Get the full Handicapper Report, AI picks, expert analysis, and more with a Pick Pony subscription!

 

Hawthorne Race Course | April 23, 2026 — Condensed Handicapper Report

Fast main track, mild speed bias favoring horses near the pace, slight northwest wind. Trust the Rivelli-Loveberry and Hernandez-Bendezu combinations as ticket anchors throughout the card.

Race 1

April's Gem (2) is the top selection at 2-1, offering the best upset value against the odds-on favorite. Diamonds Joy (3) is the key to exotics at 1-1 and difficult to beat. Time Break (4) is a distant third option for trifecta coverage.

Race 2

Iceberg Slim (2) is the play based on the Rivelli barn's jockey preference in their two-horse entry. Wagon Power (4) is the co-equal threat and should be used alongside in exactas both ways. Strollinwithashlee (3) and Battle Wing (1) round out trifecta coverage, with Dyno War (5) as a deep longshot fill.

Race 3

Twirling Roses (3) is the top choice as the Rodriguez barn's preferred runner in their two-horse entry. Joe The Tailor (4) is the co-favorite and must be included in all exotics. Hilarious Affair (5) at 3-1 with Loveberry is the best overlay on the race and merits a win bet.

Race 4

Code Runner (1) is the straightforward selection — inside post, live jockey, favorable conditions over the extended distance. Sixwillberich (4) is the primary upset threat at 3-1. Paynt By Letters (2) and African Warrior (5) are trifecta fillers only.

Race 5

Count The Green (2) is the best single win bet on the card — the Rivelli-Loveberry combination in a maiden sprint is the strongest angle of the afternoon. Ciao Tommaso (1) is the co-favorite and the logical exacta partner. Lesley's Legacy (3) at 4-1 is the value alternative if the two inside speed horses collide.

Race 6

Mamba Out (2) is the top selection in a competitive five-mare field. Dixie Penny (4) is the co-equal co-favorite and should be used alongside in exactas both ways. Desert Glow (1) at 4-1 from the inside post is the most interesting overlay and worth a small win bet.

Race 7

Foxy Zorra (5) is the morning line choice, but Sky Raven (3) at 3-1 from the ideal middle post is the best value play to close the card. She Stopped Short (4) and Annie's Hope (1) are secondary trifecta considerations. Two Timer (2) at 5-1 is a trifecta filler only.

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

Unlock the full Handicapper Report and enjoy all Pick Pony membership perks!