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Los Alamitos – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the August 15, 2026 card

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Los Alamitos presents a focused eight-race card tonight built around early 990–1000-yard thoroughbred events and a strong quarter horse closing sequence that includes key 400-yard trials for the upcoming Golden State Derby.

Race Day Overview

This is a classic Los Alamitos mixed card: the first three races are 990–1000-yard hook races for lower-level thoroughbreds and mixed-breed runners, followed by five straight quarter horse dashes from 220 to 400 yards for allowance, maiden special weight, and trial company.

The feature elements from a wagering standpoint are the three consecutive 400-yard trials in Races 6, 7, and 8, which serve as stepping-stones toward the Grade II Golden State Derby on September 5 and include the highly regarded Doodah Cartel (3) in Race 6.

Recent weeks at Los Alamitos have produced clean, formful evening programs with fast dirt conditions and no significant interruptions, and tonight's weather pattern and recent local results point strongly toward another fast main track.

Handle tends to concentrate in the early daily double, the mid-card vertical exotics, and the late pick sequences when trials are on the program, creating good opportunities for value if the public over-commits to a couple of obvious favorites.

Weather and Track Conditions

Regional forecasts for the Los Angeles basin call for a dry, warm afternoon giving way to a mild, clear evening, with highs in the mid-80s Fahrenheit tapering into the upper 60s by typical Los Alamitos post times.

Hourly projections for nearby Cypress indicate clear skies around 7–10 p.m., temperatures hovering near 68–72 degrees Fahrenheit, light west to southwest breezes in the 5–10 mph range, and essentially no chance of precipitation.

Historical weather data for mid-August in the Los Angeles area shows similar patterns, with daytime highs in the mid-20s Celsius, cool evenings, and no significant rainfall, reinforcing expectations of a dry surface.

Recent Los Alamitos results earlier this month have listed the dirt as fast on quarter horse nights, with no notation of moisture or downgraded conditions, and combined with tonight's dry forecast, the main track should again be classified as fast.

Wind is not projected to be a major factor tonight, with only gentle onshore flow; any effect on the straight 220–400-yard races should be minimal and consistent across lanes.

Track Bias and Post Position Profile

Los Alamitos' 990–1000-yard hook races typically reward horses that can secure position early into the turn and maintain momentum through the long stretch. Inside-to-middle posts tend to be slightly preferred when the rail is not deep, especially for horses that can break alertly and either make the lead or sit just off the pace. Deep closers who drop far out of it early usually need an above-average pace meltdown to threaten.

In the straight quarter horse dashes from 220 to 400 yards, the dominant factor historically is gate speed and the ability to stay straight and in stride. While winners can come from any post, inside and middle boxes often have a small practical edge because they reduce the risk of drifting out and losing ground, and they frequently offer more company to help a horse stay engaged. Outside posts are not inherently negative but can be tricky for inexperienced horses that have shown tendencies to lug in or break outward.

With a fast, dry surface expected, the default pattern tonight should favor early speed and tactical position in all races. Any emerging bias (for example, a noticeably tighter inside lane or a dead rail) will need to be monitored in real time after the first couple of races, but on paper, handicapping should lean toward horses projected to be forward and clean from the gate rather than deep closers.

RACE 1 — Post 10:15/9:15/8:15/(7:15) — 990f | D | M | Md 5000 | BUM | Purse $8,500

Pace Analysis

At 990 yards, this is essentially a sharp 4 1/2-furlong hook where the break and the run into the turn are decisive. With a modest-sized field of six and no clear information pointing to a single runaway speed type, this shapes up as a race where two or three runners could vie for the front and the others sit just off them.

Given the level (maiden 5000) and the mix of barns, expect some inconsistency leaving the gate: a horse that breaks a length better than usual can suddenly find itself loose. Inside posts should be at a slight advantage if they leave cleanly, but the race is likely to be decided by who sustains best in the final sixteenth rather than by a suicidal pace war.

Key Contenders

Omemgee (2) draws well and is installed as a key morning-line favorite at 2-1, which signals clear respect for class and perceived ability in this group. This barn is very comfortable spotting horses aggressively at Los Alamitos, and with Ricardo Ramirez up, Omemgee (2) is likely to attract heavy win-pool attention as the most reliable option on paper.

Beauty Jenny (4) shares the 2-1 morning line and comes from a barn that spots horses realistically at the bottom maiden level, often with the intent to win now rather than “go along.” With Cesar Ortega, who rides this oval well and is not shy about sending, Beauty Jenny (4) profiles as one of the most important pace players and a must-use in all vertical and horizontal wagers.

Club Kodiak (6) at 4-1 for a capable Vann Belvoir operation looms as the key outside contender. This post gives Edgar Payeras options: press the leaders if he breaks sharply or sit just outside of them and pounce mid-turn. Given the barn's general knack for having horses fit off modest works and races, Club Kodiak (6) looks like the main alternative to the two favorites.

Secondary Choices

Backstage Drama (5) is pegged at 4-1 and fits as a classic secondary win chance. With Francisco Orduna-Rojas, expect a patient but aggressive style, trying to keep Backstage Drama (5) in touch early and launching three to four wide. The post is slightly tricky but manageable in a six-horse field.

Spy In Disguise (1) at 8-1 should save ground from the rail. If Spy In Disguise (1) shows even modest early foot, this one can secure a rail pocket trip just behind the pace. The drawback is the risk of traffic and the need for a seam turning for home, but the price compensates somewhat.

Miss Chardonnay (3), also 8-1, sits in the middle of the gate and figures as another fringe contender. The Jerry Wallace barn can be live at this level, and if Miss Chardonnay (3) has any tactical speed, the post allows a straightforward stalking trip behind Omemgee (2) and Beauty Jenny (4).

Longshots

None of the horses here are true throwaways in such a low-level maiden, but among the prices, Spy In Disguise (1) and Miss Chardonnay (3) are the ones most likely to outrun their odds if the favorites underperform or encounter trouble. Each has enough positive factors in trainer and rider to be included in deeper exotics.

Selections

Win: Beauty Jenny (4) Place: Omemgee (2) Show: Club Kodiak (6)

Betting strategy: Lean on Beauty Jenny (4) and Omemgee (2) as A-level horses in the early daily double and pick sequences, with Club Kodiak (6) as a B-level backup. In verticals, key Beauty Jenny (4) and Omemgee (2) on top in exactas over Club Kodiak (6), Backstage Drama (5), and Spy In Disguise (1).

RACE 2 — Post 10:41/9:41/8:41/(7:41) — 990f | D | C | Clm 5000n3l | BUN | Purse $11,000

Pace Analysis

This 5000 non-winners of three lifetime at 990 yards projects a more honest, professional pace than Race 1, as these are multiple winners who generally know how to leave the gate. Several come from barns that do not mind being on or near the front, so look for a contested run into the turn with one or two trying to clear and others sitting just off.

The shape is likely to favor tactical speed over pure front-running: horses that can sit second or third in the clear, then tip out and finish, usually do best in this configuration. Inside posts again have a small edge, but the outside lanes are fully viable in a six-horse cast.

Key Contenders

Unbridled Vision (2) is the 2-1 morning-line choice and deserves that respect on connections and placement alone. Tim McCanna is adept with hard-knocking claimers, and Francisco Monroy's familiarity with the configuration should help Unbridled Vision (2) secure a forward stalking trip from this ideal inside-middle draw.

James J. Braddock (6) at 3-1 represents another serious win candidate from the Jesus Nunez barn. With Ricardo Ramirez aboard, James J. Braddock (6) has the right rider to work out a pressing or tracking trip from the outside, avoiding traffic and potentially getting first run if the inside pace starts to back up.

Westport Captain (1) at 4-1 has the rail, which can be a blessing or curse. With Vann Belvoir and Edgar Payeras, Westport Captain (1) should be sent away from there to secure position and avoid getting shuffled. If he breaks sharply and holds the rail, he can carry speed a long way in this spot.

Secondary Choices

Sir Nano (4) at 5-1 for Jesus Nunez and Salvador Vargas is a logical secondary contender. The 4-hole provides tactical flexibility, and Nunez typically has these types fit and ready at this claiming level. Sir Nano (4) should get a first-flight trip and looms a strong exacta and trifecta inclusion.

Easy Breezy (3), also 5-1, comes from the Richard Rosales barn with Francisco Orduna-Rojas aboard. That tandem often produces live mid-priced runners at Los Alamitos. Easy Breezy (3) may not be quite as talented as the top pair but is well-spotted to hit the board with a clean trip.

Grey Power (5) at 6-1 for Sergio Morfin and Pedro Flores is in the right price range and connections to be dangerous if the race collapses or if Grey Power (5) gets overlooked in the wagering. The post is fine and allows a comfortable outside stalking placement.

Longshots

In such a compact field, there are no prohibitive outsiders, but the likeliest to be overlooked is Grey Power (5), simply because of the presence of higher-profile barns and riders inside and outside. For value-seeking bettors, Grey Power (5) makes some sense as a board-crashing longshot in trifectas and supers.

Selections

Win: Unbridled Vision (2) Place: James J. Braddock (6) Show: Sir Nano (4)

Betting strategy: Use Unbridled Vision (2) and James J. Braddock (6) as primary early daily double and pick-3 anchors. Build exactas and trifectas with Unbridled Vision (2) over James J. Braddock (6), Sir Nano (4), Westport Captain (1), and Easy Breezy (3), and sprinkle Grey Power (5) in deeper exotics as a price saver.

RACE 3 — Post 11:05/10:05/9:05/(8:05) — 1000f | D | M | Md 12500 | BUN | Purse $13,000

Pace Analysis

A 1000-yard maiden 12500 is often one of the more intense pace races on the card, and this six-horse field looks likely to be no exception. The higher claiming tag compared with Race 1 usually means a bit more natural speed and professionalism. Expect multiple runners to show speed and an honest, possibly demanding tempo around the hook.

Given the configuration, horses that can sit just off the duel in the two to four path and punch on late are strongly preferred. With several barns here that are not afraid to send, the race could set up for a tactically-minded mid-pack stalker.

Key Contenders

Bretts Acclaim (2) is one of the key morning-line favorites at 2-1 and lands in a strong spot for Robert Lucas with Cristobal Herrera up. The inside-middle post is ideal for a horse that can secure position without getting pinned on the rail; Bretts Acclaim (2) looks like a prime candidate to stalk straightforwardly and get first run.

New Mexico Heart (4), also listed at 2-1, comes from the live Sergio Morfin barn with Salvador Vargas aboard. This combination has enjoyed solid success on the hook in similar events, and New Mexico Heart (4) should be well-meant at this claiming level. From post 4, a pressing or tracking trip outside the leaders seems likely.

Hydroplane (5) shares the 2-1 line and is the second of the Gloria Haley runners, with Francisco Orduna-Rojas riding. Hydroplane (5) has an excellent tactical post to force the issue or sit just off the leaders in the clear. The morning line respect suggests Hydroplane (5) has shown enough ability to be considered co-equal with New Mexico Heart (4) and Bretts Acclaim (2).

Secondary Choices

Draw Close (1) at 6-1 for Terri Eaton and Pedro Flores has the rail and could be a sneaky pace factor if sent aggressively. Draw Close (1) will need a clean break and assertive early ride to avoid getting buried inside, but if that happens, the rail-saving trip could bring this one into the exotics at a fair price.

Karmas Revenge (6) at 10-1 for Oscar Hedia and Edgar Payeras is the outside runner and a potential beneficiary if the pace gets hot. The outside box allows Karmas Revenge (6) to watch the inside scrum and make one move around the turn, which can be very effective at 1000 yards.

Wicklow Way (3) is the price horse at 15-1 for Gloria Haley and Damian Diaz Cruz. As the likely longest shot in the field, Wicklow Way (3) will be ignored by many, but being drawn in mid-gate gives a chance to tuck behind the leading group.

Longshots

Although the favorites have the best paper profile, Karmas Revenge (6) is the longshot most likely to offer value if the top trio hook up in a taxing duel. Draw Close (1) is another candidate to outrun odds if the rail is playing kindly. Wicklow Way (3) needs multiple things to go right but belongs in bottom rungs of large trifectas or superfectas if offered.

Selections

Win: New Mexico Heart (4) Place: Hydroplane (5) Show: Bretts Acclaim (2)

Betting strategy: Spread a bit here in horizontals; use New Mexico Heart (4), Hydroplane (5), and Bretts Acclaim (2) as A-levels with Draw Close (1) and Karmas Revenge (6) as backups. In verticals, consider exacta and trifecta boxes around the main trio, and add Karmas Revenge (6) underneath for value, especially if the track is showing any sign of helping outside stalkers.

RACE 4 — Post 11:29/10:29/9:29/(8:29) — 350f | D | A | Alw 12000n2l | AON | Purse $12,000

Pace Analysis

At 350 yards, everything hinges on the first jump. In a five-horse allowance for non-winners of two, the pace scenario is less about “flow” and more about which horses break sharply, remain straight, and hit top speed fastest. Given the class level, most here have at least one good race on their card, so expect several sharp departures.

With the field size, there is minimal chance of traffic trouble, but any horse that hesitates even a half-step is unlikely to recover. The winning profile will be a clean-breaking speed type that sustains one continuous burst.

Key Contenders

Dios Dorado (1) at 2-1 for Eddie Willis and Justine Klaiber is a major player from the rail. The inside box can be an advantage if Dios Dorado (1) has shown a tendency to break straight and maintain the line; the rider-trainer combination suggests a horse that belongs at this allowance level and can flash serious early foot.

Talker (2), also 2-1, represents the James Glenn Jr. barn with Cesar Ortega up. Having a Glenn runner from the 2-hole at this distance is a strong sign of intent. Talker (2) should break with the leaders and has every chance to outfoot Dios Dorado (1) into the first few strides.

Talisman (4) at 3-1 for Valentin Zamudio and Oscar Peinado is a high-end contender as well. This barn routinely fields fast, professional quarter horses at these conditions. From post 4, Talisman (4) avoids the inside traffic and can blast off in clear air, which is a big asset at 350 yards.

Secondary Choices

Safety Up (5) at 4-1 is a legitimate secondary contender from the Jose Flores barn with Irving Lara aboard. The outside post gives Safety Up (5) a clear lane; if the inside three lock up early, Safety Up (5) can win simply by breaking well and staying straight.

Squeaker (3) at 8-1, the second Glenn trainee with Jesus Rios Ayala, will be the price horse among these connections. Squeaker (3) may not have quite the same raw figure as the top trio but can absolutely hit the frame with a career-best break, especially with Ayala's skill at the gate.

Longshots

In a short field of talented horses, Squeaker (3) is technically the longshot but lacks the profile of a complete outsider, given the barn and rider. Squeaker (3) offers value for inclusion in exactas and trifectas, particularly underneath the more obvious names.

Selections

Win: Talisman (4) Place: Talker (2) Show: Dios Dorado (1)

Betting strategy: This is a good race to play relatively narrow in horizontals. Lean on Talisman (4), Talker (2), and Dios Dorado (1) as primary win candidates. In verticals, key Talisman (4) on top of exactas over Talker (2), Dios Dorado (1), and Safety Up (5), with Squeaker (3) added underneath in trifectas for a price.

RACE 5 — Post 11:53/10:53/9:53/(8:53) — 220f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | AON | Purse $10,000

Pace Analysis

At only 220 yards, this maiden special weight for state-breds is a pure break-and-blast affair. There is effectively no time to recover from any mistake; the opening jump and first few strides often decide the race. With seven inexperienced horses, expect a chaotic break with at least one or two runners losing all realistic chance immediately.

Horses with professional gate habits and strong rider-gate crews have a serious edge. Inside and middle boxes can be beneficial if the rail is fair, but any box can win if the horse opens sharply and runs straight.

Key Contenders

Apollitical Eye Mrl (2) at 2-1 and El Executivo (3) at 2-1 are the clear co-headliners on the morning line. Apollitical Eye Mrl (2) has Jaime Gomez training and Gabriel Angel Gomez Lara riding, a combination known for producing fast juveniles with solid gate schooling. From post 2, Apollitical Eye Mrl (2) should be in the thick of the early scramble.

El Executivo (3) for Juan Aleman and Martin Arriaga is equally dangerous. The 3-hole is an excellent box at this trip, and Aleman's barn traditionally turns out quick, well-prepared young horses. If El Executivo (3) leaves in sync, this one could simply outrun the field on raw ability.

Val Empire (4) at 4-1 for Ramiro Lopez Zuazo and Salvador Vargas is another prominent player. The mid-gate post offers a straight shot, and the price should be somewhat attractive compared with the two favorites. Val Empire (4) is a key inclusion in all serious wagers.

Secondary Choices

Big Kixx Cartel (5) at 6-1 is trained by Valentin Zamudio with Oscar Peinado up, an excellent combo for a short dash. Big Kixx Cartel (5) has solid win potential if either favorite stumbles or breaks a touch slowly, and the 5-hole often yields a clean lane at 220 yards.

Budder It Again Kev (7) at 4-1, also from the Zamudio barn with Ruben Lozano, is drawn outside, which can be an advantage for a long-striding type or a horse that has shown any inside-drifting tendencies in the mornings. Budder It Again Kev (7) will be a logical use in horizontals.

Aj Wild Heart (6) at 15-1 for Juan Aleman and Jesse Gonzalez is a longer price from a capable barn. Aj Wild Heart (6) may need some seasoning, but the connections demand respect, particularly in maiden special weight company.

Longshots

Outlaw Inlaw (1) at 12-1 on the rail is the least-fancied on paper but cannot be dismissed entirely in a 220-yard dash. With Jose Flores and Irving Lara, Outlaw Inlaw (1) could surprise with a sharp break and rail-skimming run. Aj Wild Heart (6) is the other “bomb” with legitimate barn strength and deserves consideration in deep exotics.

Selections

Win: El Executivo (3) Place: Apollitical Eye Mrl (2) Show: Val Empire (4)

Betting strategy: In horizontals, take a relatively aggressive stance by keying El Executivo (3) and Apollitical Eye Mrl (2) as A-levels, with Val Empire (4) and Big Kixx Cartel (5) as backups. Vertical play in such a short race can be volatile; consider a smaller win bet on El Executivo (3) if the price drifts above the morning line and use exactas 3 over 2,4,5,7.

RACE 6 — Post 12:19/11:19/10:19/(9:19) — 400f | D | N | Trial | BON | Purse $8,000

Pace Analysis

This is the first of three 400-yard trials, an intermediate distance where both the break and sustained run matter. With seven starters, the field is large enough for meaningful flow but still small enough that a clear, powerful break can be decisive. Expect two or three horses to show superior gate speed, with others trying to grind into the race late.

At 400 yards, horses that finish strongly and hold their stride can sometimes overcome a marginally average break, but they still need to be within hailing distance by midway. The likely winning profile is a sharp-breaking, classier runner who can sustain a long drive.

Key Contenders

Doodah Cartel (3) is the standout on paper and is appropriately listed at 1-1. This runner is highlighted in local coverage as a key player in these Golden State Derby trials, indicating significant respect for class and past performances at this level. With Henry Reynoso Lopez aboard and Paul Jones training, Doodah Cartel (3) looks like the horse to beat and a probable single for many bettors.

Walk When I Walk (7) at 4-1 for Sergio Morfin and Ricardo Ramirez offers the most attractive alternative among the rest. The outside box gives Walk When I Walk (7) a clear view of the field and room to operate, and the connections are more than capable at this distance.

Fancy Upp (4) at 5-1 for Cesar De Alba and Cesar Franco is another logical contender. The mid-gate draw is productive at 400 yards, and the barn is not shy about placing horses aggressively into trials when they belong. Fancy Upp (4) should be in the first flight if the break is clean.

Secondary Choices

In The Lead (2) at 8-1 from the Mike Casselman barn with Martin Arriaga up is aptly named for a horse that likely has some early foot. The 2-hole is a good post for a professional horse; In The Lead (2) profiles as a pace factor and usable underneath.

Warmly (6) at 8-1 for Scott Willoughby and Gabriel Angel Gomez Lara is drawn just inside Walk When I Walk (7). The barn is very capable in graded trial situations, and Warmly (6) can capitalize if the top choice stumbles.

Fireworks Over Paris (1) at 12-1 for Jose Flores and Irving Lara has the rail, which can be tricky at 400 yards but rewarding if Fireworks Over Paris (1) breaks straight and the inside is fair.

Longshots

Mw Love This Candy (5) is the longest shot on the board at 20-1 for Eddie Willis and Justine Klaiber. While this horse appears up against it on paper, Mw Love This Candy (5) still merits a token inclusion on the bottom of supers and tris, given that any horse can jump up with a lifetime-best break in a trial.

Selections

Win: Doodah Cartel (3) Place: Walk When I Walk (7) Show: Fancy Upp (4)

Betting strategy: Doodah Cartel (3) is a logical single in many late pick-4 and pick-3 constructions. For verticals, lean on Doodah Cartel (3) over Walk When I Walk (7), Fancy Upp (4), Warmly (6), and In The Lead (2). If the toteboard severely underprices Doodah Cartel (3), consider small saver exactas using Walk When I Walk (7) and Fancy Upp (4) on top just in case of a gate mishap.

RACE 7 — Post 12:43/11:43/10:43/(9:43) — 400f | D | N | Trial | BON | Purse $8,000

Pace Analysis

The second 400-yard trial continues the theme of break-dependent races, but with this group, there appears to be more depth and potential parity. Several runners from top barns and rider combos suggest multiple sharp breaks, making this possibly the most competitive trial of the three.

Expect a strong, even pace across the track, with perhaps a slight clustering of speed from the middle boxes. Horses that can stay in stride and finish the final 100 yards strongest will have the edge.

Key Contenders

Hi Octane (3) is the morning-line favorite at 2-1 for trainer Kristen Watanabe and rider Rodrigo Sigala Vallejo, both prominent figures in the local quarter horse scene. From post 3, Hi Octane (3) should have a clean path and is poised to break with the leaders and sustain a powerful drive.

Hurry Up (2) at 3-1 for Scott Willoughby and Gabriel Angel Gomez Lara is another key contender. The 2-hole is often advantageous at 400 yards, and with a barn that excels in these trials, Hurry Up (2) is unlikely to be far from the front at any stage.

French Valley (1) at 4-1 for Mike Casselman and Justine Klaiber gets the rail, which can be ideal if French Valley (1) has already shown a tendency to leave straight and not need outside company. This runner projects as a critical pace factor and potential wire-to-wire threat if the break is sharp.

Secondary Choices

Cmhowaboutthemcowboy (7) at 5-1 for Luke Lindsey and Ruben Lozano occupies the outside box and offers an appealing stalking or pouncing profile. Cmhowaboutthemcowboy (7) can take advantage of any drifting from inside rivals and finish strongly down the outside.

Go North (6) at 6-1, another runner from the Scott Willoughby barn with Ricardo Ramirez, is positioned just inside Cmhowaboutthemcowboy (7). Go North (6) provides a solid one-two punch for this stable and is a must-use in deeper exotics.

The Lady Is A Vamp (5) at 10-1 from Paul Jones and Martin Arriaga is an interesting secondary play. The connections often bring forward horses ready to peak in trials, and The Lady Is A Vamp (5) could easily outrun the morning line with a clean departure.

Longshots

Jess Famous Enough (4) at 15-1 for Sergio Morfin and Irving Lara is the biggest price in the field but is not without hope, especially if showing improvement into this trial. Jess Famous Enough (4) draws a neutral mid-gate post and can pick up pieces late for trifecta or superfecta gamblers.

Selections

Win: Hi Octane (3) Place: Hurry Up (2) Show: French Valley (1)

Betting strategy: This is a race to spread more in horizontals, as the top five all look capable. Use Hi Octane (3) and Hurry Up (2) as A-levels, with French Valley (1), Cmhowaboutthemcowboy (7), and Go North (6) as B-levels. In verticals, play exactas around Hi Octane (3), keying over Hurry Up (2), French Valley (1), and Cmhowaboutthemcowboy (7), and consider a small saver including The Lady Is A Vamp (5) underneath at a price.

RACE 8 — Post 1:07/12:07/11:07/(10:07) — 400f | D | N | Trial | BON | Purse $8,000

Pace Analysis

The final trial at 400 yards wraps up the card and should again feature a strong, even break across the gate. The presence of multiple well-regarded barns and riders suggests at least three or four legitimate win chances, and the pace is likely to be honest.

Given the sequence, some horses in this heat may be specifically tuned to qualify rather than simply win the trial by open lengths, but from a wagering perspective, the focus remains on who breaks best and finishes most strongly over the full 400 yards.

Key Contenders

More Of It (5) and Cowboy Country 123 (7) are dual 2-1 morning-line favorites from powerful connections. More Of It (5), trained by Scott Willoughby and ridden by Gabriel Angel Gomez Lara, sits in the 5-hole, a prime spot to evaluate the field and break into clear air. More Of It (5) has the profile of a major qualifying threat and likely a heavy favorite in multi-race wagers.

Cowboy Country 123 (7) for Jose Flores and Irving Lara has the outside gate, which can be ideal for a strong finisher with a straight-running style. Cowboy Country 123 (7) can avoid inside crossfire and unleash a sustained drive down the outside if the break is clean.

You Are The Best (6) at 4-1 for Paul Jones and Jesse Gonzalez rounds out the key trio. The post between More Of It (5) and Cowboy Country 123 (7) is excellent, and You Are The Best (6) will have top-level connections intent on qualifying for the Derby.

Secondary Choices

Morning Star K (2) at 8-1 for Juan Aleman and Martin Arriaga is an appealing secondary play. From the 2-hole, Morning Star K (2) can secure a good lane and potentially sneak into the exotics or even spring a mild upset if the favorites misfire.

Next Norco (3) at 5-1, another Willoughby trainee with Oscar Peinado, partners with More Of It (5) to give the barn a potent one-two punch. Next Norco (3) is drawn ideally in mid-gate and offers solid win and place potential.

Jesskeepingitgoing (1) at 8-1 for Sergio Morfin and Justine Klaiber has the rail and can be dangerous if the inside is not disadvantageous tonight. Jesskeepingitgoing (1) should be forward and could hang around for a slice.

Longshots

Elmer Romero (4) at 15-1 for Felix Gonzalez and Henry Reynoso Lopez is the longest price in the field. The mid-gate post provides a fair chance to break with the group, and the rider's presence alone makes Elmer Romero (4) a candidate to outrun the odds if the horse fires his best shot.

Among the prices, Morning Star K (2) and Jesskeepingitgoing (1) stand out as the more likely board-hitters, with Elmer Romero (4) a deeper longshot in large trifecta or superfecta constructions.

Selections

Win: More Of It (5) Place: You Are The Best (6) Show: Cowboy Country 123 (7)

Betting strategy: Close out multi-race tickets leaning heavily on More Of It (5) and Cowboy Country 123 (7), with You Are The Best (6) as a strong backup. In verticals, key More Of It (5) in exactas over You Are The Best (6), Cowboy Country 123 (7), Next Norco (3), and Morning Star K (2), and use those same horses underneath in trifectas.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Ricardo Ramirez has a strong book tonight with significant mounts on Omemgee (2) in Race 1, James J. Braddock (6) in Race 2, Walk When I Walk (7) in Race 6, and Go North (6) in Race 7. This spread of live horses across both hook and straightaway races makes Ramirez a central figure in many multi-race strategies.

Francisco Monroy appears strategically booked on Spy In Disguise (1) in Race 1 and Unbridled Vision (2) in Race 2, a pair that could provide a strong early-card foundation if both run to their morning line expectations.

Edgar Payeras' mounts, including Club Kodiak (6) in Race 1, Westport Captain (1) in Race 2, and Karmas Revenge (6) in Race 3, place him on several key pace-influencing horses in the early races, which is important given his aggressive riding style.

Among the quarter horse specialists, Henry Reynoso Lopez stands out with the mount on Doodah Cartel (3) in Race 6 and Elmer Romero (4) in Race 8, giving him potentially the highest-upside single mount on the card plus a live longshot.

Justine Klaiber's assignments on Dios Dorado (1) in Race 4, French Valley (1) in Race 7, Jesskeepingitgoing (1) in Race 8, and Mw Love This Candy (5) in Race 6 illustrate her growing role as a go-to rider for several leading barns at Los Alamitos, especially from inside posts.

Gabriel Angel Gomez Lara is positioned for a big evening, partnering with Apollitical Eye Mrl (2) in Race 5, Warmly (6) in Race 6, Hurry Up (2) in Race 7, and More Of It (5) in Race 8, a set of mounts that collectively may define the outcomes of the trials and the late pick sequences.

Trainer Notes and Insights

In the early 990–1000-yard races, Vann Belvoir, Tim McCanna, and Sergio Morfin control many of the key thoroughbred and mixed-breed contenders: Belvoir with Club Kodiak (6) and Westport Captain (1), McCanna with Unbridled Vision (2), and Morfin with Grey Power (5) and New Mexico Heart (4). Their runners often come well-prepared for the unique hook configuration and deserve respect in all pools.

Jesus Nunez has a strong presence with Sir Nano (4) and James J. Braddock (6) in Race 2, and his ability to keep claimers sharp and competitive at this level makes both horses important in win and exotic wagering.

In the quarter horse ranks, Paul Jones once again sends out a serious contender in Doodah Cartel (3) in Race 6 and The Lady Is A Vamp (5) in Race 7, reaffirming his status as a fixture in major Los Alamitos stakes and trial races.

Scott Willoughby has a powerful multi-race footprint with Warmly (6) in Race 6, Hurry Up (2) and Go North (6) in Race 7, and Next Norco (3) and More Of It (5) in Race 8. This barn's horses frequently attract strong support and must be considered when mapping late pick-4 and pick-3 strategies.

Valentin Zamudio's runners, including Talisman (4) in Race 4 and the duo Big Kixx Cartel (5) and Budder It Again Kev (7) in Race 5, carry the barn's usual speed-oriented profile and are particularly dangerous in short dashes where gate speed is paramount.

Jose Flores is another major player tonight with Safety Up (5) in Race 4, Outlaw Inlaw (1) in Race 5, Fireworks Over Paris (1) in Race 6, and Cowboy Country 123 (7) in Race 8. His horses are often well-schooled at the gate, making them highly relevant in these sprint and dash configurations.

Juan Aleman's entries El Executivo (3) and Aj Wild Heart (6) in Race 5 and Morning Star K (2) in Race 8 give him a meaningful stake in both the maiden dash and the final trial, and his horses often progress rapidly with experience.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The structure of tonight's card is friendly to multi-race bettors, with logical favorites in several legs but enough depth to create value. The early double can be attacked by keying Omemgee (2) and Beauty Jenny (4) in Race 1 with Unbridled Vision (2) and James J. Braddock (6) in Race 2, while using Club Kodiak (6) and Sir Nano (4) as modest backups to guard against upsets.

Races 1 through 5 form a natural early pick-5 sequence. For that menu, a practical approach is: in Race 1, lean on Beauty Jenny (4) and Omemgee (2) with Club Kodiak (6) as backup; in Race 2, focus on Unbridled Vision (2) and James J. Braddock (6) with Sir Nano (4); in Race 3, spread among New Mexico Heart (4), Hydroplane (5), Bretts Acclaim (2), and Draw Close (1); in Race 4, concentrate on Talisman (4), Talker (2), and Dios Dorado (1); and in Race 5, center on El Executivo (3) and Apollitical Eye Mrl (2) with Val Empire (4) and Big Kixx Cartel (5) as backups. This construction uses favorites where they are strongest but still allows for a mid-priced winner to blow up the payoffs.

The late pick-3 or pick-4 anchored by the trials (Races 6–8) is where many serious players will focus. Doodah Cartel (3) in Race 6 is a natural single for many tickets given the public attention and apparent class edge. In Race 7, a more spread-out approach using Hi Octane (3), Hurry Up (2), French Valley (1), Cmhowaboutthemcowboy (7), and Go North (6) can protect against a surprise result in the most evenly-matched trial. In Race 8, More Of It (5), You Are The Best (6), and Cowboy Country 123 (7) form a strong core, with Next Norco (3) and Morning Star K (2) added for coverage and value.

From a value perspective, several horses stand out as likely overlays relative to their morning lines. In the early races, Draw Close (1) in Race 3 and Grey Power (5) in Race 2 could be underbet but have realistic board-hitting potential. In the quarter horse portion, The Lady Is A Vamp (5) in Race 7 and Morning Star K (2) in Race 8 look like mid-range prices that could boost trifecta and superfecta returns.

Vertical exotics should focus on identifying vulnerable favorites. For example, if the board pounds all three favorites in Race 3, it may be worth playing trifectas that key New Mexico Heart (4) and Hydroplane (5) while leaning against one of the shorter-priced rivals, inserting Draw Close (1) or Karmas Revenge (6) underneath. Similarly, in Race 5, if El Executivo (3) and Apollitical Eye Mrl (2) are both hammered below their morning line, any tote drift on Val Empire (4) or Big Kixx Cartel (5) could represent playable win and exacta value.

Overall, the recommended approach on this card is to take firm stands where class and connections are most clearly in your favor—particularly with Doodah Cartel (3) in Race 6 and More Of It (5) in Race 8—while using a measured spread in more competitive heats like Race 3 and Race 7 to capture potential value if mid-priced runners step forward.

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


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