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Delaware Park closes out its 88th racing season with a competitive nine-race card today featuring purses ranging from $14,000 to $46,000. First post is at 12:45 PM with no carryovers heading into the final stretch of the meet.
Weather and Track Conditions
Current conditions at Delaware Park show partly cloudy skies with temperatures reaching 61°F and a 30% chance of rain showers. The main track is listed as fast while the turf course is firm with the rail at 35 feet for races 5 and 7. Light winds from the north-northeast at 15 mph with 67% humidity provide favorable racing conditions for both surfaces.
Race 1 – Maiden Claiming ($20,000)
Key Contenders
Let’em Hate (#8) emerges as the top choice despite a dismal outing at Parx in her most recent start. Her prior local and Monmouth Park efforts were competitive, and the drop to an appropriate claiming level positions her well for graduation. Charlie Marquez takes the mount for trainer Anthony Pecoraro.
Secondary Choices
Soul Stealer (#3) showed determination when trying hard against a 3-2 favorite at Timonium two races back, and even her most recent turf effort wasn’t without merit. The Mario Roberto Lopez trainee drops to 112 pounds with Matilda Burnham aboard.
Blondieness (#2) represents one of two Jamie Ness first-timers in this field and has been working in company with her stablemate. However, Ness carries a 0.91 ROI with two-year-old debut runners in maiden claiming company, which tempers expectations.
Wagering Strategy
Let’em Hate offers the best win value despite her last poor effort, while exacta combinations using the top three contenders provide coverage of likely scenarios.
Race 2 – Claiming ($20,000)
Key Contenders
R Averie Lynn (#6) appears off form but circumstances suggest this may be misleading. She faced Ritabook three consecutive times before encountering significant pace pressure in her latest start. Raul Mena’s booking and her outside draw away from early speed enhance her chances.
Secondary Choices
Shy Shy (#4) dominated lesser competition in her last start with an impressive speed figure, though the cutback to one turn may present challenges. Kevin Gomez guides the McLean Robertson trainee.
I Believe in Magic (#6) ran a strong race behind the hard-hitting Lastchance Romance last time out. While her form shows some inconsistency, her best effort would make her competitive here.
Pace Analysis
Multiple early speed types should create honest fractions, setting up potential closers and stalkers for late strikes.
Race 3 – Claiming ($16,000)
Key Contenders
Good Bright Flames (#6) made a middle move before tiring against stronger competition at Charles Town. Making her second start for trainer Jose Gallegos while attracting leading rider Jamie Rodriguez suggests improvement is expected.
Secondary Choices
The Feisty One (#7) just missed after being compromised by a poor trip around the first turn in her latest effort. A cleaner journey could yield different results.
Wicked Kitten (#5) performs best on fast tracks, owning both wins and six additional in-the-money finishes on such surfaces. She gave up readily on sloppy going last time, making today’s fast conditions favorable.
Longshots to Consider
The field lacks standout form, creating opportunities for improved efforts from horses moving to more suitable conditions or receiving better trips.
Race 4 – Maiden Claiming ($14,000)
Key Contenders
Lace Curtain (#11) narrowly missed in her return from a year-long layoff. If she can work out a favorable trip from the outside post, any improvement makes her the winner in this competitive maiden field.
Secondary Choices
Dame’s Rocket (#2) makes her career debut for trainer Lynn Ashby, who maintains a solid 6-for-31 record with first-time claiming starters. Sire Karakontie’s first-time starters win at a 15% clip, providing additional confidence.
Gortreagh Gal (#5) has shown solid form in her last two sprint efforts. Bruce Kravets trains this filly who draws Charlie Marquez for the ride.
Wagering Angles
The large field creates value opportunities, particularly with longshot maiden claimers capable of improvement.
Race 5 – Claiming ($22,000) – Turf
Key Contenders
Hegs (#9) stands out as the field’s only three-time winner with proven ability to close or stalk. His recent form includes impressive victories at 7-1 and 10-1 odds, demonstrating he doesn’t owe his backers anything.
Secondary Choices
Arjay (#7) likely controls the early pace with his proven ability to set rapid fractions and maintain his position. He successfully held off next-out winner Kaladin in his most recent start.
Silk War (#6) disappointed in his latest effort but showed better form previously. Making his third start off the bench, he seeks a return to his 2024 form level.
Pace Analysis
The turf course with its 35-foot rail should provide fair ground for all running styles, though early pace pressure could set up closing types.
Race 6 – Maiden Special Weight ($45,000)
This competitive maiden special weight for two-year-old fillies at one mile on dirt presents multiple viable contenders with varying experience levels. The $45,000 purse attracts quality connections, with several horses showing promise in their limited careers.
Track and Distance Considerations
The stretch out to a full mile will be the first two-turn experience for most of these fillies, making breeding and training patterns crucial factors. The fast main track should provide fair conditions for both speed and closing types, though early pace dynamics will be critical over the extended distance.
Top Contenders
Tortuga Coast (#6) emerges as the logical favorite despite a somewhat disappointing debut performance. She encountered early trouble breaking slowly and was subsequently outfooted, but the underlying effort showed enough promise to suggest improvement. The stretch out to two turns should benefit her significantly, as many fillies develop better tactical speed with added distance. Brett Brinkman trains this filly, and while his two-year-old record isn’t extensive, the connections appear confident in the distance switch.
Ambiance (#2) represents one of the meet’s most successful trainers in Michael Stidham, with Angel Cruz taking the mount. Racing Dudes tabs her as their selection at 6-1 odds, suggesting value in what appears to be a competitive field. As a first-time starter, she benefits from Stidham’s solid record with debut runners, and Cruz’s booking indicates stable confidence.
Hidden Rose (#10) ships down from New York for trainer Miguel Clement, who maintains an impressive 6-for-25 record with two-year-old debut runners. Her breeding profile suggests the two-turn distance poses no issues, and the barn has been exceptionally sharp at Delaware Park, hitting the board in seven of eight local starts. Jamie Rodriguez takes the mount, adding another positive angle given his strong meet.
Secondary Choices
Tiz Awesome (#8) faces significant changes simultaneously, attempting dirt, a route distance, and fillies-only competition for the first time. However, she hasn’t run poorly in any of her three career starts, including efforts against males and on turf surfaces. Trainer Rory Huston’s decision to make multiple surface and distance changes suggests confidence in her versatility.
Half a Deck (#5) represents the same barn as Kimmy Got Glasses, giving trainer James Lawrence II two live chances in this competitive field. Jorge Ruiz takes the mount, and his exceptional meet-long performance (37.28% purse earnings, 4.50 added wins) makes any horse he rides worth serious consideration.
Kinda Clever (#3) brings the pedigree advantage as a daughter of Into Mischief trained by respected conditioner Michael Matz. Sheldon Russell rides for a barn that typically sends horses to the races well-prepared, particularly in maiden special weight company.
Longshot Considerations
Mappy (#11) draws the outside post but benefits from Raul Mena’s strong recent form. Gary Contessa trains this first-time starter, and while his two-year-old record isn’t extensive, the barn has shown flashes of competence with limited opportunities.
Country Embrace (#7) carries the “b” designation indicating she’s a Maryland-bred eligible for state-bred bonuses. While this doesn’t impact the race outcome, it suggests connections view her as having sufficient ability to warrant the maiden special weight entry.
Pace Analysis and Trip Notes
The likely pace scenario involves moderate early fractions given the one-mile distance and the inexperience of most runners. Tortuga Coast’s early speed issues in her debut may actually benefit her here, as she could settle into a more comfortable stalking position. Hidden Rose and Ambiance as first-time starters bring unknown tactical speed, making their positioning critical.
The outside posts (#10 and #11) shouldn’t be overly disadvantageous at this distance, as there’s sufficient time for horses to work into favorable positions. The rail post could be tricky for Kimmy Got Glasses if early speed develops, potentially forcing tactical decisions early in her career.
Jockey and Trainer Angles
Angel Cruz’s selection of Ambiance over other available mounts indicates stable confidence, particularly given his strong season numbers. Jamie Rodriguez’s booking on Hidden Rose adds credibility to the New York shipper, as the leading rider typically receives quality mounts.
Jorge Ruiz on Half a Deck represents the meet’s most profitable jockey taking a live mount for a barn that’s had success with two-year-olds. His 4.50 added wins and exceptional value production make this a key angle to consider.
Wagering Strategy and Value Analysis
The likely favorite Tortuga Coast may offer fair odds given her debut performance, but the value appears to lie with the first-time starters who show strong trainer patterns. Ambiance at 6-1 odds represents solid value if Stidham’s debut record holds.
Hidden Rose offers another value angle given Clement’s exceptional local record and strong debut statistics. The exacta combinations using the top four contenders should provide good coverage of the most likely scenarios.
Recommended Plays:
- Win: Ambiance (#2) for value at 6-1
- Place: Hidden Rose (#10) and Tortuga Coast (#6)
- Exacta: 2,6,10 with 2,6,8,10,11
- Trifecta: Key Ambiance and Hidden Rose over the field for the third spot
Final Assessment
This competitive maiden special weight appears wide open, with legitimate cases for multiple contenders. The distance stretch and surface changes create uncertainty, but also opportunity for improved performances from several fillies. Focus on the trainer patterns and jockey selections for the best value opportunities in this intriguing contest.
Race 7 – Allowance ($46,000) – Turf
The feature race of Delaware Park’s closing day card presents a competitive field of 13 fillies and mares tackling 1 1/16 miles on the turf course. With a substantial $46,000 purse and allowance conditions for horses that have never won $20,000 once other than maiden, claiming, starter, or restricted events, this race attracts quality runners seeking to advance their careers.
Track and Distance Considerations
The turf course remains firm with the rail positioned at 35 feet, providing fair ground for all running styles. The 1 1/16-mile distance allows sufficient time for tactical maneuvering, particularly important given the large field size and varied running styles represented. The allowance conditions create an intriguing mix of lightly raced fillies stepping up and more experienced mares seeking their first significant victory.
Top Contenders
I Can Run (#1) commands overwhelming favoritism at 1.40 morning line odds, reflecting her established class advantage in this field. The six-year-old mare brings substantial experience with an official rating of 84 and demonstrates consistent form in similar company. Angel Cruz’s retention of the mount signals stable confidence, and her rail position should allow tactical flexibility in the early stages. However, the short price leaves little value for win betting.
Curlaine (#4) represents excellent value as the second choice at 3.50 morning line odds. Trainer Miguel Clement’s Delaware Park record speaks volumes – his horses have hit the board in seven of eight local starts, demonstrating exceptional consistency. Her solid third-place finish behind Starship Impulsive back in May gains significant credibility given that runner’s subsequent 5-for-7 record on turf. Jamie Rodriguez’s booking adds another positive angle, as the leading rider typically receives quality mounts from successful connections. At 7/2 odds, she offers the best combination of ability and value.
Golden Rocket (#7) has been consistently competitive in similar allowance company but may face some skepticism given recent near-misses. Her second-place finish on August 16 occurred on a day when all three turf races were won wire-to-wire, with two winners going off at 6-1 or higher, suggesting track bias may have aided front-runners. With lifetime earnings of $782,282 and a 14% win rate from 37 starts, she possesses proven ability but may be vulnerable at 5.00 morning line odds. Martin Chuan rides for Jamie Ness, a potent combination that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Secondary Choices
Thursday Girl (#10) faced particularly tough competition in her most recent start but showed solid form previously, including a creditable effort behind the talented Lifelovenlaughter. Kevin Gomez takes over the mount for trainer Brittany Russell, and the jockey switch could provide the spark needed for improvement. At 8.00 morning line odds, she represents potential value if the class relief proves beneficial.
Corey Beach (IRE) brings European breeding and the powerful H. Graham Motion barn, which maintains strong statistics with turf runners. Jorge Ruiz’s exceptional meet performance (37.28% purse earnings, 4.50 added wins) makes this an intriguing angle, particularly at 6.00 morning line odds. The three-year-old filly could benefit from the weight allowance and tactical speed on the grass.
Clementine Hunter (#9) represents Michael Stidham’s barn, which has shown consistent competence throughout the meet. Daniel Centeno’s booking suggests stable confidence, and the allowance conditions appear well-suited to her current class level.
Deeper Longshots
Embrace Me (#6) owns impressive lifetime earnings of $644,340 and brings extensive experience to this assignment. Described as a “Fast Deep” closer, she could capitalize if the pace unfolds favorably. At 10/1 morning line odds, she offers significant value if her best form surfaces.
Krone (#5) has compiled a solid record with $443,392 in earnings, though her 8% win rate suggests she’s more effective in supporting roles. Carlos Eduardo Lopez rides for trainer Mark Shuman, and any improvement could yield favorable returns at 8/1 odds.
Pace Analysis and Trip Scenarios
The large field creates potential for pace complications, though the 1 1/16-mile distance provides adequate time for horses to settle into comfortable positions. Golden Rocket’s “Fast Stalker” style suggests she’ll press the early pace, while Embrace Me’s “Fast Deep” closing kick requires honest fractions to be effective.
I Can Run’s rail position could prove advantageous if Cruz can secure a clean trip without being trapped behind moderate pace, but it also carries risk if early speed develops outside. Curlaine’s “Mid Pack Stalker” style fits perfectly with the likely pace scenario, allowing her to maintain striking position throughout.
Key Trainer and Jockey Angles
Miguel Clement’s remarkable Delaware Park record (7-for-8 in-the-money finishes) makes Curlaine particularly appealing. This level of local success suggests exceptional preparation and placement of horses for their optimal conditions.
Jorge Ruiz’s exceptional value statistics throughout the meet make his mount Corey Beach worth serious consideration despite longer odds. His ability to exceed expectations consistently provides an edge in competitive allowance company.
Jamie Rodriguez’s selection of Curlaine over other available mounts indicates the leading rider’s confidence in her chances. Given his position atop the jockey standings and access to quality mounts, this booking carries significant weight.
Wagering Strategy and Value Assessment
The heavy favoritism of I Can Run creates value opportunities throughout the rest of the field. Curlaine offers the best combination of ability, trainer form, and jockey selection at reasonable odds.
Recommended Plays:
- Win: Curlaine (#4) at 7/2 offers excellent value
- Place: Golden Rocket (#7) and Thursday Girl (#10) for coverage
- Exacta: Key Curlaine over I Can Run, Golden Rocket, Thursday Girl, and Corey Beach
- Trifecta: 4 with 1,2,7,10 with 1,2,6,7,9,10,11
- Superfecta: Use Curlaine on top with deeper coverage of logical contenders
Final Assessment
While I Can Run possesses clear class advantages, her prohibitive odds eliminate value in straight win betting. Curlaine’s combination of strong local trainer statistics, quality jockey selection, and improving form profile makes her the logical choice for value-conscious bettors. The allowance conditions and turf surface create opportunities for improvement from several fillies, making this an attractive betting race despite the large field size.
The key to success lies in recognizing that trainer patterns and jockey selections often prove more reliable than raw past performance numbers in allowance company. Clement’s exceptional Delaware Park record and Rodriguez’s leading rider status provide compelling reasons to support Curlaine at generous odds in this competitive feature event.
Race 8 – Claiming ($21,000)
Key Contenders
Vanaka (#3) returns after an extended absence, but trainer Lynn Ashby maintains a slightly positive ROI following similar layoffs. She ran impressively at long odds in her last start before the break during her second race with Lasix, and a repeat effort would be sufficient.
Secondary Choices
Brightness (#6) appears likely to be favored dropping down in class as trainer Timothy Ritchey seeks to break his losing streak during closing week. Her previous efforts against claiming and starter competition were solid.
Miss Serafina (#4) switches back to the main track where she recorded her only career victory to date. The surface change could provide the key to improved performance.
Wagering Strategy
Vanaka offers potential value as a returning runner, while Brightness provides the chalk coverage in exotic plays.
Race 9 – Maiden Claiming ($20,000)
Key Contenders
Baltic (#1) makes his career debut for a stable with an impressive 3.56 ROI with first-out maiden claimers. Significantly, jockey Angel Cruz chose to abandon live runner Overspent to ride this Kantharos gelding, and the trainer-jockey combination shows strong ROI numbers.
Secondary Choices
Rickie’s Kin (#2) showed improvement with the addition of Lasix in his most recent start. The equipment change appears to have provided the expected boost.
Overspent (#9) made a useful return to action after a year-long absence. The experience should benefit him moving forward despite losing his jockey to the top choice.
Value Considerations
First-time starters in maiden claiming events can provide substantial payouts, particularly when backed by strong trainer statistics.
Jockey Notes and Insights
Leading rider Jamie Rodriguez continues to pace the colony with 63 wins, though he shows -8.68 in added wins, indicating he’s been heavily bet. Julio Hernandez (57 wins, +7.43 added wins) provides better value while Martin Chuan (53 wins, +12.11 added wins) leads all riders in exceeding odds expectations.
Jorge Ruiz remains the meet’s most profitable rider in limited action, going 10-for-26 with 4.50 added wins and earning 37.28% of available purse money. Among regular riders, Jose Batista leads with 2.21 added wins per 25 starts, making him an excellent value play.
Hot jockeys include Martin Chuan, who went 3-for-9 last week, and Raul Mena, who picked up two wins in recent action.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Jamie Ness dominates the trainer standings with 60 wins, more than triple his nearest rival, while maintaining an impressive +8.71 in added wins. His 35.29% win rate and 24.86% purse earnings make him the meet’s standout conditioner.
Bruce Kravets holds second with 18 wins, followed by Michael Stidham and Victor Carrasco Jr. with 14 wins each. Among trainers with 30+ starts, Graham Motion leads in added wins per 25 starts (2.62) and purse earnings (34.67%), making his runners particularly attractive.
Timothy Kreiser has been exceptionally efficient with a 50% win rate from just 12 starters, producing 3.92 added wins. Steve Klesaris also shows strong numbers with a 41.67% win rate and 33.61% purse earnings from limited starts.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
Win Bets: Focus on Let’em Hate (Race 1), R Averie Lynn (Race 2), Hegs (Race 5), and Baltic (Race 9) for solid value propositions.
Exacta Value: Race 4’s large maiden claiming field and Race 6’s competitive maiden special weight offer enhanced payouts.
Pick 3/4 Strategies: Link solid win contenders in the early races with value plays in the middle card races for potentially lucrative returns.
Daily Double: The Race 8-9 combination of Vanaka/Baltic could provide significant payouts given both horses’ value positions.
Key Value Angles: First-time starters from strong barns (Hidden Rose, Dame’s Rocket, Baltic) and horses returning from layoffs with positive trainer patterns (Vanaka, Lace Curtain) offer the best value opportunities throughout the card.
