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Laurel Park – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the May 9, 2026 card

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Race Day Overview — Laurel Park, Saturday, May 9, 2026

Laurel Park hosts a nine-race Saturday card with a noon first post, featuring a mix of turf routes, dirt sprints, and maiden events spread across the afternoon. The meet continues building toward the historic occasion of Laurel hosting the Preakness Stakes for the first time on May 16, making this weekend's racing particularly meaningful for the Maryland circuit. The broader racing conversation this week has been dominated by Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo bypassing the Preakness, which opens the door for Crude Velocity, Chip Honcho — now confirmed with Jose Ortiz in the irons per TDN — and Ocelli, who finished third in the Derby and is being pointed toward the second jewel. None of that affects today's racing directly, but the energy at Laurel this month is elevated as the track prepares for its biggest moment in decades.

The legislative uncertainty surrounding the Maryland Stadium Authority's proposed purchase of Laurel Park, as reported by Maryland Matters and flagged by TDN, adds a layer of long-term intrigue to the circuit. A legislative panel is taking a second look at the transaction, which could have significant implications for capital improvements and the long-term future of Maryland racing. For today's purposes, the track's condition and management remain stable.

Today's card leans heavily on turf routes — Races 1, 3, 4, 6, and 7 are all contested on the grass — while Races 2, 5, 8, and 9 are run on the main dirt track. The condition labels are primarily claiming events at the $7,500 to $16,000 level, with a pair of maiden $16,000 events on the grass and an allowance optional claiming on the dirt in Race 8. Purses run from $18,000 in Race 2 up to $24,000 for the turf maiden routes and the afternoon's feature-level events. For a Saturday, this is a meat-and-potatoes card at a regional mid-Atlantic track, and sharp handicappers will find spots where the morning line prices are ripe for exploitation.

Race 5 presents an unusual condition: TAMMY’S CRUISER (POST 1) and ALYVIA MAVIS (POST 7) are both listed at 0-1 on the morning line and share the same trainer, Jamie Ness, with Yedsit Hazlewood named on both. This is a logistical impossibility in its current form and a scratch to one of those entries is expected before post time — bettors should monitor for the official scratch prior to wagering.

Weather and Track Conditions — May 9, 2026

Conditions at Laurel Park this Saturday are expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures in the mid-60s at first post, gradually warming to the low 70s by the later races. No significant precipitation is forecast for the afternoon, which bodes well for the turf course remaining firm and the dirt track holding its typical fast-to-good configuration. The Laurel turf course has been firm and well-maintained throughout the current Preakness buildup, with track management keeping conditions as pristine as possible given the marquee event looming next weekend. If any moisture did accumulate from earlier in the week, the surface rating may lean toward good rather than firm for the early turf races, but all signs point to standard turf conditions throughout the card.

The dirt main track is expected to be rated fast. No track maintenance reports indicate any unusual preparation. Wind is a non-factor this afternoon.

Track and Post Position Bias — Laurel Park

On the Laurel dirt track at sprint distances, inside posts have historically shown a marginal advantage in short fields, primarily because the run to the first turn is brief enough that horses breaking from the rail are not disadvantaged by the tight geometry. In larger fields at sprint distances, posts 3 through 7 tend to produce the most competitive results. The 1,540-foot dirt routes (essentially seven furlongs) favor horses that can rate off a contested pace, as closers get enough distance to make their runs.

On the turf course at the 1,210-foot distance (approximately five and a half furlongs on the turf), early speed is particularly decisive at Laurel. The turf sprint distance does not afford closers significant room to overcome a ground-saving advantage, and horses that can get a clean stalking trip in the first two or three slots typically hold best. Post position is not dramatically determinative at this distance on the grass, but horses outside post 7 do need cleaner breaks and more ground to make up in large fields.

The 1,870-foot turf routes (approximately one mile and one eighth) provide enough real estate that closers can get involved, and inside posts carry a meaningful advantage in avoiding traffic. In maiden turf routes with large fields — as seen in Races 3 and 6 today — the ability to save ground around the two turns is the primary tactical edge. Horses that break alertly from inside or mid-draw posts and settle in good position by the half-mile pole tend to dominate these events at Laurel.

RACE 1 — Post (12:00)/11:00/10:00/9:00 — 1210f | T | C | Clm 16000n2l | BUM | Purse $24,000

A six-furlong turf sprint for fillies and mares that have never won two races, claiming price $16,000. Eight horses have been entered with a small but competitive field. Speed on the front end will be at a premium given the turf sprint distance, and the race shapes up to favor horses that can establish a forward position quickly.

Race 1

Pace Analysis

The pace scenario in Race 1 leans toward a moderate to honest early tempo. Blackfoot Daisy (POST 2) is a confirmed on-pace type that figures to be forwardly placed, and Granuaile (POST 7) also tends to sit close to the lead. Over My Cents (POST 6) has shown the ability to rate. If Blackfoot Daisy (POST 2) goes to the front unchallenged, she could potentially soft-pedal through the early fractions and create a front-running bias. The presence of Granuaile (POST 7) in the 3-1 slot suggests she will press the pace, which could open the race up for any horse willing to stalk at two or three lengths back.

Key Contenders

Blackfoot Daisy (POST 2) is the 1-1 morning line favorite trained by Wesley Ward — one of the most accomplished turf sprint conditioners in North America — and receives the call of Yedsit Hazlewood. Ward's barn is typically sharp with horses trying the turf sprint, and a 1-1 number on a Ward trainee at this level demands respect. The question is whether this filly has enough class or tactical speed to hold up under pressure if the pace is genuine. Ward short-field turf sprint horses at the claiming level frequently command correct favorites, and Blackfoot Daisy (POST 2) fits the profile.

Granuaile (POST 7) at 3-1 is the other logical short-priced contender trained by Jose Corrales, who is very active on today's card. Denis Vicente Araujo gets the mount. Corrales runners tend to be honest efforts, and the 3-1 price reflects legitimate ability in this spot. Granuaile (POST 7) figures to be a primary pace rival to the favorite, and if she can sustain her run past the quarter pole she has the profile of a winner here.

Secondary Choices

Fahnee (POST 1) at 5-1 is trained by Suzanne Stettinius and ridden by Tais Lyapustina. Drawing the rail in a turf sprint is not necessarily a disadvantage at Laurel, and if Fahnee (POST 1) can break cleanly and avoid early traffic she could be a factor at a fair price.

Over My Cents (POST 6) at 6-1 with Jorge Ruiz has the look of a horse that could sit a comfortable stalking trip in fifth or sixth early and make a sustained late move if the pace up front gets genuine. Jose Magana conditions.

Longshots

Holy Joanie (POST 3) at 12-1 trained by Roland Clement III is a long shot who merits a glance for deeper exotic combinations. Clement is a capable conditioner on the Maryland circuit and occasionally drops horses into spots where they can fire freshened efforts.

Holy Brick (POST 4) at 20-1, Ms. Laobanniang (POST 5) at 15-1, and Nezy's Girl (POST 8) at 30-1 round out the field. Nezy's Girl (POST 8) under Dexter Haddock from the outside post in a turf sprint with a 30-1 morning line is a tough assignment even in a small field.

Betting Strategy

The morning line favorite Blackfoot Daisy (POST 2) is worth a straight win bet if she holds at reasonable odds given the Ward credentials. At 1-1, however, the value proposition is thin. The most productive wagering angle here is likely a win-place ticket on Blackfoot Daisy (POST 2) combined with a small exacta box with Granuaile (POST 7), and using Over My Cents (POST 6) as a saver underneath.

Selections

Win: Blackfoot Daisy (POST 2) Place: Granuaile (POST 7) Show: Over My Cents (POST 6)

RACE 2 — Post (12:32)/11:32/10:32/9:32 — 1210f | D | C | Clm 7500b | BUM | Purse $18,000

A six-furlong dirt sprint for fillies and mares at the $7,500 claiming level — the lowest claiming price on today's card. The purse reflects that, at $18,000. Six horses make up this small but honest field. Races like this one at the $7,500 level can be volatile because the quality of runners is inconsistent, but a small field reduces chaos.

Race 2

Pace Analysis

Lady Charlotte (POST 1) figures to be on or near the lead based on her morning line favoritism and rail draw. At the $7,500 level in a six-furlong dirt sprint with six runners, the pace tends to be moderate. Blessed Candy (POST 6) is at 3-1 with Jose Vargas and could press or stalk depending on her running style. If Lady Charlotte (POST 1) gets a soft lead, she becomes very dangerous. A contested early pace opens the door for Infastuation (POST 4) to come with a late move.

Key Contenders

Lady Charlotte (POST 1) is the runaway 1-1 favorite trained by A. Ferris Allen III and ridden by Hazlewood. In a six-horse field at $7,500 on the dirt, a morning line of 1-1 in the rail post represents a dominant figure or very recent sharp form. Allen is an experienced conditioner on the Maryland circuit and Lady Charlotte (POST 1) should command the front end.

Blessed Candy (POST 6) at 3-1 trained by Antonio Machado with Jose Vargas draws the outside post in a small field, which is not a significant disadvantage at six furlongs on the dirt. Machado has an active barn at Laurel and Blessed Candy (POST 6) at 3-1 represents value if Lady Charlotte (POST 1) softens.

Secondary Choices

Infastuation (POST 4) at 4-1 under Tais Lyapustina for trainer Linda Albert is the class of the secondary market. If this filly has any late-running tendencies, a small to moderate pace sets her up nicely from the middle of the field.

Longshots

Sapphire Beauty (POST 3) at 8-1 and Judith's Cross (POST 5) at 15-1, both trained by Charles Frock, are barn-mates who could complicate exacta payoffs if one fires a surprise effort. Always Forward (POST 2) at 12-1 for Jose Corrales and Emanuel Rosario is live in the sense that Corrales runs competitive horses even at this price level, but 12-1 suggests the public is not impressed.

Betting Strategy

Lady Charlotte (POST 1) is likely to be bet down to even money or below by post time. The value play is Infastuation (POST 4) on top in exactas underneath Lady Charlotte (POST 1) and Blessed Candy (POST 6). A small trifecta key using Lady Charlotte (POST 1) on top, with Infastuation (POST 4) and Blessed Candy (POST 6) in second and third in both orders, is the recommended structure.

Selections

Win: Lady Charlotte (POST 1) Place: Infastuation (POST 4) Show: Blessed Candy (POST 6)

RACE 3 — Post (1:04)/12:04/11:04/10:04 — 1870f | T | M | Md 16000 | BUN | Purse $24,000

An eleven-horse maiden field going approximately one mile and one eighth on the turf, open to horses at the $16,000 maiden claiming level. Large maiden turf routes with eleven runners are among the most difficult races to handicap on any card, but they also produce some of the better exotic payoffs of the afternoon. The key in these events is identifying horses with legitimate turf pedigrees or recent turf schooling that suggests they can handle the surface, combined with tactical position in the run through the first turn.

Race 3

Pace Analysis

Flamenco Star (POST 7) is the 1-1 morning line choice trained by Jorge Duarte Jr. with Jorge Ruiz up, suggesting she is likely to command or press the early pace. In an eleven-horse maiden turf route, the early fractions are often slow as jockeys jockey for position, but a 1-1 favorite at this distance typically controls tactics. If the pace is modest, Flamenco Star (POST 7) could wire the field. If the pace gets honest, late-running horses from the inside posts could make a substantial move in the stretch.

Key Contenders

Flamenco Star (POST 7) at 1-1 is the dominant market choice, and the short price is telling. Trainer Jorge Duarte Jr. has had solid form on the Laurel turf and Flamenco Star (POST 7) presumably has the figures or the connections to justify the heavy market position. The primary risk is the outside post in a large field at a route distance, which forces the horse wide early. But at 1-1, the market has already priced this in.

Oxford Union (POST 1) at 6-1 for trainer Valora Testerman with Kevin Gomez benefits most from the favorable rail draw in a route on the turf. Eleven-horse fields on the grass at Laurel put a premium on the rail in the early going, and Oxford Union (POST 1) could sit a ground-saving trip and make a sustained late run if she has any legitimate ability.

David's Kitten (POST 3) at 6-1 trained by Guadalupe Preciado with Dexter Haddock is another horse at the same price with a workable inside post. David's Kitten (POST 3) figures in the mix from a tactical standpoint.

Secondary Choices

Deputy A. P. (POST 5) at 8-1 for Kevin Boniface with Taylor Kingsley offers an interesting pedigree angle given the AP Indy sire line, which tends to produce turf routers with some frequency. Paintmymasterpeace (POST 2) at 8-1 for Anthony Farrior with Forest Boyce holds a serviceable inside draw and should be on the pace through the first quarter mile.

Brockton (POST 11) at 8-1 for Keri Brion with Hunter Rea is at a disadvantage coming from the outside post in a twelve-furlong maiden route on the turf, but Brion is a capable conditioner who occasionally has horses ready to fire from outside posts.

Longshots

Haulin Oats (POST 4) at 10-1 for Brittany Russell with Jevian Toledo is worth a look. Toledo is one of the more accomplished jockeys on the mid-Atlantic circuit and his presence on a 10-1 shot in a maiden turf route always deserves note.

Plenty On Tap (POST 8) at 12-1, Furious George (POST 6) at 30-1, Boss Lily (POST 9) at 30-1, and West Mountain (POST 10) at 30-1 are longshots who face difficult assignments given their post positions in the double-digit range for a route on the turf. West Mountain (POST 10) draws the second-widest post and will surrender considerable ground. Boss Lily (POST 9) with Jose Vargas could be live if she has turf schooling not reflected in the morning line.

Betting Strategy

Maiden turf routes with eleven horses demand exotic wagering. The win pool may be soft underneath the 1-1 favorite. The play is to use Flamenco Star (POST 7) and Oxford Union (POST 1) as the top two, with David's Kitten (POST 3) and Haulin Oats (POST 4) underneath in the exacta and trifecta. Small-investment vertical structures — a $1 trifecta wheel with Flamenco Star (POST 7) on top, using Oxford Union (POST 1), David's Kitten (POST 3), and Haulin Oats (POST 4) in second and third — is the recommended play.

Selections

Win: Flamenco Star (POST 7) Place: Oxford Union (POST 1) Show: David's Kitten (POST 3)

RACE 4 — Post (1:35)/12:35/11:35/10:35 — 1210f | T | C | Clm 16000n2l | BUM | Purse $24,000

A second six-furlong turf sprint on the card, this one for fillies and mares that have not won two races, claiming price $16,000, purse $24,000. Nine are entered including APM NOTION (POST 5), who is listed with no rider. That horse should be monitored closely for a scratch or rider assignment before post time. Nine-horse turf sprints at Laurel are competitive events and this race has a more complex pace setup than Race 1.

Race 4

Pace Analysis

Ballycurrin (POST 3) at 2-1 and Gripen (POST 4) at 2-1 are co-favorites, which signals a genuinely competitive race with no clear dominant form. The pace should be honest. Music On The Rocks (POST 1) from the rail with Carlos Eduardo Lopez could be a front-runner adding to the tempo. If the fractions are genuine, a stalking-style horse like Eachpeachpearplum (POST 8) could benefit.

Key Contenders

Ballycurrin (POST 3) at 2-1 is trained by Mary Eppler, one of the more reliable conditioners at Laurel, and ridden by Hector Karamanos. Eppler is particularly effective with turf horses and a 2-1 morning line at a six-furlong turf sprint for a proven trainer suggests legitimate current form. Ballycurrin (POST 3) has the inside advantage over Gripen (POST 4) from the post perspective.

Gripen (POST 4) at 2-1 for trainer W. Robert Bailes and Jose Vargas shares co-favorite billing. A co-favorite at 2-1 in a nine-horse turf sprint is a well-supported market signal. Gripen (POST 4) likely brings competitive figures and Vargas is having a productive Laurel meet.

Secondary Choices

Eachpeachpearplum (POST 8) at 4-1 for Anthony Pecoraro and Carol Cedeno may be the most interesting secondary option. A 4-1 morning line horse in the second tier of a two-horse 2-1 co-favorite race often represents value, particularly if she has a closing style that benefits from the expected honest pace.

Music On The Rocks (POST 1) at 6-1 for Emanuel Geralis and Carlos Eduardo Lopez draws the rail and could take the field over on the lead. If Music On The Rocks (POST 1) gets a soft lead uncontested, she becomes dangerous.

Longshots

She's A Good Girl (POST 6) at 12-1 for Justin Nixon with Jean Gregor Briceno has some appeal at a big price if the race comes apart in front. Stylish Gem (POST 2) at 15-1 for John Robb with Xavier Perez, Eimear (POST 7) at 30-1 for Kelly Lynn Deiter with Edgar Villasmil, and Any Fools Gold (POST 9) at 20-1 for Donnovan Haughton with Christian Maldonado round out the field. APM NOTION (POST 5) without a rider is a probable scratch.

Betting Strategy

The dual co-favorite setup creates an interesting exacta dynamic. Betting Ballycurrin (POST 3) and Gripen (POST 4) on top of each other in the exacta may produce a modest payoff but represents a high-probability wager. Adding Eachpeachpearplum (POST 8) underneath as a trifecta third leg, particularly if the pace gets contested, is the play. A $1 trifecta box covering Ballycurrin (POST 3), Gripen (POST 4), and Eachpeachpearplum (POST 8) is recommended.

Selections

Win: Ballycurrin (POST 3) Place: Gripen (POST 4) Show: Eachpeachpearplum (POST 8)

RACE 5 — Post (2:10)/1:10/12:10/11:10 — 1540f | D | C | Clm 12500n2l | BUM | Purse $22,000

A seven-furlong dirt sprint for fillies and mares that have not won two races, claiming price $12,500, purse $22,000. As noted above, this race carries the unusual situation of the same trainer Jamie Ness having both Tammy's Cruiser (POST 1) and Alyvia Mavis (POST 7) listed at 0-1 with Hazlewood named on both. One of these horses is expected to be scratched before post time. The field otherwise has eight runners across a range of prices.

Race 5

Pace Analysis

If Tammy's Cruiser (POST 1) or Alyvia Mavis (POST 7) survive — whichever one draws the final entry — the Ness runner will almost certainly be a heavy favorite and likely be on or near the lead. Julie Belle (POST 3) for Carlos Mancilla with Jorge Ruiz could be a front-runner as well. The pace scenario cannot be fully mapped until the final entry is confirmed, but at seven furlongs on the dirt, the early tempo is moderately important. Closers have a slightly better chance to get involved compared to the sprint distances.

Key Contenders

The surviving Ness trainee — whether Tammy's Cruiser (POST 1) or Alyvia Mavis (POST 7) — is the clear key to this race. A 0-1 morning line in any race is extraordinary and indicates a horse the market views as nearly unbeatable. Jamie Ness is a highly competent conditioner at Laurel and the double-entry situation likely resulted from a deliberate entry strategy that will resolve to one runner.

Ready For Magic (POST 2) at 5-1 for Somraj Singh with Tais Lyapustina is the most credible challenger. Singh is also represented by Christy My Love (POST 5) at 8-1 with Matilda Burnham, giving him two chances. Ready For Magic (POST 2) appears to be the primary Singh weapon.

Secondary Choices

Paperback Edition (POST 8) at 10-1 for Mary Eppler with Xavier Perez is a horse worth noting. Eppler is a consistent conditioner and Paperback Edition (POST 8) at 10-1 in a seven-furlong dirt claiming race could be live if it has recent works or form improvements not reflected in the line.

Turkish Breeze (POST 4) at 12-1 for Kieron Magee with Emanuel Rosario is a longshot who could complicate the exacta if the pace gets honest.

Longshots

Julie Belle (POST 3) at 15-1, Christy My Love (POST 5) at 8-1, and Fire At Midnight (POST 6) at 20-1 for Aimee Hall with Jose Vargas round out the field. Fire At Midnight (POST 6) is a longer price but Vargas's presence keeps her mildly interesting.

Betting Strategy

Pending scratch resolution, the surviving Ness runner is the legitimate single in this race — a prime candidate for a Pick 3, Pick 4, or Pick 5 single if you are rolling through this portion of the card. At 0-1, straight win wagering offers minimal value. The play is to use the Ness horse as a single in multi-race wagers and invest the savings in deeper coverage in the surrounding races. In the race itself, keying the surviving Ness runner on top in exactas with Ready For Magic (POST 2) and Paperback Edition (POST 8) underneath makes sense.

Selections

Win: Tammy's Cruiser (POST 1) or Alyvia Mavis (POST 7) — surviving Ness trainee Place: Ready For Magic (POST 2) Show: Paperback Edition (POST 8)

RACE 6 — Post (2:43)/1:43/12:43/11:43 — 1870f | T | M | Md 16000 | BUN | Purse $24,000

Eleven runners going approximately one mile and one eighth on the turf for maidens at $16,000. This mirrors Race 3 in format, and like Race 3, the large field on the turf route creates maximum exotic wagering potential.

Race 6

Pace Analysis

Freedom Glider (POST 3) at 2-1 and It's Electric (POST 5) at 2-1 share co-favorite status, setting up another competitive pace scenario. Gordito (POST 1) at 4-1 is on the rail and may attempt to be forwardly placed. If both co-favorites are closers, Gordito (POST 1) could get a soft lead and potentially wire the field. The pace scenario in this race is arguably more important than Race 3 given the number of horses and the route distance.

Key Contenders

Freedom Glider (POST 3) at 2-1 trained by John Salzman Jr. with J.S. Rocco Jr. is positioned to be a primary factor. Salzman is an established Maryland trainer with a strong turf record and Freedom Glider (POST 3) draws a workable post. If this horse has turf figures consistent with the favorite billing, the 2-1 is a correct line.

It's Electric (POST 5) at 2-1 for Jorge Duarte Jr. with Jorge Ruiz is interesting because Duarte is also responsible for the top pick in Race 3 (FLAMENCO STAR, POST 7). If Duarte fires a double on the turf today, this runner is his second weapon. Ruiz getting the call on both Duarte turfers reflects the trainer-jockey confidence level.

Gordito (POST 1) at 4-1 for Gina Perri with Carol Cedeno is particularly appealing from a tactical standpoint. The rail draw in an eleven-horse maiden turf route is one of the most coveted advantages on the Laurel grass, and if Gordito (POST 1) has any tactical speed, Cedeno can put her into a perfect ground-saving position on the fence through the first turn.

Secondary Choices

Treasurthememories (POST 11) at 8-1 for Michael Trombetta with Ismerio Villalobos is an intriguing longer-priced option. Trombetta is one of the more accomplished trainers at the Laurel/Pimlico circuit and his horses tend to be well-prepared. The outside post is a serious concern in an eleven-horse turf route, but the Trombetta name at 8-1 always gets attention.

Vignon Manor (POST 4) at 8-1 for Kevin Boniface and Jevian Toledo draws a middle post and benefits from Toledo's riding ability. Toledo getting on an 8-1 in a maiden turf route is often a positive sign.

Longshots

Rivage (POST 6) at 12-1 for Keri Brion and Taylor Kingsley, Ray Of Lov (POST 10) at 12-1 for Hugh McMahon and Jean Gregor Briceno, Sir Lomax (POST 2) at 30-1 for Caitlin Keil and Matilda Burnham, Gonna Make It (POST 7) at 20-1 for Ben Feliciano Jr. and Jose Vargas, All Fruits Ripe (POST 8) at 20-1 for Valrie Smith and Yedsit Hazlewood, and Cruisetheforest (POST 9) at 30-1 for Irvin Flores and Hunter Rea round out the field. Among these, Rivage (POST 6) for Brion at 12-1 is the most interesting deeper price. Brion has shown the ability to fire horses at fair prices on the Laurel turf.

Betting Strategy

In a co-favorite maiden turf route with eleven horses, the best approach is to use all three of Gordito (POST 1), Freedom Glider (POST 3), and It's Electric (POST 5) in multi-race wagers, while targeting the exacta with the co-favorites on top of Gordito (POST 1) and Vignon Manor (POST 4). A $1 trifecta box of Gordito (POST 1), Freedom Glider (POST 3), and It's Electric (POST 5) is the recommended structure, and adding Treasurthememories (POST 11) as a fourth horse in $0.50 trifecta part-wheels enhances upside.

Selections

Win: It's Electric (POST 5) Place: Freedom Glider (POST 3) Show: Gordito (POST 1)

RACE 7 — Post (3:15)/2:15/1:15/12:15 — 1210f | T | CO | OClm 12500 | BUN | Purse $24,000

An eleven-horse optional claiming turf sprint at $12,500 for horses that have not run for a claiming price. This is an open company event on the turf at approximately six furlongs. Two horses are co-favorites at 2-1: Carnaby (POST 10) and Masen (POST 11). The symmetry of the two co-favorites sitting in the two widest posts is significant — both will have to cover extra ground in the early going.

Race 7

Pace Analysis

Island D'lite (POST 1) at 8-1, Nola Boss (POST 2) at 6-1, and Summer Bee (POST 7) at 4-1 are all likely to be forwardly placed based on their positions and pricing. If Island D'lite (POST 1) or Nola Boss (POST 2) takes the lead from the inside, the co-favorites from posts 10 and 11 face an uphill task in a six-furlong grass sprint. Both Carnaby (POST 10) and Masen (POST 11) will need to burn significant energy from the wide draw to get into contention. This pace setup favors horses sitting in mid-pack from inside posts.

Key Contenders

Carnaby (POST 10) at 2-1 for Felix Flores-Coba with Kevin Gomez and Masen (POST 11) at 2-1 for Karin Wagner with Angel Cruz are the market choices, but their outside posts in a turf sprint are legitimate vulnerabilities at this Laurel configuration. At 2-1, both need to overcome a meaningful tactical disadvantage.

Summer Bee (POST 7) at 4-1 for Mike Dini and Julio Hernandez holds the most appealing spot in the field — a mid-draw position with favorable odds and presumably the tactical ability to stalk the pace from inside the co-favorites. Dini has been a competitive trainer at Laurel and Summer Bee (POST 7) at 4-1 from post 7 is arguably the value selection in this race.

Secondary Choices

Laddie Dance (POST 8) at 6-1 for Phillip Capuano and Yomar Ortiz is another very attractive price. Capuano is a well-regarded Maryland conditioner and Laddie Dance (POST 8) from a manageable post with Ortiz in the irons represents a legitimate threat. If the co-favorites are compromised by their outside draws, Laddie Dance (POST 8) could be the main beneficiary.

Nola Boss (POST 2) at 6-1 for Vanessa Peltroche with Carlos Eduardo Lopez draws second and could get ideal rail-adjacent position in the early going. This is a tactical angle worth respecting.

Longshots

Spotted Bull (POST 9) at 10-1 for Robert Klesaris with Matilda Burnham, Night Preacher (POST 6) at 8-1 for Kelly Lynn Deiter with Jose Vargas, Find Faith (POST 3) at 12-1 for Robin Graham with Hector Karamanos, Claudee Boy (POST 4) at 15-1 for Hassan Elamri with Jean Gregor Briceno, Bigdaddysboy (POST 5) at 15-1 for Robert Gamber with Carol Cedeno, and Island D'lite (POST 1) at 8-1 for Samuel Davis with Sheldon Russell round out the field. Island D'lite (POST 1) warrants more attention than his morning line suggests — the rail in a turf sprint with a stalking style from an experienced conditioner like Davis at 8-1 is a legitimate bet.

Betting Strategy

This race is set up for a significant upset. The co-favorites face disadvantageous posts and the value is in the mid-field horses. Summer Bee (POST 7) is the top selection, with Laddie Dance (POST 8) and Nola Boss (POST 2) as supporting players. An exacta wheel with Summer Bee (POST 7) on top over the field is a reasonable structure. A trifecta using Summer Bee (POST 7), Laddie Dance (POST 8), Nola Boss (POST 2), and Carnaby (POST 10) in combination is the recommended play.

Selections

Win: Summer Bee (POST 7) Place: Laddie Dance (POST 8) Show: Nola Boss (POST 2)

RACE 8 — Post (3:47)/2:47/1:47/12:47 — 1540f | D | R | Alw 7500s | BUM | Purse $24,000

A six-horse allowance optional claiming event at seven furlongs on the dirt, purse $24,000. This is the most restricted and potentially highest-quality race on the card. Six horses at the allowance level on the dirt at Laurel. Enigmatic (POST 6) is listed as the 1-1 favorite for Daniel Eubanks with Jose Vargas.

Race 8

Pace Analysis

With six horses and a 1-1 favorite, the pace scenario is almost secondary to simply identifying whether Enigmatic (POST 6) can be beaten. At seven furlongs in an allowance event on the dirt, the pace will be moderate to honest. Isabella's Glory (POST 3) at 4-1 and R Averie Lynn (POST 4) at 4-1 are the primary challengers. If any of the 4-1 horses are early speed types, Enigmatic (POST 6) may be asked to chase, which could compromise her finishing effort.

Key Contenders

Enigmatic (POST 6) at 1-1 for Daniel Eubanks and Jose Vargas is the dominant market choice. The outside post in a six-horse field at seven furlongs is not a significant disadvantage, and Vargas at the controls of a 1-1 favorite in an allowance race is a high-probability configuration. Enigmatic (POST 6) should be taken at face value here.

Isabella's Glory (POST 3) at 4-1 for Jose Corrales and Hazlewood is another Corrales-Hazlewood combination, and given that both have been active today, a live 4-1 at this level is very interesting. Corrales is having a strong meet and Isabella's Glory (POST 3) has a competitive post from the three-hole.

R Averie Lynn (POST 4) at 4-1 for Michael Gorham and Raul Mena is at the same price as Isabella's Glory (POST 3) from the adjacent post. Gorham is a competent conditioner and Mena is an established Laurel rider. Book Of Wisdom (POST 5) at 4-1 for Emanuel Geralis and Angel Cruz adds a third horse at the same price point, making this a genuine multi-way affair at the 4-1 level.

Secondary Choices

Book Of Wisdom (POST 5) at 4-1 is actually a co-equal choice with Isabella's Glory (POST 3) and R Averie Lynn (POST 4) given the identical morning lines. Geralis's barn has been active at Laurel and Cruz getting the call suggests confidence.

Kiss Cam (POST 2) at 8-1 for Timothy Shanley and J. Stokes is not impossible in a six-horse field if the favorite draws out.

Longshots

Royal Seamstress (POST 1) at 15-1 for Somraj Singh and Tais Lyapustina is the longest price in the field and faces a difficult assignment against these allowance-level horses, but Singh has been active on today's card.

Betting Strategy

The three horses at 4-1 create an excellent trifecta opportunity with Enigmatic (POST 6) on top. An exacta box covering Enigmatic (POST 6) with all three 4-1 horses is sound, and a trifecta using Enigmatic (POST 6) on top, with Isabella's Glory (POST 3), R Averie Lynn (POST 4), and Book Of Wisdom (POST 5) rotating in second and third, is the recommended structure. In a six-horse field, these combinations are not prohibitively expensive.

Selections

Win: Enigmatic (POST 6) Place: Isabella's Glory (POST 3) Show: Book Of Wisdom (POST 5)

RACE 9 — Post (4:19)/3:19/2:19/1:19 — 1320f | D | CO | OClm 12500 | BUN | Purse $24,000

The card concludes with a six-furlong optional claiming event on the dirt at $12,500 for horses that have not started for a claiming price. Six horses, which makes this the second small-field event of the second half of the card. Just For The Money (POST 3) is the morning line favorite at 2-1 for trainer Anthony Farrior with Jevian Toledo.

Race 9

Pace Analysis

Six horses at six furlongs on the dirt generally produces a clear pace scenario. Daufuskie Island (POST 1) from the rail for Jose Corrales with Hector Karamanos could be an early speed type. Just For The Money (POST 3) with Toledo likely tracks from a comfortable position. Ecumenical (POST 6) at 3-1 for Hugh McMahon with Hazlewood is the key late-running threat. If the pace gets honest early, Ecumenical (POST 6) could close powerfully.

Key Contenders

Just For The Money (POST 3) at 2-1 is the morning line choice with Jevian Toledo, one of the more accomplished jockeys on the mid-Atlantic circuit. Toledo riding a 2-1 favorite in a six-horse optional claimer at six furlongs is a high-probability situation. Trainer Anthony Farrior also has a runner in Race 3 today (PAINTMYMASTERPEACE, POST 2), suggesting an active and engaged barn.

Ecumenical (POST 6) at 3-1 for Hugh McMahon and Hazlewood is the most credible threat. McMahon is a respected Maryland conditioner and Ecumenical (POST 6) at 3-1 from the outside post — which in a six-horse dirt sprint is not a critical disadvantage — is a legitimate win contender. If Just For The Money (POST 3) softens at all in the stretch, Ecumenical (POST 6) could be there.

Secondary Choices

Pudge Boy Palace (POST 2) at 4-1 for Jose Corrales with Angel Cruz is an interesting Corrales entry. Corrales runs multiple horses on today's card and Pudge Boy Palace (POST 2) is positioned to stalk the pace from a rail-adjacent post.

Heldish (POST 4) at 4-1 for Robin Graham and Jose Vargas at the same price as Pudge Boy Palace (POST 2) creates a three-way secondary challenge beneath the two favorites. Graham is a capable trainer and Vargas is having a productive meet.

Longshots

Daufuskie Island (POST 1) at 5-1 for Jose Corrales with Hector Karamanos — notably, Corrales runs two horses in this race (DAUFUSKIE ISLAND at post 1 and PUDGE BOY PALACE at post 2). Daufuskie Island (POST 1) at 5-1 from the rail is actually a reasonable price in a six-horse field. Searcy (POST 5) at 12-1 for Justin Nixon with Jean Gregor Briceno is the longest price in the race and faces a steep challenge.

Betting Strategy

The Corrales double-entry situation in Race 9 mirrors the trainer angle worth noting all day. Daufuskie Island (POST 1) at 5-1 from the rail could be live, and if Corrales is sending two horses at the 2-1 morning line favorite, at least one of his runners was entered with competitive intent. The play here is an exacta key using Just For The Money (POST 3) on top with Ecumenical (POST 6), Pudge Boy Palace (POST 2), and Heldish (POST 4) underneath. A trifecta with Just For The Money (POST 3) and Ecumenical (POST 6) on top, cycling through Pudge Boy Palace (POST 2) and Daufuskie Island (POST 1) in third, covers the Corrales rail threat at a fair price.

Selections

Win: Just For The Money (POST 3) Place: Ecumenical (POST 6) Show: Pudge Boy Palace (POST 2)

Jockey Notes and Insights — May 9, 2026

Yedsit Hazlewood is the busiest rider on today's card with mounts in at least six races, including the heavy Ness favorite in Race 5, Lady Charlotte (POST 1) in Race 2, and Isabella's Glory (POST 3) in Race 8. If Hazlewood is sharp today, he could be in the winner's circle multiple times. His association with top trainers including Wesley Ward (Race 1, BLACKFOOT DAISY, POST 2) and Jose Corrales (Race 8, ISABELLA'S GLORY, POST 3) reinforces his status as the meet's leading or near-leading rider.

Jose Vargas is also extremely active, appearing in Race 2 (BLESSED CANDY, POST 6), Race 4 (GRIPEN, POST 4), Race 6 (GONNA MAKE IT, POST 7), Race 7 (NIGHT PREACHER, POST 6), Race 8 (ENIGMATIC, POST 6), and Race 9 (HELDISH, POST 4). Vargas having the mount on Enigmatic (POST 6), the 1-1 Race 8 favorite, and Gripen (POST 4), one of the co-favorites in Race 4, puts him in position for multiple big-race results.

Jevian Toledo is riding Haulin Oats (POST 4) in Race 3, Vignon Manor (POST 4) in Race 6, and Just For The Money (POST 3) in Race 9. Toledo's presence on the Race 9 favorite is the highest-profile assignment and his track record on the mid-Atlantic circuit makes him a rider whose book demands attention across the board.

Jorge Ruiz gets prime assignments on It's Electric (POST 5) in Race 6 and Flamenco Star (POST 7) in Race 3, both for Jorge Duarte Jr. If Duarte fires a double with his turf maidens today, Ruiz is the beneficiary.

Hector Karamanos has key mounts on Ballycurrin (POST 3) in Race 4 and Daufuskie Island (POST 1) in Race 9. Ballycurrin (POST 3) is one of the co-favorites in Race 4, and Karamanos getting on a Mary Eppler turf horse at that price is a standard strong-signal combination.

Trainer Notes and Insights — May 9, 2026

Jose Corrales is the busiest trainer on today's card with horses in at least five races: Granuaile (POST 7) in Race 1, Always Forward (POST 2) in Race 2, Isabella's Glory (POST 3) in Race 8, Daufuskie Island (POST 1) in Race 9, and Pudge Boy Palace (POST 2) in Race 9. The double-entry in Race 9 and the presence of multiple horses across the card suggest a trainer with stable depth and legitimate competitive intent throughout.

Jamie Ness has the dominant situation of the day in Race 5 with the apparent Ness entry likely to be a prohibitive favorite after the scratch resolution. Ness has a strong record at Laurel and his horses at this level tend to be professionally prepared.

Mary Eppler has Ballycurrin (POST 3) as a co-2-1 favorite in Race 4 and Paperback Edition (POST 8) in Race 5. Eppler's turf record at Laurel is one of the better metrics for evaluating her turfers, and Ballycurrin (POST 3) at 2-1 should be taken seriously.

Wesley Ward's lone runner on the card, Blackfoot Daisy (POST 2) in Race 1, carries the weight of Ward's stellar national reputation for developing turf sprinters. Ward horses at the claiming level in turf sprints tend to be live regardless of the competition.

Jorge Duarte Jr. sends out Flamenco Star (POST 7) in Race 3 and It's Electric (POST 5) in Race 6, both co-favorites or heavy favorites in maiden turf routes. A turf double would represent a productive afternoon for the Duarte operation.

Somraj Singh runs three horses today: Ready For Magic (POST 2) in Race 5, Christy My Love (POST 5) in Race 5, and Royal Seamstress (POST 1) in Race 8. The stable clearly believes in multi-entry approaches and Ready For Magic (POST 2) at 5-1 is the primary Singh weapon on the afternoon.

Michael Trombetta's entry Treasurthememories (POST 11) in Race 6 at 8-1 carries the name value that local bettors consistently respect. Trombetta trains at a higher level typically than today's maiden claimers, which makes this a potential dropper worth watching.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The single best play of the card is using the surviving Ness trainee — Tammy's Cruiser (POST 1) or Alyvia Mavis (POST 7) — as a singles anchor in multi-race wagers through Race 5. A 0-1 morning line at seven furlongs in a claiming event is a rare opportunity to essentially purchase a free leg in a Pick 3, Pick 4, or Pick 5.

For a Pick 3 running through Races 7, 8, and 9, the recommended structure is: Summer Bee (POST 7) and Laddie Dance (POST 8) in Race 7, Enigmatic (POST 6) as a single in Race 8, and Just For The Money (POST 3) and Ecumenical (POST 6) in Race 9. At $1 per combination, this is a two-by-one-by-two $4 ticket that covers the primary scenarios in the closing sequence.

For exotic plays in Race 7, the most interesting angle on the card is fading the co-favorites at posts 10 and 11 in the turf sprint. Carnaby (POST 10) and Masen (POST 11) at 2-1 each from the two widest posts in an eleven-horse turf sprint are vulnerable. A $2 exacta wheel using Summer Bee (POST 7) on top over the entire field provides upside in a race that could produce a moderate to big exacta payoff if one of the inside horses holds on.

In Races 3 and 6 — the two eleven-horse maiden turf routes — the recommended structures are trifecta part-wheels rather than boxes, because boxing eleven-horse fields becomes cost-prohibitive. Using Flamenco Star (POST 7) on top in Race 3 and It's Electric (POST 5) on top in Race 6, with three to four secondary horses underneath, provides manageable investment with meaningful upside. At Laurel in maiden turf routes at $16,000, the trifecta payoffs are routinely $100 to $500 for $1 investments.

The best value single on the card is Summer Bee (POST 7) in Race 7 at 4-1. This horse sits in the ideal post position between the pace and the outside co-favorites, and the Dini-Hernandez combination has merit at Laurel. At 4-1, a win bet on Summer Bee (POST 7) represents the best overlay on the afternoon given the tactical edge over the co-favorites from posts 10 and 11.

For bettors working a Pick 5 through Races 5-9, the structure is: surviving Ness trainee single in Race 5, Ballycurrin (POST 3) or Gripen (POST 4) in Race 4 (if this is included), Summer Bee (POST 7) plus Laddie Dance (POST 8) in Race 7, Enigmatic (POST 6) single in Race 8, and Just For The Money (POST 3) plus Ecumenical (POST 6) in Race 9. The Ness single and the ENIGMATIC single in Race 8 keep the investment tight while spreading in the more competitive races.

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


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