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Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack presents a competitive nine-race card this Monday featuring a solid mix of allowance, maiden special weight, and claiming events. The track offers excellent racing conditions with partly cloudy skies, temperatures around 65°F, and moderate winds from the southeast at 10 mph with 48% humidity. The dirt track is listed as fast, providing ideal conditions for today’s action.
WEATHER AND TRACK CONDITIONS
The weather forecast shows partly cloudy conditions with temperatures holding steady in the mid-60s throughout the afternoon. Wind conditions are favorable at 10 mph from the southeast, which should not significantly impact racing. The dirt track is rated fast, and with no precipitation expected, track conditions should remain consistent throughout the nine-race program.
RACE-BY-RACE ANALYSIS
Race 1 – Allowance 1 1/8 Miles (1:00 PM)
This allowance event for three-year-olds and upward features horses that have never won outside of maiden, claiming, or starter company, or have never won four races. The 1 1/8-mile distance will test stamina and tactical speed.
Key Contenders: Az U Chase Me (#2) emerges as the morning line favorite despite recent scratches from veterinary issues. Trainer Chris J. Englehart shows strong form with a 60% win rate in recent starts. Jockey Reylu Gutierrez brings proven ability and local track knowledge, having earned his first career victory at Finger Lakes in 2017.
Secondary Choices: Janssen (#3) offers morning line odds of 2-1 with trainer Luis Gutierrez handling the colt. The four-year-old colt carries top weight of 124 pounds but shows tactical speed that could prove effective in this field.
Longshot Consideration: Ice Time (#4) at 6-1 morning line odds represents solid value with jockey Christian J. Navarro. This five-year-old gelding has shown improvement in recent efforts and the distance should suit his running style.
Pace Analysis: The race sets up with moderate early pace, allowing closers to factor significantly in the stretch drive.
Wagering Angles: Consider Az U Chase Me for win betting despite the layoff concerns, and look for Ice Time in exotic wagering as a potential upset candidate.
Race Selection: Az U Chase Me to win, Ice Time and Janssen for exacta combinations.
Race 2 – Maiden Special Weight 6 Furlongs (1:29 PM)
This maiden special weight for two-year-olds offers promising juveniles their first opportunity to break through at the $32,600 purse level.
Key Contenders: Chioke (#7) draws attention as an expert selection at 7-2 morning line odds. Trainer Ralph D’Alessandro and jockey Emanuel De Diego form a capable partnership for this debut runner.
Secondary Choices: Seven Minutes (#1) and Minister of Magic (#3) both represent trainer Rachel Sells, who maintains a solid 13.7% win rate. Sells has shown consistent form with two wins in her last 15 starts.
Longshot Consideration: Hamilton’s Reason (#6) with jockey Oscar Gomez offers value at morning line odds in this competitive maiden field.
Pace Analysis: The six-furlong distance favors speed, with early positioning crucial for success.
Wagering Angles: Chioke appears best in this competitive maiden field, with Sells-trained runners offering secondary value.
Race Selection: Chioke to win, with Seven Minutes and Minister of Magic for place consideration.
Race 3 – Claiming 1 1/16 Miles (1:58 PM)
This claiming race for $11,000 features horses that have not won two races since April 20, 2025, creating a competitive claiming level event.
Key Contenders: Fiery Heart (#6) emerges as a logical choice in this claiming event with trainer Jonathan B. Buckley and jockey Kevin Navarro. The six-year-old gelding shows consistent form in similar company.
Secondary Choices: Golden Reign (#5) represents solid value with jockey Joel Cruz handling the five-year-old gelding for trainer Beth Miller-Saul.
Longshot Consideration: Henrythethird (#1) offers significant value despite the six-year-old’s advanced age, with weight allowances potentially providing an advantage.
Pace Analysis: The 1 1/16-mile distance should allow for tactical development, favoring horses with strong finishing kicks.
Wagering Angles: Fiery Heart appears best in this claiming level, with Golden Reign providing exacta value.
Race Selection: Fiery Heart to win, Golden Reign for place consideration.
Race 4 – Maiden Special Weight 6 Furlongs (2:27 PM)
This competitive maiden special weight for two-year-olds represents one of the most challenging races on today’s card, featuring a full field of ten promising juveniles seeking their first career victory. The $32,600 purse and six-furlong distance create an ideal scenario for early speed and tactical positioning from the starting gate.
Key Contenders
Sunday’s Currency (#7) emerges as the logical favorite following his strong second-place finish at Finger Lakes on October 7, 2025, where he was ridden by Reylu Gutierrez. The two-year-old colt finished behind God’s Angel in that effort, demonstrating significant improvement and readiness for today’s assignment. Trainer Arcadio Lopez has shown consistent form with this gelding, and the combination with Gutierrez, who brings extensive local track knowledge and a proven ability with juveniles, creates a formidable partnership. Gutierrez’s recent success at Finger Lakes, including his victory in the Genesee Valley Breeders’ Stakes, positions him as a leading rider for today’s card.
In All Honesty (#3) and K C Kelce (#4) both represent trainer Rachel Sells, who maintains a solid 13.7% win rate and demonstrates particular effectiveness with juvenile runners. Sells has shown recent form improvements with two wins from her last 15 starts, and her ability to ready maidens for breakthrough performances makes both horses legitimate contenders. In All Honesty draws jockey Jeremias Flores, while K C Kelce pairs with Michael A. Davila Jr., both experienced riders capable of tactical positioning in competitive maiden fields.
Secondary Choices
Maturation (#8) offers solid potential with trainer Jonathan B. Buckley and jockey Kevin Navarro. This combination brings proven ability in maiden special weight company, and the two-year-old colt shows breeding that suggests improvement with racing experience.
Almez (#9) presents value with trainer Michael S. Ferraro and jockey Luis E. Perez. The gelding represents a stable that consistently places horses in appropriate spots, creating potential for upset victories in competitive fields.
Longshot Consideration
The Last Delivery (#5) represents exceptional value at 12-1 morning line odds according to expert handicapping analysis. Despite finishing sixth in the Aspirant Stakes on September 22, 2025, the two-year-old colt by Snow Trouble shows significant potential under trainer Marisa Monserrate. The breeding includes dam Physical Delivery and dam’s sire Majestic Warrior, providing solid foundation for improvement. Jockey J.M. Rohena brings tactical ability that could prove crucial in this competitive field, and the longshot odds create exceptional value for exotic wagering combinations.
By Mink Standards (#6) offers additional value with trainer Patrick Baratta and jockey Christian J. Navarro. The gelding’s connections suggest capability for improvement, and Navarro’s route racing ability translates well to sprint distances.
Pace Analysis
The six-furlong distance favors horses with early speed and tactical positioning from the starting gate. Sunday’s Currency’s recent form suggests ability to secure favorable position early, while the Rachel Sells-trained runners typically show tactical speed that allows for flexible positioning. The Last Delivery’s breeding indicates potential for closing kick, which could prove effective if early fractions become honest.
The field sets up with moderate early pace, as several runners show tactical speed rather than pure early foot. This scenario creates opportunities for horses with strong finishing ability to factor significantly in the stretch drive.
Key Angles to Consider
Recent Form Advantage: Sunday’s Currency’s second-place finish on October 7, 2025, provides significant recent form advantage over runners making debuts or returning from extended layoffs.
Trainer Patterns: Rachel Sells demonstrates consistent effectiveness with two-year-olds in maiden special weight company, making both In All Honesty and K C Kelce legitimate contenders despite potentially higher odds.
Jockey Advantage: Reylu Gutierrez’s proven ability with juveniles and recent local success creates significant advantage for Sunday’s Currency in this competitive field.
Value Opportunity: The Last Delivery at 12-1 morning line odds represents exceptional value based on expert analysis, particularly in exotic wagering combinations.
Wagering Angles
Win Betting: Sunday’s Currency offers solid win potential based on recent form and proven jockey-trainer combination.
Place/Show Value: The Last Delivery provides exceptional value in place and show betting at 12-1 odds, with potential for significant payouts.
Exacta Combinations: Key Sunday’s Currency on top with The Last Delivery, In All Honesty, and K C Kelce for substantial exacta payouts.
Trifecta Strategy: Use Sunday’s Currency on top, with The Last Delivery, In All Honesty, K C Kelce, and Maturation in second and third positions for potentially lucrative trifecta combinations.
Superfecta Play: The competitive nature of this field creates opportunities for significant superfecta payouts using Sunday’s Currency as the key horse with multiple backup options.
Race Selection
Win: Sunday’s Currency
Place: The Last Delivery (exceptional value at 12-1)
Show: In All Honesty
Exacta: Sunday’s Currency over The Last Delivery, In All Honesty, K C Kelce
Trifecta: Sunday’s Currency with The Last Delivery, In All Honesty, K C Kelce, Maturation
This maiden special weight represents one of the most competitive races on today’s card, with Sunday’s Currency’s recent form providing the foundation for success, while The Last Delivery offers exceptional value for bettors seeking significant payouts.
Race 5 – Allowance 6 Furlongs (2:56 PM)
This allowance race for fillies and mares three years old and upward represents a competitive sprint featuring horses that have never won outside of maiden, claiming, or starter company, or have never won four races. The $27,300 purse and six-furlong distance create an ideal scenario for tactical speed and early positioning, with non-winners of a race since August 20 receiving a 3-pound allowance.
Key Contenders
She’s Grand (#3) emerges as the logical favorite based on exceptional recent form at Finger Lakes. The three-year-old filly by Instagrand has demonstrated remarkable improvement throughout 2025, scoring three victories including wins on July 15, August 11, and September 1 at the local circuit. Her progression shows consistent advancement, with official ratings improving from 49 to 83 during her winning streak. Most recently, she finished fifth on September 22, indicating she may be due for another strong effort. Trainer Michael S. Ferraro maintains a solid 29% win rate with 53% in-the-money percentage, while jockey Luis E. Perez brings extensive experience with 189 career wins and 17% win rate. The combination has proven effective with She’s Grand, winning at both 6 furlongs and 1 mile 70 yards distances.
Book of Wisdom (#6) represents exceptional value with the powerful combination of trainer Rudy R. Rodriguez and jockey Romero Ramsay Maragh. Rodriguez achieved his 1,000th career victory in 2018 and has amassed over $46 million in career earnings, including major stakes victories such as back-to-back Carter Handicap (G1) wins with Dads Caps. His training philosophy emphasizes hands-on approach, as he continues to exercise horses daily and maintains reputation as one of the hardest-working trainers on the backstretch. Maragh brings significant experience with 2,763,616 in 2025 earnings and lifetime earnings exceeding $15.9 million. The veteran jockey has recorded 30 wins from 469 starts in 2025, maintaining a 6% win rate with strong place and show percentages.
Unicorn Cake (#4) offers solid potential with trainer Jeremiah C. Englehart and jockey Reylu Gutierrez. Englehart brings exceptional credentials, having taken out his trainer’s license in 2003 and achieving his first career stakes victory with Hoosick Falls in the 2007 Susan B. Anthony Handicap at Finger Lakes. The son of trainer Chris Englehart scored his first graded stakes victory when Tamarind Hall won the 2011 Bed o’ Roses Handicap and achieved a breakthrough victory at the 2013 Breeders’ Cup World Championships when Ria Antonia won the Juvenile Fillies. His career statistics show 1,881 wins from 8,471 starts with earnings exceeding $50 million. Expert analysis rates Unicorn Cake as a mid-pack stalker with 9 career starts, 22% win rate, and 67% in-the-money percentage.
Secondary Choices
Queens Cat (#9) presents value despite carrying top weight of 124 pounds with trainer Linda K. Dixon and jockey Nazario Alvarado. The four-year-old filly by Courageous Cat has shown consistent form at Finger Lakes, including a recent victory where she won by 7 1/2 lengths at 13-20 favorite odds. Her local track experience and proven ability at the distance make her a legitimate contender despite the weight disadvantage.
Spiritual Lady (#5) offers potential with trainer Gregory E. Charlerie and jockey Andre Shivnarine Worrie. Expert analysis rates her as a fast stalker with 12 career starts, 25% win rate, and 58% in-the-money percentage, suggesting capability for improvement in this allowance company.
Longshot Considerations
Fields of Green (#2) represents exceptional value at 11-1 morning line odds with trainer Samuel Morales and jockey Michael A. Davila Jr.. The four-year-old filly shows 33% win rate from limited starts and is rated as a fast closer, which could prove effective if early fractions become honest.
Shesawildjoker (#1) offers additional value with trainer William H. Bartlett and jockey Joel Cruz. Bartlett maintains a 67% win rate at Finger Lakes according to recent statistics, making this six-year-old mare an interesting longshot consideration.
Pace Analysis
The six-furlong distance should produce competitive early fractions with multiple speed types engaged. She’s Grand’s tactical speed allows for flexible positioning, while Book of Wisdom typically runs closer to the pace. The presence of several closers, including Fields of Green rated as a “fast closer,” creates potential for strong late kicks if early fractions become honest.
Expert analysis suggests varied running styles within the field, with mid-pack stalkers (She’s Grand, Unicorn Cake) competing against fast stalkers (Spiritual Lady) and closers (Fields of Green). This diversity creates multiple pace scenarios and potential for competitive racing throughout.
Key Angles to Consider
Local Track Advantage: She’s Grand’s three victories at Finger Lakes in 2025 demonstrate clear affinity for the local surface and conditions. Her progression from maiden winner to allowance competitor shows positive development under current connections.
Trainer Experience: Rodriguez’s 1,000+ career victories and proven ability with fillies and mares creates significant advantage for Book of Wisdom. His hands-on training approach and major stakes success translate well to competitive allowance company.
Jockey Factor: Maragh’s extensive experience and $15.9 million in lifetime earnings provide tactical advantage, particularly in competitive sprint fields. His recent form shows consistency with strong place and show percentages.
Weight Considerations: The 3-pound allowance for non-winners since August 20 benefits several runners, while Queens Cat’s 124-pound impost represents a significant challenge.
Wagering Angles
Win Betting: She’s Grand offers solid win potential based on local track success and trainer-jockey combination effectiveness.
Value Play: Book of Wisdom represents exceptional value with Rodriguez-Maragh combination bringing proven ability at potentially generous odds.
Place/Show Value: Fields of Green at 11-1 morning line odds provides exceptional value in place and show betting, particularly given her closer running style.
Exacta Strategy: Key She’s Grand on top with Book of Wisdom, Unicorn Cake, and Queens Cat for substantial exacta potential.
Trifecta Combinations: Use She’s Grand and Book of Wisdom in first two positions with Unicorn Cake, Queens Cat, and Fields of Green filling third position for potentially lucrative trifecta payouts.
Race Selection
Win: She’s Grand
Place: Book of Wisdom (exceptional value with Rodriguez-Maragh combination)
Show: Fields of Green (significant value at 11-1 odds)
Exacta: She’s Grand over Book of Wisdom, Unicorn Cake, Queens Cat
Trifecta: She’s Grand/Book of Wisdom with Unicorn Cake, Queens Cat, Fields of Green
This allowance sprint for fillies and mares presents a competitive field where local track success and experienced connections provide significant advantages. She’s Grand’s recent form progression establishes her as the horse to beat, while Book of Wisdom’s powerful connections offer excellent value for bettors seeking potentially lucrative payouts in this challenging allowance company.
Race 6 – Maiden Special Weight 6 Furlongs (3:25 PM)
This maiden special weight for two-year-old fillies represents one of the most intriguing races on today’s card, featuring a competitive field of promising juveniles seeking their first career victory. The $32,600 purse and six-furlong distance create an ideal scenario for early speed and tactical positioning, with several runners showing significant form and connections.
Key Contenders
Gabe The Babe (#10) emerges as the logical choice based on superior form and connections. The two-year-old filly by Shanchelt out of Lots Of Mine carries the highest official rating of 57 and shows strong recent form with a “2” indicating a second-place finish in her most recent start. Trainer John A. Grabowski pairs with jockey Luis Pena, creating a capable partnership for this competitive maiden field. Expert analysis notes she “posted a good time” in her recent effort, suggesting significant improvement and readiness for breakthrough performance.
Fairweatherlover (#9) presents exceptional value with trainer Melanie Giddings and jockey Shaun Bridgmohan. The two-year-old filly by King For A Day out of Qualifying shows strong recent form with a “2” and carries an official rating of 52, making her competitive in this field. Bridgmohan brings proven ability at the highest levels, with recent Saratoga statistics showing 2 wins from 14 starts (14.3% win rate) and 4 in-the-money finishes (28.6% ITM rate). His experience includes riding at major tracks and graded stakes company, providing significant tactical advantage in competitive maiden fields.
Princess Azara (#8) offers exceptional potential with Hall of Fame trainer Nicholas P. Zito and jockey Lane J. Luzzi. The two-year-old filly by Central Banker out of Impishness carries form “82” and official rating of 38, but Zito’s credentials create significant value despite the modest rating. Zito has won 2,066 races with purse earnings exceeding $112 million, including multiple Triple Crown victories and Eclipse Award winners. Most significantly, he trained Storm Song to the 1996 Champion 2-Year-Old Filly Eclipse Award, demonstrating particular expertise with juvenile fillies. His career includes victories in the Champagne Stakes (multiple times), which showcases his ability to develop two-year-olds at the highest level.
Secondary Choices
Scarlett Queen (#1) presents solid potential with trainer John A. Grabowski and jockey Oscar Gomez. The two-year-old filly by Free Drop Billy out of Queen Of Scat shows form “3” with an official rating of 55, making her competitive despite potentially higher odds. Grabowski’s presence with both Gabe The Babe and Scarlett Queen suggests confidence in his stable’s recent form.
Adamiscashingin (#6) offers value with trainer Linda K. Dixon and jockey Joel Cruz. The two-year-old filly by Higher Power out of Desert Bliss shows form “4” with official rating of 44, suggesting recent competitive efforts that could translate to improvement in this field.
Longshot Considerations
Flying Phoebe (#2) presents interesting value despite the “o” designation indicating some concern. The two-year-old filly by Combatant out of Princess Phoebe shows form “885” with official rating of 42, trained by James S. Acquilano with jockey Emanuel De Diego. The form suggests recent competitive efforts, and the connections may have addressed previous concerns.
Felix’s Flower (#5) offers additional value with trainer Rachel Sells and jockey Jeremias Flores. The two-year-old filly by Mendelssohn out of Gathered Flowers shows form “035” with official rating of 33, representing Sells’ continued activity with juvenile runners.
Pace Analysis
The six-furlong distance favors horses with early speed and tactical positioning from the starting gate. Gabe The Babe’s superior official rating and recent good time suggest ability to secure favorable position early. Fairweatherlover’s form indicates tactical speed that allows for flexible positioning, while Princess Azara’s Zito training suggests potential for significant improvement regardless of early position.
The field sets up with moderate early pace, as several runners show recent competitive form rather than pure early foot. This scenario creates opportunities for horses with strong finishing ability, particularly those with experienced connections capable of tactical development.
Key Angles to Consider
Hall of Fame Training: Zito’s presence with Princess Azara creates exceptional value given his expertise with two-year-old fillies, including training the 1996 Champion 2-Year-Old Filly.
Form Advantage: Gabe The Babe’s official rating of 57 and good recent time provide significant form advantage over the field.
Jockey Experience: Bridgmohan’s recent Saratoga success and graded stakes experience create tactical advantage for Fairweatherlover.
Trainer Patterns: Grabowski’s multiple entries suggest stable confidence, while his proven ability creates value for both runners.
Wagering Angles
Win Betting: Gabe The Babe offers solid win potential based on superior form and proven connections.
Value Play: Princess Azara represents exceptional value with Zito’s Hall of Fame credentials and specific expertise with juvenile fillies.
Place/Show Strategy: Fairweatherlover provides excellent value in place and show betting with Bridgmohan’s proven ability and competitive form.
Exacta Combinations: Key Gabe The Babe on top with Princess Azara, Fairweatherlover, and Scarlett Queen for substantial exacta potential.
Trifecta Strategy: Use Gabe The Babe and Princess Azara in first two positions with Fairweatherlover, Scarlett Queen, and Adamiscashingin filling third position for potentially lucrative trifecta payouts.
Race Selection
Win: Gabe The Babe
Place: Princess Azara (exceptional value with Hall of Fame trainer)
Show: Fairweatherlover (strong value with experienced jockey)
Exacta: Gabe The Babe over Princess Azara, Fairweatherlover, Scarlett Queen
Trifecta: Gabe The Babe/Princess Azara with Fairweatherlover, Scarlett Queen, Adamiscashingin
This maiden special weight for two-year-old fillies presents exceptional opportunity for value wagering, with Gabe The Babe’s superior form providing the foundation for success, while Princess Azara’s Hall of Fame connections offer significant upset potential.
Race 7 – Maiden Special Weight 1 1/16 Miles (3:54 PM)
This maiden special weight at 1 1/16 miles represents the feature distance race on today’s card, attracting older horses still seeking their first career victory. The extended route distance tests stamina and tactical ability, creating opportunities for horses with proven staying power and experienced connections to assert their class advantage.
Key Contenders
Ark Royal (#5) emerges as the exceptional choice with Hall of Fame-caliber trainer Barclay Tagg and veteran jockey Romero Ramsay Maragh. Tagg brings unparalleled credentials as trainer of Triple Crown winner Funny Cide (Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes) and Belmont Stakes winner Tiz the Law, demonstrating particular expertise with New York-bred horses. His career statistics show 794 wins from 6,378 starts with earnings exceeding $12.2 million, maintaining a solid 12% win rate and 38% in-the-money percentage. Most encouragingly, his 2025 form shows improvement with 3 wins from 24 starts (13% win rate) and exceptional 46% WPS rate, indicating his stable remains competitive.
Maragh provides veteran expertise with 4,051 career starts yielding 317 victories and lifetime earnings of $15,767,737. His 2025 statistics show consistency with 34 wins from 437 starts, maintaining steady earnings of $2,579,269. The combination of Tagg’s proven development skills with maidens and Maragh’s tactical route racing ability creates exceptional value in this competitive maiden field.
Ragazzo d’Oro (#2) offers solid potential as the highest-rated runner with an official rating of 68 and proven recent form. The five-year-old gelding shows extensive racing experience with 43 career starts, including multiple graded stakes appearances and earnings exceeding $461,620. His recent steeplechase campaign demonstrates versatility and fitness, with a victory at Charleston on November 12, 2023, proving his ability to win when placed appropriately. Trainer Ronald Breed Jr. pairs with jockey Reylu Gutierrez, creating a capable partnership for this veteran campaigner seeking his first flat track victory.
Yoheda Money Maker (#1) presents strong local form with trainer Luis Gutierrez and jockey Michael A. Davila Jr.. The three-year-old New York-bred gelding by Yoshida (JPN) shows form figures 335632 with official rating of 65, indicating consistent competitive efforts. Recent Finger Lakes racing on October 6, 2025, demonstrates local track familiarity, while Gutierrez’s statistics show 15 wins from 125 starts with solid 44.8% WPS rate. The combination suggests capability for breakthrough performance in appropriate company.
Secondary Choices
Big Brown Delivers (#3) offers potential with trainer Ralph D’Alessandro and jockey Oscar Gomez. The three-year-old colt shows form 403773 with official rating of 62, while expert analysis notes solid speed figures and consistent competitive efforts. D’Alessandro’s multiple entries on today’s card suggest stable form, creating value opportunities.
Solo Flight (#4) presents additional value from the D’Alessandro stable with jockey Keiber J. Coa. The four-year-old gelding carries 124 pounds but shows recent racing activity that could translate to improvement in this maiden company.
Longshot Considerations
Cyberbeast (#6) offers intriguing value with trainer Gregory D. Sacco and jockey Christopher Elliott. The three-year-old colt represents a barn seeking to establish form, creating potential upset opportunities at generous odds.
Moonlight Star (#7) provides additional value with trainer Tamara Housel and jockey Christian J. Navarro. Navarro’s proven route racing ability makes this four-year-old gelding a legitimate longshot consideration.
Pace Analysis
The 1 1/16-mile distance should produce tactical racing with multiple pace scenarios possible. Ragazzo d’Oro’s extensive racing experience suggests early positioning ability, while Ark Royal’s connections indicate patience for late development. Yoheda Money Maker’s recent local form suggests tactical speed that allows flexible positioning throughout the race.
The field composition favors horses with proven stamina and finishing ability, as the extended distance will test each runner’s ability to maintain competitive pace throughout the final quarter-mile. Tagg’s expertise with route races creates significant advantage for Ark Royal in tactical development.
Key Angles to Consider
Hall of Fame Training: Tagg’s Triple Crown success and specific expertise with developing horses creates exceptional value for Ark Royal despite potentially modest odds.
Experience Factor: Ragazzo d’Oro’s 43 career starts and graded stakes experience provide significant class advantage over less experienced maiden runners.
Local Track Knowledge: Yoheda Money Maker’s recent Finger Lakes racing and New York breeding create home track advantages in familiar conditions.
Distance Advantage: The 1 1/16-mile distance favors horses with proven stamina, giving experienced runners significant edge over speed-only types.
Wagering Angles
Win Betting: Ark Royal offers exceptional value with Hall of Fame trainer connections and proven route racing expertise.
Value Play: Ragazzo d’Oro represents solid value based on highest official rating and extensive racing experience.
Place/Show Strategy: Yoheda Money Maker provides strong place and show potential with recent local form and competitive rating.
Exacta Combinations: Key Ark Royal on top with Ragazzo d’Oro, Yoheda Money Maker, and Big Brown Delivers for substantial exacta potential.
Trifecta Strategy: Use Ark Royal and Ragazzo d’Oro in first two positions with Yoheda Money Maker, Big Brown Delivers, and Solo Flight filling third position for potentially lucrative trifecta payouts.
Race Selection
Win: Ark Royal
Place: Ragazzo d’Oro (highest official rating with extensive experience)
Show: Yoheda Money Maker (strong local form and competitive rating)
Exacta: Ark Royal over Ragazzo d’Oro, Yoheda Money Maker, Big Brown Delivers
Trifecta: Ark Royal/Ragazzo d’Oro with Yoheda Money Maker, Big Brown Delivers, Solo Flight
This maiden special weight at 1 1/16 miles presents exceptional opportunity for experienced handicappers to capitalize on proven connections and class advantages. Ark Royal’s Hall of Fame trainer provides the foundation for success, while Ragazzo d’Oro’s extensive racing experience offers solid value in this competitive route maiden field.
Race 8 – Allowance 5 1/2 Furlongs (4:23 PM)
This allowance sprint for fillies and mares represents one of the most competitive races on today’s card, featuring older horses that have never won two races seeking to advance their earnings. The 5 1/2-furlong distance favors pure speed and early positioning, creating opportunities for horses with tactical pace and strong finishing ability.
Key Contenders
I’m Kidding (#7) emerges as the exceptional choice with trainer Rudy R. Rodriguez and jockey Romero Ramsay Maragh. Expert analysis specifically notes this represents “a considerable ease in grade for I’M KIDDING and she’s expected to take full advantage”. The four-year-old filly by Cloud Computing carries 124 pounds but shows superior class with previous allowance company experience. Rodriguez brings proven stakes-winning credentials with over 1,000 career victories and $46 million in purse earnings, while Maragh provides veteran tactical expertise with lifetime earnings exceeding $15.7 million. The combination creates exceptional value in this competitive allowance field.
Signifying Nothing (#3) offers solid potential with the highest official rating of 69 despite recent poor form showing “7DD132”. The three-year-old filly by Speightster shows improvement in recent efforts, with trainer Ralph D’Alessandro and jockey Joel Cruz forming a capable partnership. D’Alessandro’s multiple entries throughout today’s card suggest stable form, while the filly’s superior rating indicates significant class advantage when placed appropriately.
Big Advantage (#1) presents excellent value with trainer Paul W. Barrow, who recently celebrated his 1,000th career victory in September 2025. The veteran trainer has compiled 794 wins from 6,378 starts with earnings exceeding $12.2 million over his career. His 2025 statistics show solid form with 3 wins from 24 starts (13% win rate) and exceptional 46% WPS rate, indicating continued competitiveness. The four-year-old filly by Mission Impazible shows form “217-234” with official rating of 64, paired with jockey Jeremias Flores who brings proven sprint ability.
Secondary Choices
Queens Over Threes (#4) represents value with trainer Jacqueline Falk and jockey Tamay B. Alpander. The five-year-old mare shows form “8540-63” with official rating of 65, carrying 124 pounds but demonstrating recent competitive efforts. Her experience and class could prove effective in this allowance company.
Bella Voce (#9) offers potential with trainer M. Anthony Ferraro, who achieved his 2,000th career victory in 2019 and maintains exceptional statistics with 19% win rate from over 10,680 starts. The veteran trainer has campaigned 36 black-type winners including three graded stakes winners, creating significant value for this four-year-old filly by Laoban.
Longshot Considerations
Backwater (#10) presents intriguing value with trainer Jeremiah C. Englehart and jockey Reylu Gutierrez. Englehart brings exceptional credentials as trainer of 2013 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies winner Ria Antonia, demonstrating particular expertise with developing fillies. His success story from Finger Lakes to graded stakes level creates potential for significant improvement with this three-year-old filly.
Bald Kitten (#2) offers additional value with form “243622” and official rating of 62, representing trainer Michael A. LeCesse with jockey Christopher Elliott. The three-year-old filly shows recent competitive form that could translate to improvement in this allowance company.
Pace Analysis
The 5 1/2-furlong distance should produce honest early fractions with multiple speed types engaged. I’m Kidding’s class advantage suggests ability to secure favorable position early and maintain through the stretch drive. Big Advantage’s recent form indicates tactical speed that allows flexible positioning, while Signifying Nothing’s superior rating suggests potential for strong late kick despite recent poor showings.
The sprint distance creates premium on early positioning and tactical speed, favoring horses with proven ability to handle competitive early pace while maintaining finishing ability in the final furlong.
Key Angles to Consider
Class Relief: Expert analysis specifically highlights I’m Kidding dropping in grade, creating significant advantage over this allowance field.
Trainer Milestones: Barrow’s recent 1,000th career victory celebration indicates stable confidence and form, creating value for Big Advantage.
Proven Development: Englehart’s success with Ria Antonia from maiden to Breeders’ Cup winner demonstrates exceptional filly development skills, making Backwater an intriguing longshot.
Experience Factor: Ferraro’s 2,000+ career wins and proven ability with black-type horses creates significant value for Bella Voce in competitive allowance company.
Wagering Angles
Win Betting: I’m Kidding offers exceptional value based on class relief and proven connections seeking to capitalize on grade drop.
Value Play: Big Advantage represents solid value with Barrow’s milestone celebration and proven recent form.
Place/Show Strategy: Signifying Nothing provides excellent place and show potential despite recent poor form, given superior official rating of 69.
Exacta Combinations: Key I’m Kidding on top with Big Advantage, Signifying Nothing, and Queens Over Threes for substantial exacta potential.
Trifecta Strategy: Use I’m Kidding and Big Advantage in first two positions with Signifying Nothing, Queens Over Threes, and Bella Voce filling third position for potentially lucrative trifecta payouts.
Race Selection
Win: I’m Kidding
Place: Big Advantage (excellent value with milestone trainer)
Show: Signifying Nothing (highest official rating provides place value)
Exacta: I’m Kidding over Big Advantage, Signifying Nothing, Queens Over Threes
Trifecta: I’m Kidding/Big Advantage with Signifying Nothing, Queens Over Threes, Bella Voce
This allowance sprint presents exceptional opportunity for experienced handicappers to capitalize on class relief and proven connections. I’m Kidding’s significant class advantage provides the foundation for success, while Big Advantage’s milestone trainer and Signifying Nothing’s superior rating offer substantial value in this competitive allowance field for fillies and mares.
Race 9 – Claiming 1 Mile 70 Yards (4:52 PM)
The closing claiming race for $5,000 features horses seeking to find their appropriate level in competitive claiming company.
Key Contenders: Post Facto (#4) offers solid value with trainer Samuel Morales and jockey Christian J. Navarro. The five-year-old gelding shows consistency in similar claiming company.
Secondary Choices: Cascade Cruiser (#2) represents potential with trainer John A. Grabowski and jockey Oscar Gomez handling the four-year-old gelding.
Longshot Consideration: Viking Warrior (#1) provides value with trainer Jeremiah C. Englehart and jockey Andre Shivnarine Worrie seeking improvement.
Pace Analysis: The extended mile distance should produce tactical racing with multiple pace scenarios possible.
Wagering Angles: Post Facto appears best in this claiming level finale.
Race Selection: Post Facto to win, Cascade Cruiser for place consideration.
JOCKEY NOTES AND INSIGHTS
Reylu Gutierrez emerges as the leading rider for today’s card with multiple competitive mounts. The Rochester native earned his first career victory at Finger Lakes in 2017 and maintains a solid 14% win rate with current earnings exceeding $2.2 million. Gutierrez recently captured the Genesee Valley Breeders’ Stakes aboard Cut The Cord , demonstrating his continued effectiveness at the local level.
Oscar Gomez appears frequently throughout the card and brings extensive experience to his mounts. His consistency in claiming and maiden special weight company makes him a reliable choice for multiple races.
Christian J. Navarro offers solid value with his tactical riding style particularly effective in route races. His ability to position horses for late runs makes him especially dangerous in longer distance events.
TRAINER NOTES AND INSIGHTS
Rachel Sells maintains the most active stable on today’s card with multiple runners across several races. Her 13.7% win rate reflects consistent competitiveness, with recent form showing two victories in her last 15 starts. Sells demonstrates particular effectiveness with juvenile runners and fillies.
Chris J. Englehart brings a 60% win rate in recent starts, making his runners automatic considerations. His tactical approach with developing horses provides significant advantages in competitive fields.
Ralph D’Alessandro trains multiple runners today and shows consistent form with his claiming and maiden special weight horses. His ability to place horses in appropriate spots creates value opportunities.
BEST WAGERING STRATEGIES AND VALUE PLAYS
Single Race Plays: Focus on Az U Chase Me in Race 1, Chioke in Race 2, and Princess Azara in Race 6 for strong win betting opportunities.
Daily Double Combinations: Race 1-2: Az U Chase Me with Chioke provides solid value at reasonable odds.
Pick 3 Strategy: Races 2-3-4: Chioke, Fiery Heart, and Sunday’s Currency offer a logical sequence with manageable risk.
Value Plays: The Last Delivery at 12-1 in Race 4 represents exceptional value according to expert analysis. Consider this longshot in exacta and trifecta combinations for potential significant payouts.
Late Pick 4: Races 6-7-8-9: Princess Azara, Ark Royal, I’m Kidding, and Post Facto provide a solid foundation for the late pick 4 sequence.
