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Mahoning Valley – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the March 26, 2026 card

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Mahoning Valley offers an 8‑race Thursday card composed primarily of lower‑level claiming and Ohio‑bred restricted events, with one late allowance for fillies and mares that have never won two races. The program leans heavily on 5 1/2‑ and 6‑furlong dirt sprints, plus a single one‑mile route, so speed and post‑position dynamics on the main track will be critical to today's outcomes.

Several races are written for horses that have not won since specific dates or have limited wins, so current form versus back class will be a recurring handicapping theme. Ohio‑bred conditions in races 3 and 5 tighten the competition within that state‑bred pool and can create value when lightly raced, improving types meet exposed veterans. The late sequence from races 5 through 8 looks particularly attractive for horizontal players, culminating in a non‑winners of two allowance that should feature some lightly campaigned fillies with upside.

Weather and Track Conditions

Mahoning Valley Race Course sits near Youngstown, Ohio, so the Youngstown March climate is a fair guide: temperatures generally range from roughly the low 30s to mid‑40s, with frequent precipitation. Historical March data and typical local conditions suggest a cold day with the possibility of light rain or sprinkles, but no clear evidence points to a major storm or cancellation risk for this date.

Given the time of year, the dirt track often plays on the tighter side; when moisture is present the surface can be sealed or harrowed to maintain consistency, often enhancing the existing speed‑favoring tendencies. Without specific track‑maintenance bulletins for this card, it is prudent not to assume a wet‑fast or sloppy designation, but to anticipate a cool, possibly damp afternoon that should still favor forward, inside trips if the surface retains its usual profile.

Track Bias and Post Position Bias

Public bias analyses and historical trip notes for Mahoning Valley indicate a notable inside bias in dirt sprints, particularly at 5 1/2 and 6 furlongs, where posts 1 through 4 show materially higher win percentages. The configuration features relatively tight turns and a modest stretch run, which tends to make early speed and tactical position into the first turn more important than deep late kick.

Bias reviews in recent meet reports show that at 6 furlongs, posts 1 through 3 have historically produced the strongest winning percentages, with a gradual tapering as you move outward. In routes around two turns, the inside bias remains but is somewhat moderated, since the longer run to the first turn gives outside riders more opportunity to work over and secure stalking positions. On sealed or winter‑tight surfaces, both the inside and early‑speed advantages have been observed to increase, making today's sprint races especially sensitive to gate draw and break.

1st Race – Mahoning Valley – Thursday, March 26th, 2026

Claiming, 5 1/2 furlongs, dirt, purse 10,900. For fillies and mares three years old and upward which have not won a race since March 26. Three year olds 118 lbs; older 126 lbs. Claiming price 4,000, Ohio registered foals preferred. Six entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 12:15 PM local.

Pace Analysis

This is a compact six‑horse field with several older mares who now do their best work stalking rather than flashing pure sprint speed. Early pace projects to be moderate, with Ashlee's Ring (1) likely to show positional speed from the rail and Danza Magic (2) pressing just outside, while a veteran like Vitaemi (6) can attend from a tracking spot.

The combination of inside bias at 5 1/2 furlongs and the absence of a clear need‑the‑lead type suggests that the mare who secures the pocket or pace‑pressing trip just off the leader has a strong advantage. Deep closes will be at a disadvantage without a strong pace meltdown, so horses that have recently been rallying from far back must improve their early placement to contend seriously.

Key Contenders

Ashlee's Ring (1) benefits from the rail at this distance and fits perfectly in this non‑winners since date condition as a hard‑knocking six‑year‑old with enough tactical foot to secure the inside lane into the turn. With Erik Barbaran riding for Jay Bernardini, this mare figures to sit first or second early, and recent form lines suggest she remains competitive at the 4,000 level when not overmatched by sharper allowance or higher‑tag claimers.

Vitaemi (6), an 11‑year‑old warhorse, still retains enough finishing punch to be a threat against this group when she catches the right setup and is not forced extremely wide. She often runs well at Mahoning and has previously handled wet or cold‑weather surfaces, and while age is a question, the class relief and relatively soft pace scenario keep her in the primary mix.

Secondary Choices

Danza Magic (2) has back class and has historically done some of her best work when able to sit just off the speed and grind home, and she looks properly placed at this 4,000 tag after facing tougher earlier in her career. The seven‑year‑old mare will need to show that she still has the necessary early interest from an advantageous inside post, but if she can keep Ashlee's Ring (1) within range, she is a logical exacta and trifecta player.

Opulent Ways (3) brings an eight‑year‑old's durability and has produced enough midpack efforts at similar levels to merit inclusion underneath in exotics in a six‑horse field. She does not appear to have the same ceiling as the top two, but with the right ground‑saving trip she can be passing horses late if others tire in the lane.

Longshots

Lucky Phoenix (4) and Pearlintherough (5) are the two that figure to be longer prices, but each merits at least some mention in vertical exotics. Lucky Phoenix (4) will need a large form turnaround but receives rider Yuri Yaranga, who is capable of working out inside‑to‑midtrack trips that minimize lost ground; if she takes to the day's surface, she could lift the bottom of tris and supers.

Pearlintherough (5), another seasoned seven‑year‑old, has occasionally jumped up with an improved race at this level and could sit an outside stalking trip if the inside gets congested. Still, the post and likely pace shape leave her a fringe player, more usable in deeper tickets than as a primary win candidate.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race tilts toward a logical chalk‑leaning approach centered on inside‑drawn mares with tactical speed. A straightforward win bet on Ashlee's Ring (1) is acceptable if the price holds near fair value; Vitaemi (6) becomes the win play if the public overbets the rail horse and leaves the veteran at significantly higher odds.

Verticals can key Ashlee's Ring (1) and Vitaemi (6) together over Danza Magic (2) and Opulent Ways (3) in exactas and trifectas, using Lucky Phoenix (4) and Pearlintherough (5) only at the very bottom for value. For horizontal sequences starting here, lean on Ashlee's Ring (1) as an A‑type with Vitaemi (6) as backup coverage.

Selections

Win Ashlee's Ring (1)
Place Vitaemi (6)
Show Danza Magic (2)

2nd Race – Mahoning Valley – Thursday, March 26th, 2026

Claiming, 5 1/2 furlongs, dirt, purse 11,100. For fillies and mares three years old and upward which have not won two races since March 26. Three year olds 118 lbs; older 126 lbs; non‑winners since February 26 allowed 2 lbs. Claiming price 4,000. Six entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 12:43 PM.

Pace Analysis

The second race presents more early gas than the opener, with multiple mares possessing prior front‑running efforts at similar sprint distances. One Night Stand (1) can show rail speed, Iron Pyrite (2) has drawn well to attend just outside, and Whats Goin On (6) has enough early foot to be pressing three wide into the turn.

Given Mahoning's sprint bias, the battle among these three for early control will be decisive, and a strong but not suicidal pace is likely. This scenario should still favor those in the first flight, with only a mild chance for a midpack stalker such as Blazing Zenna (3) to capitalize if the leaders overdo it.

Key Contenders

Iron Pyrite (2) looks particularly well‑spotted here as a five‑year‑old mare with tactical speed and the benefit of an advantageous inside‑mid gate. With Luis Alberto Batista up for Julie Mathes, she projects to break alertly, press or pocket behind One Night Stand (1), and get first run turning for home in a race where that trip is ideal.

One Night Stand (1) is an eight‑year‑old veteran who has spent much of her career at similar claiming levels and retains the ability to pop out of the gate and try to wire fields. From the rail in a 5 1/2‑furlong heat, she is dangerous if she shakes loose or simply holds the inside while others hesitate, though her age and recent pattern may leave her vulnerable late at a short price.

Secondary Choices

Whats Goin On (6) draws the outermost stall but owns enough speed to clear or at least sit just off the primary pace, and she figures as a key player in the upper exotics. The seven‑year‑old mare gets Jairo Hernandez riding for Juan Carlos Gotera and should appreciate the return to a 4,000 level where she has previously been competitive, especially if she can track and pounce instead of being hung wide in a duel.

Blazing Zenna (3) is an eight‑year‑old who profiles more as a midpack grinder; she tends to keep coming but lacks the turn of foot to blow past rivals. However, she is honest enough at this condition and could very easily fill out exactas and trifectas behind a more talented or better‑tripped winner.

Longshots

Patty's Having Fun (4) has a recent scratch on the record under stewards' direction, which raises some questions about current condition, but she gets a capable rider in Charle Oliveros and drops into a softer claiming spot here. If she breaks sharply and finds a pressing lane rather than being shuffled back, she could outrun likely odds, though at this stage she still appears more usable underneath than as a primary win proposition.

Lady Giuliana (5) is a six‑year‑old who gets a 5‑lb weight allowance with Jefferson Skerrett aboard, which could help in a race where every positional edge matters. Her overall record suggests she is a fringe longshot, but if the inside speed horses hook up and tire, she might pick up tired rivals late and sneak into the minor checks.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Iron Pyrite (2) looks like a solid key if the board offers any value beyond short odds, given her projected trip and fit for the condition. A win bet centered on Iron Pyrite (2) with saver coverage on One Night Stand (1) is reasonable, especially if tote action tilts too strongly toward the rail speed.

In exactas, key Iron Pyrite (2) over One Night Stand (1), Whats Goin On (6), and Blazing Zenna (3), then reverse with those three over Iron Pyrite (2) in smaller backup tickets. Longshots Patty's Having Fun (4) and Lady Giuliana (5) are best used only in tris and supers, with an emphasis on lineups that assume the inside speed softens late.

Selections

Win Iron Pyrite (2)
Place One Night Stand (1)
Show Whats Goin On (6)

3rd Race – Mahoning Valley – Thursday, March 26th, 2026

Claiming, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse 19,400. For registered Ohio‑bred fillies and mares three years old and upward which have never won two races. Three year olds 118 lbs; older 126 lbs; non‑winners since February 26 allowed 2 lbs. Claiming price 10,000. Six entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 1:11 PM.

Pace Analysis

This six‑furlong Ohio‑bred non‑winners of two event shapes with a fairly honest but not overwhelming pace. Anotherwinner (1) and Special Collette (2) can both show early speed from inside posts, and Princess Em (4) will likely be forwardly placed as a seasoned six‑year‑old mare.

Forever Flowing (3), the three‑year‑old, may sit a stalking trip behind the older speed, hoping to capitalize late, while Emerald Eyes (5) and Rivers Run Red (6) have more of a midpack or late‑running profile. Given Mahoning's sprint bias, the advantage lies with those who can secure an inside or second‑flight trip within two to three lengths of the lead at the half‑mile.

Key Contenders

Anotherwinner (1), a four‑year‑old filly trained by Richard Zielinski, draws the rail and should be able to break running and establish a ground‑saving position. Her profile as a non‑winners of two Ohio‑bred suggests she has some upside left, and if she has shown prior competitive figs at or near this tag she fits very strongly in this spot.

Special Collette (2) enters for Julie Pappada with Jose Bracho aboard, and this combination tends to fire consistently with Ohio‑breds at Mahoning. She projects to either press Anotherwinner (1) from just off the pace or sit in the pocket, and either trip should give her every chance to pounce turning for home.

Secondary Choices

Forever Flowing (3) is a lightly raced three‑year‑old filly from the same Zielinski barn as Anotherwinner (1), and she receives a significant weight break at 116 lbs. She may still be learning, but her placement against older non‑winners of two suggests connections view her as competitive at this level, and she could step forward with natural three‑year‑old improvement, especially if the older speed hooks up.

Rivers Run Red (6) is a five‑year‑old who often does her best running late; she will need pace assistance and a clean outside run but at this class level she can mow down a few fading rivals. She is a strong candidate to complete trifectas and superfectas, especially if the rail duo fire hard and set things up for an off‑the‑pace runner.

Longshots

Princess Em (4) and Emerald Eyes (5) are veteran mares whose upside is limited but who remain capable of landing minor shares. Princess Em (4) will likely be close to the early action, but her finishing punch has been inconsistent, making her more of a pace‑factor longshot; Emerald Eyes (5) may be at the mercy of the race shape and needs everything to go her way to hit the board.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Given the strong inside bias and the presence of two well‑connected inside fillies, this race lends itself to a dual‑key strategy. Consider win bets split between Anotherwinner (1) and Special Collette (2) depending on the tote board, taking whichever offers the better overlay relative to their perceived 35–40 percent combined winning chance.

In exactas and trifectas, key Anotherwinner (1) and Special Collette (2) together over Forever Flowing (3), Rivers Run Red (6), and Princess Em (4), and then back‑wheel those underneath if you wish to protect against a midpack upset. Forever Flowing (3) offers some upside if the public underestimates her youth and weight advantage.

Selections

Win Anotherwinner (1)
Place Special Collette (2)
Show Forever Flowing (3)

4th Race – Mahoning Valley – Thursday, March 26th, 2026

Claiming, 1 mile, dirt, purse 12,800. For three year olds and upward which have not won a race since September 26. Three year olds 118 lbs; older 126 lbs. Claiming price 5,000. Six entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 1:39 PM.

Pace Analysis

The lone route on the card presents a more nuanced pace picture, but once again the field lacks a true need‑the‑lead speedball. Lomachenko (1) from the rail and Law Of The Jungle (2) from the two‑post both have enough tactical speed to secure solid inside positions into the first turn.

Food Foodie (3) and Bobby's Gift (4) are seasoned routers who can attend the pace or sit midpack, while Auld Lange Syne (5) and Land Mark Deal (6) project to be more stalking or late‑running types. Without a hot duel expected, the race likely favors those inside horses that can control or closely attend a moderate tempo, though a strong late mover can still win if the track plays fair.

Key Contenders

Lomachenko (1) is a five‑year‑old gelding who fits this non‑winners since date route condition and lands the rail with Rocco Bowen for Mikhail Carmichael. He should be able to tuck in along the inside either on or just off the lead and save ground all the way, a big edge around two turns at Mahoning; as long as his recent route efforts show mid‑level claiming competitiveness, he is a major player.

Food Foodie (3) is another key contender, a six‑year‑old gelding with Alexander Chavez up for Amy Sondej, who has often shown a grinding style that works well at this level. If he can sit just behind Lomachenko (1) and Law Of The Jungle (2), he should have every chance to wear them down late, particularly if the leaders expend energy dueling on the backside.

Secondary Choices

Law Of The Jungle (2) is a seven‑year‑old gelding who will appreciate the inside draw and can attend the pace from the second slot on the rail path. He may not possess the same finish as Lomachenko (1) or Food Foodie (3), but his positional advantage could leave him hanging around late for a piece, especially if the surface strongly rewards inside speed.

Bobby's Gift (4) is a multiple‑season campaigner who has the back class to be dangerous at a 5,000 tag when properly spotted. With Angel Diaz riding for Larry Smith, he might sit a perfect stalking trip just off the top inside pair and launch a well‑timed rally in mid‑stretch if they begin to falter.

Longshots

Auld Lange Syne (5) is a ten‑year‑old gelding whose best days are likely behind him, but he occasionally clunks up for minor awards in slow‑paced routes where his stamina comes into play. Land Mark Deal (6), a nine‑year‑old, will be asked to overcome the outside draw and likely will be taken back early, hoping for a late run; both older veterans are usable mainly at the bottom of tris and supers.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

The inside two plus Food Foodie (3) hold the key to this route; the board will dictate which offers the best win value. Focus win wagering on Lomachenko (1) if he is not overbet, otherwise shift toward Food Foodie (3) as the more attractive overlay given his grinding style and potential to get first run on tiring leaders.

In exactas, play Lomachenko (1) and Food Foodie (3) over Law Of The Jungle (2) and Bobby's Gift (4), then reverse smaller savers including the 2 and 4 over the top pair. Auld Lange Syne (5) and Land Mark Deal (6) are best restricted to third and fourth slots as price enhancers in deeper vertical structures.

Selections

Win Lomachenko (1)
Place Food Foodie (3)
Show Law Of The Jungle (2)

5th Race – Mahoning Valley – Thursday, March 26th, 2026

Claiming, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse 19,400. For registered Ohio‑bred three year olds and upward which have never won two races. Three year olds 118 lbs; older 126 lbs; non‑winners since February 26 allowed 2 lbs. Claiming price 10,000. Seven entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 2:07 PM.

Pace Analysis

This is a key race on the card for horizontal wagering, and it has the potential for a fairly lively early pace. Moonshine Joe (1) draws the rail and can show enough speed to hold a forward position, while He's My Boy (2) and Playfulasitgets (3) both possess sprint speed that should have them contesting or pressing the lead.

From the outside, Balki Bartokomous (6) and Gone Wild (7) can also be involved early if sent, making a four‑ or five‑horse scramble possible into the far turn. This setup could benefit a tactical stalker such as Take Dictation (4) or an off‑the‑pace type like Agnello City (5) if the front line overcooks the fractions.

Key Contenders

He's My Boy (2) arrives as a four‑year‑old gelding with Rocco Bowen for Stephen Trevino, and he profiles as a strong fit for this non‑winners of two Ohio‑bred claiming condition. With an inside‑adjacent draw at 6 furlongs and enough early speed to secure a prominent spot without needing the absolute lead, he appears well‑positioned to get first run on the field turning for home.

Take Dictation (4), ridden by Laureano Sosa for Israel Flores, stands out as a potential pace‑controlling stalker who can sit just off the inside speed and pounce when the leaders begin to weaken. In a race where multiple speed horses may compromise one another, his more tactical style could prove decisive in the final furlong.

Secondary Choices

Moonshine Joe (1) has the benefit of the rail and Ohio‑bred experience, and he may appreciate the chance to cut the corner and hold a share even if he cannot withstand all challengers late. Playfulasitgets (3) is a five‑year‑old gelding who has been competitive at similar levels and should attend the early pace; his ability to relax and finish will determine whether he lands in the exacta or fades to minor awards.

Balki Bartokomous (6), with Jose Bracho aboard for Shane Meyers, is another with enough talent and tactical speed to loom as a threat if he can avoid losing too much ground from an outside position. He becomes particularly interesting if the surface appears to be playing more neutral by this point in the card.

Longshots

Agnello City (5) is a six‑year‑old gelding who carries only 119 lbs with Jefferson Skerrett, and his late‑running style might be well‑suited to a hot pace meltdown. That said, he will need both pace help and a clean path, making him more of a value underneath piece than a primary win candidate.

Gone Wild (7) completes the lineup and is a four‑year‑old gelding with Anthony Rodriguez riding for Robert Cline; from the far outside, he faces a tricky trip, needing to use some speed early or risk being hung wide into the turn. If he can tuck in behind the primary speeds, he has a small chance to jump up at a price and should be considered on deep tickets.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

He's My Boy (2) and Take Dictation (4) look like the primary keys, especially for pick 4 or pick 5 players looking to lean on two horses in this Ohio‑bred claiming event. Win bets can focus on whichever of the pair offers better value, with potential saver bets if the spread in price is narrow.

Exactas and trifectas can be structured with He's My Boy (2) and Take Dictation (4) in the top slots over Moonshine Joe (1), Playfulasitgets (3), Balki Bartokomous (6), and Agnello City (5). For those seeking longshot spice, including Gone Wild (7) in third and fourth positions of supers is reasonable if the race flows toward a chaotic finish.

Selections

Win He's My Boy (2)
Place Take Dictation (4)
Show Moonshine Joe (1)

6th Race – Mahoning Valley – Thursday, March 26th, 2026

Claiming, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse 12,200. For three year olds and upward which have never won three races. Three year olds 118 lbs; older 126 lbs; non‑winners since February 26 allowed 2 lbs. Claiming price 5,000, Ohio registered foals preferred. Seven entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 2:35 PM.

Pace Analysis

This non‑winners of three sprint includes several horses with proven early speed at lower‑to‑mid claiming levels. Wings Of God (1) from the rail, Golden Goal (3), Action Man (4), Ghostagain (6), and Hello Jello (7) all have shown some degree of pace presence in prior efforts, leaving little chance for a slow early tempo.

A La Carte (2) is more of an off‑the‑pace router‑style gelding cutting back, while Pupil (5) is a three‑year‑old who may still be sorting out his preferred running style. With multiple speeds signed on, the race could favor a horse able to sit just off the leaders and then finish, rather than a pure need‑the‑lead type.

Key Contenders

Wings Of God (1) draws perfectly inside with Kevin Gonzalez riding for Jami Poole, and he should be able to either set or closely track the pace while saving crucial ground. His form at the 5,000 level and within the non‑winners of three condition appears strong enough to make him a major player in this spot, especially if he can avoid a prolonged duel.

Action Man (4), with Luis Alberto Batista up for Jason DaCosta, profiles as a talented four‑year‑old gelding who has been facing slightly stiffer competition and now finds a realistic winning spot. His tactical speed and mid‑gate draw allow him to secure a stalking lane, and he can get first run on the outside speeds turning for home.

Secondary Choices

Ghostagain (6), ridden by Jose Bracho for Justin Radosevich, is a four‑year‑old gelding who often runs well at this level and can either press or stalk from just outside the primary pace. If the inside horses engage in a speed duel, he is nicely positioned to wear them down late and upset at a modest price.

Golden Goal (3) and Hello Jello (7) both have early foot and can contend for the lead, but must avoid compromising each other and Wings Of God (1) by going too fast early. Either is capable of sticking around for a slice if the fractions are moderate; otherwise, they risk fading late against more balanced pace‑pressers.

Longshots

A La Carte (2) is an eight‑year‑old gelding who may be better suited to routes, but in a hot‑paced sprint he could be passing tired horses late for a minor check. Pupil (5) is a lightly raced three‑year‑old gelding with Alexander Chavez for Nestor Rivera, and while the class and condition may be a bit stiff, youthful improvement always leaves room for an upside surprise underneath in exotics.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

The combination of inside bias and tactical speed makes Wings Of God (1) and Action Man (4) particularly attractive as dual keys in this race. A win bet focused on Action Man (4) can be justified if he offers a better price than Wings of God (1), with saver win coverage on the rail horse.

Exactas featuring Wings Of God (1) and Action Man (4) over Ghostagain (6), Golden Goal (3), and Hello Jello (7) should capture most of the realistic outcomes. For trifectas, consider 1 and 4 on top, with 3, 6, 7 in second, and then include A La Carte (2) and Pupil (5) in the third slot to juice potential payoffs.

Selections

Win Action Man (4)
Place Wings Of God (1)
Show Ghostagain (6)

7th Race – Mahoning Valley – Thursday, March 26th, 2026

Starter optional claiming, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse 27,000. For three year olds and upward which have started for a claiming price in 2025–2026 or entered to be claimed for 25,000. Three year olds 118 lbs; older 126 lbs; non‑winners since February 26 allowed 2 lbs; claiming price 25,000. Six entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 3:03 PM.

Pace Analysis

This is one of the day's classier events, and it features a blend of speed and stalkers. Fivefive Six Champ (1) from the rail, Saint Goar (2), and Admiral Nelson (3) all have enough early pace to be involved from the break, while Mighty Les (4) and Defending Albert (6) can sit tactical trips just off the leaders.

Powerful (5) is a six‑year‑old horse with some back class who can either attend or stalk depending on rider intent, giving this race a moderately fast but not blistering projected pace. At this level, trip quality and tactical judgment will be critical, as many of these horses have similar raw ability and must negotiate an inside‑favoring track.

Key Contenders

Fivefive Six Champ (1), a seven‑year‑old gelding with Brandon Tapara up for Jay Bernardini, holds a strong rail advantage in a 6‑furlong starter‑optional field. If he breaks cleanly, he can either control the pace or sit a perfect pocket trip, and his prior form against similar or slightly weaker starter company suggests he belongs at or near the top of this group.

Admiral Nelson (3) is a four‑year‑old gelding with Anthony Rodriguez for Raquel Castro, and he may be the most naturally improving horse in the field, coming into his prime with potential for another forward move. From the three‑post he can track the rail horse and take over in mid‑stretch if that rival begins to tire, offering a compelling alternative to the likely favorite.

Secondary Choices

Saint Goar (2), an eight‑year‑old gelding, has plenty of experience and can attend the early pace from an ideal inside‑mid draw, giving him every chance to finish in the top three. His ceiling may be slightly lower than Fivefive Six Champ (1) or Admiral Nelson (3), but at the right price he is a must‑use in exactas and trifectas.

Powerful (5) is a six‑year‑old horse with Luis Raul Rivera riding for Penny Rone, and his prior efforts suggest he can be very dangerous at starter level when he fires his best shot. From the five‑post he can stalk in clear air and mount an outside run, a trip that might be ideal if the rail is slightly dead or if the inside speed becomes too aggressive.

Longshots

Mighty Les (4) and Defending Albert (6) round out the field and both possess enough talent to spring an upset if the primary contenders falter. Mighty Les (4), with Fernando Salazar Becerra for Raquel Castro, may sit midpack and look to launch a mid‑race move, while Defending Albert (6), ridden by Charle Oliveros for James Watkins, will need to work out a trip from the outside and may be left with too much to do late.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Fivefive Six Champ (1) looks like the horse to beat, but the presence of multiple capable rivals argues for some price sensitivity. If he is hammered at the windows, shifting more win action to Admiral Nelson (3) makes sense, especially if that one is allowed to drift to a playable number as the relative newcomer to this level.

Exactas can be keyed around Fivefive Six Champ (1) and Admiral Nelson (3) over Saint Goar (2) and Powerful (5), then reversed for smaller savers that place 2 and 5 on top. Mighty Les (4) and Defending Albert (6) are logical superfecta inclusions in deep tickets that anticipate a more chaotic outcome or a pace‑related meltdown.

Selections

Win Fivefive Six Champ (1)
Place Admiral Nelson (3)
Show Saint Goar (2)

8th Race – Mahoning Valley – Thursday, March 26th, 2026

Allowance, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse 25,900. For fillies and mares three years old and upward which have never won two races. Three year olds 118 lbs; older 126 lbs; non‑winners since February 26 allowed 2 lbs; races entered for 15,000 or less not considered in weight allowances; Ohio registered foals preferred. Seven entrants.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 3:31 PM.

Pace Analysis

This allowance for non‑winners of two closes the card with a field containing several lightly raced three‑year‑old fillies and a couple of older mares. Dos Amores (1), Honor And Obay (2), and This One's For Us (3) all project to show early speed from inside posts, while Little Value Added (4) and Motown Story (5) can stalk from just behind.

Glitter Queen (6) and Sexarito (7) are older, more experienced fillies or mares who may prefer to sit midpack or off the pace and make one sustained run. The likely flow is a strong but controlled inside‑driven pace that heavily rewards whichever of the inside three breaks best and secures the rail or pocket.

Key Contenders

Dos Amores (1), a three‑year‑old filly with Luis Raul Rivera riding for Penny Rone, draws the rail and can immediately take advantage of the track's inside bias at 6 furlongs. Her prior efforts at or around this allowance level and her profile as a lightly raced non‑winners of two type suggest there is still upside, especially if she shakes loose or sits a comfortable pocket.

Honor And Obay (2), another three‑year‑old filly, gets Alexander Chavez for Saul Morales and should break alertly from the two‑post, either dueling with or pressing Dos Amores (1). Her combination of early speed and allowance‑level talent makes her a serious win threat, particularly if she has shown improving figures in recent starts.

Secondary Choices

This One's For Us (3) is a three‑year‑old filly with Deshawn Parker for Johanna Urieta, and she shapes as a classic pace‑pressing or stalking type from an ideal inside‑mid gate. If the rail horse and the two get too aggressive, she is very well positioned to sit just behind and tip out in the lane for a clear run.

Glitter Queen (6), a four‑year‑old filly with Fernando Salazar Becerra for Robert Gorham, is an experienced allowance‑type who may be coming from just off the pace. While the outside post is not ideal, her maturity and finishing kick could allow her to outstay some of the three‑year‑olds if the early fractions are fast.

Longshots

Little Value Added (4) is a three‑year‑old filly from the Shane Meyers barn with Erik Barbaran, and she has enough ability to stalk the inside trio and potentially crash the exotics at a price. Motown Story (5), with Chelsey Keiser riding for David Wolochuk, has a scratch history tied to a vet decision earlier in the meet, which raises questions, but if fully sound she can be dangerous as a late‑running or stalking type at this allowance condition.

Sexarito (7), a five‑year‑old mare with Charle Oliveros for Eric Reed, will need a career‑best effort to overcome both the outside post and the upward class ask against younger rivals with more upside. She fits more as a far‑outside longshot to include only in deep exotics, relying on an extreme pace collapse to get up for a share.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

The inside three fillies appear to have a strong collective grip on this race, with Dos Amores (1) and Honor And Obay (2) as primary keys and This One's For Us (3) as a strong backup. Win bets can be structured around Dos Amores (1) and Honor and Obay (2) depending on price, with an emphasis on whichever offers a better overlay relative to their likely combined win probability.

Exacta players can key 1 and 2 over 3 and 6, and then also consider 3 and 6 in smaller top‑slot savers to guard against an inside duel setting up a minor upset. For trifectas and supers, sprinkle Little Value Added (4), Motown Story (5), and Sexarito (7) in third and fourth positions to capture a blow‑up finish if one of the lightly raced fillies underperforms.

Selections

Win Dos Amores (1)
Place Honor And Obay (2)
Show This One's For Us (3)

Jockey Notes and Insights

Mahoning's leading and most trusted riders appear throughout this card, and post and pace dynamics often flow through their hands. Rocco Bowen, featured on Opulent Ways (3) in race 1, Rivers Run Red (6) in race 3, Lomachenko (1) in race 4, and He's My Boy (2) in race 5, is a capable pace‑savvy rider who tends to send from inside posts and secure ground‑saving positions, which is a major advantage at this track.

Luis Alberto Batista, aboard Iron Pyrite (2) in race 2 and Action Man (4) in race 6, is aggressive out of the gate and fits speed‑oriented types well, often giving them every chance to take advantage of the track's sprint bias. Jose Bracho appears on several live mounts, including Special Collette (2) in race 3, Balki Bartokomous (6) in race 5, Ghostagain (6) in race 6, and others; he is particularly effective in stalking and pouncing rides that are well suited to Mahoning's shape.

Local veterans like Erik Barbaran and Anthony Rodriguez are also key figures; Barbaran's mounts Ashlee's Ring (1) in race 1 and Little Value Added (4) in race 8 can benefit from his experience in nursing speed along the rail, while Rodriguez's rides, such as Princess Em (4) in race 3, Auld Lange Syne (5) in race 4, Gone Wild (7) in race 5, Admiral Nelson (3) in race 7, and others, often reflect an ability to time mid‑pack rallies. Riders like Luis Raul Rivera and Charle Oliveros also show up on multiple mounts—Rivera on Powerful (5) in race 7 and Dos Amores (1) in race 8, Oliveros on Patty's Having Fun (4) in race 2, Defending Albert (6) in race 7, and Sexarito (7) in race 8—providing continuity and familiarity with the surface.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Several barns that routinely target Mahoning Valley are well represented. Jay Bernardini sends out Ashlee's Ring (1) in race 1 and Fivefive Six Champ (1) in race 7, both logical contenders drawn on the rail in sprint spots that play to his stable's strengths with forward‑placed runners.

Julie Mathes has Iron Pyrite (2) in race 2, a mare placed in a realistic claiming spot for a barn that often spots to win at this level. Richard Zielinski holds a strong hand in race 3 with Anotherwinner (1) and Forever Flowing (3), an inside‑drawn older filly and a weight‑break three‑year‑old filly that give him multiple shots at the Ohio‑bred non‑winners of two condition.

Other local outfits include Amy Sondej with Food Foodie (3) and Auld Lange Syne (5) in race 4, both grinders suited to route conditions; Emily Szczepanski with Moonshine Joe (1) in race 5; and Justin Radosevich with Ghostagain (6) in race 6, a horse in a realistic spot for a barn that does well in mid‑level claimers. In the allowance finale, Penny Rone sends Dos Amores (1), while Saul Morales, Johanna Urieta, Shane Meyers, David Wolochuk, Robert Gorham, and Eric Reed each field contenders, making race 8 a deep and multi‑barn affair with no single dominant stable.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

For multi‑race horizontals such as the early daily double or pick 3 starting with race 1, leaning heavily on Ashlee's Ring (1) and Vitaemi (6) in race 1, then Iron Pyrite (2) and One Night Stand (1) in race 2, and finally Anotherwinner (1) and Special Collette (2) in race 3 offers a solid foundation around inside‑drawn mares with tactical speed. If a pick 4 or pick 5 includes the mid‑card Ohio‑bred claiming races and the closing allowance, races 5 through 8 present attractive structure: He's My Boy (2) and Take Dictation (4) as mainline keys in race 5, Wings Of God (1) and Action Man (4) as must‑uses in race 6, Fivefive Six Champ (1) and Admiral Nelson (3) in race 7, and Dos Amores (1), Honor And Obay (2), and This One's For Us (3) as a three‑deep inside‑centric spread in race 8.

Vertical value can be found by keying logical favorites over well‑spotted longshots and second‑tier contenders who fit the pace and bias profile. Examples include using Agnello City (5) and Gone Wild (7) in the lower rungs of tris and supers in race 5, A La Carte (2) and Pupil (5) in race 6 underneath the primary speed, Mighty Les (4) and Defending Albert (6) beneath the main players in race 7, and Little Value Added (4), Motown Story (5), and Sexarito (7) underneath the inside trio in race 8, all of which can inflate payouts when favorites run to form but a price horse grabs a minor placing. For win‑bet value, horses like Food Foodie (3) in race 4, Balki Bartokomous (6) in race 5, Ghostagain (6) in race 6, Admiral Nelson (3) in race 7, and Glitter Queen (6) in race 8 warrant close tote monitoring, as any overlay relative to their competitive class and projected trips could justify straight win or win‑place plays.

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