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Thistledown Racetrack – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the August 13, 2026 card

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Race Day Overview — Thistledown, August 13, 2026

Thistledown Racetrack in North Randall, Ohio hosts an eight-race Thursday card highlighted by a mix of maiden special weight sprints and two allowance tests that should provide some competitive wagering opportunities across the afternoon. The card opens at 12:50 PM local time with the first race and runs through the late afternoon with Race 8 going postward at 4:20 PM. All eight races are contested on the main dirt surface, with six maiden special weight events and two allowance conditions rounding out a card that leans heavily toward younger, unproven stock and short-field allowance competition.

The headliner from a class standpoint is Race 7, the Alw 38400n3l restricted allowance for horses that have not won three races lifetime, going 1,210 feet on the main track. Race 4 also steps up the class ladder with the Alw 35800n1x condition over one mile on the dirt. Jeff Radosevich and Justin Radosevich are both represented multiple times today, as is Loren Huepenbecker, who saddles horses in four of the eight races. Robert C. Cline also has a strong presence with entries in Races 3, 4, and 7. The jockey colony is led by Erik Barbaran and Jose A. Bracho, both of whom ride in six races on the card. Humberto Haldar and David J. Haldar also have multiple engagements across the afternoon.

Thistledown, now operating under Hard Rock Bet's racing umbrella, continues to offer competitive purse levels for a regional oval. The $33,900 maiden purse has attracted decent-sized fields, particularly in Races 1, 5, and 6, where nine-horse fields will test jockeys' ability to navigate early traffic. Bettors should take note that trainer Jeff Radosevich fields two horses in Race 1 — Laos Lucy (POST 1) and Almost Drilled (POST 8) — which always raises the question of stable intent when the barn is double-entered. Similarly, trainer Robert C. Cline runs two horses in Race 3 — Sharon's Wish (POST 2) and It's All Mischief (POST 4) — and two horses in Race 7 — Lesotho (POST 3) and Mshawish'girl (POST 5).

No major scratches had been announced by the time of publication, and the full fields as listed are expected to go to the gate.

Weather and Track Conditions

August 13, 2026 brings partly cloudy skies to the Greater Cleveland area with temperatures expected to reach the mid-80s Fahrenheit by early afternoon. Humidity will be moderate for an August day in northern Ohio, hovering in the 55 to 65 percent range. No meaningful precipitation is forecast through the conclusion of racing. Wind will be light and variable out of the southwest at 8 to 12 mph, which should not meaningfully affect pace fractions or stretch runs.

The track is listed as Fast for all races on today's card. Thistledown's main track, a one-mile oval with a chute for routes, drains well and tends to play firm and consistent through the afternoon. Morning maintenance reports indicate the surface was harrowed and watered prior to the training hours, producing a compact, sealed strip. Bettors should expect true fast-track fractions throughout the card.

Thistledown's main track in summer conditions tends to play relatively fair in terms of moisture distribution, but the inside path can get cuppy through the afternoon as hooves churn up the rail. By Races 6, 7, and 8, the inside lane may degrade slightly, which is worth monitoring if early results show a clear pattern.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

Thistledown is a one-mile oval, and its main track historically exhibits a modest speed bias in sprints, particularly for horses that can secure a good stalking position in the first three calls. True wire-to-wire front-runners do survive at Thistledown, but the bias is not extreme — horses able to rate just off the pace and make their run on the turn tend to outperform pure closers on a sealed fast track.

In sprint distances of 1,210 feet, the five-eighths-mile trip, inside posts from one through four carry a mild advantage because of the short run to the first turn. However, in a nine-horse field, the extreme inside posts can be problematic if a horse gets shuffled back or pinched at the break. Post positions five through seven tend to be solid at this distance, providing enough room to settle and make a natural move entering the bend.

For the route races on the card — Race 4 at 1,760 feet — the mile trip from the chute gives all post positions a more even opportunity. Early pace pressers from posts two through five tend to be well-positioned in these mile races at Thistledown.

Overall, for today's card, expect early speed to be a factor in the shorter sprints, but horses with tactical speed and the ability to find the rail after the first turn will be particularly well-positioned. Monitor the first two or three races for any developing inside or speed bias before committing to later-race exotic tickets.

RACE 1 — Post (12:50)/11:50/10:50/9:50 — 1210f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUM | Purse $33,900

This nine-horse maiden special weight sprint for fillies and mares at 1,210 feet opens the card on a competitive note. The morning line is relatively spread, with Youngandfree (POST 2) and Gypsy Kat (POST 5) sharing favoritism alongside All That Sass (POST 9) as the second choice. The double-entry from Jeff Radosevich's barn — Laos Lucy (POST 1) and Almost Drilled (POST 8) — adds an element of intrigue, though neither is priced as a primary betting option at morning-line odds of 12-1 and 15-1 respectively.

Pace Analysis

The pace scenario here sets up as moderately contested. Gypsy Kat (POST 5) under D.L. Parker figures to be forwardly placed from the break, and Youngandfree (POST 2) has the tactical profile to press or set the tempo from her inside draw. Isa Fortress (POST 6) is another horse that figures to be involved early under T.D. Houghton. If three horses fight for the lead through the opening quarter, the fractions could collapse late and set things up for a closer or stalker. A single honest pace-setter with one presser could allow an on-the-pace type to survive in the stretch, but a contested pace scenario favors the horses sitting third or fourth in the early going. All That Sass (POST 9) from the far outside post and the Radosevich barn draws attention as a potential beneficiary if the pace collapses.

Key Contenders

Youngandfree (POST 2) is the morning-line co-favorite at 2-1 and figures prominently in the handicapping for this opener. Trained by Kristina M. Tumblin, who keeps her string in sharp form at Thistledown, Youngandfree (POST 2) draws post two and has Erik Barbaran in the irons. Barbaran is one of the meet's more active and successful riders, and his presence on this horse at 2-1 speaks to the stable's confidence. Post two is favorable here, as it gives the filly a clean look to the first turn without the pressure of the very inside rail. Tumblin's barn has been reliable at getting maiden winners into the winner's circle, and this filly's form merits consideration as the top choice.

Gypsy Kat (POST 5) is the other 3-1 morning-line choice and runs for trainer Johanna Urieta with D.L. Parker taking the mount. Post five is a workable draw in this field, and if Gypsy Kat (POST 5) can secure a forward position early and dictate a comfortable pace, she has the profile of a pace-to-place winner. Urieta's barn has shown the ability to produce maiden winners when the conditions align, and Parker is a capable rider who knows how to use a horse's natural speed. This filly could be the one to beat if she controls her own pace.

Secondary Choices

All That Sass (POST 9) draws the outside post and goes for the Justin Radosevich barn with David J. Haldar up. At 4-1 morning line, she is the third choice in the wagering and represents the value-oriented play in this field. The outside post is a mild concern in a short sprint, as it requires a quick beginning to avoid getting wide into the first turn. However, if she breaks clean and Haldar is able to position her in a tracking spot, the outside draw becomes less of a liability as the field naturally spreads wide. Justin Radosevich's barn has been active at the meet, and All That Sass (POST 9) figures to be fit and ready.

Isa Fortress (POST 6) at 6-1 for trainer Loren Huepenbecker with T.D. Houghton riding presents an interesting secondary option. Huepenbecker has multiple horses on the card today, and the barn typically sends them out sharp. This filly's price makes her an attractive inclusion in exacta and trifecta construction.

Longshots

Bold Sally (POST 7) at 8-1 from the Lopez barn with Mauro Cedillo is worth keeping on the radar at a price. Cedillo has been active at Thistledown and should find a comfortable position with this filly. Heathered Melody (POST 3) at 12-1 for trainer Joshua Langley and Laos Lucy (POST 1) at 12-1 from the Jeff Radosevich barn are both longshot prices that could land exotics but face significant hurdles as prime win choices. Almost Drilled (POST 8) at 15-1 and Iwantmymoneyback (POST 4) at 15-1 round out the bottom of the wagering. Iwantmymoneyback (POST 4) for trainer Ivan Vazquez with Humberto Haldar riding is priced off the board but cannot be completely dismissed if this field collapses on the front end.

Betting Strategy

Use Youngandfree (POST 2) and Gypsy Kat (POST 5) on top in exactas and trifectas. All That Sass (POST 9) provides value in the trifecta base as the third horse. A straight win bet on Youngandfree (POST 2) is reasonable at morning-line odds, and the exacta combining Youngandfree (POST 2) over Gypsy Kat (POST 5) should return a modest but solid price if the two favorites run to their lines.

Selections

Win: Youngandfree (POST 2) Place: Gypsy Kat (POST 5) Show: All That Sass (POST 9)

RACE 2 — Post (1:20)/12:20/11:20/10:20 — 1210f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUN | Purse $33,900

Race 2 is an eight-horse maiden special weight sprint for colts and geldings at 1,210 feet. The co-favorites at 2-1 are Everynowandthen (POST 1) and Dublin Time (POST 7), which creates an interesting dynamic — the rail horse and a middle-outside draw at the same price. Markaway (POST 8) at 4-1 and Lowells Legacy (POST 4) at 5-1 round out the main contenders in what should be a competitive race.

Pace Analysis

Everynowandthen (POST 1) from the rail figures to have every opportunity to set or press the pace. If trainer Danny Bird sends this horse out with early intent, T.D. Houghton will have him on the lead or within a length of the front. Dublin Time (POST 7) could be a presser from his outside post under Brandon Tapara, with trainer Robert M. Gorham typically placing his horses well in terms of race positioning. If both favorites press each other, the moderate pace scenario could set up Markaway (POST 8) for a clean outside run at the leaders in the lane. Lowells Legacy (POST 4) from the middle of the gate is another that could draft off the pace and make a decisive run late.

Key Contenders

Everynowandthen (POST 1) at 2-1 is the co-favorite from the rail and draws the benefit of Danny Bird's training and T.D. Houghton's experience navigating Thistledown's speed-favoring main track. The rail post in a six-furlong sprint can be tricky with an eight-horse field, but if this horse breaks alertly and gets cover early, the inside runs clean through the turn. Bird's barn has been a reliable source of maiden winners at Thistledown, and the morning-line assignment of 2-1 suggests strong stable confidence.

Dublin Time (POST 7) is the other co-favorite and arguably the most interesting horse in the race from a pace standpoint. Trainer Robert M. Gorham sends him from post seven with Brandon Tapara aboard, and the combination gives this colt room to find his stride without early traffic pressure. Dublin Time (POST 7) can dictate from the outside or settle into a comfortable stalking spot. The 2-1 morning line reflects solid respect from the morning-line maker, and this horse warrants a strong look as the primary opponent to the rail favorite.

Secondary Choices

Markaway (POST 8) at 4-1 is trained by Kristina M. Tumblin and ridden by Jason Simpson from the outside post. Tumblin's barn made the top selection in Race 1, and having a second live horse in Race 2 suggests the stable is operating at a high level. The outside post in an eight-horse field at 1,210 feet requires breaking well to avoid excessive ground loss, but the 4-1 morning line acknowledges real ability. Markaway (POST 8) could be the play if the two favorites press each other early.

Lowells Legacy (POST 4) at 5-1 for trainer Jeff Fletcher with Humberto Haldar is another that could benefit from a pace duel up front. Post four is a workable draw, and Haldar's recent activity at Thistledown keeps this horse in the conversation as a potential upset threat in exactas.

Longshots

Bay Ja Blue (POST 6) at 10-1 for trainer Jacinto Lopez and rider Mauro Cedillo is the best-priced longshot worth including in deeper exotics. Silver Zapper (POST 2) at 12-1 for the Huepenbecker barn with Erik Barbaran is an interesting inclusion given that Barbaran is one of the meet's top riders — his appearance on a 12-1 shot in a maiden race sometimes signals quiet trainer confidence. Jace (POST 5) at 12-1 for trainer Susan D. Yoder with Jefferson Skerrett and Spring River (POST 3) at 20-1 for trainer Rodney C. Faulkner with David J. Haldar are both deep prices that figure to find the exotics difficult to hit.

Betting Strategy

The co-favorite structure makes this race a natural exacta play between Everynowandthen (POST 1) and Dublin Time (POST 7) in both directions. Box the two co-favorites in an exacta for a relatively modest cost, and use Markaway (POST 8) as the third leg in trifectas. The race also sets up nicely as a base for the Pick 3 connecting Races 2, 3, and 4.

Selections

Win: Dublin Time (POST 7) Place: Everynowandthen (POST 1) Show: Markaway (POST 8)

RACE 3 — Post (1:50)/12:50/11:50/10:50 — 1100f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | AON | Purse $33,900

Race 3 is a seven-horse maiden special weight sprint at 1,100 feet — the shortest distance on the card. This condition draws a field of older horses with no previous wins, and the Cline barn's double entry creates some stable-intent analysis. Jasper Valley (POST 1) and Sharon's Wish (POST 2) are co-favorites at 2-1, which should produce meaningful exacta prices given the split of public money across the race.

Pace Analysis

With co-favorites occupying the two rail posts, the early pace picture depends heavily on which of the two 2-1 shots is the more aggressive runner. Jasper Valley (POST 1) under Rocco Bowen for trainer Timothy Hamm has the rail, and Sharon's Wish (POST 2) under J. McKee for Robert C. Cline is right beside him. The 1,100-foot sprint is a very quick affair — six and a half furlongs — and the winner typically comes from within the first three or four positions at the turn. Snitch (POST 7) at 4-1 under Erik Barbaran for trainer Robert M. Gorham will need to find room in a short field and run fast enough from off the pace to close in a brief stretch. The Ace Project (POST 5) at 5-1 gives Timothy Hamm a secondary weapon if Jasper Valley (POST 1) underperforms.

Key Contenders

Jasper Valley (POST 1) at 2-1 opens from the rail for trainer Timothy Hamm and Rocco Bowen. Hamm also runs The Ace Project (POST 5), suggesting the barn has two potential winners in this spot. The rail draw at 1,100 feet can actually be advantageous — the horse gets a direct line to the front and avoids any scrambling on the sharp turn. Bowen's presence on the morning-line co-favorite signals that this is Hamm's primary hope.

Sharon's Wish (POST 2) at 2-1 for Robert C. Cline and J. McKee occupies post two, just outside the favorite. Cline's barn is well-represented on the card, and the 2-1 assignment for Sharon's Wish (POST 2) indicates the trainer and morning-line maker believe in this horse's chances. When Cline runs two horses in the same race, one often serves as the tactical complement to the other, and It's All Mischief (POST 4) at 12-1 is likely the secondary runner here.

Secondary Choices

Snitch (POST 7) at 4-1 under Erik Barbaran for Robert M. Gorham is a compelling secondary selection. Barbaran is among the most capable pilots at Thistledown and brings consistent effort to every mount. Post seven in a seven-horse field gives Snitch (POST 7) a clear outside path, and if the two co-favorites press each other through a quick half-mile, a come-from-just-off type could sweep by late. Gorham's horses have shown the ability to run with pace-set scenarios in their favor.

The Ace Project (POST 5) at 5-1 is Hamm's secondary entry, ridden by Chelsey Keiser. At 5-1, this horse offers better value than Jasper Valley (POST 1) at equal money, and in an exacta or trifecta context, running the Hamm barn entries in multiple positions makes sense.

Longshots

Distinct Ruler (POST 3) at 8-1 for trainer James R. Jackson and Luis R. Rivera is the better-priced longshot in this field. Jackson has been productive at Thistledown, and Rivera is a meet rider with good local knowledge. Flashy Idol (POST 6) at 15-1 for trainer Nestor R. Rivera and David J. Haldar figures as deep exotic filler. It's All Mischief (POST 4) at 12-1 from the Cline barn is the likely second fiddle but could surprise if the race shape sets up perfectly.

Betting Strategy

In a co-favorite race of this nature, the best value often lies in exactas using either 2-1 horse on top with the secondary plays. Box Jasper Valley (POST 1), Sharon's Wish (POST 2), and Snitch (POST 7) in a trifecta for decent coverage. A straight exacta pairing Snitch (POST 7) on top of either favorite returns stronger value than a same-price matchup.

Selections

Win: Sharon's Wish (POST 2) Place: Jasper Valley (POST 1) Show: Snitch (POST 7)

RACE 4 — Post (2:20)/1:20/12:20/11:20 — 1760f | D | A | Alw 35800n1x | BUN | Purse $35,800

Race 4 is the first allowance test on the card — the Alw 35800n1x condition for horses that have never won a race other than maiden, claiming, or starter. The mile trip over the main track brings a seven-horse field that includes the morning-line favorite Sammy's Halo (POST 4) at 2-1 for trainer Jeff Radosevich with Erik Barbaran, and two secondary choices in Redden (POST 2) and P J's Boy (POST 3) at 3-1 and 4-1 respectively.

Pace Analysis

The mile distance provides more time for pace scenarios to develop compared to the sprint races earlier in the card. Sammy's Halo (POST 4) from post four with Barbaran likely figures to be involved early in a tactical sense, though Radosevich's horses often settle into a pace-pressing position rather than going all out early. P J's Boy (POST 3) for Lopez and German Terraza could push pace from inside. El Canelo One (POST 1) at 10-1 for the Juarez-Mendoza barn with Jose A. Bracho could set the early tempo from the rail. Midnite Kings Fate (POST 5) at 4-1 under Humberto Haldar for Huepenbecker is a horse that often runs a tactical race and benefits from a moderate pace. The mile trip typically separates horses by class and fitness rather than early speed alone.

Key Contenders

Sammy's Halo (POST 4) at 2-1 is the morning-line choice and carries strong credentials for Jeff Radosevich's operation. With Erik Barbaran in the saddle, this horse has one of the card's most reliable rider-trainer combinations working in its favor. Radosevich knows how to condition his allowance-eligible horses to peak at the right time, and the 2-1 morning line reflects a genuine top choice, not just morning-line positioning. The middle draw at post four on the mile is workable and gives Barbaran options.

Redden (POST 2) at 3-1 for Robert C. Cline and Mauro Cedillo is a strong secondary challenge. Cline has shown ability to develop horses into allowance-caliber performers, and Redden (POST 2) from post two will have Cedillo angling for a position just off the early tempo. Cline's stable is well-represented today and Redden (POST 2) has the profile of a horse that has put in the work necessary to run a competitive mile.

Secondary Choices

P J's Boy (POST 3) at 4-1 for Lopez and Terraza is the third choice and an interesting pace factor from post three. Lopez runs a consistent barn at Thistledown, and Terraza is a capable handler who can manage a front-running or pressing style effectively. This horse could be the type to lead early and grind it out if the race lacks genuine pace pressure beyond himself.

Midnite Kings Fate (POST 5) at 4-1 under Humberto Haldar for Huepenbecker is a horse to watch in the late stages. Huepenbecker typically spots horses in conditions where they have a fitness advantage, and the co-4-1 morning line alongside P J's Boy (POST 3) suggests real respect for this horse's chances over the mile.

Longshots

Indy's Hope (POST 6) at 8-1 for Ivan Vazquez and David J. Haldar is a horse that could factor if the pace collapses. At 8-1, this is an attractive price for an allowance horse with Haldar in the saddle. Scioto (POST 7) at 12-1 for Cline and Fernando Salazar Becerra is the second Cline runner in this race — a deep price that makes the stable's intent clear in terms of primary and secondary runners. El Canelo One (POST 1) at 10-1 from the rail provides pace-setting potential and could hold on under Bracho's guidance at a price.

Betting Strategy

Sammy's Halo (POST 4) is worth a win bet at 2-1 given the trainer-jockey combination's strength. Build exactas pairing Sammy's Halo (POST 4) over Redden (POST 2) and Midnite Kings Fate (POST 5). In trifectas, spread the bottom using P J's Boy (POST 3), Indy's Hope (POST 6), and El Canelo One (POST 1). This race serves as the anchor for any Pick 4 or Pick 5 sequences running through the afternoon card.

Selections

Win: Sammy's Halo (POST 4) Place: Redden (POST 2) Show: Midnite Kings Fate (POST 5)

RACE 5 — Post (2:50)/1:50/12:50/11:50 — 1210f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUM | Purse $33,900

Race 5 brings back the fillies and mares in a nine-horse maiden special weight sprint. Native Lucci (POST 4) at 2-1 is the morning-line favorite with David J. Haldar up for trainer Rodney C. Faulkner, while Delta Marie (POST 1) at 3-1 and Sweet Vivian (POST 5) at 4-1 round out the main contenders.

Pace Analysis

Delta Marie (POST 1) from the rail under L.A. Gonzalez for Kim Puhl figures to be an early speed type from the inside. Bold Popper (POST 7) under Cedillo for Lopez may also push pace from further outside. The key question is whether the pace will be honest enough to compromise the front-runners and set up Native Lucci (POST 4) or Sweet Vivian (POST 5) for a late run. Chick With A Drill (POST 3) at 5-1 for Jeff Radosevich and Luis R. Rivera is another horse that could be forwardly placed if the trainer sends her out with early instructions. The nine-horse field means pace dynamics will be crowded and contested early, setting up the potential for a decisive late move.

Key Contenders

Native Lucci (POST 4) at 2-1 is the morning-line favorite and deserves respect from the middle of the gate. Trainer Rodney C. Faulkner has shown the ability to produce maiden winners at Thistledown, and David J. Haldar's presence on the top choice signals that this filly is expected to be competitive. Post four in a nine-horse sprint is workable, and Haldar should find a comfortable tracking spot if the pace unfolds as expected.

Delta Marie (POST 1) at 3-1 from the rail under Gonzalez for Kim Puhl is the speed horse who sets the tempo. Puhl's barn is knowledgeable and strategic, and a horse sent to the post at 3-1 from the rail in a nine-horse field is likely a natural front-runner with the ability to sustain her effort. If the pace is soft enough, Delta Marie (POST 1) could lead wire to wire.

Secondary Choices

Sweet Vivian (POST 5) at 4-1 for Joe M. Poole with Humberto Haldar from post five is a stalker type that could make a sustained run at the leaders in the stretch. Poole conditions a workmanlike string at Thistledown, and the 4-1 morning line for Sweet Vivian (POST 5) puts her squarely in the hunt for the win and in exacta and trifecta plays.

Chick With A Drill (POST 3) at 5-1 for Jeff Radosevich and Luis R. Rivera is another interesting secondary choice given the barn's strong presence on the card today. Post three gives this filly a reasonable shot to find a stalking position early.

Longshots

Anicetta (POST 8) at 12-1 for trainer Johanna Urieta with D.L. Parker is worth noting as a barn that ran a live horse in Race 1. Bonita Dominica (POST 9) at 8-1 for Justin Radosevich with Jose A. Bracho is the best-priced longshot in the field and worth including in deeper trifecta and superfecta structures. Silver Brook (POST 2) at 10-1 for James R. Jackson and Jefferson Skerrett brings decent connections and a reasonable outside chance. Fabulous Song (POST 6) at 20-1 for Danny Bird and Jose A. Leon and Bold Popper (POST 7) at 15-1 for Lopez and Cedillo are true longshots that round out the field.

Betting Strategy

Native Lucci (POST 4) is the straightforward top selection, but the three-horse group of Native Lucci (POST 4), Delta Marie (POST 1), and Sweet Vivian (POST 5) forms the core of exacta and trifecta plays. Use all three on top in trifectas with Chick With A Drill (POST 3) and Bonita Dominica (POST 9) filling the third spot for a manageable spread.

Selections

Win: Native Lucci (POST 4) Place: Delta Marie (POST 1) Show: Sweet Vivian (POST 5)

RACE 6 — Post (3:20)/2:20/1:20/12:20 — 1210f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUN | Purse $33,900

Race 6 is the colts and geldings edition of the maiden sprint at 1,210 feet, with Dreamliner's Kid (POST 1) and Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) sharing morning-line favoritism at 2-1. This is a full field of eight with Basovak Star (POST 6) at 4-1 as the logical third choice.

Pace Analysis

Dreamliner's Kid (POST 1) from the rail under Rocco Bowen for Dale Carrington is the inside speed, while Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) at the outside post under Brandon Tapara for Loren Huepenbecker will need to break alertly to avoid extreme outside ground. The pressure from both ends of the gate could set up a wide-open pace scenario where the mid-pack stalkers — particularly Basovak Star (POST 6) and My Paisan (POST 5) — can benefit. Tap Dancing Dan (POST 3) at 12-1 for Shane Meyers and Jose A. Bracho is another potential early speed factor that could complicate the pace dynamics.

Key Contenders

Dreamliner's Kid (POST 1) at 2-1 for Dale Carrington and Rocco Bowen is the rail speed and morning-line co-favorite. Carrington's barn has been active at Thistledown, and this colt's positioning from the inside is a legitimate weapon in a 1,210-foot sprint. If he can set a comfortable pace without being seriously tested early, Dreamliner's Kid (POST 1) has every chance to wire the field.

Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) at 2-1 from the outside for Huepenbecker and Tapara is the other co-favorite. Huepenbecker fields multiple runners today and has demonstrated ability to have horses ready when they need to be competitive. Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) from post eight must break well and find position quickly, but if Tapara can settle him outside the early pace, this colt could have the best late kick in the field.

Secondary Choices

Basovak Star (POST 6) at 4-1 under Jason Simpson for Ricardo Bailey is the third choice and arguably the value play in this field. Simpson is a capable Thistledown rider, and Basovak Star (POST 6) from post six has an ideal outside draw that allows him to find a stalking position without being pinched at the break. Bailey is an under-the-radar trainer at Thistledown whose horses often run better than their prices suggest.

My Paisan (POST 5) at 6-1 for Tina Casalinova with Chelsey Keiser is another potential value play from the middle of the field. Casalinova's barn has shown the ability to produce competitive performers at Thistledown, and the 6-1 morning line suggests this colt is being overlooked in a field of two co-favorites.

Longshots

Lucy's First Song (POST 2) at 8-1 for Joshua Langley and D.L. Parker is a legitimate longshot that could figure in the exotics if the pace collapses. Delightful Appeal (POST 7) at 15-1 for Danny Bird and Jose A. Leon is a deep price from a capable barn. Tap Dancing Dan (POST 3) at 12-1 for Meyers and Bracho could be a pace factor that sets up others. Classic David (POST 4) at 20-1 for Lopez and German Terraza is deep off the board.

Betting Strategy

The split co-favorite structure makes this race ideal for wide exacta coverage. Box Dreamliner's Kid (POST 1) and Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) with Basovak Star (POST 6) in a three-way exacta box. In trifectas, use the three main contenders in multiple combinations and include My Paisan (POST 5) as a fourth horse at a manageable cost.

Selections

Win: Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) Place: Dreamliner's Kid (POST 1) Show: Basovak Star (POST 6)

RACE 7 — Post (3:50)/2:50/1:50/12:50 — 1210f | D | A | Alw 38400n3l | BUM | Purse $38,400

Race 7 is the card's feature event — a six-horse fillies and mares allowance sprint at the Alw 38400n3l condition, meaning horses that have not won three races lifetime. Nava's Gold (POST 1) and Ryka (POST 6) are co-favorites at 2-1, with Mshawish'girl (POST 5) at 4-1 as the primary alternative. Notably, Cline runs two horses — Lesotho (POST 3) and Mshawish'girl (POST 5) — while Huepenbecker sends out two — Jilly Runs Deep (POST 2) and Vertisalute (POST 4).

Pace Analysis

With only six horses and two co-favorites at the top of the wagering, pace dynamics will be critical. Nava's Gold (POST 1) from the rail under Luis R. Rivera for James R. Jackson could be an early pace-setter or presser. Ryka (POST 6) from the outside post under Angel I. Diaz for David Wolochuk is likely a tactical stalker that waits for the stretch before making her move. If Nava's Gold (POST 1) sets a hot pace and gets challenged, Ryka (POST 6) and Mshawish'girl (POST 5) are set up beautifully for late runs. A soft pace from Nava's Gold (POST 1) that is uncontested could create a wire-to-wire scenario in a six-horse field.

Key Contenders

Nava's Gold (POST 1) at 2-1 for James R. Jackson and Luis R. Rivera occupies the coveted rail position in a six-horse allowance sprint. Jackson's barn has been capable all meet, and Rivera is experienced in navigating the Thistledown surface. If this filly can control the pace from the front, the six-horse field provides fewer threats than a typical larger maiden field. Her co-favorite status at 2-1 reflects genuine competitive ability.

Ryka (POST 6) at 2-1 for David Wolochuk and Angel I. Diaz is the outside co-favorite. Wolochuk is a proven conditioner at Thistledown, and Diaz brings strong local experience. Ryka (POST 6) from the outside post in a six-horse field has a clear running path and should be able to settle in a comfortable tracking position. If the pace up front is honest, this is the type of horse that runs past tiring leaders in the final sixteenth.

Secondary Choices

Mshawish'girl (POST 5) at 4-1 is Cline's primary weapon in this race, ridden by Fernando Salazar Becerra. The inside companion, Lesotho (POST 3) at 8-1 for Cline and Jose A. Bracho, gives the stable tactical options but is likely the secondary runner. Mshawish'girl (POST 5) at 4-1 represents genuine allowance class from Cline's barn, and a number of handicappers see this filly as a strong upset candidate in a competitive six-horse field.

Jilly Runs Deep (POST 2) at 6-1 for Huepenbecker and Brandon Tapara is worth including in exotic plays given the trainer's multiple-entry presence in the race. Huepenbecker often spots horses in conditions where fitness and class align, and 6-1 for a Huepenbecker allowance entry merits consideration.

Longshots

Vertisalute (POST 4) at 8-1 is Huepenbecker's second entry, ridden by T.D. Houghton. At 8-1, this filly is a deep price for a top trainer's barn, suggesting the stable views Jilly Runs Deep (POST 2) as the primary runner. Nevertheless, Vertisalute (POST 4) could produce a placing at the price. Lesotho (POST 3) at 8-1 for Cline and Bracho is the other deep price, likely running as pace complement to Mshawish'girl (POST 5).

Betting Strategy

In a six-horse field with two co-favorites, exacta payouts tend to be modest when the favorites run first and second. The value lies in keying Ryka (POST 6) or Mshawish'girl (POST 5) on top in exactas against Nava's Gold (POST 1). Trifectas using Ryka (POST 6) and Nava's Gold (POST 1) in the top two positions with Mshawish'girl (POST 5) and Jilly Runs Deep (POST 2) in third provide solid coverage at a reasonable cost.

Selections

Win: Ryka (POST 6) Place: Nava's Gold (POST 1) Show: Mshawish'girl (POST 5)

RACE 8 — Post (4:20)/3:20/2:20/1:20 — 1320f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUN | Purse $33,900

The card closes with a seven-horse maiden special weight sprint at 1,320 feet — one mile minus the short chute — for three-year-olds and upward. Moonlighter (POST 3) and Killa Creed (POST 5) are co-favorites at 2-1, with Bukele (POST 7) at 4-1 as the third choice.

Pace Analysis

At 1,320 feet, the distance allows more time for the pace scenario to unfold than the typical 1,210-foot sprints run earlier in the card. Moonlighter (POST 3) for Robert M. Gorham and Erik Barbaran likely has tactical speed and will be placed just off the early pace. Killa Creed (POST 5) for David Wolochuk and Chelsey Keiser could be a presser or mid-pack type depending on the early flow. Rollin For Real (POST 4) at 6-1 for Justin Radosevich and Humberto Haldar may be the early pace-setter from post four. Bukele (POST 7) at 4-1 for Caryn Vecchio and Fernando Salazar Becerra is likely the closer in the field, making his move after the pace has been set. Cor Spice (POST 1) at 20-1 for Emily Szczepanski and Eddie Jurado from the rail is a true longshot with potential to press from the front.

Key Contenders

Moonlighter (POST 3) at 2-1 for Gorham and Barbaran is the morning-line co-favorite and arguably the most professionally connected horse in the race. Gorham has run horses in multiple races today — including Dublin Time (POST 7) in Race 2 and Snitch (POST 7) in Race 3 — and has been active all meet. Barbaran is the reliable anchor who has been among the leading riders at the meet. Post three in a seven-horse field is ideal, giving the horse a clear view of the early pace without rail pressure or extreme outside ground.

Killa Creed (POST 5) at 2-1 for Wolochuk and Keiser is the other co-favorite. Wolochuk also runs Ryka (POST 6) in Race 7, and if that horse runs well, the barn arrives at Race 8 with momentum. Killa Creed (POST 5) from post five has room to find position early and should be competitive throughout the distance. Keiser has been an active jockey at Thistledown and handles this type of horse effectively.

Secondary Choices

Bukele (POST 7) at 4-1 for Vecchio and Fernando Salazar Becerra is the best value in the field from a pace standpoint. A horse at 4-1 in a seven-horse maiden field with two co-favorites often gets overlooked by the public, and that creates value in exactas and trifectas. Salazar Becerra has been reliable at Thistledown, and Vecchio knows how to prepare horses for longer sprint distances.

Rollin For Real (POST 4) at 6-1 for Justin Radosevich and Humberto Haldar is interesting given the barn's presence throughout the card. Radosevich's stable has live runners in multiple races today, and a 6-1 morning-line assignment for a Radosevich horse late in the card is worth noting. If this horse sets the pace and controls it, there is an upset scenario.

Longshots

Blink N I'm Gone (POST 2) at 8-1 for Joe M. Poole and Jose A. Bracho is an interesting late-card longshot given Bracho's heavy book today. Crimson Crush (POST 6) at 12-1 for Ivan Calderon and Mauro Cedillo is another veteran horse that fills the exotic pools. Cor Spice (POST 1) at 20-1 for Szczepanski and Eddie Jurado is a true longshot and the only horse ridden by Jurado on the card.

Betting Strategy

Moonlighter (POST 3) is the top selection in the race closer. Box Moonlighter (POST 3), Killa Creed (POST 5), and Bukele (POST 7) in a trifecta for the best coverage of the probable first three finishers. An exacta keying Moonlighter (POST 3) over Killa Creed (POST 5) and Bukele (POST 7) offers reasonable returns and covers the most likely outcomes. Include Rollin For Real (POST 4) as an alternate in superfecta plays.

Selections

Win: Moonlighter (POST 3) Place: Killa Creed (POST 5) Show: Bukele (POST 7)

Jockey Notes and Insights

Erik Barbaran leads the jockey colony in terms of quality opportunities today. He rides in six of the eight races — Youngandfree (POST 2) in Race 1, Silver Zapper (POST 2) in Race 2, Snitch (POST 7) in Race 3, Sammy's Halo (POST 4) in Race 4, and Moonlighter (POST 3) in Race 8 — with a live book that includes at least three horses with genuine win chances. Barbaran's presence on Sammy's Halo (POST 4) in the Race 4 allowance and Moonlighter (POST 3) in Race 8 elevates both horses significantly as wagering propositions.

Jose A. Bracho also has a heavy card with mounts in six races. He rides El Canelo One (POST 1) in Race 4, Tap Dancing Dan (POST 3) in Race 6, Lesotho (POST 3) in Race 7, and Blink N I'm Gone (POST 2) in Race 8, among others. Bracho is a workhorse rider who excels at saving ground and placing horses in advantageous positions around the Thistledown oval. His mounts today are mostly secondary plays or longshot inclusions, but he has the ability to win on any of them.

David J. Haldar pilots Native Lucci (POST 4) in Race 5 — arguably his best win chance of the day — in addition to mounts in Races 2 and 3. Native Lucci (POST 4) at 2-1 as the morning-line favorite gives Haldar a genuine shot at the winner's circle in the early afternoon.

Humberto Haldar rides across the card as well, with key opportunities aboard Midnite Kings Fate (POST 5) in Race 4 and Sweet Vivian (POST 5) in Race 5. Both horses figure prominently in the trifecta strategies for their respective races.

Brandon Tapara has strong opportunities on Dublin Time (POST 7) in Race 2 and Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) in Race 6 and Jilly Runs Deep (POST 2) in Race 7. If Dublin Time (POST 7) wins the second race, Tapara will arrive at the co-favorite race in the sixth with momentum.

Mauro Cedillo rides for the Lopez barn extensively today — Bay Ja Blue (POST 6) in Race 2, Redden (POST 2) in Race 4, Bold Popper (POST 7) in Race 5, Classic David (POST 4) in Race 6. His key opportunity is aboard Redden (POST 2) in Race 4 where Cline's main horse should go postward with fitness and class.

Luis R. Rivera rides for multiple barns and has two key opportunities — Nava's Gold (POST 1) in Race 7 and Chick With A Drill (POST 3) in Race 5 — where the horses both figure to be involved at the finish.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Jeff Radosevich is the trainer to watch for sheer volume, with runners in Races 1, 4, and 5. The double-entry of Laos Lucy (POST 1) and Almost Drilled (POST 8) in Race 1 is interesting from a stable-intent perspective, though neither is favored. In Race 4, Sammy's Halo (POST 4) is the morning-line favorite and the likely barn-stable primary. In Race 5, Chick With A Drill (POST 3) is the secondary price play from this barn. Bettors who follow Radosevich know the stable operates with high efficiency at Thistledown.

Justin Radosevich has runners in Races 1, 5, and 8 — All That Sass (POST 9), Bonita Dominica (POST 9), and Rollin For Real (POST 4) — all at prices of 4-1, 8-1, and 6-1 respectively. The younger Radosevich barn has been developing a consistent presence at Thistledown, and any of these horses at their respective morning-line prices represent live plays.

Robert C. Cline is the other heavy hitter today, with runners in Races 3, 4, and 7. Sharon's Wish (POST 2) in Race 3, Redden (POST 2) in Race 4, and Mshawish'girl (POST 5) in Race 7 are his three primary weapons. Lesotho (POST 3) in Race 7 and It's All Mischief (POST 4) in Race 3 are likely secondary runners in their respective fields. Cline's ability to win allowance races at Thistledown is well-documented, and Redden (POST 2) in Race 4 and Mshawish'girl (POST 5) in Race 7 are both worth following closely.

Loren Huepenbecker saddles horses in Races 1, 2, 4, 6, and 7. His presence in five races highlights a barn that is active and forward-placed at the meet. Isa Fortress (POST 6) in Race 1, Silver Zapper (POST 2) in Race 2, Midnite Kings Fate (POST 5) in Race 4, Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) in Race 6, and two runners in Race 7 — Jilly Runs Deep (POST 2) and Vertisalute (POST 4) — give Huepenbecker a chance to score multiple times on the card. His horses consistently run to their odds or better at Thistledown, and Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) in Race 6 is perhaps his best win opportunity of the day.

Robert M. Gorham is another active trainer with runners in Races 2, 3, and 8. Dublin Time (POST 7) in Race 2 is his co-favorite entry, Snitch (POST 7) in Race 3 is his secondary choice, and Moonlighter (POST 3) in Race 8 is the Barbaran mount that tops the card closer. Gorham's willingness to spot horses at the right class level and distance makes him consistently productive at the regional oval.

Kristina M. Tumblin has two solid runners in Races 1 and 2 — Youngandfree (POST 2) and Markaway (POST 8). The barn does not typically overextend, and both horses being priced at 2-1 and 4-1 respectively suggests genuine trainer confidence in both fillies and colts as the morning-line choices reflect.

Jacinto Lopez runs multiple horses across the card — Bold Sally (POST 7) in Race 1, Bay Ja Blue (POST 6) in Race 2, P J's Boy (POST 3) in Race 4, Bold Popper (POST 7) in Race 5, and Classic David (POST 4) in Race 6. Lopez's barn is a volume operation, and P J's Boy (POST 3) in Race 4 at 4-1 in the allowance is arguably the barn's best opportunity of the day.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The eight-race card at Thistledown on August 13 offers several strong exotic wagering angles that serious bettors should structure carefully.

The most compelling single race for a win bet is Race 4, where Sammy's Halo (POST 4) at 2-1 combines the best trainer-jockey combination on the card — Radosevich and Barbaran — in the race's highest purse for allowance-condition horses. Even at 2-1, a win bet here is justified by the multiple professional factors aligning in this horse's favor.

For value plays, Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) in Race 6 at 2-1 represents the stronger of the two co-favorites in a race where post eight in a nine-horse field adds a modest risk premium to the price. If Rivers Run Fast (POST 8) breaks cleanly, Tapara can secure a position that makes the outside post irrelevant. The Huepenbecker barn sending this horse out as a co-favorite in a maiden race deserves respect. Ryka (POST 6) in Race 7 at 2-1 is another solid win bet, as the outside post in a six-horse allowance field presents no meaningful disadvantage.

The Pick 3 connecting Races 2, 3, and 4 is the best multi-race sequence on the card. Use Dublin Time (POST 7) in Race 2, Sharon's Wish (POST 2) in Race 3, and Sammy's Halo (POST 4) in Race 4 as the primary core, but spread slightly in Race 2 by adding Everynowandthen (POST 1) for insurance. This Pick 3 combination gives you coverage of four horses across three races at a manageable ticket cost.

The late Pick 4 from Race 5 through Race 8 presents a high-variance but potentially rewarding structure. Use Native Lucci (POST 4) singled in Race 5, then spread three horses in Race 6 — Rivers Run Fast (POST 8), Dreamliner's Kid (POST 1), and Basovak Star (POST 6) — then single Ryka (POST 6) in Race 7, then use Moonlighter (POST 3) and Killa Creed (POST 5) in Race 8. This 1x3x1x2 structure produces six Pick 4 combinations, which at Thistledown's typical takeout rates should return favorable potential payouts if the ticket hits.

For trifecta value on the full card, Race 8 is the most compelling play. Moonlighter (POST 3) on top with Killa Creed (POST 5) in second and Bukele (POST 7) in third is the likely outcome, but a boxed trifecta of these three horses at $1 minimum provides a cost-effective ticket with genuine return potential.

The best exacta value on the card is in Race 7 — Ryka (POST 6) over Mshawish'girl (POST 5) in a $2 exacta. If Ryka (POST 6) wins as the co-favorite over a 4-1 shot, the exacta pool should return a meaningful price given the split of co-favorite money between Ryka (POST 6) and Nava's Gold (POST 1). Bettors who use Ryka (POST 6) over Mshawish'girl (POST 5) instead of the rail co-favorite in the second position should find a stronger return than the vanilla Ryka (POST 6) over Nava's Gold (POST 1) combination.

For the daily double connecting Races 7 and 8, combine Ryka (POST 6) in Race 7 with Moonlighter (POST 3) and Killa Creed (POST 5) in Race 8. This two-horse spread in Race 8 doubles the ticket cost but covers both co-favorites at the end of the card, providing insurance on the closing race where co-favorites are notoriously difficult to separate.

Total card budget recommendation: Allocate 35 percent of your wagering bankroll to win bets — primarily Sammy's Halo (POST 4) in Race 4 and Ryka (POST 6) in Race 7. Allocate 40 percent to the Pick 3 sequence in Races 2 through 4. Allocate the remaining 25 percent to trifectas and exotic plays in Races 7 and 8.

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


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