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Finger Lakes presents an eight-race card on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, featuring a mix of maiden special weight races for two-year-olds and claiming events for older horses. The program opens with two maiden races for juvenile males and fillies, followed by multiple claiming contests ranging from the bottom $4,000 level to $5,000 claiming tags. The card includes distances from six furlongs to one mile and seventy yards, providing variety for handicappers. The feature races include competitive maiden events with connections from Nicholas Zito and Chris Englehart, along with claiming races that showcase the circuit’s regulars competing at various class levels.
Several horses are returning from recent scratches, including Almez who was re-entered after his October 20 scratch, and Co Conspirator who was scratched due to veterinary reasons on October 29. The scratch watch also indicates Mission Avenue scratched for veterinary reasons and Bounty Killah who was scratched at Laurel due to stewards’ orders. These factors should be considered when evaluating today’s entries.
Weather and Track Conditions
Finger Lakes operates on a one-mile sandy loam oval with a 960-foot stretch. The track typically maintains consistent conditions during the November racing season, with the sandy loam base providing good drainage. Weather in the Finger Lakes region of Western New York during mid-November typically features cooler temperatures with potential for changing conditions. The track’s sandy loam surface generally plays fair across various running styles when maintained properly. Horseplayers should monitor any morning workouts and training reports for updated surface assessments, as conditions can shift with temperature changes during this time of year.
The track management maintains the racing strip to accommodate the late-season schedule that runs through December. Morning line odds and tote board activity will provide additional insights into how horsemen view the racing surface for today’s card.
Race 1 – Maiden Special Weight
Post Time
12:20 PM
Pace Analysis
This one-mile maiden special weight for two-year-old males features several first-time starters and lightly raced juveniles. The pace scenario appears moderate with no confirmed speed horses showing early velocity in their past performances. Hey Pal figures to establish the early tempo from his outside post, while several others may attempt to secure forward positions. The mile distance should allow for tactical positioning, and the race may develop into a two-turn test of stamina and class rather than pure speed.
Key Contenders
Hey Pal enters as the horse to beat after showing improvement in recent outings. Trained by M. Anthony Ferraro and ridden by Keiber Coa, this son has demonstrated the ability to rate kindly and should appreciate the one-mile distance. His connections have enjoyed success at this level, and the colt appears ready to graduate against this group of maidens. The inside post position allows tactical flexibility for the experienced rider.
Reign It In brings the most seasoning to this contest despite disappointing recent form. Andre Shivnarine Worrie takes the mount for trainer Charlton Baker. While his recent efforts have been subpar, this gelding has faced better competition in previous starts, and the class relief could spark improvement. The outside post provides options to sit off the pace and make a sustained rally.
Secondary Choices
Almez returns after being re-entered from his October 20 scratch. This Michael S. Ferraro trainee showed improvement when stretched out to a mile in his previous start. Luis E. Perez rides from post five, which should offer a good stalking trip. The colt’s breeding suggests he will appreciate the distance, and the extra time since his last start may have benefited his development.
Mr Baldy represents trainer Ronald Breed Jr. and jockey Reylu Gutierrez. This first-time starter draws the rail-adjacent post six and could factor if showing professional debut polish. The Breed barn has a solid record with juvenile runners at Finger Lakes.
Longshots
By Mink Standards debuts for trainer Patrick Baratta with Joel Cruz aboard. First-time starters always warrant respect in maiden races, particularly at generous odds. Post one keeps this runner close to the action throughout.
Betting Strategy
A win bet on Hey Pal appears justified as the logical favorite, with exacta and trifecta combinations using Reign It In and Almez as backup options. A straight trifecta box of these three offers solid value given the uncertain nature of maiden races. Consider using deeper longshots like By Mink Standards and Mr Baldy in multi-race wagers starting with this opener.
Selections
Win: Hey Pal
Place: Reign It In
Show: Almez
Race 2 – Maiden Special Weight
Post Time
12:48 PM
Pace Analysis
This maiden special weight for two-year-old fillies at one mile presents a smaller field of six runners. The pace should develop honestly with several fillies likely to press forward early. The connections include prominent trainers Nicholas Zito and Chris Englehart, suggesting quality in this event. The mile distance will test the stamina and class of these developing fillies, with those showing tactical speed having an advantage.
Key Contenders
Sliceaway represents the powerful Nicholas Zito barn and showed significant improvement when offered at a generous price last time. Andre Shivnarine Worrie rides from post two, providing an ideal stalking position. The filly demonstrated competitive ability in her previous outing and should build on that foundation. Zito’s expertise with two-year-olds at this time of year makes her formidable.
Back to Khali trains for Chris Englehart, another accomplished conditioner of juveniles. Joel Cruz takes the mount from the rail position. This filly should benefit from the experience of a route race under her belt and figures to improve with that foundation. The inside draw allows Cruz to save ground throughout while staying within striking distance.
Secondary Choices
Espresso Tini stretches out to a mile for trainer Raymond Handal with Reylu Gutierrez riding. The outside post six provides options to assess the pace before committing. First-time routing fillies often show significant improvement, and this runner could surprise if adapting to the distance.
Betting Strategy
The small field lends itself to aggressive win betting on top selections combined with exacta coverage. A straight exacta using Sliceaway over Back to Khali provides solid value. For multi-race sequences, both Sliceaway and Back to Khali anchor vertical wagers given their connections and pace positioning advantages.
Selections
Win: Sliceaway
Place: Back to Khali
Show: Espresso Tini
Race 3 – Claiming $4,000
Post Time
1:16 PM
Pace Analysis
This $4,000 claiming event for non-winners since November 12, 2024 at one mile presents a competitive field of seven older horses. The pace appears modest with most runners showing mid-pack or closing tendencies. Dorothys Happiness should establish the early lead uncontested, which could prove significant if he can rate kindly on an uncontested lead. The lack of confirmed speed should allow tactical riders to position favorably for a sustained drive in the stretch.
Key Contenders
Dorothys Happiness remains at the $4,000 level after being claimed and returns to the barn of Rachel Sells with Jeremias Flores riding. This gelding drew the advantageous rail position and should secure the early lead without much pressure. If rating comfortably through moderate fractions, he becomes dangerous late. The inside post saves ground throughout the one-mile journey.
Flash Kiss requires forgiveness for his most recent effort according to local analysis. Dana Saul trains with Jose Baez aboard from post seven. This gelding has shown capable form previously, and if returning to his better races, he can factor significantly. The outside post provides a clear view of the race development.
Secondary Choices
Don’t Poke the Cat brings experience as an 11-year-old gelding for trainer Ilmar Loaiza. Luis E. Perez rides from post two. While age is a concern, this veteran has demonstrated the ability to pass tiring horses late and could earn a piece at a price. His longevity suggests soundness and competitive spirit.
In a Minute represents trainer Beth Miller-Saul with Joel Cruz riding from post three. This four-year-old has shown flashes of ability and could improve with proper pace setup.
Betting Strategy
A win wager on Dorothys Happiness offers value given his favorable pace scenario and rail draw. Exacta combinations using Flash Kiss and Don’t Poke the Cat underneath provide coverage if the favorite stumbles. A trifecta box of the top three selections protects against unexpected outcomes in this competitive claiming race.
Selections
Win: Dorothys Happiness
Place: Flash Kiss
Show: Don’t Poke the Cat
Race 4 – Claiming $5,000
Post Time
1:44 PM
Pace Analysis
This $5,000 claiming race for fillies and mares at one mile and seventy yards features a field of seven with one entry also entered (Pure Elegance listed as 99). The extended distance favors horses with stamina and tactical speed. The pace should develop moderately with several runners capable of pressing forward. Those drawn inside have an advantage for saving ground on the extended trip. Weight allowances factor significantly, with several runners receiving relief.
Key Contenders
Rumint drops to the bottom claiming level for trainer Michael S. Ferraro with Reylu Gutierrez aboard. This class drop represents a significant trainer move, and the combination has proven effective at Finger Lakes. Drawing post four provides flexibility, and the two-pound weight allowance helps. The distance should suit her running style, making her the horse to beat.
Turnupthemusic has shown competitive form at this level for the Jonathan B. Buckley barn. Kevin Navarro rides from post two, offering a ground-saving trip. This filly has demonstrated consistency and should factor prominently if repeating recent efforts. The connections excel with claiming fillies at Finger Lakes.
Secondary Choices
Silent Sandy represents trainer James S. Acquilano with Michael A. Davila Jr. riding. This three-year-old receives significant weight relief and has shown improvement when stretched out. Three straight competitive efforts suggest she is rounding into form.
Teca brings youth as a three-year-old for trainer Paul W. Barrow. Andre Shivnarine Worrie takes the mount, and the weight allowance makes her interesting at a price.
Longshots
Mission Avenue returns after a veterinary scratch on October 1. While the seven-pound apprentice weight allowance with Yalexamarie Cintron is significant, the layoff and condition raise questions. However, at a price, the weight relief could prove beneficial.
Betting Strategy
A win bet on Rumint capitalizes on the class drop and connections. Exacta coverage using Turnupthemusic and Silent Sandy protects the investment. For trifecta players, including Teca and Mission Avenue at generous odds provides value given the weight allowances in play.
Selections
Win: Rumint
Place: Turnupthemusic
Show: Silent Sandy
Race 5 – Maiden Special Weight
Post Time
2:12 PM
Pace Analysis
This six-furlong maiden special weight for two-year-old fillies presents a competitive field of nine. The shorter distance favors early speed, and several runners show the ability to establish forward positions. Princess Azara appears capable of securing the early lead, which could prove decisive if rating comfortably. Galileans Girl and Scarlett Queen both possess tactical speed to press or stalk. The pace should develop honestly, setting up potential closing kicks from deep closers.
Key Contenders
Galileans Girl exits what appears to be a stronger maiden race and brings that form advantage to this spot. Nazario Alvarado rides for trainer Linda K. Dixon from the rail. Drawing post one in a sprint allows this filly to save ground throughout while staying close to the pace. Her breeding and recent workout pattern suggest readiness to graduate.
Scarlett Queen has shown consistency with multiple top-three finishes in her career. John A. Grabowski trains with Luis Pena aboard from post three. This filly has faced quality competition and should appreciate returning to starter allowance company if maintaining her form. Her tactical speed fits the distance perfectly.
Secondary Choices
Princess Azara represents the Nicholas Zito barn, bringing instant credibility. Keiber Coa rides from post seven. If this filly can establish an uncontested lead, the Zito conditioning could produce a winning effort. The outside post requires speed to clear, but Zito runners often show professional polish.
Playingon Broadway has trained forwardly for Jonathan B. Buckley with Kevin Navarro riding. The Buckley-Navarro combination excels with juveniles at Finger Lakes, and this filly should move forward from her debut.
Longshots
Battle Rifle debuts for trainer Edmund D. Davis with Chris Russell aboard. First-time starters warrant respect in maiden races, particularly from established barns. At a price, she offers exotic value.
Betting Strategy
A straight win bet on Galileans Girl appears wise given her form advantage and rail draw. Exacta boxes using Scarlett Queen and Princess Azara provide coverage. For trifecta players, including Playingon Broadway and Battle Rifle at generous odds creates value tickets. The nine-horse field offers super high-five opportunities for aggressive bettors.
Selections
Win: Galileans Girl
Place: Scarlett Queen
Show: Princess Azara
Race 6 – Claiming $5,000
Post Time
2:40 PM
Pace Analysis
This $5,000 claiming race for older horses at one mile and one-sixteenth presents a large field of ten runners. The extended distance favors horses with proven stamina and route experience. The pace appears honest with several runners capable of pressing forward early. America’s Justice and Co Conspirator should establish the early tempo, which may set up closers for late runs. Post position becomes significant at this distance, with inside draws offering ground-saving advantages.
Key Contenders
Majestic Frontier drops significantly in value, representing a strong trainer move by Ralph D’Alessandro. Carlos D. Camilo rides from post two, providing an excellent stalking position. This six-year-old gelding has shown competitive ability at higher levels, and the class relief combined with the favorable post creates a formidable package. When horses drop dramatically in claiming races, it often signals connections seeking a winning effort.
America’s Justice remains at the bottom level for trainer Beth Miller-Saul with Joel Cruz riding. This seven-year-old prefers the mile-plus distance and draws a favorable inside post. His consistency at this level makes him a logical contender, and the distance plays to his strengths. Cruz knows this horse well and should position him for a sustained rally.
Secondary Choices
Utamaro comes from the Michael S. Ferraro barn in current good form. Luis Pena takes the mount from post eight. This five-year-old has shown competitive efforts recently and should factor if maintaining that form. The Ferraro barn has multiple runners on the card, suggesting confidence in stable condition.
Drinking Solo leads off from post one for trainer Edmund D. Davis with Keiber Coa aboard. The rail draw at this distance could prove problematic if forced wide, but Coa’s experience should help navigate traffic.
Longshots
October Bliss returns after a stewards’ scratch at Parx on October 28. Jose Armando Rohena both trains and rides this five-year-old from post seven. The layoff and circumstances raise questions, but at a generous price, he could surprise if ready.
Gandy Dancing receives a significant seven-pound apprentice weight allowance with Yalexamarie Cintron riding. Trainer Assaf Ronen sends out this eight-year-old from post nine. The weight relief could make a difference in a competitive race.
Betting Strategy
Win betting on Majestic Frontier capitalizes on the significant class drop. Exacta combinations using America’s Justice and Utamaro provide coverage. For multi-leg wagers, using the top three selections offers strong foundation plays. The large field creates opportunities for generous trifecta and superfecta payouts when including longshots like October Bliss and Gandy Dancing in lower positions.
Selections
Win: Majestic Frontier
Place: America’s Justice
Show: Utamaro
Race 7 – Claiming $5,000
Post Time
3:08 PM
Pace Analysis
This $5,000 claiming event for non-winners of two races since May 12 at one mile and one-sixteenth features a massive field of eleven runners. The extended distance and large field create complex pace dynamics. Multiple horses show early speed tendencies, which could create a contested pace scenario benefiting closers. The weight allowances for non-winners at a mile or over factor significantly, potentially leveling the playing field. Inside post positions offer significant ground-saving advantages at this distance.
Key Contenders
Golden Reign drops substantially in class for trainer Beth Miller-Saul with Joel Cruz riding from post seven. This significant class drop signals trainer intent, and the five-year-old gelding has shown ability at higher levels. The outside post provides a clear view of pace development, allowing Cruz to position for a sustained rally. When horses drop dramatically after competitive efforts at higher claiming levels, they often prove formidable.
Finalist has avoided hitting the board since dropping to the $5,000 level, showing remarkable consistency. Heman K. Harkie rides for trainer Nirka Huertas from post nine. This eight-year-old gelding understands his job and should secure a forward position from his outside draw. His recent form suggests he remains competitive at this level.
Secondary Choices
Centavo moves up slightly in class but carries top weight of 124 pounds. Luis Pena rides for trainer Julius Ashley from post six. This seven-year-old’s last effort suggests he can compete with this group if repeating that performance. The centrally-drawn post provides tactical options.
Datesfreedom completes the Michael S. Ferraro trio on this card. Luis E. Perez rides from post eleven, which presents challenges at this distance. However, if there is honest pace up front, this closer could benefit from a ground-saving trip along the inside. The weight allowance provides some relief.
Longshots
Bay Bank races for Dana Saul with Michael A. Davila Jr. aboard. The two-pound weight allowance and centrally-drawn post make this five-year-old interesting at a price.
Henrythethird brings experience as a six-year-old horse for trainer Rachel Sells. Jeremias Flores rides from post four, offering a favorable inside draw at this extended distance.
Betting Strategy
The large field and extended distance create opportunities for generous exotic payouts. A win wager on Golden Reign capitalizes on the class drop. Exacta boxes using Finalist and Centavo provide solid coverage. For trifecta and superfecta bets, spreading to include Datesfreedom, Bay Bank, and Henrythethird at generous odds creates value tickets. The eleven-horse field offers pick-three and pick-four opportunities for sequence players.
Selections
Win: Golden Reign
Place: Finalist
Show: Centavo
Race 8 – Claiming $5,000
Post Time
3:36 PM
Pace Analysis
The closing race is a $5,000 claiming sprint at six furlongs for fillies and mares that have never won three races. The distance favors early speed, and several runners show the ability to establish forward positions. Red Butterfly and Hypnotic Flair both demonstrate fast early speed according to statistical analysis, suggesting a contested pace scenario. This pace setup could benefit mid-pack stalkers and closers who can save ground before unleashing late kicks. The nine-horse field provides adequate wagering opportunities without excessive complexity.
Key Contenders
Hypnotic Flair returns after a winning effort when dropped and popped last time out. Kevin Navarro rides for trainer Jonathan B. Buckley from post eight. This four-year-old filly carries top weight of 124 pounds after the recent victory but demonstrates fast early speed that suits the six-furlong distance. The Buckley-Navarro combination excels at Finger Lakes, and this filly appears ready to repeat. Drawing the outside post allows tactical positioning to secure the early lead without getting boxed.
Red Butterfly represents trainer Michael S. Ferraro with Christian J. Navarro aboard from post seven. This five-year-old mare shows fast leader tendencies and finished second in her most recent start. The weight allowance provides relief, and she should press or contest the early lead with Hypnotic Flair. If rating kindly through moderate fractions, she becomes very dangerous late.
Secondary Choices
Je T’Adore drew the favorable inside post two for trainer Ronald Breed Jr. with Oscar Gomez riding. This three-year-old filly won two races ago and finished fourth most recently. Gomez shows excellent statistics at this meet with strong win and in-the-money percentages. The rail position allows ground-saving tactics while staying within striking distance of the pace.
Cozee Magic completes the Michael S. Ferraro entries with Jeremias Flores riding from post nine. This five-year-old mare shows fastest closing speed in statistical profiles and drops significantly in class. The Flores-Ferraro combination connects regularly at this meet. The outside post suits her closing style, providing clear running room for a late rally.
Longshots
Padrino’s Gold brings tactical speed for trainer Michael V. Simone with Andre Shivnarine Worrie aboard. The three-year-old filly receives weight allowances and could factor if the pace setup suits her stalking style.
Bounty Killah returns after a stewards’ scratch at Laurel on November 1. John C. Berrios rides for trainer Marvin Richards from post five. The layoff and scratch circumstances create questions, but at a generous price in the finale, she offers exotic value if ready.
Betting Strategy
The finale presents opportunities for aggressive betting given the competitive field and sprint distance. Win betting on Hypnotic Flair capitalizes on her recent success and favorable connections. Exacta boxes using Red Butterfly and Je T’Adore provide coverage if the favorite falters. For trifecta and superfecta bets, including Cozee Magic and Padrino’s Gold creates value given the class drops and favorable pace scenarios. The race also serves as an anchor for multi-race sequences concluding the card.
Selections
Win: Hypnotic Flair
Place: Je T’Adore
Show: Cozee Magic
Jockey Notes and Insights
Keiber Coa rides four times on the card, demonstrating strong booking opportunities with mounts in races one, two, four, and six. His versatility handling different racing situations makes him a rider to follow.
Kevin Navarro receives quality mounts from the Jonathan B. Buckley barn, including Turnupthemusic in race four and Hypnotic Flair in race eight. Statistical analysis shows Navarro maintains a solid 15 percent win rate and 41 percent in-the-money percentage at this meet. The Buckley-Navarro combination represents one of the most successful partnerships currently at Finger Lakes.
Joel Cruz rides extensively with five mounts including several top selections. His experience navigating Finger Lakes’ one-mile oval makes him valuable on route runners. Cruz handles multiple runners for trainer Beth Miller-Saul, suggesting strong working relationships.
Oscar Gomez shows impressive statistics with a 26 percent win rate in recent starts according to race eight analysis. His mount Je T’Adore in the finale deserves serious consideration given these percentages combined with the favorable inside post.
Andre Shivnarine Worrie receives four assignments including several live longshot opportunities. His closing style suits horses positioned mid-pack or farther back with late rally potential.
Luis E. Perez rides five times on the card for various connections. His versatility and experience at the track make him capable of winning from any post position.
Jeremias Flores also rides five times with mounts from multiple barns. Statistical data shows Flores maintains a 17 percent win rate and 50 percent in-the-money percentage, making him a consistent factor throughout the card.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Michael S. Ferraro sends out multiple runners throughout the card, including Almez in race one, Rumint in race four, Utamaro in race six, Datesfreedom in race seven, and both Red Butterfly and Cozee Magic in race eight. This aggressive approach suggests the stable is in form. Statistical analysis indicates Ferraro maintains a 30 percent win rate and 50 percent in-the-money percentage, making his entries automatic considerations. The trainer’s multiple entries in race eight with different tactical styles demonstrates strategic positioning.
Jonathan B. Buckley trains three horses including key selections Turnupthemusic in race four and Hypnotic Flair in race eight. Partnership with jockey Kevin Navarro creates a formidable combination that consistently produces winners at Finger Lakes. Statistical data shows Buckley maintains 17 percent win and 41 percent place rates.
Nicholas P. Zito sends out Sliceaway in race two and That’s Amore in race two, along with Princess Azara in race five. The Hall of Fame trainer’s presence at Finger Lakes adds quality to the maiden special weight events. Zito’s expertise with two-year-olds makes his runners automatic considerations regardless of odds.
Chris J. Englehart trains Back to Khali in race two and Purple Divine in race five. The accomplished conditioner succeeds with developing juveniles and should have both fillies prepared for winning efforts.
Beth Miller-Saul operates a large stable with runners in races three, four, six, and seven. Partnership with jockey Joel Cruz produces consistent results. The aggressive placement of Golden Reign in race seven with significant class drop demonstrates confidence.
Rachel Sells trains multiple runners including Dorothys Happiness in race three, who remains at the claiming level after being claimed. The trainer’s knowledge of Finger Lakes racing conditions makes her entries competitive throughout claiming ranks.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
Single race betting opportunities exist throughout the card with logical favorites offering value. Hey Pal in race one, Sliceaway in race two, and Hypnotic Flair in race eight represent solid win wagers with reasonable expected returns. These selections anchor multi-race sequences while offering individual betting value.
Exacta boxes provide excellent wagering vehicles given the competitive nature of claiming races. Races three, six, and seven feature fields where multiple outcomes appear equally plausible, creating generous exacta payouts. Straight exactas using logical favorites over secondary choices offer value when confidence levels warrant focused investment.
Trifecta betting becomes attractive in races four, five, six, and seven due to field size and competitive balance. Boxing three or four selections in these races creates reasonable ticket costs while targeting significant returns. Including logical longshots in lower trifecta positions enhances payouts without dramatically increasing costs.
Pick three sequences offer compelling opportunities given the card structure. A natural pick three through races six, seven, and eight provides action during the latter portion of the card when track conditions and form patterns become clearer. Using multiple selections in race seven due to field size while singling races six and eight creates affordable tickets with solid win potential.
Pick four wagering through races five, six, seven, and eight targets the final third of the card. This sequence includes the competitive maiden race five, two claiming routes, and the sprint finale. Spreading in race seven while using fewer selections in races five, six, and eight creates manageable ticket costs while targeting generous returns.
The Michael S. Ferraro stable represents a value angle throughout the card. His multiple runners show consistent form, and his statistical success rate warrants support. Building wagers around Ferraro entries in races one, four, six, seven, and eight creates a cohesive betting strategy backed by quantifiable trainer statistics.
Class droppers provide another wagering angle. Majestic Frontier in race six and Golden Reign in race seven both drop significantly in claiming value, often signaling trainer intent to win. Supporting these moves with win wagers and using them in exotic positions creates value opportunities when odds remain generous.
The Jonathan B. Buckley and Kevin Navarro partnership deserves support throughout the card. Their statistical success rate combined with quality horse placement makes their entries automatic inclusions in multi-race wagers and worthy of win bet consideration.
Late Pick Four carryovers and guaranteed pools should be monitored, as Finger Lakes frequently offers enhanced wagering opportunities during November racing. Bankroll allocation should consider these special pools when available, as they provide increased value for successful tickets.
