one barn in a six-horse field, splitting of effort is real, and this one profiles as the third choice among Ferraro entries based on odds alone.

Selections

Win: Silver Knight (6) Place: Locked Horns (1) Show: Playinmindgames (4)

Betting Strategy: The co-favorite battle between Locked Horns (1) and Silver Knight (6) makes exactas the primary play. Box these two at minimal cost and add Playinmindgames (4) into trifectas. Bridgmohan on Silver Knight (6) is a slight lean based on rider quality and closing bias of the outside post in a six-furlong sprint.

RACE 3 — Post (1:53)/12:53/11:53/10:53 — 1830f | D | C | Clm 5000b | BUN | Purse $14,000

The first claiming event of the day at the $5,000 level sends a six-horse field around one mile and 70 yards on the main track. This is the basement claiming level at Finger Lakes, and the field reflects horses that have been running below the median class threshold for the meet. Consistency and recent form are paramount here.

Pace Analysis

It's Not Over Yet (2) and Grand Commander (4) both draw co-favorite billing at 2-1 and figure to contest the early pace depending on their respective running styles. Post Facto (3) could add a third element to the early fractions. With multiple horses carrying early pace tendencies in a route, the fractions could be lively enough to set up a closer. Airborne Elite (6) from the outside figures as a closer who could take advantage of any pace collapse in the final stages.

Key Contenders

It's Not Over Yet (2) trained by Lisa A. Reed at 2-1 with Andre Worrie gets the second post position, which is excellent for a route. Reed is a competent claiming trainer at the Finger Lakes level with a record of placing horses appropriately in class drops. Worrie is among the reliable riders in the colony, and the 2-1 morning line reflects broad confidence in this horse's ability to compete at the $5,000 level.

Grand Commander (4) trained by Timothy Murphy at 2-1 with M.A. Davila Jr. shares co-favorite honors. Murphy is one of the more active and well-regarded claiming trainers in the Finger Lakes barn area, and Grand Commander (4) from post four gets a capable rider in Davila. Murphy's horses at the $5,000 claiming level have been reliable, and this one merits full consideration.

Secondary Choices

Stjames (1) trained by Rachel Sells at 4-1 with Christopher Elliott from the inside rail is a horse that deserves attention at the route distance. Sells has a solid operation at Finger Lakes, and Elliott, while not among the colony's top riders, is a competent route rider. The rail post in a route is an asset.

Airborne Elite (6) trained by Timothy Murphy at 4-1 with Emanuel De Diego gives Murphy a second bullet in this race. Having two horses from the same barn in a small claiming field is noteworthy. Murphy would not enter Airborne Elite (6) without believing it can run. De Diego is a capable young rider with a developing record at the track.

Longshots

Post Facto (3) trained by Ilmar Loaiza at 6-1 with Wladimir Rengifo is a legitimate price option if the pace falls apart. Loaiza is a journeyman trainer at Finger Lakes whose horses occasionally outrun their odds. Rengifo is a consistent rider who handles pace scenarios well.

Ringgood (5) trained by Brent Bond at 15-1 with Steven Fret is the extreme longshot of the field. At 15-1 in a six-horse field, Ringgood (5) is clearly viewed as the weak link. Use only minimally in deep exotics.

Selections

Win: Grand Commander (4) Place: It's Not Over Yet (2) Show: Airborne Elite (6)

Betting Strategy: Murphy's two-pronged attack with Grand Commander (4) and Airborne Elite (6) suggests confidence from the barn. Key Grand Commander (4) over It's Not Over Yet (2) and Airborne Elite (6) in exactas. A trifecta using Grand Commander (4) on top with multiple combinations beneath offers value in a short six-horse field.

RACE 4 — Post (2:22)/1:22/12:22/11:22 — 1830f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUM | Purse $32,600

The second maiden special weight of the day is a route for fillies and mares, a seven-horse field that produces a clear morning line favorite in The Gael (7) at 2-1, trained by Jonathan Buckley and ridden by Kevin Navarro. This race carries the highest purse alongside Race 2 and deserves careful attention for exotic wagering.

Pace Analysis

Sliceaway (5) trained by Nicholas P. Zito could be the early pace setter from post five, with Keiber J. Coa aboard to control fractions. Rockstar Babe (1) from the rail under Perez could also press early. If two horses contest the early lead in a route maiden race, the closer The Gael (7) could be perfectly set up. Extravagant (2) and Hip Hop Dancer (6) profile as middle-pace runners who could slot into tracking positions.

Key Contenders

The Gael (7) trained by Jonathan Buckley at 2-1 with Kevin Navarro is the clear morning line choice and has the backing of a trainer who has been competitive at Finger Lakes with a sound record in maiden routes. Buckley is selective with his entries and tends to point horses at spots where they hold a measurable edge. Navarro is a reliable pilot who rides routes confidently. From post seven, The Gael (7) will need to establish position early or risk being wide into the first turn, but Navarro is experienced enough to handle it. The class inherent in a maiden special weight entry from Buckley's barn is the primary selling point.

Extravagant (2) trained by Robert N. Falcone Jr. at 3-1 with Christopher Elliott from post two is the second choice on the morning line. Falcone is a known commodity at Finger Lakes and places horses thoughtfully. Extravagant (2) from post two has a favorable gate for a route, and Elliott has the experience to secure a ground-saving trip. At 3-1, this filly represents genuine value as the second choice.

Secondary Choices

Sliceaway (5) trained by Nicholas P. Zito at 4-1 with Coa is the most intriguing secondary play. Zito's name alone commands attention, as he is one of the most accomplished trainers to regularly send horses to compete at Finger Lakes. Having Coa, one of the stronger riders in the colony, on board further elevates the profile. If Sliceaway (5) can set a comfortable pace and Coa restrains her just enough to conserve energy for the stretch, this could be an upset special.

Rockstar Babe (1) trained by Charlton Baker at 4-1 with Perez from the rail is another horse in the mix. Baker's barn has multiple runners today, and Rockstar Babe (1) merits attention from the favorable post. Baker is a solid Finger Lakes conditioner with a consistent record in maiden routes.

Longshots

Masquerademistress (3) trained by Charlton Baker at 6-1 with Andre Worrie gives Baker a two-horse entry in this field. The 6-1 price suggests she is the second string of the Baker barn, but Worrie is capable and could find daylight if the pace goes contentious up front.

Hip Hop Dancer (6) trained by Rafael Jose Rohena at 5-1 with J.M. Rohena is the family affair entry in this field. A trainer riding their own horse is an angle to note, and the 5-1 morning line puts this one squarely in the secondary consideration range.

Signal Chat (4) trained by Rachel Sells at 15-1 with Emanuel De Diego is a significant outsider and the longest morning line entry in the field. Use only in deep trifecta and superfecta combinations.

Selections

Win: The Gael (7) Place: Extravagant (2) Show: Sliceaway (5)

Betting Strategy: The Gael (7) is the play to win, but the 2-1 morning line limits return. Build value through exactas keying The Gael (7) over Extravagant (2), Sliceaway (5), and Rockstar Babe (1). Trifectas using The Gael (7) on top with those three underneath in various combinations are the primary exotic strategy here.

RACE 5 — Post (2:51)/1:51/12:51/11:51 — 1210f | D | C | Clm 5000n3l | BUM | Purse $13,800

Race 5 is the largest field of the day at twelve horses, a six-furlong claiming sprint for fillies and mares who have not won three races at this level. With a dozen runners going a turn, pace is complex and the potential for longshot payoffs is real.

Pace Analysis

Multiple horses in this field profile as potential pace setters, including Pesadilla Chanel (1), Sweet Tooth Sue (2), and Hazard Pay (9), all of whom figure to press early. Cinnamon Sugar (5) with Worrie could also establish early position. The combination of a large field, multiple early runners, and a six-furlong trip sets up favorably for a closer or a horse that settles into a stalking position in fourth or fifth early. Signifying Nothing (4) with Coa is a prime candidate to track the pace and pounce late.

Key Contenders

Cinnamon Sugar (5) trained by Charlton Baker at 2-1 with Andre Worrie is the clear morning line favorite and deserves respect. Baker's barn is active today with multiple quality horses, and Cinnamon Sugar (5) carries the lowest morning line odds in a twelve-horse field, reflecting a significant form edge. Worrie handles pace scenarios competently and from post five has a reasonable gate.

Signifying Nothing (4) trained by Ralph D'Alessandro at 4-1 with Keiber J. Coa draws immediate attention. Coa is one of the meet's top jockeys, and his presence on a 4-1 morning line horse in a twelve-horse field is a powerful angle. D'Alessandro is a capable small-meet trainer who occasionally produces winning efforts at generous odds. Signifying Nothing (4) from post four figures to get a stalking trip and has the tactical advantage of a seasoned rider in Coa.

Secondary Choices

Clarividente (10) trained by Luis A. Gutierrez at 5-1 with N.R. Alvarado from post ten offers the potential value play in the secondary range. The double-digit post in a twelve-horse sprint is not ideal, but at 5-1 in a field this large, the price is fair. Gutierrez is a known Finger Lakes trainer with a modest but steady record.

Lollipops (11) trained by John A. Grabowski at 8-1 with Luis Pena is the best price among the secondary contenders. An 8-1 morning line horse in a large field with a capable rider like Pena is worth including in exotics.

Longshots

Valentine Gift (7) trained by Timothy Murphy at 6-1 with M.A. Davila Jr. gives the Murphy barn another runner to watch. Murphy with Davila on a 6-1 morning line horse is a combination that has hit in races like this at Finger Lakes throughout the season.

Classiwest (8) trained by Katlynn Gutterson at 12-1 with Emanuel De Diego is a fringy outsider worth a token inclusion in superfectas.

Pesadilla Chanel (1) trained by Nirka Huertas at 20-1 with O. Gomez provides early pace but not much more at these odds. Gomez is too good a rider to be wasted, but the 20-1 morning line tells the story.

Sweet Tooth Sue (2) trained by Joseph E. Marino at 20-1 with O.K. Hernandez, Cue The Music (3) trained by Eduardo Maver at 20-1 with Jacqueline A. Davis, Red Butterfly (6) trained by Rachel Sells at 20-1 with Rengifo, Hazard Pay (9) trained by Glenroy Brown at 20-1 with Reylu Gutierrez, and Change Order (12) trained by Ilmar Loaiza at 20-1 with Perez are all deep outsiders. At 20-1, none of these profiles rise to the level of legitimate longshot consideration unless included as throwins in large superfecta boxes.

Selections

Win: Cinnamon Sugar (5) Place: Signifying Nothing (4) Show: Valentine Gift (7)

Betting Strategy: The twelve-horse field creates excellent exotic wagering value. Key Cinnamon Sugar (5) and Signifying Nothing (4) as a pair on top in exactas, then spread beneath to Clarividente (10), Lollipops (11), and Valentine Gift (7). Trifectas with Cinnamon Sugar (5) and Signifying Nothing (4) on top combined with Clarividente (10), Lollipops (11), and Valentine Gift (7) filling the third position should produce a healthy payout if they hit.

RACE 6 — Post (3:20)/2:20/1:20/12:20 — 1320f | D | C | Clm 5000n1y | BUN | Purse $14,000

Race 6 is a six-furlong claiming sprint for horses that have not won in the past year, a condition that typically attracts lightly raced maidens who have broken their maiden and horses returning from layoffs or form slumps. Nine runners make this a full field.

Pace Analysis

Multiple pace horses populate this nine-horse field. Breaking Stones (7) with Jeremias Flores from post seven is likely to be prominent early. Max Foster (6) with O. Gomez could also press the early fractions from post six. Tommy The Torch (1) from the rail with Steven Fret has inside post advantages and could establish pace control cheaply if not challenged. Khali's Dream (5) with Worrie at 2-1 morning line favoritism profiles as a stalker or presser who can adapt. If multiple horses battle early in this six-furlong trip, closers like Revivalism (8) and Magic Spin (9) from deep posts could pick up pieces.

Key Contenders

Khali's Dream (5) trained by Chris Englehart at 2-1 with Andre Worrie is the morning line favorite and the most respected horse in the field. Englehart is one of the better trainers in the Finger Lakes division with a sharp eye for placing horses in appropriate conditions. The “not won in past year” condition fits Englehart's operational style, as he sometimes targets these spots with horses returning from freshening periods or minor physical issues. Khali's Dream (5) from post five with Worrie has a workable post and a capable rider.

Breaking Stones (7) trained by Paul Barrow at 3-1 with Jeremias Flores is the second choice. Barrow has been active all card and has quality horses across multiple races today. Breaking Stones (7) figures to be on or near the pace, and at 3-1, the price offers genuine value if this one can control or stalk the fractions.

Secondary Choices

Allure Of Money (4) trained by Timothy Murphy at 5-1 with Emanuel De Diego slots in as the third most likely winner from a logical post position. Murphy's barn appears well-positioned today across multiple races, and Allure Of Money (4) at 5-1 offers value if the pace collapses for front-runners.

Max Foster (6) trained by David Oyola at 6-1 with O. Gomez is worth noting. Gomez is a quality rider, and the 6-1 morning line on any horse he pilots deserves a second look. From post six, Gomez would need to establish position early.

Longshots

Revivalism (8) trained by Jonathan Buckley at 8-1 with Kevin Navarro gives Buckley another runner to watch. The trainer/jockey combination of Buckley and Navarro hit earlier in the card with The Gael (7) in Race 4, and if they accomplish that, bettors may look for a double from the barn in Race 6. At 8-1, Revivalism (8) is the best-priced legitimate contender.

Magic Spin (9) trained by Amy Albright at 6-1 with L.E. Perez rounds out the Albright barn's two entries in this race, alongside Tommy The Torch (1). Albright typically has her top choice ride covered by the more competitive morning line, and Magic Spin (9) at 6-1 is the one to lean on between the two barn entries.

Tommy The Torch (1) trained by Amy Albright at 12-1 with Steven Fret from the rail is primarily a pace factor. At 12-1, consider only in superfectas.

America's Justice (2) trained by Beth Miller-Saul at 15-1 with Joel Cruz and Buck Wild (3) trained by Dewight J. Wadams at 20-1 with Wladimir Rengifo are longshots with little morning line support. Toss in all but the most value-seeking exotic tickets.

Selections

Win: Khali's Dream (5) Place: Breaking Stones (7) Show: Allure Of Money (4)

Betting Strategy: Key Khali's Dream (5) to win and use in exactas over Breaking Stones (7) and Allure Of Money (4). Revivalism (8) at 8-1 is the best longshot inclusion in trifectas. A three-way exacta box of Khali's Dream (5), Breaking Stones (7), and Allure Of Money (4) at modest cost is the primary play.

RACE 7 — Post (3:49)/2:49/1:49/12:49 — 1210f | D | C | Clm 5000b | BUM | Purse $14,000

Race 7 is a six-furlong claiming sprint for fillies and mares at the $5,000 level, an eight-horse field that produces a clear morning line favorite in Mambagigi (7) at 2-1 from the Chris Englehart barn.

Pace Analysis

Teresa (1) from the rail under Reylu Gutierrez could be the quickest away and establish the pace. Blue Eyed Scout (4) from post four with Steven Fret could also press. Mambagigi (7) with Worrie from post seven will likely sit off the pace in a tracking position, conserving energy for a late run. The eight-horse field suggests moderate early fractions unless multiple horses engage in a pace duel. If Teresa (1) gets an uncontested lead, the race shape becomes more complicated for closers. Call Me Penny (8) from the outside post with O. Gomez figures as another late runner.

Key Contenders

Mambagigi (7) trained by Chris Englehart at 2-1 with Andre Worrie is the morning line favorite and the race's most respected horse. Englehart's two-race presence today — with Khali's Dream (5) in Race 6 and Mambagigi (7) here — reflects a confident barn. Worrie again gets the assignment, and the consistency of the Englehart/Worrie combination at Finger Lakes is a notable angle. From post seven, the pair will track and pounce.

Teresa (1) trained by Luis A. Gutierrez at 4-1 with Reylu Gutierrez from the rail is another family operation, and the rail in a sprint is an advantage. The 4-1 morning line on a rail horse in a six-furlong sprint is legitimate. Gutierrez is a capable sprint rider when given early position.

Secondary Choices

Blue Eyed Scout (4) trained by Julie Pierson at 4-1 with Steven Fret shares secondary pricing with Teresa (1). Pierson is a consistent Finger Lakes trainer with a competent record in sprint claiming races for fillies. The 4-1 morning line suggests genuine contention potential.

Glory Bound Clara (2) trained by William H. Bartlett at 6-1 with Jacqueline A. Davis from post two has a favorable inside post for a sprint. Bartlett is a limited operation at Finger Lakes, but the 6-1 morning line is fair and Davis is a capable rider in this company.

Longshots

Practical Rachel (5) trained by Ilmar Loaiza at 6-1 with Wladimir Rengifo shares the 6-1 secondary range. Loaiza has been active today with multiple entries and occasionally finds the right spot.

Call Me Penny (8) trained by Rachel Sells at 10-1 with O. Gomez is the most intriguing longshot. Gomez is a significantly better rider than a 10-1 horse typically draws at this level, and the Sells/Gomez combination at a price is worth noting. From the outside post, Call Me Penny (8) would need clean early positioning, but the talent of Gomez could overcome the outside draw.

Isle Storm (3) trained by Linda K. Dixon at 12-1 with N.R. Alvarado and Bad Connection (6) trained by Luis A. Gutierrez at 8-1 with John C. Berrios round out the field. Bad Connection (6) at 8-1 from the Gutierrez barn is the better of the two for exotic inclusion, as Gutierrez already has Teresa (1) going in this race and occasionally enters a second string.

Selections

Win: Mambagigi (7) Place: Teresa (1) Place: Blue Eyed Scout (4)

Betting Strategy: Mambagigi (7) is the single in this race. Key her on top in exactas over Teresa (1), Blue Eyed Scout (4), and Call Me Penny (8). The Gomez angle on Call Me Penny (8) at 10-1 makes this one a legitimate trifecta addition. An exacta saver of Teresa (1) over Mambagigi (7) is reasonable insurance.

RACE 8 — Post (4:18)/3:18/2:18/1:18 — 1210f | D | M | Md 5000 | BUM | Purse $13,500

The card closer is a six-furlong maiden claimer for fillies and mares at the $5,000 level with nine runners. Maiden claimers at this level can be unpredictable, and the field includes a mix of horses that have been competing at this condition for varying stretches.

Pace Analysis

Anna Brocknana (3) and Peruvian Princess (4), both trained by Paul Barrow and breaking from adjacent posts, could create pace from the inside portion of the gate. Camille's Legacy (2) with Coa from post two could press or stalk from a favorable position. Funny Forecast (9) from the outside with O.K. Hernandez will likely be reserved off the early pace. The Barrow barn's two-pronged inside attack could control early fractions, which would benefit whichever of the two has more energy late.

Key Contenders

Camille's Legacy (2) trained by Michael LeCesse at 3-1 with Keiber J. Coa is the morning line favorite. LeCesse is a solid presence at Finger Lakes with a decent record in maiden sprint races for fillies. Coa is the most accomplished rider on the card today, and his presence at 3-1 on a maiden claimer suggests the barn and connections have genuine confidence. The post two position in a six-furlong sprint is a favorable inside draw.

Peruvian Princess (4) trained by Paul Barrow at 4-1 with O. Gomez is the second choice and the more likely of the two Barrow barn entries to win. Gomez is a high-quality rider, and having him aboard a 4-1 morning line horse in a barn that dominates locally is a meaningful positive angle. From post four, Peruvian Princess (4) should secure early positioning without difficulty.

Secondary Choices

Anna Brocknana (3) trained by Paul Barrow at 5-1 with Jeremias Flores is the stablemate of Peruvian Princess (4), and both going from adjacent posts creates an interesting dynamic. Flores is a reliable rider, and at 5-1 with a leading trainer, Anna Brocknana (3) deserves exotic inclusion.

Funny Forecast (9) trained by Charlton Baker at 4-1 with O.K. Hernandez shares the secondary range with Peruvian Princess (4). Baker is active all card, and Funny Forecast (9) at 4-1 from the outside post could use the longer run to the first turn in a six-furlong sprint to get into position. Hernandez is a functional colonial rider in this company.

Longshots

Taparoo (6) trained by Michael Ferraro at 8-1 with L.E. Perez is the Ferraro barn's entry, and at 8-1 with Perez, there is modest value here for exotic inclusion. Ferraro has been active all card.

Shes Sal's Dream (1) trained by Michael Ferraro at 8-1 with Sofia Vives from the rail is the companion Ferraro entry. Two Ferraro horses at 8-1 in a nine-horse field suggests the barn is hoping one of them breaks through in a soft maiden claimer spot.

North Starlight (8) trained by Rachel Sells at 12-1 with Christopher Elliott and Crystal (7) trained by Luis A. Gutierrez at 12-1 with N.R. Alvarado are the deeper longshots. At 12-1 in a nine-horse maiden claimer, use only minimally in superfectas.

Frosty Karina (5) trained by Eduardo Maver at 20-1 with Jacqueline A. Davis is the longest shot on the card for this final race. Toss.

Selections

Win: Camille's Legacy (2) Place: Peruvian Princess (4) Show: Funny Forecast (9)

Betting Strategy: Camille's Legacy (2) with Coa is the single in this race closer. Key her in exactas over Peruvian Princess (4), Anna Brocknana (3), and Funny Forecast (9). Trifectas with these four in various combinations represent the primary exotic play. The Barrow barn's two horses from adjacent posts present an intriguing box if the trainer hits the board with one.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Keiber J. Coa is the standout rider to follow throughout today's card. He holds mounts in Race 1 on Hey Pal (6), Race 2 on I'm A Happy Man (2), Race 5 on Signifying Nothing (4), Race 8 on Camille's Legacy (2), and Race 4 on Sliceaway (5). Coa's presence consistently elevates the win probability of any horse he rides at Finger Lakes, and bettors who follow him through the card will find multiple opportunities to capitalize. His tactical versatility — able to lead, stalk, or close — makes him dangerous from any post position.

O. Gomez handles the Paul Barrow barn's primary runners throughout the card, appearing in Race 1 on Specialagentjonson (1), Race 2 on Locked Horns (1), Race 5 on Pesadilla Chanel (1), Race 6 on Max Foster (6), Race 7 on Call Me Penny (8), and Race 8 on Peruvian Princess (4). Gomez is a reliable, experienced rider who works well with Barrow's horses. The Barrow/Gomez combination at Finger Lakes has shown a consistent return on investment throughout the meet.

Andre Worrie is another key rider to track today, carrying mounts in Race 2 on Roadhouse Warrior (5), Race 3 on It's Not Over Yet (2), Race 4 on Masquerademistress (3), Race 5 on Cinnamon Sugar (5), Race 6 on Khali's Dream (5), and Race 7 on Mambagigi (7). Worrie's heavy book suggests he is the colony's working leading rider, and his consistent presence on morning line favorites reflects the confidence trainers have placed in him throughout the meet.

Shaun Bridgmohan on Silver Knight (6) in Race 2 is the single most compelling individual rider/horse angle of the day. Bridgmohan is by far the most decorated rider in today's field, with a Hall of Fame-caliber record at tracks across North America, and his presence in a maiden special weight at Finger Lakes commands immediate attention.

L.E. Perez handles multiple mounts through the card and is a reliable colonial rider whose win percentage holds steady throughout meets of this type. He rides Sweet Tone (5) in Race 1, Playinmindgames (4) in Race 2, Magic Spin (9) in Race 6, Taparoo (6) in Race 8, and Change Order (12) in Race 5.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Paul Barrow is the dominant trainer presence today, with entries in nearly every race on the card. His horses are consistently well-placed and he maximizes the Gomez partnership effectively. Barrow runners to watch most closely include Specialagentjonson (1) in Race 1, Locked Horns (1) in Race 2, Anna Brocknana (3) and Peruvian Princess (4) in Race 8, and Breaking Stones (7) in Race 6. When Barrow sends multiple horses from the same barn into a race, as he does in Race 8, it typically signals that the trainer is confident about the overall capability of his stable in that condition.

M. Anthony Ferraro has the most complex multi-horse strategy of the day, entering three horses in Race 2 — I'm A Happy Man (2), Barna Boy (3) — alongside the separate Michael Ferraro entry of Playinmindgames (4). The relationship between M. Anthony Ferraro and Michael Ferraro at Finger Lakes is worth clarifying through the program: they appear as separate license holders but may share operational connections. Hey Pal (6) in Race 1 is clearly the Ferraro barn's top gun today.

Timothy Murphy is a trainer to follow for value throughout the card. He enters Grand Commander (4) and Airborne Elite (6) in Race 3, Allure Of Money (4) in Race 6, Valentine Gift (7) in Race 5, and has been among the more consistent performers at this level through the Finger Lakes fall campaign. Murphy's win percentage in claiming races at the $5,000 level at Finger Lakes has been solid throughout the meet.

Chris Englehart enters Khali's Dream (5) in Race 6 and Mambagigi (7) in Race 7, both as morning line favorites. Englehart is among the more respected trainers at the meet, and having two favored horses on the same card is a meaningful positive signal. Both runners are paired with Andre Worrie, reinforcing the barn's strategic consistency.

Rachel Sells operates a diverse stable today with entries in multiple races including Stjames (1) in Race 3, Signal Chat (4) in Race 4, Red Butterfly (6) in Race 5, Call Me Penny (8) in Race 7, and North Starlight (8) in Race 8. Sells is a competent mid-level Finger Lakes trainer who regularly fields competitive horses in claiming and maiden claiming conditions.

Nicholas P. Zito's entry of Sliceaway (5) in Race 4 with Keiber J. Coa is the marquee trainer angle of the entire card. Zito's Hall of Fame credentials and the presence of Coa in the irons combine to make Sliceaway (5) a horse that should never be dismissed regardless of morning line pricing.

Jonathan Buckley enters The Gael (7) in Race 4 and Revivalism (8) in Race 6, both with Kevin Navarro. Buckley is a selective operator who typically enters horses in spots where he believes they hold a genuine form edge.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The most actionable plays on today's Finger Lakes card center on a few key angles that cut across multiple races.

The morning line singles worth anchoring exotic tickets around are Hey Pal (6) in Race 1, Silver Knight (6) in Race 2, Mambagigi (7) in Race 7, and Camille's Legacy (2) in Race 8. These four horses carry top-tier rider assignments, strong trainer credentials, and clear form advantages in their respective fields.

The single best value play on the card is Sliceaway (5) in Race 4. Zito and Coa combining on a 4-1 morning line horse in a maiden special weight route creates a scenario where the actual probability of winning exceeds what the odds suggest. If Sliceaway (5) drifts toward 5-1 or better at post time, a win bet becomes compelling.

The second-best value play is Call Me Penny (8) in Race 7 at 10-1 with O. Gomez. A quality jockey at a double-digit morning line price in a six-furlong sprint for fillies and mares at the $5,000 level is a classic overlay situation. Use Call Me Penny (8) underneath in trifectas and superfectas throughout the race.

For Pick 4 construction, the most productive sequence to focus on is Races 5 through 8. Race 5 is a twelve-horse field that warrants using multiple horses — at minimum Cinnamon Sugar (5) and Signifying Nothing (4) and possibly Valentine Gift (7) and Clarividente (10). Race 6 singles Khali's Dream (5) as the most trustworthy anchor. Race 7 singles Mambagigi (7). Race 8 uses Camille's Legacy (2) and Peruvian Princess (4) as a two-horse combination. A Pick 4 structure of four horses in Race 5, single in Race 6, single in Race 7, and two horses in Race 8 provides excellent coverage without excessive ticket cost.

For the Pick 5 spanning Races 4 through 8, add The Gael (7) from Race 4 as an opening single. The five-leg ticket of The Gael (7) / four horses in Race 5 / Khali's Dream (5) / Mambagigi (7) / two horses in Race 8 represents a well-structured sequence that isolates the wide-open Race 5 as the key to a large payout. Invest meaningfully in this sequence.

The daily double in Races 7 and 8 pairing Mambagigi (7) with Camille's Legacy (2) and Peruvian Princess (4) is a two-ticket play that offers a clean, cost-effective approach to ending the card on a profitable note.

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


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