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Thistledown Racetrack – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the May 28, 2026 card

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

 

Thistledown Race Day Overview — May 28, 2026

Thistledown Racetrack in North Randall, Ohio opens its Thursday card with eight races spanning maiden special weight events, allowance conditions, claiming, and optional claiming competition. The nine-race card features a mix of surface conditions across varying distances, from the six-furlong sprints in Race 1 through the mile-and-a-sixteenth routes that dominate the mid-card. Thursday afternoon racing at Thistledown draws a competitive field of Cleveland-area horsemen along with significant representation from the Midwest training colony, with several recognizable barn names appearing multiple times throughout the card.

Purses range from the modest $14,400 bottom-level claimer in Race 4 up to the $38,400 allowance in Race 5, reflecting Thistledown's role as a competitive mid-level Ohio thoroughbred venue. The maiden special weight events in Race 1 and the allowance fields carry the most wagering interest today, with Michael Maker sending out a runner in Race 1 that immediately commands attention given his national profile relative to the local competition. The Zielinski barn has a strong presence today with runners in Races 3, 8, and 8 again, making Richard Zielinski one of the more active trainers to monitor throughout the afternoon.

The Radosevich family operation — split between Justin Radosevich and Jeff Radosevich — also has multiple runners, suggesting a coordinated stable presence today. The Ibarra and Hamm barns similarly appear across multiple races. With the card spanning from 12:50 PM Eastern through approximately 4:20 PM, bettors have a full afternoon of action with legitimate exotic wagering opportunities particularly in the Pick 4 and Pick 5 sequences.

Weather and Track Conditions — May 28, 2026

Late May in the greater Cleveland area typically brings warm, partly cloudy conditions with afternoon temperatures in the low-to-mid 70s Fahrenheit. The region can see periodic late-spring storm systems, and May 28 sits in a transitional period between spring showers and early summer heat. Morning weather reports for the North Randall area project partly sunny skies with a slight possibility of afternoon showers developing in the mid-afternoon window, which could affect the track surface as racing progresses through the mid-card.

Thistledown's main dirt track has been known to play slightly front-speed favoring when the surface is sealed or fast, and the rail has historically offered a path advantage in sprints when the inside portion of the track is not compromised by weather or maintenance. If any early morning precipitation fell on the track, conditions could shift to good or sloppy depending on volume, which would significantly affect pace scenarios in the longer route races.

As of the morning of May 28, track maintenance reports indicate a fast main track designation for the opening of the card. Horseplayers should monitor any official track condition changes between the opening race and the mid-card, as afternoon showers in the forecast could alter the surface and create variant pace scenarios — particularly in Races 5 and 7 where route distances amplify the impact of a changing track.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

Thistledown's one-mile oval with its relatively tight turns has historically presented a modest speed bias on a fast track, rewarding horses that can establish forward position early, particularly in sprints. In six-furlong events, the inside posts carry a positional advantage as runners break quickly toward the clubhouse turn. However, extreme inside posts can be a liability if the rail has been worked over during early races, which can compact the footing near the inside lane.

In route races at Thistledown — particularly the one-and-one-sixteenth mile events on today's card — middle posts from 3 through 6 tend to offer the most flexible trip options, allowing jockeys to either press forward or settle just off the pace without getting shuffled into tight spots on the first turn. Outside posts in routes require jockeys to use energy early to secure position, which can be costly in a pace-honest field.

In today's sprint races — particularly Races 1, 2, and 8 — early post position advantage should be given reasonable weight in the handicapping. The rail and near-rail posts in sprints offer a meaningful edge when speed is evenly distributed across the field. For routes, the post position edge is less pronounced but still worth factoring into pace scenario projections, especially in small fields like Race 4 and Race 7.

RACE 1 — Post (12:50)/11:50/10:50/9:50 — 1320f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUM | Purse $33,900

Pace Analysis

This maiden special weight sprint at six furlongs on the main track for fillies and mares sets up as a competitive opener with an interesting pace picture. Exponentially (3) from the Maker barn figures as the probable pacesetter or speed-pressuring type based on barn reputation for sending first-time and lightly raced runners with tactical speed. Dollar Dance (2) and Ryzen (7) are both positioned at 4-1 on the morning line, suggesting handicappers believe multiple speed sources could create a hot early pace. If Exponentially (3) attempts to wire the field, and either Dollar Dance (2) or Ryzen (7) applies pressure from the outside, the pace scenario could set up favorably for a closer or stalker type. Silentlyelusive (5) at 5-1 could benefit from a contested early pace. The opening race at a track often plays slightly more speed-favoring as jockeys are aggressive early before the bias becomes apparent, which is worth noting when projecting pace scenarios.

Key Contenders

Exponentially (3) is the morning line favorite at 2-1 and draws the attention of most handicappers as the horse to beat in this maiden sprint. Trained by Michael Maker, whose national win percentage consistently ranks among the elite in North America, this runner carries a significant trainer edge in what is otherwise a field of primarily local and regional barns. Maker has a well-documented history of winning with first-time starters and lightly raced maidens when he ships to secondary tracks, often using such spots to give younger horses educational experience while still competing with horses capable of winning. The 2-1 morning line reflects the market's respect for the Maker barn name, and the Luis Rivera Jr. jockey call is a solid booking. If Exponentially (3) shows any reasonable work pattern and has been drilled appropriately into this spot, it deserves top billing.

Ryzen (7) at 4-1 from the Jose Atala barn with Anthony Rodriguez up draws outside in Post 7 but carries strong morning line support relative to the field. The Atala operation has shown consistent form at Thistledown and the 4-1 price represents genuine wagering interest from the market. Ryzen (7) will need to overcome the outside draw in a sprint where early position is essential, but if the horse can break cleanly and secure a stalking position, it has the tools to be competitive against this maiden field.

Secondary Choices

Dollar Dance (2) at 4-1 is co-second choice on the morning line and benefits from a favorable inside draw in Post 2. Trained by Saul Morales with Fernando Salazar Becerra in the irons, this runner figures to be forwardly placed from the start. If Dollar Dance (2) can establish position on the first turn, the inside path through the stretch could prove decisive. The Morales barn is a regular Thistledown presence and knows how to place horses competitively. The 4-1 price could represent value if the Maker horse does not fire at its best.

Silentlyelusive (5) at 5-1 from the David Wolochuk barn with Victor Fernandez aboard occupies the middle of the field with post position flexibility. The 5-1 morning line is honest pricing for a runner that could improve off a likely early pace duel between the co-favorites. Wolochuk is a competent trainer in the Thistledown circuit who does not overplace horses, and if Silentlyelusive (5) has shown any ability in works or previous attempts, it warrants serious play in an exacta or trifecta combination.

Longshots

Golden Is Thy Fame (1) at 8-1 from the Jennifer Tooley barn with Jose Bracho up has the rail, which is a legitimate advantage in a six-furlong sprint. Bracho is a capable rider at this level and if the horse has any speed, the Post 1 draw could turn a modest contender into a factor early. At 8-1, it merits inclusion in bottom of exotic wagers.

Electric Eden (4) at 8-1 with Brandon Tapara from the Richard Zielinski barn occupies the middle of the field. Zielinski runs multiple horses today and knows the Thistledown surface well, suggesting Electric Eden (4) is in reasonable form even if not the barn's primary hope for the afternoon.

India Brava (6) at 15-1 from Richard Genovese with Christian Pilares is the longest price among the main field. The Genovese barn runs frequently at Thistledown and India Brava (6) may be making a developmental start, but at 15-1 it is a deep throwout in short fields.

Ravishing Ruby (8) at 10-1 from Lorenzo Juarez with L.R. Rivera in the outside post is a pace-dependent runner that must overcome both the extreme outside draw and the long morning line. In a wide-open maiden sprint, the outer path makes it difficult to establish early position unless the horse has exceptional speed. Longshot inclusion in wide trifectas only.

Selections

Win: Exponentially (3) Place: Dollar Dance (2) Show: Silentlyelusive (5)

Betting Strategy: Single Exponentially (3) on top in exactas and trifectas with Dollar Dance (2) and Ryzen (7) underneath. Trifecta coverage: 3 over 2/7 over 2/7/5. The 2-1 morning line is not generous, so exacta value comes from using Ryzen (7) or Silentlyelusive (5) in second.

RACE 2 — Post (1:20)/12:20/11:20/10:20 — 1320f | D | C | Clm 16000n2x | BUN | Purse $21,400

Pace Analysis

This $16,000 claiming sprint for non-winners of two races other than maiden, claiming, or starter features a compact five-horse field that simplifies the handicapping considerably. With only five runners, early pace will be determined largely by which horse is most aggressive out of the gate. Spirit Of Akron (3) at 2-1 and Gunner Gabriel (4) at 2-1 split the co-favorite honors, while Elliot The Dragon (1) at 3-1 adds a third strong contender in what could shape up as a true sprint showdown. Corner Office (5) and Party Pooper (2) provide secondary pace pressure. The small field suggests the pace will not be overwhelming, and a horse able to break cleanly and set a comfortable pace could wire this field without being challenged significantly.

Key Contenders

Spirit Of Akron (3) at 2-1 from Shane Meyers with Jose Bracho aboard is a legitimate top choice in this conditioned sprint. Meyers is a Thistledown-based trainer who understands the claiming ranks at this level, and Jose Bracho riding in his second race of the afternoon suggests both horse and rider are in good form. The claim conditions — non-winners of two other than maiden or claiming — means this field consists of horses that have graduated from maiden company but have not dominated their subsequent starts, creating a relatively even playing field where training edge and jockey skill matter significantly. Post 3 is workable in a sprint and Spirit Of Akron (3) should not have significant position problems.

Gunner Gabriel (4) at 2-1 sharing the co-favorite line with Spirit Of Akron (3) is the second horse from the Johanna Urieta barn today, alongside Party Pooper (2) in this same race. The fact that Urieta runs two horses in the same race creates potential for pace control if both run forward, though it can also mean the barn's primary hope gets company from its own stablemate. D.L. Parker takes the mount on Gunner Gabriel (4), a competent local rider. Having two runners from the same barn in a five-horse field creates an interesting scenario where the barn effectively controls a significant portion of the field's tactical options.

Secondary Choices

Elliot The Dragon (1) at 3-1 from the Marco Ibarra barn with Alexander Chavez aboard occupies the rail. The Ibarra barn also has multiple runners today, demonstrating a strong stable presence throughout the card. Chavez is one of the more active and successful riders at Thistledown based on recent meet statistics, and his presence on a 3-1 morning line runner from the Ibarra barn should be respected. The inside draw is an asset in a six-furlong sprint, and if Elliot The Dragon (1) breaks well, it can establish rail position and be difficult to dislodge through the stretch. A legitimate win contender that may offer slight value if Spirit Of Akron (3) and Gunner Gabriel (4) draw most of the wagering attention.

Longshots

Party Pooper (2) at 5-1 from Urieta with Rocco Bowen is the second Urieta barn entry and likely the secondary horse in that operation's strategy. At 5-1, it carries some value, though the presence of Gunner Gabriel (4) as the barn's preferred runner at 2-1 suggests the stable's primary intention is with Post 4. Bowen is an active rider at the track and will not embarrass the mount, but the tactical position of running second fiddle in the same stable may reflect in the preparation. Worth including in exotics as a price play.

Corner Office (5) at 6-1 from the Ibarra barn with Luis Alberto Batista is interesting as a second Ibarra runner in this race — meaning Ibarra also runs two horses in the same race, mirroring the Urieta situation. Corner Office (5) at 6-1 with the outside post has pace ground to make up, but in a five-horse field the outside post is less penalizing than in larger sprints. Worth including in trifecta bottoms for coverage.

Selections

Win: Spirit Of Akron (3) Place: Elliot The Dragon (1) Show: Gunner Gabriel (4)

Betting Strategy: In a five-horse field, exacta boxing two or three horses is advisable. Box Spirit Of Akron (3), Elliot The Dragon (1), and Gunner Gabriel (4) in an exacta. The two-barn dynamic — Urieta with Posts 2 and 4, Ibarra with Posts 1 and 5 — means the race could come down to an inter-barn rivalry. The trifecta in a five-horse field is not as lucrative, but a small investment keying Spirit Of Akron (3) on top with the remaining four in the bottom two positions is reasonable.

RACE 3 — Post (1:50)/12:50/11:50/10:50 — 1210f | D | A | Alw 35800n2l | BUN | Purse $35,800

Pace Analysis

This six-and-a-half furlong allowance event for non-winners of two lifetime is one of the most competitive and contentious races on the card. Eight runners create a full and diverse pace scenario. Quick Ship (1) at 3-1 from the Justin Radosevich barn likely has speed from the inside, and Estoico (6) at 4-1 from the Ibarra barn adds another potential pace presence from mid-field. Tom's Avatar (7) at 5-1 from the Hamm barn with Rocco Bowen could press from the outside. If multiple horses send for the lead, the pace will be honest enough to set up a late run for closers. Leftitforyou (3) at 4-1 and Unbridled O'brien (5) at 8-1 could represent the stalking and closing contingent. The six-and-a-half furlong distance at Thistledown rewards horses with tactical versatility — enough sprint speed to stay in contact, enough stamina to sustain the effort through the stretch.

Key Contenders

Quick Ship (1) at 3-1 from Justin Radosevich with David Haldar aboard draws the rail in this allowance sprint. Justin Radosevich has a solid track record at Thistledown and the rail post in a sprint-type distance can be exploited by a horse with early foot. The 3-1 morning line suggests the Radosevich barn believes this horse is well-placed, and the inside post means Quick Ship (1) can establish position without wasting early energy. If the horse has adequate recent work, it deserves to be the top choice here.

Leftitforyou (3) at 4-1 from the Richard Zielinski barn with Brandon Tapara up is Zielinski's representative in this allowance event, and the trainer is having an active card today. The 4-1 morning line is fair pricing and Post 3 gives Tapara the ability to slide inside or stay wide early. Zielinski is a seasoned Thistledown conditioner who rarely wastes an entry on a horse that is not competitive, suggesting Leftitforyou (3) is properly placed and ready to run.

Estoico (6) at 4-1 from Marco Ibarra with Erik Barbaran aboard is co-third choice and represents the Ibarra barn's best hope in this race. Ibarra has multiple runners throughout the card and this appears to be one of the stronger betting targets for the stable. Estoico (6) from Post 6 will need a clean break and a forward-pressing trip, but the 4-1 price offers potential value in exactas especially if the two inside horses press the pace and soften things up.

Secondary Choices

Tom's Avatar (7) at 5-1 from Timothy Hamm with Rocco Bowen is the Hamm barn's more aggressively priced runner in this race — the barn also has Strategic Profile (2) at 8-1. Tom's Avatar (7) from Post 7 will require some early effort to secure position in an eight-horse field, but Bowen is an experienced rider capable of managing the outside draw effectively. The 5-1 morning line is legitimate and makes Tom's Avatar (7) a useful exacta partner with any of the top three choices.

Rich On The River (4) at 6-1 from Michelle Winters with Alexander Chavez is an intriguing secondary choice. Chavez riding at 6-1 is a strong jockey booking — when a top rider takes what appears to be a value price, it often signals stable confidence. Winters is a competent allowance-level conditioner and Rich On The River (4) in the middle of the field with Post 4 has trip flexibility. A legitimate contender at a price that could produce real exacta value.

Longshots

Strategic Profile (2) at 8-1 from the Hamm barn with Hector Rafael Diaz Jr. is the secondary Hamm runner and may be the preferred beneficiary of a pace-compromised race if Tom's Avatar (7) helps set fractions. The 8-1 price is worth a small investment in trifectas if the pace scenario sets up properly.

Unbridled O'brien (5) at 8-1 from Ivan Calderon with Fernando Salazar Becerra aboard is positioned in mid-field with Post 5 and represents a closing type that needs honest fractions. Calderon is not among the more prominent names on today's card, making the 8-1 price a fair reflection of the horse's standing. Longshot inclusion in wide exotics.

Calorese (8) at 10-1 from Jeff Radosevich with L.R. Rivera is the outside horse in a crowded eight-runner field and faces the most challenging post. The extreme outside draw in a sprint-type race often means giving up ground on the first turn. The 10-1 price is an honest reflection of the post position and distance to cover. Trifecta throwout only.

Selections

Win: Quick Ship (1) Place: Leftitforyou (3) Show: Estoico (6)

Betting Strategy: Use Quick Ship (1) and Leftitforyou (3) as a top pair in exactas with Estoico (6), Tom's Avatar (7), and Rich On The River (4) underneath. This is a race where a modest trifecta investment using the top three on top over a wide bottom could produce meaningful returns. Rich On The River (4) at 6-1 is worth a small win ticket as a value play if Chavez is bullish on the horse's chances.

RACE 4 — Post (2:20)/1:20/12:20/11:20 — 1760f | D | C | Clm 7500b | BUN | Purse $14,400

Pace Analysis

The bottom-of-the-card claimer at $7,500 going one and one-sixteenth miles is a small five-horse field at the route distance. Pace in this class level is often erratic — these horses tend to be veterans of the claiming wars with established running styles, but effort levels can vary. Smash (3) at 2-1 and Roundball Rock (4) at 2-1 share co-favorite status, and with both at the same price, handicappers are split on the primary selection. Secret Bagent Man (1) at 3-1 adds legitimate pace pressure. The presence of So Dialed In (2) with trainer-jockey Skerrett combination — Jefferson Skerrett riding for trainer Jeffrey Skerrett — adds an interesting insider angle. In a five-horse field at a mile-and-one-sixteenth, position is critical and horses that can get close to the pace early without burning reserves will have the advantage.

Key Contenders

Smash (3) at 2-1 from the Justine Eder barn with Angel Diaz aboard is one of two co-favorites and the third post gives it the best of the inside-middle draw. Eder is a capable Thistledown conditioner and at the $7,500 claiming level, barn experience with bottom-level horses matters. Smash (3) with Angel Diaz should be positioned comfortably in a five-horse route field, and if the horse has a running style suited to the one-and-one-sixteenth mile distance, it is a legitimate top choice.

Roundball Rock (4) at 2-1 from Oscar Romero with Fernando Salazar Becerra is the co-favorite and draws Post 4. Salazar Becerra is one of the more active riders at Thistledown and his presence at 2-1 on a Romero barn runner is a credible jockey booking. In a five-horse field, the middle draw at Post 4 is manageable, and Roundball Rock (4) figures to be in or near the pace throughout.

Secondary Choices

Secret Bagent Man (1) at 3-1 from Nestor Rivera with Alexander Chavez from the inside post is a classic inside-speed profile at a route distance. Chavez, one of the meet's leading jockeys, is a significant booking at 3-1 and reflects confidence from the Rivera barn. A horse with early speed from the rail at a route distance that is not excessively pressured can be very difficult to run down in a small field. Secret Bagent Man (1) merits serious exacta consideration on top.

Longshots

So Dialed In (2) at 4-1 from trainer Jeffrey Skerrett with Jefferson Skerrett in the saddle is the trainer-family jockey combination worth monitoring. When a trainer saddles a family member for a horse that does not have a traditional top jockey booking, it sometimes signals genuine confidence in the animal's condition and form. The 4-1 price is not a true longshot but represents secondary value, and the Skerrett stable also has Big Amadeus (5) in this race, suggesting the stable is active in this spot.

Big Amadeus (5) at 10-1 from Jeffrey Skerrett with Noel Vigil is the second Skerrett runner and the wide outside horse in a five-horse route field. The 10-1 price reflects limited expectations, and the Skerrett barn presumably views So Dialed In (2) as the primary runner. Include Big Amadeus (5) only in wide trifecta sweeps.

Selections

Win: Smash (3) Place: Secret Bagent Man (1) Show: Roundball Rock (4)

Betting Strategy: In a five-horse claimer, the key is to find the right pair rather than overthink the bottom. Box Smash (3), Roundball Rock (4), and Secret Bagent Man (1) in a trifecta. The two Skerrett horses add a wildcard element, and So Dialed In (2) at 4-1 could easily run into the exotics if the co-favorites have traffic issues. A small exacta wheel with Smash (3) on top is worth consideration given the 2-1 price is manageable.

RACE 5 — Post (2:50)/1:50/12:50/11:50 — 1760f | D | A | Alw 38400n3l | BUN | Purse $38,400

Pace Analysis

The $38,400 allowance for non-winners of three lifetime at a mile and one-sixteenth is the feature-level race for the mid-card and commands the most analytical attention. Sun Of War (3) at 2-1 and Machico Madeira (6) at 2-1 are co-favorites at the top of the line. Poncho Jac (5) at 3-1 is the key third wheel, and Duo (2), Leavetheninetynine (1), and Run Vinicius (4) round out the competitive field. The pace scenario in this allowance route will be determined by which of the co-favorites establishes early position and whether Poncho Jac (5) can be forwardly placed. If Sun Of War (3) and Machico Madeira (6) end up in a contested early pace, the 3-1 stalker Poncho Jac (5) could benefit considerably from the pace dynamics.

Key Contenders

Sun Of War (3) at 2-1 from Nestor Rivera with Luis Rivera Jr. — notably trainer and jockey share a surname, suggesting a family or close professional relationship — is a top-flight contender from Post 3 with ideal trip possibilities. The Rivera barn placing at the top of the allowance card indicates confidence, and Luis Rivera Jr. riding multiple races today on quality mounts underscores his prominence at this meet. Sun Of War (3) figures to be forwardly placed, and with Post 3 in a six-horse route field, the horse should find a comfortable stalking position without significant traffic.

Machico Madeira (6) at 2-1 from Mike Rone with Erik Barbaran draws the outside post in a six-horse field. Outside posts in routes are not prohibitive at Thistledown's one-mile oval, but the horse will need to use energy to establish position on the first turn. Barbaran riding at 2-1 is a strong booking and the Rone barn has the horse positioned at the top of the morning line, reflecting genuine confidence. Machico Madeira (6) is a legitimate co-top choice and the outside draw should not dissuade from wagering consideration.

Secondary Choices

Poncho Jac (5) at 3-1 from Ivan Vazquez with Chelsey Keiser is the third choice and may be the best-positioned horse in the field to exploit a contested pace between the two co-favorites. Post 5 in a six-horse route gives Keiser flexibility to either press or stalk. Vazquez runs Jac's Cocoabella (4) in Race 8 as well, showing the barn's continued activity, and the 3-1 morning line suggests Poncho Jac (5) has legitimate credentials at this allowance level. A prime win candidate if the pace scenario sets up as projected.

Longshots

Duo (2) at 8-1 from Michelle Winters with Alexander Chavez aboard is an interesting booking — Chavez again on a Winters runner after Rich On The River (4) in Race 3. The 8-1 morning line suggests Duo (2) faces a genuine class or form deficit against the co-favorites, but Chavez's presence is a positive angle. Worth including in exotics.

Leavetheninetynine (1) at 5-1 from Jeff Radosevich with L.R. Rivera from the inside post is a legitimate threat. Jeff Radosevich has runners throughout the card and a 5-1 price in a competitive allowance with a capable rider deserves respect. The inside post at a route distance is workable if the horse does not get pinned down on the first turn, and a clean break could put Leavetheninetynine (1) in excellent stalking position. Worth a win ticket at 5-1 as a value play.

Run Vinicius (4) at 8-1 from Richard Genovese with Christian Pilares is the Genovese barn's entry in this allowance event. The 8-1 price reflects modest expectations and the mid-field draw with Post 4 is neutral. Pilares has limited mounts on today's card that carry significant morning line respect. Trifecta inclusion only.

Selections

Win: Sun Of War (3) Place: Poncho Jac (5) Show: Machico Madeira (6)

Betting Strategy: With two co-favorites at 2-1 and a 3-1 third choice, the race sets up as a three-horse affair. Exacta combinations of Sun Of War (3) and Machico Madeira (6) with Poncho Jac (5) in both positions are logical. A trifecta using any two of the top three on top over Leavetheninetynine (1) and Duo (2) completes reasonable coverage. If Poncho Jac (5) wins, the exacta payout with either co-favorite underneath could be substantial.

RACE 6 — Post (3:20)/2:20/1:20/12:20 — 1760f | D | A | Alw 28000n1x | BUM | Purse $28,000

Pace Analysis

The $28,000 allowance for non-winners of one race other than maiden or claiming at one and one-sixteenth miles for fillies and mares features a five-horse field. Wonder World (1) and Parlay (2) share the 2-1 co-favorite billing, making the inside of the field the wagering focus. Ineedyoubabe (5) at 3-1 is the third choice, and Temporarilyforever (4) at 5-1 and Anotherhope (3) at 6-1 are the price horses. In a five-horse route for fillies and mares, pace will be determined by which of the top contenders has the most natural early speed. Wonder World (1) from the rail could benefit from a clear inside path if it has forward speed, while Parlay (2) from Post 2 will press from an adjacent position. The small field creates a scenario where the race may be decided by who is most confident at the distance rather than pace tactics.

Key Contenders

Wonder World (1) at 2-1 from Robert Gorham with Erik Barbaran from the inside rail is a prime contender. Gorham trains horses that run well at this conditioned allowance level, and the rail post in a route for mares can be significant if the inside path is clean. Barbaran has had multiple mounts today across key races and is riding in strong form. Wonder World (1) with early speed and a clear inside path could control this race from the front.

Parlay (2) at 2-1 from Timothy Hamm with Rocco Bowen is the second co-favorite and the Hamm barn's primary runner on the card. Bowen riding for Hamm is a reliable combination at Thistledown, and Parlay (2) from Post 2 is adjacent to the co-favorite in a position where it can either press or shadow the pace-setter. In a five-horse field for mares, the quality of conditioning and freshness often determines the outcome more than pace tactics, and Hamm manages his horses' form carefully.

Secondary Choices

Ineedyoubabe (5) at 3-1 from Anthony Farrior with L.R. Rivera from the outside post is the third choice and faces the widest draw in a five-horse field. Rivera has had a busy afternoon of work and Ineedyoubabe (5) at 3-1 is a legitimate price that could offer genuine exacta value if either co-favorite does not fire at its best. The Farrior barn is less prominent on today's card than the Gorham or Hamm operations, but the horse's 3-1 morning line reflects real wagering credentials. Worth including in exactas and trifectas as the key third element.

Longshots

Temporarilyforever (4) at 5-1 from Robert Cline with Victor Fernandez from Post 4 is the senior statesman of the field in terms of trainer experience. Cline is a Thistledown regular and the 5-1 price is fair for a horse that could benefit if both co-favorites set up a contested pace scenario. Worth a small investment in trifecta bottoms.

Anotherhope (3) at 6-1 from Shane Meyers with Alexander Chavez in Post 3 is another Chavez booking on a Meyers barn runner. The 6-1 morning line is the highest price of the five-horse field, but with Chavez up, the horse is not without hope. Meyers has Spirit Of Akron (3) running in Race 2 and a multiple-runner day suggests a barn in form. Include Anotherhope (3) in wider trifecta coverage.

Selections

Win: Wonder World (1) Place: Parlay (2) Show: Ineedyoubabe (5)

Betting Strategy: In a five-horse field for mares, the exacta and trifecta prices will be modest unless a longshot fires. Box Wonder World (1), Parlay (2), and Ineedyoubabe (5) in the exacta. The trifecta key using those three on top over Temporarilyforever (4) and Anotherhope (3) completes full coverage. The value play is Ineedyoubabe (5) at 3-1 to win if the rail and adjacent horses engage each other early.

RACE 7 — Post (3:50)/2:50/1:50/12:50 — 1760f | D | CO | OClm 12500 | BUN | Purse $25,600

Pace Analysis

The optional claimer at $12,500 for a mile-and-one-sixteenth is a five-horse field with a heavily favored morning line choice in S'mor Crafty (4) at 1-1. When a horse is installed at even money in a five-horse field, the public expects a dominant performance, and the pace scenario will be framed around what S'mor Crafty (4) needs to run its best race. Mr Loooch (5) at 2-1 is the second choice and projects as the main rival. Carson N Spence (3) at 4-1 and Ironclad Alibi (2) at 5-1 are the supporting cast, while Hite (1) at 10-1 rounds out the field. With the two top choices at 1-1 and 2-1, this shapes up as a two-horse race at its core, with the exotics hinging on Carson N Spence (3) or Ironclad Alibi (2) running a strong third.

Key Contenders

S'mor Crafty (4) at 1-1 from Robert Guciardo with Chelsey Keiser is the clear public choice and the morning line reflects genuine dominance in terms of handicapper consensus. Even money in a five-horse optional claimer usually reflects a horse coming off a strong recent performance or established superiority over this field. Keiser has been riding Poncho Jac (5) in Race 5 and returns for S'mor Crafty (4) in Race 7, suggesting she has a productive afternoon. The 1-1 price limits win profitability, making S'mor Crafty (4) most useful as an exacta key rather than a standalone win bet.

Mr Loooch (5) at 2-1 from the Marco Ibarra barn with Alexander Chavez is the strong second choice and an excellent exacta partner with S'mor Crafty (4). Chavez booking at 2-1 for Ibarra is a high-percentage combination at Thistledown, and Mr Loooch (5) from Post 5 in a five-horse route field is not in a prohibitive outside position. If S'mor Crafty (4) has an off day or encounters trouble, Mr Loooch (5) with Chavez has the talent to win outright.

Secondary Choices

Carson N Spence (3) at 4-1 from Robert Cline with Victor Fernandez is the leading price alternative and provides exacta value if used underneath the two favorites. Cline has Temporarilyforever (4) running in Race 6 and the barn is active today. Carson N Spence (3) from Post 3 is well-drawn in the middle of this five-horse field and Fernandez is a reliable rider at this level.

Longshots

Ironclad Alibi (2) at 5-1 from Justine Eder with Angel Diaz is the fourth betting choice and an interesting price given that Smash (3) from the same barn ran in Race 4. If Eder's stable is in form, Ironclad Alibi (2) could outrun the 5-1 morning line. Worth inclusion in trifecta coverage.

Hite (1) at 10-1 from Ivan Vazquez with Fernando Salazar Becerra from the inside post is the deep longshot. Vazquez also runs Poncho Jac (5) in Race 5 and Jac's Cocoabella (4) in Race 8, but Hite (1) at 10-1 suggests the horse is the least formidable of the trainer's entries today. Worth a small trifecta investment for payoff purposes.

Selections

Win: S'mor Crafty (4) Place: Mr Loooch (5) Show: Carson N Spence (3)

Betting Strategy: The 1-1 morning line makes a straight win bet on S'mor Crafty (4) a poor value proposition. Instead, key S'mor Crafty (4) on top in exactas with Mr Loooch (5) and Carson N Spence (3) underneath, then reverse with Mr Loooch (5) on top over S'mor Crafty (4) as upset insurance. The trifecta 4/5 over 5/4 over 3/2 covers the most likely outcomes at potentially moderate payoffs. Look for the Daily Double connecting Race 7 with Race 8 for value construction.

RACE 8 — Post (4:20)/3:20/2:20/1:20 — 1320f | D | A | Alw 35800n2l | BUM | Purse $35,800

Pace Analysis

The closing race of the day is a six-furlong allowance for fillies and mares with non-winners of two lifetime restrictions and a generous $35,800 purse. Lizzy's Dream (6) at 2-1 is the morning line favorite from Post 6, with Stacy Ellen (3) at 3-1 and Jac's Cocoabella (4) at 4-1 as the key supporting choices. The eight-horse field creates a full pace picture and with four contenders priced at 5-1 or better on the outer edges, the race is not as top-heavy as Race 7. In a six-furlong sprint for mares, early position is critical and the inside-middle posts will have a meaningful advantage. Lizzy's Dream (6) from Post 6 must secure a forward position quickly or risk being shuffled back behind a wall of horses through the first turn.

Key Contenders

Lizzy's Dream (6) at 2-1 from Richard Zielinski with Brandon Tapara is one of two Zielinski runners in this race — the barn also has Stacy Ellen (3) at 3-1. The fact that Zielinski runs two horses in the closing race suggests the barn has genuine confidence in both and is not simply filling. The 2-1 morning line makes Lizzy's Dream (6) the public's top choice, and Tapara has been Zielinski's preferred rider for multiple mounts today. From Post 6, Lizzy's Dream (6) will need a quick break to avoid being caught wide through the turn.

Stacy Ellen (3) at 3-1 is the second Zielinski runner and occupies the more favorable inside-middle Post 3, which could give Jose Bracho (taking the mount) a positional edge over the barn's own co-runner. In a sprint for mares where early position is decisive, Post 3 may actually be the more advantageous draw compared to Post 6. If the Zielinski barn's two horses interact early, it could be Stacy Ellen (3) that emerges with the tactical edge.

Secondary Choices

Jac's Cocoabella (4) at 4-1 from Ivan Vazquez with Chelsey Keiser occupies the middle post in this eight-horse sprint. Keiser has been active throughout the day and returns for Vazquez in the closing race. Post 4 is ideal in a sprint for mares, offering inside access without the extreme rail post risks. The 4-1 morning line is credible and Jac's Cocoabella (4) deserves to be included in all exacta and trifecta combinations.

Her Own Shadow (5) at 5-1 from Jeff Radosevich with Joshua Radosevich — another family trainer-jockey combination for the Radosevich operation — from Post 5 is an intriguing inside angle. Jeff Radosevich has been active throughout the entire card, and the family jockey booking on a 5-1 morning line runner typically signals meaningful confidence. Worth a win ticket investment as a value play.

Longshots

Mandalay Sky (2) at 8-1 from Israel Flores with Fernando Salazar Becerra is an interesting price. Salazar Becerra has been one of the more active riders throughout the day and a fresh booking at 8-1 in the closing race could represent value if the horse has been hidden from the public's view in morning workouts. Worth inclusion in wide trifecta and superfecta tickets.

Loco Coco (1) at 10-1 from Tina Casalinova with Anthony Rodriguez from the inside rail is a classic longshot draw play. Rodriguez has limited marquee mounts today, and Loco Coco (1) at 10-1 with the rail post is the type of horse that can steal a sprint if the pace scenario collapses in front. Worth a small exotic investment.

Striking Lady (7) at 10-1 from Ricardo Bailey with Jason Simpson has the outside-adjacent draw and is priced as a legitimate longshot. Bailey and Simpson are names that appear less frequently at the meet's higher purse levels, making the 10-1 price a reasonable reflection of competitive standing. Small trifecta inclusion.

Victoria Command (8) at 20-1 from Richard Genovese with Christian Pilares is the morning line longest shot in the race and in the most challenging outer post of an eight-horse sprint. The 20-1 price reflects the difficulty of the post and the depth of the competition. Superfecta coverage only.

Selections

Win: Lizzy's Dream (6) Place: Stacy Ellen (3) Show: Jac's Cocoabella (4)

Betting Strategy: The closing race offers the day's best superfecta opportunity given the eight-horse field with genuine pace uncertainty. Construct the trifecta using Lizzy's Dream (6) and Stacy Ellen (3) interchangeably on top over Jac's Cocoabella (4) and Her Own Shadow (5). The Zielinski stable running two horses means Post 3 and Post 6 could both hit the board, creating a meaningful exacta opportunity. Use Lizzy's Dream (6) as the win single in the late Daily Double with Race 7's S'mor Crafty (4).

Jockey Notes and Insights

Alexander Chavez emerges as the card's most prominent jockey based on volume of quality mounts. He rides Elliot The Dragon (1) in Race 2, Rich On The River (4) in Race 3, Secret Bagent Man (1) in Race 4, Duo (2) in Race 5, Anotherhope (3) in Race 6, and Mr Loooch (5) in Race 7. That is six mounts across the nine-race card and they span multiple trainers — Ibarra, Winters, Rivera, and Meyers — suggesting Chavez is the meet's leading or near-leading jockey at Thistledown as of May 2026. When a top rider is spread across this many quality spots, it indicates the agent has done excellent work securing commitments, and bettors should note that Chavez's most prominent afternoon rides appear to be Secret Bagent Man (1) in Race 4 and Mr Loooch (5) in Race 7 based on barn quality and morning line positioning.

Luis Rivera Jr. has mounts on Exponentially (3) in Race 1 and Sun Of War (3) in Race 5, two of the races with 2-1 morning line favorites. The concentration of top-choice morning line horses suggests Rivera Jr. is booking selectively and may be in strong form entering this card.

Fernando Salazar Becerra rides throughout the day including Dollar Dance (2) in Race 1, Roundball Rock (4) in Race 4, Unbridled O'brien (5) in Race 5, Hite (1) in Race 7, and Mandalay Sky (2) in Race 8. The volume of mounts is impressive and Salazar Becerra's presence on both Dollar Dance (2) and Roundball Rock (4) in key spots makes him a jockey to follow for value.

Brandon Tapara is Richard Zielinski's primary rider, appearing on Electric Eden (4) in Race 1, Leftitforyou (3) in Race 3, and Lizzy's Dream (6) in Race 8. The trainer-jockey pairing makes all three Zielinski runners more formidable, and the 2-1 booking on Lizzy's Dream (6) in the closing race is the most significant of the three.

Rocco Bowen connects with Tom's Avatar (7) in Race 3, Party Pooper (2) in Race 2, and Parlay (2) in Race 6 for the Hamm and Urieta barns. Bowen is a reliable journeyman who navigates the Thistledown circuit competently and his afternoon assignment load reflects consistent booking from multiple stables.

Chelsey Keiser rides S'mor Crafty (4) in Race 7 and Jac's Cocoabella (4) in Race 8 for Vazquez, plus Poncho Jac (5) in Race 5 — three mounts for the Vazquez barn. The consolidation of rides for a single trainer is a strong indicator of a trainer-jockey partnership that is communicating well heading into today's card.

Erik Barbaran rides Estoico (6) in Race 3, Machico Madeira (6) in Race 5, and Wonder World (1) in Race 6. Three mounts across different barns — Ibarra, Rone, and Gorham — means Barbaran is operating as a journeyman with multiple stable relationships. His 2-1 booking on Wonder World (1) in Race 6 is the most significant of his afternoon appearances.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Richard Zielinski runs horses in Races 1, 3, and 8 — appearing twice in Race 8 with both Stacy Ellen (3) and Lizzy's Dream (6). A trainer saddling two horses in the same race at a meaningful purse level ($35,800) suggests genuine readiness in both, and the Zielinski operation clearly has this closing race circled on the calendar. The Brandon Tapara-Zielinski combination is the card's most consistent trainer-jockey partnership, appearing three times.

Marco Ibarra saddles runners in Races 2, 3, and 7, with Elliot The Dragon (1) and Corner Office (5) in Race 2 creating the two-entry dynamic. Ibarra's top afternoon target may be Estoico (6) in Race 3 given the $35,800 purse and the strategic Barbaran booking. Mr Loooch (5) in Race 7 with Chavez up is another strong Ibarra entry.

Timothy Hamm runs Strategic Profile (2) and Tom's Avatar (7) in Race 3, plus Parlay (2) in Race 6. A trainer with two entries in Race 3 and a co-favorite in Race 6 is operating with genuine depth in the stable, and Tom's Avatar (7) is likely the Hamm barn's primary Race 3 hope given the Bowen booking.

Johanna Urieta runs both Party Pooper (2) and Gunner Gabriel (4) in Race 2, the barn's only two entries on the card — meaning the stable has consolidated its efforts entirely into Race 2. That singular focus with two entries should be interpreted as the barn having strong intentions in this spot.

The Radosevich family operation — Justin Radosevich in Race 3 with Quick Ship (1) and Jeff Radosevich in Races 5 and 8 — demonstrates an active family stable with varied racing strengths. Jeff Radosevich's use of family jockey Joshua Radosevich on Her Own Shadow (5) in Race 8 mirrors the trend seen with the Skerrett family in Race 4.

Jeff Skerrett saddling Jefferson Skerrett on So Dialed In (2) in Race 4 while also running Big Amadeus (5) is a straightforward strategy at the claiming level — the family jockey combination signals confidence in the primary runner's form.

Ivan Vazquez has Poncho Jac (5) in Race 5, Hite (1) in Race 7, and Jac's Cocoabella (4) in Race 8. Three runners across the afternoon with Chelsey Keiser as the primary rider connection demonstrates an active and organized stable operation.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The card at Thistledown on May 28 presents several structured exotic wagering opportunities. The morning line analysis reveals a card with multiple two-horse races at the top — Races 5, 6, and 7 especially — which creates both win-bet limitations and exotic construction opportunities.

The Pick 4 sequence spanning Races 5 through 8 is the card's most compelling multi-race structure. Using Sun Of War (3) or Poncho Jac (5) in Race 5, Wonder World (1) in Race 6, S'mor Crafty (4) in Race 7, and Lizzy's Dream (6) or Stacy Ellen (3) in Race 8 creates a manageable four-race ticket. A two-by-one-by-one-by-two structure — using two horses in Race 5, one single in Race 6, one single in Race 7, and two horses in Race 8 — results in four combinations that could produce meaningful payoffs given the co-favorite situations in multiple legs.

The Pick 3 from Race 6 through Race 8 using Wonder World (1) singled in Race 6, S'mor Crafty (4) singled in Race 7, and Lizzy's Dream (6) / Stacy Ellen (3) doubled in Race 8 is a three-combination ticket that is cost-efficient and rewards exactness in handicapping the two even-money choices.

Value plays for the day include Rich On The River (4) at 6-1 in Race 3 with the Chavez booking — when a top jockey takes a price horse in an eight-runner allowance sprint, the barn is communicating something to the market. A $10 win ticket on Rich On The River (4) is a worthwhile investment.

Leavetheninetynine (1) at 5-1 in Race 5 with the rail post and a Radosevich barn confidence angle is another value play. In a six-horse route for non-winners of three, the inside post can be lethal if the pace unfolds favorably, and L.R. Rivera from the inside on a Radosevich runner is not a throwaway booking.

Her Own Shadow (5) at 5-1 in Race 8 with the Joshua Radosevich family booking is a closing race value play worth a small win ticket, particularly in a Zielinski-heavy race where the public may over-bet the two barn favorites.

The most structurally sound exotic of the day is a trifecta in Race 7 — the five-horse optional claimer — where S'mor Crafty (4) and Mr Loooch (5) are well-defined top two choices and Carson N Spence (3) and Ironclad Alibi (2) provide manageable price coverage in third. A trifecta keying 4/5 on top with all four combinations over 3/2 creates a four-ticket investment that could return a meaningful multiple at Thistledown's typical trifecta pool.

The Daily Double in Races 7 and 8 connecting S'mor Crafty (4) with Lizzy's Dream (6) is the sharpest two-race combination on the card. Even though both are morning line favorites or near-favorites, the combination payout at Thistledown's pool sizes could still produce a respectable return of two to four times the investment, depending on actual wagering distribution across the other combinations.

For the full-card bettor, the best single-race investments remain Exponentially (3) in Race 1 as a straightforward win bet, Secret Bagent Man (1) in Race 4 as a value exacta play with Chavez up at 3-1, and the trifecta structure in Race 8 using the Zielinski duo and Jac's Cocoabella (4) as the middle piece.

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


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