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Laurel Park runs an eight race Saturday card today highlighted by two Maryland and Virginia restricted stakes, the Conniver Stakes for fillies and mares in race 6 and the Not For Love Stakes for older males in race 7, both on dirt and carded at extended sprint distances that should produce honest, tactical pace scenarios rather than pure speed collapses. The undercard is built around starter optional claiming races in races 1 and 8, a conditioned claiming route for older mares in race 2, a maiden claiming sprint in race 3, a three year old filly claiming sprint in race 4, and a first level allowance route for fillies and mares in race 5, giving a good mix of class levels but with generally small, six horse fields in every race that will focus the wagering around trip, pace, and subtle value rather than chaos.
Recent trip based analysis from handicappers points to a number of runners coming in off upgradable or tossable efforts, including Lannister (1) in race 3, Juniper's Jubilee (5) and They Got Curry (2) in race 4, Audibly (1) and Moon Cache (6) in race 5, Dwelling Legacy (1) and Takethemoneyhoney (5) in race 6, and Suremeanttoobe (2) and Blue Kingdom (6) in race 7, so the card sets up well for players willing to trust nuanced video notes over bare running lines. With the track listed as fast this morning and no track maintenance or weather interruptions reported, we should see formful results overall, but Laurel's configuration and historical bias at the sprint and route distances still create meaningful positional edges that we can exploit in the wagering.
Weather and Track Conditions
Laurel Park's official overnight for today lists the main track as fast with no track maintenance issues noted and ambient conditions at 42 degrees Fahrenheit with overcast skies and mist, which implies a cool, damp air mass but a surface that has not been downgraded to wet or sealed status. That profile typically yields a surface that plays fair to slightly kind to on pace and pressers in sprints and to tactical stalkers in routes, as the fast designation suggests a properly harrowed, compact dirt track without the added kickback or tiring effect of a drying out or sloppy strip.
Short term weather forecasts for central Maryland around Laurel this afternoon call for continued clouds and a chance of light drizzle but no significant rainfall accumulation, which supports the expectation that the main track will remain officially fast throughout the card, though the mist may keep the surface slightly tighter and less dusty than on a sunny dry day. There is no indication of wind strong enough to materially affect the run down the backstretch or in the lane, so we are handicapping under essentially neutral wind conditions with the primary focus on pace, post, and current form.
Track Bias and Post Position Profile
Historical bias work on Laurel's dirt track shows that in six furlong sprints, inside and middle posts are slightly preferred while outside draws are not materially disadvantaged, and early speed and pace pressing types win at an above par rate, especially on days listed fast when the surface is tight and consistent. At seven furlongs, winners tend to come from just off the pace more often, with outside and mid posts doing as well or slightly better than the rail, due in part to the run to the turn and the ability for tactical riders to secure a stalking two or three path trip without being forced to send hard from the gate.
In two turn dirt routes around 1 1/16 miles at Laurel, long term data confirm an advantage for inside to middle posts, with the far outside marooned posts underperforming due to the short run to the first turn and the cost of chasing position wide, although today's route, race 2 and race 5, are drawn with only six starters and no extreme post disadvantages. For today's mile race 8, inside and mid posts again historically hold a mild edge, but given the small field size, pace shape and rider intent will matter more than stall assignment, and with the track currently fast and no meet specific evidence of a pronounced rail or outside path bias in the last week being reported, we treat today's dirt as generally fair with the usual Laurel lean toward horses that can secure forward or tactical positions into the first turn or at the sprint half mile.
1st Race – Laurel Park – Saturday, March 7th, 2026
STARTER OPTIONAL CLAIMING. 6 furlongs, dirt, four year olds and upward which have started for a claiming price of 20,000 or less and which have never won two races or claiming 20,000-16,000 and which have never won two races.
Post Time
12:00 PM local time.
Pace Analysis
On paper this six furlong starter optional claimer has several runners capable of showing at least tactical speed but lacks a true need the lead burner, suggesting an honest but not suicidal early tempo. Robert's Moon (6) has been forward in his recent sprint tries and projects to be prominently placed again if he breaks cleanly after a slow break and wide trip last out, while Tyson's Delivery (4) and Set For Life (3) have shown pressing and stalking speed in their recent Laurel races, and Tethered Soul (2) could be more involved with the return to six furlongs off a useful late move in his latest.
Gaelicheartofgold (1) won his maiden from off a hot pace and may again settle midpack saving ground from the rail, and Derz Smart (5) comes off a turf layoff line where he was pace compromised while trying to close into a slow turf sprint, which suggests he may be running on late rather than contesting the early fractions on dirt. Overall, this shapes as a race where a horse sitting just off the lead in the clear, likely Robert's Moon (6) or Set For Life (3), gets first run on the deeper closers and has an edge if the track continues to play kindly to tactical speed at six furlongs.
Key Contenders
Robert's Moon (6) exits a deceptively good fourth place finish on a sloppy six furlong track at Penn National where he broke slowly, lost multiple lengths at the start, and still closed while racing wide to just miss a share, a trip that suggests he is in better form than the running line shows and is primed to move forward with a cleaner break back at Laurel. He owns enough early foot to secure a stalking outside trip from post 6, which fits today's projected pace scenario and leverages Laurel's slight preference for forward horses in dirt sprints, and he offers upside given the visual strength of his last race relative to his figures.
Tethered Soul (2) was away a bit slowly last time at five and one half furlongs and never really got involved early, but trip notes indicate he was doing his best work late and galloped out in front, hinting that the stretch back out to six furlongs third off the layoff can move him up significantly in this spot. From an inside post he should be able to tuck in just behind the speed, and if the pace proves more contested than projected, his late punch can make him a major player in the final sixteenth at a fair price.
Secondary Choices
Gaelicheartofgold (1) broke his maiden in a closer friendly race in November at Laurel, closing from well back into a strong pace, so while he handled six furlongs and the Laurel dirt, the circumstances were ideal and may slightly exaggerate his true ability in this condition. With scratches on his card and a bit of time between starts, he remains a contender off the rail with a ground saving path, but he is more trip dependent than some others and may be slightly overbet relative to his true chances if the public leans on that big maiden win.
Set For Life (3) pressed an even pace in his last start before finishing a solid second, and his trip was straightforward enough that his speed figure looks like a fair representation of his current ability in this form cycle. He should be forwardly placed again and projects as the main pace presser to the likely leader, giving him every chance to grind out a win or at least hold on for a major share if the more potent closers fall short.
Longshots
Tyson's Delivery (4) chased even fractions from an outside draw last time off a layoff, gradually dropping back and failing to threaten while not encountering meaningful trouble, suggesting that he simply needed the race and may improve with that tightener under his belt. If he moves forward second off the bench with a weight break and can sit just off the leaders rather than being caught wide, he is capable of outrunning likely odds as a minor upset candidate underneath in exotics.
Derz Smart (5) has not been seen since a turf sprint at Colonial Downs nearly seven months ago where he was pace compromised while trying to close into a slow early tempo and raced wide on the turn, but he has prior dirt sprint form and could make noise if he returns ready for a barn that can get one to fire off a break. He is more of a speculative longshot than a key win player, but his last effort is easily forgiven and he is at least mildly interesting as a deep closer if the race melts a bit more than expected.
Selections
Win: Robert's Moon (6)
Place: Tethered Soul (2)
Show: Set For Life (3)
Betting Strategy
With a moderate pace and a strong trip profile, the primary wagering angle in race 1 is to leverage Robert's Moon (6) as an A level horse, using him as a key in win and horizontal bets, while backing up with Tethered Soul (2) and Set For Life (3) for coverage. Straight win bets on Robert's Moon (6) are appropriate if he holds fair odds, and in exactas and trifectas, an efficient structure would be 6 over 1,2,3,4,5 for value, with saver tickets like 2,3 over 6 over 1,2,3,4,5 to protect against a trip or break issue.
2nd Race – Laurel Park – Saturday, March 7th, 2026
CLAIMING 7,500. 1 1/16 miles, dirt, fillies and mares four years old and upward.
Post Time
12:31 PM local time.
Pace Analysis
This conditioned claimer routes older mares around two turns at a mile and a sixteenth and features at least one committed speed type in Genieinabridle (5), who does her best work on the lead and figures to go forward from a middle post. Mainstream Sellout (6) has tactical speed and should be close up tracking, while Watch Your Tone (2) can sit a stalking trip just behind the leaders, leaving Hay Hay Paula (1), More Ransom (3), and Ribbonsinherhair (4) to settle in midpack or back half and make their runs from off the pace.
Given the presence of a need the lead type in Genieinabridle (5) and a couple of pressers, the pace should be at least honest and could get demanding if she is aggressively sent, which would favor stamina and late kick over raw speed. On a fast Laurel track where two turn bias leans slightly toward inside tactical stalkers, the ideal trip lies with a mare like Ribbonsinherhair (4) or Watch Your Tone (2) who can sit second flight and pounce on a tiring speed.
Key Contenders
Ribbonsinherhair (4) endured a disastrous trip in her most recent start when she stumbled badly at the start, dropped well off the pace, and still managed to make up some ground late at seven furlongs, though she never seriously threatened as the beaten favorite. Back around two turns, which is more in her wheelhouse, and with a clean break from a mid gate, she projects to be far better positioned early and can revert to prior form that fits strongly at this claiming level, making her a key win candidate if the public holds a recency bias against her last debacle.
Genieinabridle (5) set or contested the early pace in her last route start at Laurel and made a big mid race move into a fast pace before tiring, a trip that suggests both that she retains good tactical speed and that a slightly more patient ride today could significantly improve her finishing punch. If she can clear or sit comfortably just off the lead without overexerting in the middle stages, she is dangerous to take this field gate to wire or at least hold stubbornly for a major share.
Secondary Choices
Hay Hay Paula (1) comes off a strong second at Charles Town in slop where she closed from far back against a speed biased track, a performance that is visually impressive but also benefitted from a suicidal pace up front, making the overall figure somewhat tricky to interpret. She clearly stays the distance and will appreciate the longer stretch at Laurel, but she will again be at the mercy of pace and traffic from the rail, which makes her more of a key underneath or late running saver while still a win threat if the race collapses.
More Ransom (3) had a wide trip on the far turn in her last start at Parx at one mile and seventy yards, and though well beaten, she kept on with a good attitude, suggesting she remains willing despite a somewhat modest ceiling at this stage. With a better, ground saving trip here and an anticipated honest pace to run into, she can be competitive for the minor awards and is a reasonable inclusion in vertical exotics.
Longshots
Watch Your Tone (2) tracked modest fractions on the rail in her last and finished second, and Mainstream Sellout (6) sat a fair tracking trip and held evenly, with both mares appearing to run to their paper and not really offering obvious excuses that would suggest significant hidden upside. They are usable as underlay types at likely modest prices but project more as depth pieces in trifectas and superfectas than as core win players given the presence of more interesting trip horses at similar or better odds.
Selections
Win: Ribbonsinherhair (4)
Place: Genieinabridle (5)
Show: Hay Hay Paula (1)
Betting Strategy
Ribbonsinherhair (4) is a logical win key in race 2 as a mare likely to move forward off a forgivable last trip, and a straight win bet is warranted if she stays in a fair price range given her back class and projected trip. In vertical exotics, using 4 over 1,5 over 1,2,3,5,6 provides efficient coverage, while in early horizontals she should be used as an A along with Genieinabridle (5), with Hay Hay Paula (1) as the primary B to guard against a more pace meltdown scenario.
3rd Race – Laurel Park – Saturday, March 7th, 2026
MAIDEN CLAIMING 25,000. 7 furlongs, dirt, maidens four, five, and six years old.
Post Time
1:02 PM local time.
Pace Analysis
This seven furlong maiden claimer features a moderately balanced pace picture with several horses possessing some tactical speed but no clear send at all costs type, which often leads to a compact field and a sprint home from the three eighths pole. Majorca (2) has shown the ability to save ground chasing hot fractions, Divine Swagger (4) sat on or near the pace off the layoff last time, and Star Atlas (5) can be a bit closer with a better break second off the layoff, while Lannister (1) will likely drop in midpack early before commencing a sustained run.
Bald Cypress (6) tracked from the rail in his prior start and had a brief lack of room, but overall his trip was fair, and returning from the bench he may be ridden a bit more conservatively off the early speed. With no obvious need the lead runner and seven furlongs giving a bit more run to the turn, the race may favor a strong sustained mover like Lannister (1) who can overcome a moderate early tempo by launching an early wide bid and sustaining his run through the lane.
Key Contenders
Lannister (1) exits a highly upgradable second place finish at five and one half furlongs where he was slightly bothered and away slowly, settled well off honest fractions, then made a sweeping five wide move into the stretch and kept on strongly to the wire and beyond, galloping out powerfully. He now stretches to seven furlongs third off a layoff for a very capable barn that has excellent numbers with dirt maiden claimers in this scenario, and his combination of route type stamina and improved fitness makes him a very strong single candidate in many horizontal sequences.
Divine Swagger (4) ran well with a good trip in the same race as Lannister (1), sitting a slightly wide but otherwise fine journey and staying on, and he has every right to move forward second off the layoff while stretching to seven furlongs. He does not have the same strong gallop out signal as Lannister (1), but he is a logical second choice on progression and trip and is well suited to track the pace and try to get first run turning for home.
Secondary Choices
Majorca (2) saved ground while chasing hot fractions in his last and ran a one paced race, and he appears to have a consistent but limited turn of foot that makes him more of a grinder than an explosive finisher. With the stretch to seven furlongs, he could be better suited to the tempo of the race and may be able to sustain his run longer, but he does not offer the same upside as the two primary contenders and is more of a must use underneath rather than a top key.
Star Atlas (5) bobbled at the break and was away slowly off the layoff last time before trailing throughout, and while he did not show enough in that race to suggest major improvement is imminent, the second start off an absence and return to a clean break could at least allow him to show truer ability. He is usable in deeper exotics but is tough to endorse at the top given the quality of the favorite.
Longshots
Bald Cypress (6) had a trip that was largely unremarkable in his most recent start, tracking the pace on the rail, briefly lacking room around the quarter pole, then finding a seam and rallying, and today he returns off a layoff, which injects some uncertainty about immediate readiness. Given that his prior race did not show a clear hidden upside signal and that he may be playing catch up fitness wise, he is difficult to support strongly at win level and better reserved for the bottom of trifectas and superfectas if spreading deep.
Selections
Win: Lannister (1)
Place: Divine Swagger (4)
Show: Majorca (2)
Betting Strategy
Race 3 is the most straightforward race on the card from a handicapping perspective, and Lannister (1) is a clear A level single in many multi race wagers given his trip profile, barn stats, and projected pace scenario. In the win pool, a straight win bet is fully justified, while in exotics, the efficient approach is to press 1 over 2,4,5,6 strongly and then hedge lightly with 4 over 1,2,5,6 in case Divine Swagger (4) takes a step forward and trips out better.
4th Race – Laurel Park – Saturday, March 7th, 2026
CLAIMING 40,000. 6 furlongs, dirt, fillies three years old.
Post Time
1:33 PM local time.
Pace Analysis
Race 4 is a six furlong three year old filly claimer with multiple pace factors and the potential for a hot early tempo, particularly with Juniper's Jubilee (5) and Rerun Table (4) both owning speed and having shown willingness to be prominent early. Juniper's Jubilee (5) pulled hard pressing hot fractions last time while still finishing strongly, indicating she may again be forward and aggressive, while Rerun Table (4) has been comfortable contesting even fractions and then pulling away, and Campaign Mischief (6) also showed good tactical speed tracking honest early fractions in her last.
Barbados Bulldog (1) was content to settle off an even pace before making a three wide bid, and Curlene's Spirit (3), though coming off a two turn win, will likely find herself in midpack or toward the back early cutting back to a sprint, given her stamina oriented style. With at least three fillies who want to be forward, the pace will probably be on the fast side, creating an opportunity for a filly who can rate just off the duel, particularly Rerun Table (4), or for a slightly more relaxed stalker such as Barbados Bulldog (1) to sit a perfect trip and take over late.
Key Contenders
Rerun Table (4) dropped back into the claiming ranks with first time Lasix for her three year old debut last time and responded with a professional performance, pressing the pace and drawing off in the lane to win with a figure that makes her the horse to beat in this group. She appears well placed at this level and again projects to secure an ideal stalk and pounce trip outside of the inside speed, and handicappers generally view her as having found her proper level with room to move forward second off the layoff.
Juniper's Jubilee (5) broke her maiden last time in impressive fashion considering the circumstances, pulling hard pressing hot early fractions, taking over and opening up turning for home, and then holding on gamely, earning a pace upgraded effort as she did the heavy lifting up front. If she can relax just a bit more today and ration her speed more efficiently, she has the potential to improve further, though she must now deal with a tougher pace scenario and a sharper rival in Rerun Table (4) pressing just off her flank.
Secondary Choices
Barbados Bulldog (1) ran credibly when settling behind even fractions and making a three wide bid before staying on for third behind Rerun Table (4), and the extra sixteenth of a mile today could suit her late run. She lacks the speed of the main pace players but has the right stalking style to benefit if Juniper's Jubilee (5) and Rerun Table (4) engage each other too early and soften each other up in the lane.
Campaign Mischief (6) debuted impressively on Lasix, tracking honest fractions, making a smooth three wide progression, and drawing off under strong handling, showing professional qualities that bode well for her stepping up in class. She now faces a stronger group and must prove she can handle more intense early fractions, but her tactical speed and apparent willingness make her a legitimate secondary contender with upside.
Longshots
Curlene's Spirit (3) was much the best in a two turn race on a sloppy track last time despite losing ground wide on both turns, but her running style and pedigree suggest she is more of a stamina type, and the cut back to six furlongs might not be ideal, especially in a race with several sharp sprint speed fillies. She can still get a piece if the pace melts down and others tire, but she is better viewed as a longshot underneath rather than a primary win candidate in this pace scenario.
Selections
Win: Rerun Table (4)
Place: Juniper's Jubilee (5)
Show: Barbados Bulldog (1)
Betting Strategy
Given the projected fast pace and the quality of the top two, Rerun Table (4) is the preferred win key, supported by a straight win bet and heavy use in horizontal wagers, while Juniper's Jubilee (5) is respected as a strong B level horse given her pace upgraded maiden win. In exactas and trifectas, an efficient approach is 4 over 1,5,6 for the main play, with saver tickets 5 over 1,4,6 and 4,5 over 1,3,6 to account for a pace meltdown scenario where a stalker like Barbados Bulldog (1) or an improving Campaign Mischief (6) runs better than expected.
5th Race – Laurel Park – Saturday, March 7th, 2026
ALLOWANCE N1X. 1 1/8 miles, dirt, fillies and mares four years old and upward.
Post Time
2:06 PM local time.
Pace Analysis
The fifth race is a nine furlong first level allowance for older fillies and mares, a distance that will test stamina more than speed, and the field composition suggests a controlled but honest pace scenario with a couple of mares comfortable on or near the lead. Fitness (5) typically travels well while setting even fractions on an uncontested lead and will likely be prominent again, while Moon Cache (6) was close to a slow early pace last time and should again be placed forwardly, and Stress Reliever (3) can also be involved early after wiring a small field in her last.
Audibly (1) tends to lag off even pace before making an advance on the far turn, Old Bay (4) settled and then launched a wide bid last time, and Nobody's Girl (2) should appreciate getting back to a fast surface after hating the slop last out, suggesting she might stalk midpack rather than being aggressively sent. With three possible pace players and a long stretch, the race could set up well for a mare with tactical speed who can sit just off the leaders and finish, such as Old Bay (4) or Moon Cache (6), while pure front runners may feel the nine furlong distance late.
Key Contenders
Old Bay (4) ran a strong race last time, taking a firm hold while prominent between foes early, easing back off the pace on the backstretch to conserve energy, then launching a three wide bid on the far turn and staying on willingly to the wire, a trip that demonstrates both tactical flexibility and heart. She now steps to nine furlongs, which should further accentuate her stamina profile and ability to rebreak, and given the likelihood of an honest but not runaway pace, she can sit a perfect stalk and pounce trip and is a top win candidate if the price is right.
Moon Cache (6) traveled comfortably close to a slow early pace last time at a mile, drew level around three sixteenths, and gamely held on late despite lugging in and flopping leads, understandable signs of fatigue in a first off layoff run, and she should be tighter second off the bench. The key question is whether the quick turnaround off a tough comeback sets her up for a bounce, but if she holds form, her tactical speed and gallant last effort make her dangerous to give another strong account at a longer distance for a barn that can win with route mares.
Secondary Choices
Audibly (1) has a profile of lagging behind even pace, advancing on the far turn, and grinding away to the wire, and she may appreciate the extra ground at nine furlongs as a mare who does not possess a sharp turn of foot but maintains a steady gallop. Her most recent effort, following a downgradable two back, suggests she is moving in the right direction, and from the rail she will need a savvy ride to avoid traffic and keep her momentum, but she is a logical inclusion among the main challengers.
Stress Reliever (3) exits a four runner race where she set honest fractions on an uncontested lead and drew off comfortably, an effort that must be interpreted with caution given the small field and soft pace scenario, but still indicates she is in good form. She may not get the same easy lead here with a couple of other pace players in the lineup, yet if she secures a clear rail trip again and is left alone, she could prove tougher than expected to reel in, making her a viable secondary win threat.
Longshots
Nobody's Girl (2) hated the sloppy seven furlong surface last time and was eased, an effort that can be readily forgiven, and she is expected to improve getting back to a fast track and two turns, though she still must prove she can handle this distance and class. She is interesting enough as a rebound candidate to include in deeper tickets but remains a bit of a guessing game given the abrupt non effort last time and is probably best treated as an exotics rather than win key.
Selections
Win: Old Bay (4)
Place: Moon Cache (6)
Show: Audibly (1)
Betting Strategy
Old Bay (4) is the preferred win key given her versatile running style and strong last out trip, and a win bet is advisable if her price reflects the perceived parity in the field. For exotics, a structure of 4,6 over 1,3,4,5,6 with a heavier emphasis on 4,6 for top slots captures the most likely scenarios, while in the middle of the card horizontal sequences, including Old Bay (4) and Moon Cache (6) as A level tickets and Audibly (1) and Stress Reliever (3) as B level coverage strikes a good balance between aggression and safety.
6th Race – Laurel Park – Saturday, March 7th, 2026
STAKES. Conniver Stakes. 7 furlongs, dirt, fillies and mares four years old and upward (registered Maryland bred or sired and Virginia bred or sired), no Lasix within 48 hours.
Post Time
2:38 PM local time.
Pace Analysis
The Conniver Stakes at seven furlongs brings together a group of accomplished state bred or restricted mares, with a pace scenario that promises to be honest to fast given the presence of multiple forwardly inclined runners, notably Dwelling Legacy (1), Destination (2), You're The One (3), and Takethemoneyhoney (5). Dwelling Legacy (1) wired a short field in her last start over five and one half furlongs with controlled fractions and a strong gallop out, suggesting she will again be sent from the rail, while Destination (2) set even fractions on an uncontested lead off the layoff in her recent win, and You're The One (3) has also been on or near the front in her recent races, cutting back from longer.
Takethemoneyhoney (5) has tactical pace and will likely be placed just off the main speed, while Isabella's Glory (4) and Grayson's Girl (6) have the ability to sit just behind the front trio and make wide bids if the pace heats up. On a fair fast surface at seven furlongs, a pace battle among the inside speed may tilt things toward a mare with tactical but not need the lead style, such as Takethemoneyhoney (5) or Grayson's Girl (6), though a classy speed like Dwelling Legacy (1) could still take this field all the way if able to ration energy more judiciously.
Key Contenders
Takethemoneyhoney (5) ran a very game race last time when prompting an even pace two wide, drawing level traveling strongly around the three eighths pole, and then narrowly missing at the wire after being a nose short, in part due to a rider who appeared to be caught a touch flat footed as a rival got the jump on them. Trip notes suggest she could easily be on a three race winning streak with slightly different handling, and with her versatile stalking style and proven ability to fight on in the lane, she looks poised to deliver another top effort in this stakes spot with a strong case as the horse to beat.
Dwelling Legacy (1) dominated a short field last out when setting controlled fractions on an uncontested lead at five and one half furlongs, winning easily and galloping out powerfully, indicating she had plenty left in reserve and is in peak form. Today's circumstances are different with a deeper field and more pace pressure, but if she breaks sharply and can secure the rail without being hounded too aggressively, she has enough class and stamina to carry her speed seven furlongs and is a key player despite the trickier setup.
Secondary Choices
Grayson's Girl (6) has shown a strong tactical profile, staying close to slow early fractions before circling wide on the turn and bounding clear in the lane in her most recent start, a performance that demonstrates both a strong move and a capacity to sustain her run. In a race where the inside may be busy early, her outside draw and ability to stalk and pounce could be a significant asset, and she is a major threat to run down a pace softened front end in the final furlong.
Destination (2) returned from a layoff to set even fractions on an uncontested lead and held firmly to the wire, a fair representation of her form that suggests she will be in the early mix again. She may not enjoy the same relaxed lead today, but if she can secure a comfortable pace and avoid a duel, she could still hang around for a share against these.
Longshots
Isabella's Glory (4) benefited from a strong pace setup in her last start as a closer in a seven furlong race at Laurel, circling wide into the lane and closing late, but the trip was aided by a fast early tempo that may not be exactly replicated today. While she may again get pace to chase and is capable of a late run into the exotics, she is less likely to significantly improve on that prior effort and is more attractive as a price horse for trifecta and superfecta backends than as a win candidate.
You're The One (3) comes in off a race where she set controlled rail fractions and drew away as a heavy favorite, but she now cuts back in distance and steps up in class with more speed signed on, making this a tougher dynamic. She has talent and could certainly factor, but with multiple other compelling pace and tactical threats, she is more of a spread horse than a central focus in this particular stakes.
Selections
Win: Takethemoneyhoney (5)
Place: Dwelling Legacy (1)
Show: Grayson's Girl (6)
Betting Strategy
In the Conniver Stakes, Takethemoneyhoney (5) is a strong win key with robust trip credentials and a favorable stalking style, making her a priority in the win pool and as an A level inclusion in the late Pick 4 and Pick 5 structures. Combining her with Dwelling Legacy (1) and Grayson's Girl (6) in exactas and trifectas, particularly 5 over 1,6 over all, and saver tickets with 1,6 over 5,1,6,4,2, can efficiently capture the likely outcomes while leaving room for a closer like Isabella's Glory (4) to sneak into the frame at a price.
7th Race – Laurel Park – Saturday, March 7th, 2026
STAKES. Not For Love Stakes. 6 furlongs, dirt, four year olds and upward (registered Maryland bred or sired and Virginia bred or sired), no Lasix within 48 hours.
Post Time
3:09 PM local time.
Pace Analysis
The Not For Love Stakes at six furlongs brings together a compact field of older sprinters, and the pace complexion is quite intriguing with Suremeanttoobe (2) and Blue Kingdom (6) both having shown high speed, while Twisted Ride (3) and S S Sinatra (4) are also pace factors. Suremeanttoobe (2) wired a field last time at five and one half furlongs with controlled fractions and a visually impressive draw off win, though he may not get such an uncontested lead here, especially with Blue Kingdom (6) likely to be more aggressively ridden from an outside post where he figures to be more comfortable on or near the front.
Quint's Brew (1) tracked a modest pace between horses and finished evenly last time, and All The Hardways (5) also sat a ground saving chasing trip without making much impact, suggesting both may once again attempt to stalk from just off the pace and hope for a collapse. With multiple genuine speed horses and this being a high purse stakes, it is reasonable to expect a solid to fast early tempo that should slightly favor a horse who can sit just off and pounce, potentially Blue Kingdom (6) if he can avoid getting into a speed duel, or a midpack grinder like Quint's Brew (1) if the pace truly cooks.
Key Contenders
Suremeanttoobe (2) is a key horse here off his last start where he set controlled fractions on an uncontested lead and drew off impressively with something likely left in the tank, indicating he has both high speed and reserves of stamina at these sprint distances. While he may face more early pressure today, his ability to carry speed and the fact that his last win was no fluke on visual impression make him a major win threat if he can secure even a mildly comfortable lead or an outside pressing spot.
Blue Kingdom (6) ran well last time even though he appeared less comfortable behind horses after breaking from the rail, and he still managed to skim the rail and stay on for second despite that minor discomfort and the slow early fractions, suggesting he is likely better when allowed to use his speed from an outside draw. Today he draws the outside in a six horse field and should be able to either clear or sit just off the early leader, which is exactly the kind of trip that could lead to a performance even better than his last, making him a co top contender with upside.
Secondary Choices
Quint's Brew (1) tracked a modest pace in his last race and finished evenly, with no obvious excuse as the beaten favorite, but he remains a horse of quality who has been competitive at this level and can secure an inside stalking trip from the rail. If the anticipated pace battle between Suremeanttoobe (2) and Blue Kingdom (6) goes a bit too fast, he is well positioned to pick up pieces late and could prove to be an overlay in the win and exacta pools.
Twisted Ride (3) contested an even pace three wide in his last and finished gamely though he just missed third, and he has a solid foundation of sprint efforts that make him a consistent player at this level. However, from a pace standpoint he may again be forced to chase wide or be part of a heated early duel, which reduces his advantage relative to the top two speed horses and pushes him into more of a secondary role.
Longshots
S S Sinatra (4) chased on the rail and never really factored in his latest. In a field with multiple superior speed and tactical threats, he looks like a longshot who would need an absolute collapse of the top contenders to get up late and is best reserved for the outer edges of deeper exotics at a big price.
All The Hardways (5) sat a ground saving chasing trip and remained in an isolated fourth last time, never really threatening, and while he has shown enough in the past to be considered, his recent profile is more one of a consistent underneath horse than a win candidate at this stakes level. He can be used as a filler in trifectas and superfectas but is difficult to endorse on top.
Selections
Win: Blue Kingdom (6)
Place: Suremeanttoobe (2)
Show: Quint's Brew (1)
Betting Strategy
Given the likely strong pace and Blue Kingdom (6) drawing the advantageous outside post, he gets the slight nod as the top win play, and a straight win bet is warranted if his price is not crushed; Suremeanttoobe (2) should also be used heavily in win saver bets if overlayed. In exotics, emphasis on 6 and 2 in the top slot such as 6,2 over 1,3,6,2,5,4, and in horizontals, using both as co A level keys with Quint's Brew (1) as a B level backup provides robust coverage of the primary race shapes.
8th Race – Laurel Park – Saturday, March 7th, 2026
STARTER OPTIONAL CLAIMING. 1 mile, dirt, four year olds and upward which have started for a claiming price of 20,000 or less and which have never won two races or claiming 20,000-16,000 and which have never won two races.
Post Time
3:40 PM local time.
Pace Analysis
The finale is a one mile starter optional claiming race for older males, and the pace looks fairly honest with multiple runners capable of being forward but no certified speed freak. Be Tha Judge (3) is the most likely pacesetter given that he set even fractions on an uncontested lead last time and kept going, and he will likely be sent from an inside post again, while Tell 'em I'm Comin (1) can be placed close or just off the pace after his dominant but uninformative three horse maiden win where he coasted around and never left second gear.
Punch It Margaret (4) and Party With Smarty (5) both come out of sprints where they showed some late running ability, and stretching to a mile should slot them into midpack stalking or tracking roles, while Brighty (2) and Baytown Bruiser (6) may settle further back depending on their break and rider intent. If Be Tha Judge (3) is left uncontested, he could take them a long way, but with the improving class of Tell 'em I'm Comin (1) and the potential for a more contested early pace, this race may ultimately favor a horse who can sit just off the lead and use a steady mile finishing kick, making Tell 'em I'm Comin (1) and Party With Smarty (5) particularly interesting.
Key Contenders
Tell 'em I'm Comin (1) finally broke his maiden last time in a three horse race at a mile where he won by an enormous margin at one to nine, but the key takeaway is not the winning margin or figure, which was modest, but the ease with which he did it, never being asked to extend beyond a strong gallop. That implies he has significant untapped upside at this distance, and off such an easy effort he has little reason to regress or bounce, and from the rail he should be able to secure a perfect ground saving trip either on the lead or just tracking Be Tha Judge (3) before unleashing more of his ability in the lane.
Party With Smarty (5) chased an even pace on the rail from the rear in his last six furlong race and stayed on into third while shaping like a horse who would benefit from more ground, as he was doing his best work late despite appearing awkward in behind horses when encountering kickback. Stretching to a mile today, he should be more comfortable once in the clear and may be able to settle into a smooth rhythm, increasing his chance of producing a stronger late run to challenge for the win or at least a major share.
Secondary Choices
Be Tha Judge (3) returned from a break last time and set even fractions on an uncontested lead before drawing away, a formful enough effort that shows he is still dangerous when allowed to dictate tempo. Today he is unlikely to get such a soft lead with Tell 'em I'm Comin (1) inside and others stretching out, but if he breaks sharply and secures command without too much pressure, he could again prove tough to reel in.
Punch It Margaret (4) exits a six furlong race at Parx where speed held very strongly and closers struggled to make an impact, yet he stayed on well enough to suggest that a return to a mile could really suit him, and he may deserve a small upgrade for that effort given the unfavorable race shape. With a slightly more neutral pace scenario and a longer run down the backstretch, he has the potential to move up significantly and is an appealing secondary choice with some value.
Longshots
Baytown Bruiser (6) sat a good trip on the synthetic at Turfway Park in his last six and a half furlong race, finishing third in a manner that indicates stretching back out to a mile could be in his favor, though the quick turnaround raises a small question about whether he is at peak form. Still, his prior dirt and route experiences suggest he is capable enough to land a share if the race falls apart late, and he is a useful price inclusion in deeper tickets.
Brighty (2) tracked modest pace on the rail last time before retreating, and he would need a notable reversal of form and a significantly improved trip to factor for the win, making him more of a longshot candidate for the fringes of supers if spreading very wide. Given the presence of stronger improving horses, he is not a priority on top.
Selections
Win: Tell 'em I'm Comin (1)
Place: Party With Smarty (5)
Show: Be Tha Judge (3)
Betting Strategy
Tell 'em I'm Comin (1) is a strong win key in the finale due to his untested upside and projected perfect trip, making him an attractive single in closing legs of horizontal wagers and a solid win bet if the price holds above short odds. In exotics, configurations like 1 over 3,4,5,6 for exactas and 1 over 3,4,5,6 over 3,4,5,6 for trifectas give broad yet focused coverage, with smaller saver tickets layering Party With Smarty (5) and Be Tha Judge (3) in the top slot as backups in case of a pace or trip surprise.
Jockey Notes and Insights
Forest Boyce, aboard Gaelicheartofgold (1) in race 1 and Quint's Brew (1) in race 7, is an experienced Laurel based rider known for patient ground saving trips from inside posts, which suits both of her mounts who may need to work out a rail stalking or closing journey behind honest early pace scenarios. Jevian Toledo, riding Robert's Moon (6) in race 1, Majorca (2) in race 3, Grayson's Girl (6) in the Conniver in race 6, and S S Sinatra (4) in the Not For Love in race 7, is one of the more aggressive and successful local riders on speed and tactical horses, which enhances the chances of Robert's Moon (6) to secure a prime forward trip, supports Majorca (2) getting a better tactical position, and is a positive for Grayson's Girl (6) from an outside post in a stakes where early positioning is crucial.
Yedsit Hazlewood has a busy day and is aboard Tethered Soul (2) in race 1, More Ransom (3) in race 2, Upshot (3) in race 3, Juniper's Jubilee (5) in race 4, Old Bay (4) in race 5, Dwelling Legacy (1) in race 6, and Party With Smarty (5) in race 8, and recent trip notes show him capable of both patient off the pace rides and forward aggressive handling, though on Juniper's Jubilee (5) and Dwelling Legacy (1) he will need to carefully balance speed and rationing to avoid premature moves. Mychel Sanchez, who rides Derz Smart (5) in race 1, They Got Curry (2) in race 4, You're The One (3) in race 6, and Blue Kingdom (6) in race 7, has been riding in strong Mid Atlantic circuits and is adept at aggressive pace handling and well timed stretch moves, which is particularly important for Blue Kingdom (6) in the Not For Love as he may well control or press the pace from the outside and must judge fractions correctly to fend off Suremeanttoobe (2).
Trainer Notes and Insights
Brittany Russell, training Lannister (1) in race 3 and Grayson's Girl (6) in race 6, has excellent recent stats with dirt maiden claimers third off the layoff and with route to sprint and sprint to route transitions, and handicappers highlight that she has gone five for nine with maiden claimers making their third start back from ninety plus day breaks, with even stronger numbers when her husband Sheldon Russell rides as in the case of Lannister (1), making that runner one of the most reliable favorites on the card. Michael Trombetta, trainer of Derz Smart (5) in race 1 and Suremeanttoobe (2) in race 7, is a respected Mid Atlantic conditioner known for getting horses to fire off moderate layoffs and for producing fit, sharp sprinters, which bodes well for the return of Derz Smart (5) from a turf break and reinforces the bullish view on Suremeanttoobe (2) continuing his sharp form third off the bench in the Not For Love.
Jamie Ness has multiple runners with More Ransom (3) and Ribbonsinherhair (4) in race 2 and They Got Curry (2) and Blue Kingdom (6) in races 4 and 7 respectively, and his barn is traditionally very strong in claiming and starter conditions, often improving horses significantly after a couple of starts within his program; that pattern underpins the expectation that Ribbonsinherhair (4) will rebound around two turns and that Blue Kingdom (6) will be well set to step forward in today's stakes. John Salzman Jr., trainer of Rerun Table (4) in race 4, appears to have placed her ideally within the claiming ranks after a juvenile season, and current form plus tactical speed suggest he has found a productive niche for her, with handicappers viewing her as well spotted to continue winning at this level.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
The card offers a natural multi race focus through the late Pick 5 starting in race 4, where several races look to have strong key candidates that can anchor exotic structures. In race 4, Rerun Table (4) is a central A level key with Juniper's Jubilee (5) and Campaign Mischief (6) as backups, in race 5 Old Bay (4) and Moon Cache (6) serve as co A level anchors with Audibly (1) as coverage, in race 6 Takethemoneyhoney (5) and Dwelling Legacy (1) are the primary keys with Grayson's Girl (6) as an important third, in race 7 Blue Kingdom (6) and Suremeanttoobe (2) should be used extensively, and in race 8 Tell 'em I'm Comin (1) is a strong closing single with Party With Smarty (5) and Be Tha Judge (3) as modest backups.
Value plays emerge where trip angles and likely public biases diverge, such as Ribbonsinherhair (4) in race 2, whose poor last trip may lead to an overlay despite her suitability to today's conditions, and Old Bay (4) in race 5, whose grinding style and step up to nine furlongs may be underestimated in the betting, yet whose last trip suggests she is ready for a peak effort. Longshot inclusions with upside based on replay upgrades include Tyson's Delivery (4) and Derz Smart (5) in race 1, which can spice up trifectas, and Punch It Margaret (4) and Baytown Bruiser (6) in race 8, both of whom have reasons to move up on the stretch out and can be included in back end vertical structures to capture added value if the favorites underperform.
