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

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Aqueduct's Friday, March 13, 2026 card is an eight-race dirt program with a mix of maiden claimers, conditioned claimers, starter allowance, and an allowance optional claimer, all on the main track. The sequence is compact, with races 1–3 setting up the day's pace profile for the later sprint-heavy races, and there are multiple overlapping trainer and jockey combinations (notably Linda Rice, Rudy Rodriguez, Dutrow, Charlton Baker, and riders like Jose Lezcano, Kendrick Carmouche, and Flavien Prat) that shape the board through the middle of the card. The menu offers several logical short-priced favorites but also a handful of older veterans and lightly raced improvers that can create value in intra-race and multi-race exotics.

Weather and Track Conditions

Forecasts for the Aqueduct area on Friday, March 13, 2026 call for cold but manageable conditions, with morning temperatures near the low 30s Fahrenheit, afternoon highs in the mid-40s, light winds around 5–10 mph, and intermittent clouds with a chance of light or patchy showers. There is no strong indication of a major storm or prolonged heavy precipitation right around post time, so the most likely scenario is a fast or possibly a harrowed main track, with only a small chance of a “good” or “muddy” designation if showers move through more vigorously than forecast. Recent trend reports show that Aqueduct has handled moisture reasonably well, and even when listed muddy or sloppy the track has generally played fair to slightly speed-favoring rather than severely biased.

Track Bias and Post Position Bias

Recent meet-wide data show that at six furlongs on dirt, roughly half of the races have been won wire to wire, with an overall edge to early speed and a slight but noticeable advantage to inside posts, especially the rail. At seven furlongs, early speed still performs well but outside posts become more competitive, while at the mile configuration stalking and pressing styles have had more success than deep closers, with inside-to-middle posts doing best. Track-trend notes from the weeks leading into March 13 indicate that the rail has oscillated between “good” and “a little better a path or two off the inside,” but there has not been an overwhelming dead rail pattern in early March; forward placement remains more important than exact lane selection. Given today's expected weather, the working assumption should be a slightly speed-favoring surface that rewards horses who can secure position early without being forced to duel, particularly in the short sprints.

1st Race – Aqueduct – Friday, March 13th, 2026

Maiden Claiming, 1 Mile Dirt, Purse 44,000, for maidens three and up, claiming price 40,000. Field of 5: Antietam (1), Restless Renegade (2), Klimt Master (3), Gaborone (4), Mr R T (5).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 1:10 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

With only five entries, the one-mile maiden claimer projects as a compact, somewhat tactical race rather than a strongly run affair. The Rice pair of Antietam (1) and Restless Renegade (2) is likely to control the pace scenario, with one forward and one tracking, depending on rider intent. Klimt Master (3) and Gaborone (4) appear more likely to settle midpack, while Mr R T (5) looks like a candidate to sit last early and hope to pass tired horses late. Given the modest class level and small field, a long, sustained move from far back is less likely to be effective than securing position by the first turn and grinding from there.

Key Contenders

Antietam (1) has the inside draw, a strong barn, and a jockey who is adept at nursing speed around two turns at Aqueduct. Linda Rice's numbers with maiden claimers on dirt and with horses making incremental class and distance adjustments are typically very solid, and in a race without a clear stand-out, that profile alone puts Antietam (1) in the top tier. Handicappers generally see Antietam (1) as capable of either making the lead from the rail or sitting second behind a more aggressive stablemate, and in either scenario this horse figures to get first run on the more hesitant closers turning for home.

Gaborone (4) represents a high-percentage trainer often patient but effective with maidens stretching out or returning to more realistic spots. The three-year-old age, lighter impost at 120, and a rider known more for well-timed midpack trips than for all-out send tactics combine to suggest a stalking, outside trip where Gaborone (4) tries to pounce at the quarter pole. For connections of this caliber in a 40,000 maiden claimer, even a modestly improving figure pattern can be enough to stamp this runner as a prime win threat.

Secondary Choices

Restless Renegade (2) is a stablemate to Antietam (1) and has a scratch note for a prior race due to a private veterinarian injury report, which is a minor red flag but also suggests there may have been a valid excuse for a missed start. The presence of Kendrick Carmouche hints that if Restless Renegade (2) is healthy today, he may be used aggressively from the gate to ensure an honest pace. In a small field, that kind of intent can make Restless Renegade (2) dangerous if left alone for too long, but there is also the possibility that he softens things up for the other Rice runner.

Klimt Master (3) comes from a lower profile barn but fits on class and may offer some value if the board overfocuses on the bigger-name connections. This gelding has the look of a horse who can sit third or fourth early and perhaps take advantage if the Rice pair overplays their hand on the front end. With a journeyman rider who often saves ground and works the inside, Klimt Master (3) could outperform his perceived talent level if the pace does not collapse but becomes grinding late.

Longshots

Mr R T (5) is the least obvious win candidate based on connections and likely recent form, as the trainer and apprentice jockey combination is not as productive at this level as the others on paper. That said, in a five-horse field he only needs a small step forward and a contested pace to clunk up for a minor award, particularly if a couple of rivals do not finish with enthusiasm. As a deep longshot, Mr R T (5) is more appealing underneath in trifectas and supers than as a win bet.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

The race flows through Antietam (1) and Gaborone (4) as the most reliable win candidates, with Restless Renegade (2) the main pace wild card. A straightforward win bet on whichever of Antietam (1) or Gaborone (4) offers the better price is reasonable. Exacta players can focus on 1–4 and 4–1 with some saver tickets using 2 in the second slot. Trifecta structures might lean 1,4 over 1,2,3,4 over 1,2,3,5 to capture a minor upset in the bottom slot if the favorite runs but does not dominate.

Selections

Win Antietam (1)
Place Gaborone (4)
Show Restless Renegade (2)

2nd Race – Aqueduct – Friday, March 13th, 2026

Maiden Optional Claiming, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse 70,000, for three-year-old fillies sold or RNA'd for 60,000 or less or entered for 75,000. Field of 6: My First Dinah (1), Beau Hill (2), Holly Ln (3), Liam's Diva (4), Kay Road (5), Backstreets (6).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 1:42 PM.​

Pace Analysis

This is a six-furlong maiden sprint for fillies, which typically features more early speed than stamina. Holly Ln (3) with Ricardo Santana Jr looks like a prime candidate to show gate speed, and Liam's Diva (4) and Kay Road (5) both have profiles suggesting forward or pressing trips. Backstreets (6) may sit just off the pace, while My First Dinah (1) and Beau Hill (2) could either break sharply from the inside or get shuffled and need to rally. With multiple fillies capable of going, the pace scenario leans toward honest to fast, which should set the race up for whoever can sit just behind the top line instead of being part of a three-way duel.

Key Contenders

Holly Ln (3) pairs a capable trainer with a strong win rider, and in these maiden optional claiming spots the combination can be very effective when the filly has some foundation in the morning or in prior starts. With a mid-gate draw and tactical speed, Holly Ln (3) can avoid being pinned on the rail and also avoid being parked wide if Santana Jr times the break well. Handicappers generally view this type as a major win player if she can clear or sit just outside the early leaders and kick clear turning for home.

Backstreets (6) with Jose Lezcano and a respectable barn fits the archetype of the outside stalking maiden who can capitalize if the inner half of the gate goes too quickly. The six post offers a clean run, and Lezcano is adept at keeping fillies in the clear and asking for their run at the right time. Backstreets (6) projects as the most likely to get the trip every handicapper wants in a six-furlong maiden: two to three lengths off a contested pace, three wide in the clear, ready to pounce at the top of the stretch.

Secondary Choices

Liam's Diva (4) for Clement with Jaime Rodriguez aboard is the kind of filly that can take money on connections alone, and if she has a respectable worktab or a solid debut figure she becomes a main player. The four post should let Liam's Diva (4) press the leaders without being forced to duel, and the barn's history with developing young fillies at this condition is very good. If the board underestimates her because of a subtle running line, she may offer some value as a second choice.

Kay Road (5) has a trainer known for springing occasional upsets with lightly raced stock, and the presence of Christopher Elliott suggests the filly may be aggressive early but not necessarily the top barn priority in the race. Still, Kay Road (5) is drawn between Liam's Diva (4) and Backstreets (6), which can lead to a good pressing trip if she breaks well and secures position. She is a reasonable candidate for a place or show finish in a field where several fillies may still be figuring things out.

Longshots

My First Dinah (1) has a scratch note for illness in a prior maiden claimer; returning in a stronger level maiden optional could indicate confidence or simply a placement aimed at finding the right trip rather than the easiest field. From the rail, My First Dinah (1) will need to break sharply to avoid being stuck behind a wall of horses, but if she does she can ride the bias-friendly inside path and maybe outrun long odds. Beau Hill (2) is in a similar boat, likely to be overlooked, but with Cancel up and a barn that has shown it can get a horse to move forward with experience. Either of these inside fillies can spice up trifectas if they improve.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race is a strong candidate for a spread approach in early multi-race bets because many of the fillies have limited public form. On the win end, Holly Ln (3) and Backstreets (6) look like the most reliable choices, with Liam's Diva (4) next. A modest win bet on whichever of 3 or 6 offers a better price is reasonable. Exactas that box 3,4,6 can be supplemented with savers 3,6 over 1,2,4,5,6 to capture an improving longshot in the second slot. For trifectas, using 3,6 on top of 3,4,5,6 over all can be a way to catch a price underneath.

Selections

Win Backstreets (6)
Place Holly Ln (3)
Show Liam's Diva (4)

3rd Race – Aqueduct – Friday, March 13th, 2026

Claiming, 1 Mile Dirt, Purse 35,000, for three-year-olds and up which have never won two races, claiming price 20,000. Field of 6: Instant Success (1), Sequential (2), Come Full Circle (3), Smallchangegeep (4), Maldini (5), Good Bali (6).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 2:13 PM.​

Pace Analysis

This one-mile non-winners of two claimer does not have an obvious confirmed front-runner, but several entrants have enough tactical speed to attend a moderate pace. Instant Success (1) from the rail with Ricardo Santana Jr could be asked to show speed to protect position, while Sequential (2) has the profile of a horse that likes to sit close. Come Full Circle (3) and Smallchangegeep (4) seem likely to settle in midpack, with Maldini (5) and Good Bali (6) potentially sitting a bit further back. The overall pace projects as moderate, making trip and position especially important.

Key Contenders

Maldini (5) stands out on connections with Flavien Prat riding for Richard Dutrow Jr in a relatively modest claimer. That pairing signals intent, and Maldini (5) is likely dropping into a spot designed to get confidence and another win. From the five post, he can track the inner speed, stay in the clear, and make a decisive move around the far turn, which is a style that fits both rider and typical track bias at the mile.

Sequential (2) for Linda Rice and Jose Lezcano brings a reliable profile at this level, especially if recent figures have been competitive versus similar or slightly tougher. The inside draw, combined with Lezcano's knack for nursing horses in a pressing role, makes Sequential (2) a strong candidate to be sitting in the pocket behind Instant Success (1) and ready to tip out when the real running starts. Handicappers often gravitate to this kind of combination when there are no obvious pace standouts.

Secondary Choices

Instant Success (1) with Santana Jr and a smaller barn can be dangerous if the rider chooses aggressive tactics from the rail and the field lets him control the fractions. In these mile claimers, a rail horse that clears or sits a comfortable inside trip often outruns expectations. Instant Success (1) is a solid candidate to hang around for a piece even if he cannot hold off the better-connected rivals late.

Smallchangegeep (4) with Manuel Franco and James Ryerson is a midgating type who could find a perfect position stalking the first flight. If the inner pair duel more than expected, Smallchangegeep (4) would be positioned to take advantage. He profiles as a logical use underneath and a mild upset candidate if the favorites underperform.

Longshots

Come Full Circle (3) and Good Bali (6) are the less obvious win players on paper. Come Full Circle (3) is paired with a capable journeyman rider and a low-profile barn; he could outrun odds if the pace gets unexpectedly hot or if he finds a good ground-saving trip. Good Bali (6) with Oscar Gomez and Ronald Breed Jr may be forced to launch a wide rally from the back, which is not ideal on a typically fair-to-speed-friendly Aqueduct surface, but as a late-running type he can pick off some tired rivals for a minor award.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Maldini (5) is the most appealing single in this race, especially in vertical exotics and early pick sequences, assuming his morning line is not prohibitively short. A win bet on Maldini (5) is straightforward if he is near even money or higher. Exacta strategies can key 5 over 1,2,4 and box 2,5 in case the Rice horse trips out. The trifecta can be structured as 5 over 1,2,4 over 1,2,3,4,6 to leverage the likely superiority of the top pair while allowing a longshot to sneak into third.

Selections

Win Maldini (5)
Place Sequential (2)
Show Instant Success (1)

4th Race – Aqueduct – Friday, March 13th, 2026

Allowance Optional Claiming, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse 83,000, for fillies and mares four and up which have never won 20,000 other than maiden, claiming, starter or state-bred allowance, or which have never won two races, or claiming price 50,000. Field of 5: Romantic Dancer (1), Intentious (2), Always Practical (3), Will Not Be Swayed (4), Artemis Sound (5).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 2:44 PM.​

Pace Analysis

This short field features several mares with speed or tactical speed, and with only five runners the race may turn into a sprint from the half-mile pole rather than a true drag race early. Romantic Dancer (1) from the rail and Always Practical (3) for Linda Rice and Kendrick Carmouche both have profiles suggesting they will be prominent early. Will Not Be Swayed (4) can sit just off them, while Intentious (2) and Artemis Sound (5) may be more comfortable in stalk-and-pounce roles. The pace should be fair to moderately fast, with a premium on the horse who can sit just off the top two.

Key Contenders

Romantic Dancer (1) with Flavien Prat for Richard Dutrow Jr is a potent combination at this level. From the rail, Romantic Dancer (1) has the option to gun and control the pace or allow a rival to go and sit inside tracking. Given the short field, the most likely approach is to be aggressive enough to secure the lead or inside press position, and Prat's tactical judgment should make her very tough to run down if she gets comfortable.

Artemis Sound (5) for Todd Pletcher and Manuel Franco brings class and a strong barn to the table. Although she will carry 121 versus the standard 123, the slight weight break is less important than her ability to sit outside and avoid traffic. Artemis Sound (5) is the type who can bide her time two or three lengths off a contested pace and then launch a sustained run around the turn, and in a five-horse field she is unlikely to encounter serious trouble.

Secondary Choices

Always Practical (3) with Carmouche and Linda Rice is another key player, particularly if she shows more speed than Romantic Dancer (1) and can cross and clear or sit just outside. Carmouche excels at applying pressure to leaders and putting them away before the eighth pole, so if Always Practical (3) is sharp she may make the race for Artemis Sound (5) or win it outright. Will Not Be Swayed (4), also from the Rice barn with Sahin Civaci, looks like the stable's more patient entry and could be ridden to stalk and capitalize if the pace duel heats up between 1 and 3.

Intentious (2) has a less obvious upside but is not without a chance if the more fancied runners hook up and soften each other. The jockey and trainer combination is capable of sneaking into the trifecta when the board focuses on bigger-name barns.

Longshots

Given the short field, none of the five is a true throwout for minor awards, but Intentious (2) is the one most likely to be overlooked in the wagering. If she can save ground and get a seam late, Intentious (2) can pick up some pieces, especially if one of the more fancied mares does not fire.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Romantic Dancer (1) and Artemis Sound (5) are the two most appealing win candidates. A win bet on whichever offers better value is logical, with slight preference to Romantic Dancer (1) on expected pace and rail advantage. Exactas that box 1 and 5 and lean 1,5 over 3,4,5 in saver tickets can cover the main outcomes. In trifectas, 1,5 over 1,3,4,5 over all is a reasonable approach, with a small saver ticket using 3 on top of 1,5 in case Always Practical (3) proves best.

Selections

Win Romantic Dancer (1)
Place Artemis Sound (5)
Show Always Practical (3)

5th Race – Aqueduct – Friday, March 13th, 2026

Claiming, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse 40,000, for fillies and mares four and up, claiming price 16,000. Field of 6: Troubled Luck (1), My First Love (2), Echo In Eternity (3), Dorth's Sol Dancer (4), Unicorn Cake (5), Jackson's Dixie (6).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 3:15 PM.​

Pace Analysis

This older mare claimer at six furlongs features several runners with prior speed but not necessarily consistent recent form, which is typical at this level. Troubled Luck (1) can show speed from the inside, and Jackson's Dixie (6) from the outside post looks capable of either sending or sitting a pressing trip. Unicorn Cake (5) with Manuel Franco may be best as a stalker, while Echo In Eternity (3) and Dorth's Sol Dancer (4) likely sit midpack. My First Love (2), returning from a scratch for illness in a prior starter optional claimer, may not be as quick early at this stage. The overall pace figures to be honest but not suicidal, with a slight edge to horses who can sit within two or three lengths of the lead.

Key Contenders

Unicorn Cake (5) with Franco and Jeremiah Englehart stands out as a strong win candidate. She sits in the sweet mid-gate position, has a rider adept at reading pace, and comes from a barn that places horses effectively in claiming company. Unicorn Cake (5) has the tactical speed to sit just behind the leaders and a finishing kick that should prove effective if the track is playing typically to stalkers and speed.

Jackson's Dixie (6) for Jaime Rodriguez and Michael Miceli has outside speed and good tactical options. From the six post, Jackson's Dixie (6) can apply pressure to Troubled Luck (1) and any other inside speed, then either press on or sit just off them. Horses with this profile often do very well in these 16,000 claimers when they can stay out of traffic and dictate terms from the outside.

Secondary Choices

Echo In Eternity (3) with Jose Lezcano and Bruce Levine is the kind of veteran mare who can trip out into the exacta if the leaders set an honest pace and she gets a comfortable tracking trip. From the three post, Echo in Eternity (3) should be able to save some ground while staying within striking distance. If she retains some of her back class, she is dangerous at a fair price.

Troubled Luck (1) has the rail and Jose Antonio Gomez up for Edward DeLauro, and while this combination may not be as flashy as some others, a clean break and a bias-friendly inside path can go a long way. Troubled Luck (1) could be the controlling speed if the outside riders are content to stalk, which would greatly enhance her chances of hanging on for a top-three finish.

Longshots

My First Love (2) has a prior illness scratch and may be a bit questionable fitness-wise, but she drops into a claiming event where her experience and toughness can still make her a factor. If she drifts up in price and the warm-up looks good, My First Love (2) is worth including in deeper exotics. Dorth's Sol Dancer (4) with Oscar Gomez and Karl Grusmark is more of a midpack grinder who will need a pace collapse or significant improvement to win, but she can certainly pepper the trifecta or superfecta on her best day.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Unicorn Cake (5) is the preferred win play, with Jackson's Dixie (6) a close second choice. A win bet on Unicorn Cake (5) is recommended if she offers anything near a fair price. Exacta keys 5 over 1,3,6 and a 5,6 box make sense. Trifectas might be structured 5,6 over 1,3,5,6 over 1,2,3,4,6, allowing for a longshot to sneak into third.

Selections

Win Unicorn Cake (5)
Place Jackson's Dixie (6)
Show Echo In Eternity (3)

6th Race – Aqueduct – Friday, March 13th, 2026

Claiming, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse 52,000, for three-year-olds and up which have never won three races or which have not won a race since March 13, 2025, claiming price 50,000. Field of 6: Asleep At Eight (1), Paradise Valley (2), Typhoon Fury (3), Russi (4), Disarmed (5), Mr Skylight (6).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 3:46 PM.​

Pace Analysis

This conditioned claimer is likely to feature a contested early pace, as several horses have prior experience showing speed in sprints. Asleep At Eight (1) and Paradise Valley (2) both figure to be forward from the inside, while Typhoon Fury (3) has enough tactical speed to be close. Russi (4) and Disarmed (5) can sit just off the tempo, with Mr Skylight (6) possibly adopting a stalking or midpack trip from the outside. With the Aqueduct six-furlong configuration's known tilt toward speed, the horse who can sit just off the dueling leaders and tip out turning for home will hold an advantage.

Key Contenders

Mr Skylight (6) with Manuel Franco and Joe Sharp is a logical top pick. Despite a recent illness scratch in a higher-level allowance optional claiming race, the decision to spot him here suggests intent to find a winning placement. From the outside post, Mr Skylight (6) can avoid the early scrum and track in the clear, which is ideal in a race with several pace elements inside.

Asleep At Eight (1) with Santana Jr and Charlton Baker is another prime contender. The inside draw and a trainer with good numbers in this category make Asleep At Eight (1) a candidate to either attempt to wire the field or to sit a pocket trip behind Paradise Valley (2). The scratch note for illness in a prior claiming event is a mild concern, but if he is fit now, his pace advantage and rail draw are powerful assets.

Secondary Choices

Disarmed (5) for Rudy Rodriguez with Ruben Silvera aboard brings a midgate draw and a rider-trainer combo known for aggressive tactics. Disarmed (5) has the tactical speed to sit just off the first flight, and if he can avoid being caught wide early, he may get first run on Mr Skylight (6). Russi (4) with Jaime Rodriguez and H. James Bond fits a similar stalker profile and can become a threat if the inside speed horses overdo it through the opening quarter.

Paradise Valley (2) with Kendrick Carmouche and Kathleen Demasi is a veteran who can still show speed and occasionally hang around for a piece. From the two post, Paradise Valley (2) might be sent aggressively to try to control the pace, but with multiple other pace players that scenario is uncertain.

Longshots

Typhoon Fury (3) with Reylu Gutierrez and Gregory Charlerie looks like the outsider most likely to benefit if the race collapses late. He can secure a midpack trip and hope for a meltdown; even if he is not a strong win candidate, Typhoon Fury (3) is the type who can fill out the third or fourth slot in vertical exotics at a price.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race sets up nicely to lean on Mr Skylight (6) and Asleep At Eight (1) as the top two win candidates. A win bet on Mr Skylight (6) is a solid play if his price is not crushed. The exacta can be keyed 6 over 1,4,5 and 1,6 boxed as a saver. For trifectas, 1,6 over 1,4,5,6 over 1,2,3,4,5,6 gives coverage while emphasizing the top pair.

Selections

Win Mr Skylight (6)
Place Asleep At Eight (1)
Show Disarmed (5)

7th Race – Aqueduct – Friday, March 13th, 2026

Starter Allowance, 6 1/2 Furlongs Dirt, Purse 57,000, for New York bred fillies and mares which have started for 35,000 or less and never won a race other than maiden or claiming. Field of 7: Scarlet's Dream (1), Cloudy Chance (2), Dia Por Dia (3), Timia (4), Will Of A Womanne (5), Irish Jackson (6), Fifi La Fume (7).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 4:17 PM.

Pace Analysis

At six and a half furlongs, the pace dynamic is a bit different than a pure six-furlong dash, but early speed still holds an edge. Cloudy Chance (2), Timia (4), and Will Of A Womanne (5) all have plausible early speed profiles, while Scarlet's Dream (1) from the rail and Fifi La Fume (7) from the outside may adopt pressing roles. Dia Por Dia (3) and Irish Jackson (6) appear more likely to settle and make runs from midpack or slightly further back. With several potential pace players, an honest, perhaps slightly above-average early tempo is expected, favoring stalkers who can sit two to three lengths off the lead.

Key Contenders

Will Of A Womanne (5) with Kendrick Carmouche for Linda Rice is a major player. The five post is ideal for a filly who can show speed without being forced to duel on the rail, and Carmouche's aggressive style fits well in this starter allowance context. Will of a Womanne (5) should secure a prominent outside trip and has the look of a filly who can grind her way to the lead turning for home.

Cloudy Chance (2) with Jose Lezcano and Chris Englehart also shapes up as a key contender. With a mid-inside draw and a jockey known for good pace judgment, Cloudy Chance (2) can either contest the lead or sit just behind the primary speed. Englehart's barn has historically done well in state-bred starter conditions, and this filly projects to get a favorable trip.

Secondary Choices

Dia Por Dia (3) with Manuel Franco and Linda Rice is likely to be used more as a stalker or midpack runner that can capitalize if the pace heats up. From the three post, Dia Por Dia (3) should save ground early and look to split horses or tip out in the lane. Scarlet's Dream (1) with Christopher Elliott and Keri Brion can show some early interest from the rail, and if she breaks sharply and the track is leaning to inside speed, Scarlet's Dream (1) can be very dangerous at a price.

Irish Jackson (6) with Flavien Prat and Robert Falcone Jr is the veteran closer of the group. While seven-year-old mares sometimes lose a step, the class relief inherent in the starter allowance condition combined with Prat's ability to time a late run makes Irish Jackson (6) a legitimate secondary contender, particularly if the pace is hot.

Longshots

Fifi La Fume (7) with Gokhan Kocakaya and Rudy Rodriguez has the outside post and may need to work out a wide trip, but that also gives her a clean run if the inside gets congested. As a less obvious win type, Fifi La Fume (7) is still usable underneath. Timia (4) with Jaime Rodriguez and Wayne Potts may be sent aggressively and could hang on for a share if the track is especially kind to speed; if not, she is more likely to fade late but could still fill out the bottom of exotics.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Will Of A Womanne (5) is the preferred win play, with Cloudy Chance (2) and Irish Jackson (6) as key backups. A win bet on Will of a Womanne (5) is recommended, especially if her price is in a playable range. Exacta keys 5 over 1,2,3,6 and a 2,5,6 box can cover the primary outcomes. For trifectas, 2,5,6 over 1,2,3,5,6 over all offers a good balance between coverage and focus on the top three.

Selections

Win Will Of A Womanne (5)
Place Cloudy Chance (2)
Show Irish Jackson (6)

8th Race – Aqueduct – Friday, March 13th, 2026

Claiming, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse 40,000, for four-year-olds and up, claiming price 16,000. Field of 7: Graywing (1), Amusing Mischief (2), Princip (3), Emerald Forest (4), Nabokov (5), Enduring Spirit (6), Divine Leader (7).

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 4:48 PM.​

Pace Analysis

This closing sprint is packed with older geldings who have extensive back class and various running styles. Graywing (1), Amusing Mischief (2), and Emerald Forest (4) can all show early foot, with Enduring Spirit (6) also capable of being forward. Nabokov (5) and Princip (3) may be more comfortable stalking, while Divine Leader (7), returning from an injury scratch in a prior 10,000 claimer, might be allowed to settle early. Given the age and style mix, an honest early tempo is expected, and whoever can avoid a hard early duel while staying within striking distance is likely to have the advantage.

Key Contenders

Graywing (1) with Flavien Prat and Richard Dutrow Jr is a standout on paper. From the rail, Graywing (1) will likely be sent to secure position and possibly the lead, and Prat's ability to ration speed makes this horse very dangerous if he clears or sits a comfortable inside trip. Given the barn's success in similar spots, Graywing (1) is a logical top choice.

Nabokov (5) for Ilkay Kantarmaci with Manuel Franco is a strong mid-gate contender. This gelding can sit just off the early leaders and make a sustained move, and the combination of a savvy barn and a reliable rider bodes well for a solid effort. Nabokov (5) benefits from not needing the lead and should avoid the most intense early pace battle.

Secondary Choices

Amusing Mischief (2) with Jaime Rodriguez and Karin Wagner could prove dangerous if he breaks sharply and the inside speed dynamic favors him. From the two post, Amusing Mischief (2) can either press Graywing (1) or sit just behind, depending on how the race unfolds. Princip (3) with Gokhan Kocakaya and Ilkay Kantarmaci is a barnmate to Nabokov (5) and has been on several also-eligible lists and trainer scratches at Oaklawn in recent weeks, suggesting he may have been looking for the right spot; here he gets that chance, though he may still be a notch below his stable companion.

Enduring Spirit (6) with Kendrick Carmouche and Michelle Giangiulio offers tactical speed and the ability to apply pressure from the outside. If Carmouche can keep him in the clear and off a possible inside duel, Enduring Spirit (6) can be a serious factor turning for home.

Longshots

Emerald Forest (4) with apprentice Dalila Rivera and Charlton Baker carries a light weight at 116, which can be an asset if he is fit and forward. His potential to show speed and perhaps get brave on the front end makes Emerald Forest (4) an interesting longshot. Divine Leader (7) with Jose Antonio Gomez and Devon Gittens has an injury scratch note from a prior 10,000 claimer, so his health and current form are questions; however, he is a hard-knocking older gelding, and if he returns close to his best he can definitely outrun long odds for a minor share.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Graywing (1) and Nabokov (5) are the most reliable win candidates. A win bet on Graywing (1) is preferred if his price is acceptable; if he is heavily bet, shifting some win action to Nabokov (5) may offer better value. Exacta tickets can key 1,5 over 1,2,3,4,5,6, with a box of 1 and 5 as the core. Trifectas 1,5 over 1,2,3,4,5,6 over all can capture price horses like Emerald Forest (4) or Divine Leader (7) underneath.

Selections

Win Graywing (1)
Place Nabokov (5)
Show Enduring Spirit (6)

Jockey Notes and Insights

The jockey colony for today's Aqueduct card is strong, with several riders who are particularly effective on the Aqueduct dirt course. Flavien Prat appears on multiple live mounts, including Maldini (5) in Race 3, Romantic Dancer (1) in Race 4, Irish Jackson (6) in Race 7, and Graywing (1) in Race 8, and his presence often indicates a serious barn intention to win. Jose Lezcano also has a key role on horses like Antietam (1) in Race 1, Backstreets (6) in Race 2, Sequential (2) in Race 3, Echo In Eternity (3) in Race 5, Cloudy Chance (2) in Race 7, and others, and his history at Aqueduct suggests he will continue to ride the pace and rail dynamics well.

Kendrick Carmouche is another rider to watch, particularly on early-speed and pace-pressing types such as Restless Renegade (2) in Race 1, Always Practical (3) and Will Not Be Swayed (4) in Race 4, Paradise Valley (2) in Race 6, Will Of A Womanne (5) in Race 7, and Enduring Spirit (6) in Race 8. His aggressive trips can either create or exploit pace biases, making his mounts dangerous when they catch a track leaning toward speed. Ricardo Santana Jr has several solid engagements in Instant Success (1) in Race 3, Holly Ln (3) in Race 2, Asleep At Eight (1) in Race 6, and others, and he tends to be particularly effective when given instructions to secure early position and nurse horses along. Manuel Franco, Jaime Rodriguez, and Oscar Gomez round out a competitive group, each capable of producing upset rides, especially on midpriced stalkers and closers who need a well-timed move.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Linda Rice has a significant presence on this card, with entries like Antietam (1) and Restless Renegade (2) in Race 1, Always Practical (3) and Will Not Be Swayed (4) in Race 4, Sequential (2) in Race 3, Unicorn Cake (5) in Race 5 (though Englehart trains Unicorn Cake (5)), and Will Of A Womanne (5) and Dia Por Dia (3) in Race 7, among others, and her barn's strong stats at Aqueduct make her horses key in many race outcomes. Richard Dutrow Jr's smaller but high-quality string includes Maldini (5) in Race 3, Romantic Dancer (1) in Race 4, and Graywing (1) in Race 8, all of which look like major win candidates, reflecting his sharp placement in claiming and allowance optional races. Rudy Rodriguez has Disarmed (5) in Race 6 and Fifi La Fume (7) in Race 7, and his barn has historically done well in mid-level claimers and New York bred conditions, especially when horses are well-placed and fit.

Other notable barns include Joe Sharp with Mr Skylight (6) in Race 6, who appears well-spotted after a scratch from a higher-level allowance; Todd Pletcher with Artemis Sound (5) in Race 4, bringing higher-class stock into a favorable allowance optional spot; and Charlton Baker with Asleep At Eight (1) in Race 6 and Emerald Forest (4) in Race 8, both of whom can be dangerous at decent prices when the barn picks the right condition. Several trainers, like H. James Bond with Russi (4) and Chris Englehart with Cloudy Chance (2), have specialized in New York circuits and know the local conditions, making their starters reliable exotics players.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

Given the overall shape of the card, multi-race bettors will likely focus on daily doubles and pick sequences that run through the middle and late races. A reasonable early daily double could key Antietam (1) and Gaborone (4) in Race 1 with a spread of Holly Ln (3), Liam's Diva (4), and Backstreets (6) in Race 2, taking advantage of relatively reliable connections in small fields. In the middle of the card, Maldini (5) in Race 3 and Romantic Dancer (1) in Race 4 look like attractive single candidates in rolling doubles and pick 3s, as both fit their conditions well and are trained and ridden by top-level connections.

In the late pick 4 or pick 5 covering Races 5 through 8, the strategy might involve singling Unicorn Cake (5) in Race 5 or Mr Skylight (6) in Race 6, then spreading in the New York bred starter allowance in Race 7 with Will Of A Womanne (5), Cloudy Chance (2), Irish Jackson (6), and Dia Por Dia (3), and closing with a narrower group in Race 8 centered on Graywing (1), Nabokov (5), and Enduring Spirit (6). Value plays likely include horses like Scarlet's Dream (1) in Race 7, Emerald Forest (4) in Race 8, and Klimt Master (3) in Race 1, all of whom could go off at higher odds than their realistic chances suggest, especially in trifectas and supers where their presence in second or third can inflate payouts. Because track bias on the day can still shift slightly with weather and maintenance, monitoring the first two or three races for any clear inside or pure-speed advantages and then adjusting late-card wagers accordingly will be critical.

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