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Parx Racing presents an 11-race all-dirt card on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, with first post at 12:05 PM ET. The card features a mix of claiming races, maiden special weights, maiden claimers, a starter optional claiming event, and a single allowance optional claiming race. Purses range from 18,000 to 52,000, reflecting the typical midweek Parx offering with competitive fields throughout.
The highlight of the card is a significant Jackpot Pick 5 carryover of 82,865 beginning in Race 1 at 12:05 PM ET, which should draw substantial handle and create value in the pool. A Longshot Race Alert has been flagged for Race 7 at 2:47 PM ET, suggesting a wide-open field with potential for a big upset.
The scratch watch is active today. Key scratches to monitor include Angel Mesa (R1-5) in Race 1 (Stewards), Heat Alert (R4-1) and Au Some Warrior (R4-7) in Race 4 (Veterinarian), Samantha’s Capo (R5-6) and Turn On Twiss (R5-3) in Race 5 (Veterinarian/Stewards), Final Joke (R9-7) and Discreetismydaddy (R9-9) in Race 9 (illness/Stewards), and Pure Lure (R10-6) in Race 10 (illness/Trainer). Several horses in Race 11 are also on the Also-Eligible list. Bettors should confirm all scratches before wagering.
The card leans heavily toward the claiming ranks, with a PA-bred maiden special weight at the 40,000 level in Race 3 and an open maiden special weight at the 50,000 level in Race 9 providing the classiest races of the afternoon. Race 10, the allowance optional claiming event for fillies and mares at 52,000, is the highest-purse race on the card and figures to be one of the most competitive.
Weather and Track Conditions
As of early morning, the temperature at Parx Racing in Bensalem, Pennsylvania is 36 degrees Fahrenheit with fog and 92 percent humidity. The forecast calls for mostly cloudy skies throughout the afternoon with temperatures rising to a high near 48 degrees. Winds will be from the southwest at 4 to 5 miles per hour with gusts up to 19 miles per hour. There is minimal precipitation expected during the racing hours, with only a 7 to 10 percent chance of rain through 4:00 PM.
The morning fog is expected to burn off by mid-morning, but the high humidity and recent weather patterns suggest the track could carry some moisture. Recent track condition changes at Parx have shown the surface cycling from Fast to Good to Muddy and back to Good within a single card, so the track superintendent will be actively managing the surface throughout the afternoon.
Given the fog and humidity at dawn, expect the main track to open at Good or possibly carry a Muddy designation early before potentially drying to Good as the afternoon progresses. Horses with demonstrated ability on off tracks should have an advantage, particularly in the early races. The lack of significant precipitation in the forecast is favorable for the surface improving as the card progresses.
Track Bias and Post Position Analysis
Parx Racing is widely recognized as a speed-favoring track. Front-runners and stalkers who can secure early position tend to have a significant advantage. Wire-to-wire victories are commonplace at the facility, and horses that break sharply and establish position within the first quarter-mile often carry that momentum to the wire.
In sprint races on the main track, the inside posts hold a measurable advantage. Post position 1 produces approximately 17 percent of winners, and posts 1 through 4 collectively account for over 40 percent of sprint victories. Post 9 is an anomaly that has also produced winners at a higher-than-expected rate. Posts 5 and 8 have historically been the least successful positions in sprint races.
Route races have similarly favored inside posts, with post 1 producing approximately 20 percent of winners over longer distances. Post 4 has been the weakest route position, and post 12 has produced almost no winners in route races.
For today’s card, with potentially damp conditions early, the rail may play even more prominently as horses on the inside can save ground on the turns. Speed horses drawn inside should receive particular attention, while closers drawn outside in large fields face the steepest challenge.
Race 1 – Claiming 7,500, Fillies and Mares 4YO+, 7 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
12:05 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This is a 12-horse field (pending scratches) at seven furlongs, and the pace scenario should be moderate. Inamorata (R1-2) is identified as a fast lead type, while Purple Lu Lu (R1-4) and Saint Grace (R1-1) figure to press from mid-pack positions. Sister Marjorie (R1-6) is pegged as the fastest stalker in the field and should sit a perfect trip just off the early leaders. The seven-furlong distance at Parx often sets up for stalking types who can press the pace on the far turn and take over entering the stretch.
Key Contenders
Sister Marjorie (R1-6) is the consensus top pick from multiple handicappers and the morning line favorite at 8 to 5. Trained by Michael Pino, who has been running at an elite 35 percent clip, and ridden by leading jockey Mychel Sanchez, this four-year-old filly won her last start at Gulfstream Park at six and one half furlongs and has a stalking style perfectly suited to the Parx speed bias. She is making her first start at Parx, but the Pino and Sanchez combination demands respect in any spot. Her speed figures appear competitive with this field, and the class edge is apparent.
Purple Lu Lu (R1-4) is listed at 4 to 1 on the morning line and has shown ability at this level with a win from nine starts and four placings. She ran ninth last out at six furlongs but had previously won at the sprint distance and finished second going seven furlongs. The step back to seven furlongs suits her mid-pack running style, and Ruben Silvera has the experience to place her in a favorable stalking position.
Secondary Choices
Saint Grace (R1-1) draws the rail and has the experience edge with 18 career starts. She hit the board eight times from those starts with a fourth-place finish last out at six furlongs. The inside post is an advantage in this field size, and trainer Miguel Rodriguez has been running at a solid 27 percent win rate. At 6 to 1 on the morning line, she offers value if she can work out a ground-saving trip.
It’s a Shore Thing (R1-10) has two career wins from 10 starts and draws outside in this large field. She ran seventh last time at six furlongs but has shown ability when closing into honest fractions. Andy Hernandez in the saddle adds a capable rider, though the outside draw is a concern.
Longshots
Inamorata (R1-2) at 15 to 1 on the morning line is an interesting algorithmic top pick from one handicapping source, suggesting the speed figures may be closer than the odds indicate. She showed early speed in her recent starts and the seven-furlong distance could suit if she can relax early. Hard Spice (R1-11) at 12 to 1 has 25 career starts and some back class, though she has been struggling recently.
Selections
Win: Sister Marjorie (R1-6)
Place: Purple Lu Lu (R1-4)
Show: Saint Grace (R1-1)
Betting strategy: Sister Marjorie looks like a solid single in multi-race wagers. In the race itself, consider an exacta box of 6-4-1 and a trifecta keying 6 on top with 4, 1, and 10 underneath. If Sister Marjorie is bet down below even money, a small saver on Inamorata (R1-2) at long odds could provide a nice return.
Race 2 – Claiming 16,000, 4YO+, 1 Mile 70 Yards Dirt
Post Time
12:32 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This eight-horse route race features several horses with early speed. Bestsugardaddyever (R2-6) is tagged as the fastest lead horse, while Yodel E. A. Who (R2-4) is the fastest stalker. Epic Luck (R2-1) also shows a fast lead style. The pace could get contentious if Bestsugardaddyever and Epic Luck go head-to-head early, which would set up stalkers and closers. At a mile and 70 yards, pace duels often benefit horses sitting second or third into the far turn.
Key Contenders
Bestsugardaddyever (R2-6) is the consensus top selection, listed at 3 to 1 morning line by one source and dropping to 2 to 1 by another. Trained by Jamie Ness, the perennial Parx leading trainer running at 23 percent overall, and ridden by Mychel Sanchez, this six-year-old gelding has an 11-for-35 career record (31 percent win rate). He finished third last out in a one-mile race at Parx and won the start before that over the same course and distance. The Ness and Sanchez connection is one of the most potent at the track.
Melt With You (R2-7) is the second Ness trainee in this race, listed at 9 to 2 morning line and getting the five-pound weight allowance from apprentice Yedsit Hazlewood. He has a 26 percent career win rate but is coming off two poor efforts at Laurel going a mile. The return to Parx and the weight break are positives, though the recent form is a concern.
Secondary Choices
Yodel E. A. Who (R2-4) is the most experienced horse in the field with 67 career starts and over 1.1 million in earnings. Listed at 5 to 1 on the morning line, this 10-year-old veteran finished seventh last out but had been second in his two prior starts at the distance. Angel Rodriguez rides, and the stalking style is favorable. He has the tactical speed to sit just off the pace and pounce if the leaders tire.
Hey Porter (R2-8) at 4 to 1 morning line has been competitive at this level recently, finishing fourth and third in his last two starts at Parx going a mile. Trainer Josue Arce has had a solid meet, and Francisco Martinez knows the horse well.
Longshots
Styner (R2-2) at 8 to 1 morning line is the algorithmic top pick from one source despite coming off an eighth-place finish last out at Penn National. He has nine wins from 34 career starts (26 percent win rate) and could offer value if the pace collapses. He’s Got Swagger (R2-3) at 10 to 1 has a closing style that could be rewarded if the front end falls apart.
Selections
Win: Bestsugardaddyever (R2-6)
Place: Yodel E. A. Who (R2-4)
Show: Hey Porter (R2-8)
Betting strategy: The Ness entry of Bestsugardaddyever and Melt With You gives the barn two shots, but they appear to have different running styles. Key Bestsugardaddyever in exactas on top with Yodel E. A. Who and Hey Porter underneath, and use Styner as a price play in trifecta and superfecta slots.
Race 3 – Maiden Special Weight, PA-Bred 3YO, 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
12:59 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This eight-horse PA-bred maiden special weight features mostly lightly raced or first-time starters, making pace analysis speculative. Sam’s Glory (R3-2) and Sunchill (R3-4) are both classified as closers, while Respighi (R3-1) has shown a deep-closing style in his three career starts. The lack of an obvious pace horse could result in a moderate pace, favoring those with natural early speed who have yet to show it.
Key Contenders
Sunchill (R3-4) is the morning line favorite at 5 to 2, with the most accomplished form in the field. He has four career starts with a second and two thirds, and his last outing saw him finish second going six furlongs at Penn National. Silvestre Gonzalez is a capable pilot, and the closing style should be effective if anyone sets honest fractions. Trainer Kathleen Demasi ships in for this spot.
Respighi (R3-1) draws the rail and is the consensus selection from multiple handicappers. Trained by Hugo Padilla and ridden by Andy Hernandez (approximately 19 percent win rate), this colt has three starts under his belt with a third at Penn National the best result. The rail draw is a significant advantage in a sprint at Parx, and Hernandez should be able to save ground throughout.
Secondary Choices
Sam’s Glory (R3-2) at 7 to 2 morning line has hit the board in both career starts, finishing third each time at Parx. Trained by Robert Mosco and ridden by Angel Rodriguez, this gelding gets a jockey upgrade and could benefit from the race experience over the first-time starters. The closing style is a question at six furlongs, but Rodriguez knows how to place a horse in position.
Longshots
With half the field making their career debuts, any first-time starter could pop at a price. Shane’s Wonder (R3-6) at 6 to 1 morning line is an unraced gelding for trainer Alfredo Velazquez with Eliseo Ruiz aboard. Tongue Tied (R3-8) at 10 to 1 is another debuter who could surprise.
Selections
Win: Sunchill (R3-4)
Place: Respighi (R3-1)
Show: Sam’s Glory (R3-2)
Betting strategy: Maiden races with many first-time starters are inherently unpredictable. Spread in exotics using the top three as keys with the debuters underneath in trifectas and superfectas for possible big payouts.
Race 4 – Claiming 16,000, 4YO+, 1 Mile 70 Yards Dirt
Post Time
1:26 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This eight-horse claiming route features El Tinmarin (R4-6) as the fastest horse with a stalking style. Earl of Dassel (R4-8) is a mid-pack leader type, while Au Some Warrior (R4-7) is on the scratch watch (Veterinarian). If Au Some Warrior and Heat Alert (R4-1) are both scratched, the pace dynamics change considerably, potentially giving El Tinmarin an easier trip to stalk from just off the pace.
Key Contenders
El Tinmarin (R4-6) is the consensus top pick at 5 to 2 morning line, with every major handicapping source favoring this Jamie Ness trainee. This four-year-old colt gets the five-pound weight break with apprentice Yedsit Hazlewood and has the fastest speed figures in the field. He finished third last out going a mile at Parx and has back-to-back turf wins at Laurel on his ledger. The question is whether the dirt form translates, but the Ness barn historically manages these surface switches effectively. His 27 percent career win rate from 15 starts is best in the field.
Tojo’s Mojo (R4-2) at 10 to 1 morning line is an intriguing secondary pick from one source. This four-year-old gelding won going a mile at Parx two starts back and has a deep-closing style that could be rewarded if the pace is contested. Andy Hernandez rides, and the 22 percent career win rate from 18 starts shows ability.
Secondary Choices
Jackson Road (R4-3) at 5 to 1 morning line has the most earnings in the field at 286,922 from 30 starts, suggesting he has faced better. He has been struggling lately with three poor finishes in a row, but Jorge Vargas Jr. knows him well and a return to form at this level is not out of the question.
Inmortal J (R4-4) at 6 to 1 won two of his last three starts going a mile at Parx, including a victory two starts back. The closer style could be effective if the pace sets up, and the 20 percent career win rate is respectable.
Longshots
Earl of Dassel (R4-8) at 6 to 1 morning line has won four of 34 career starts and earned 378,224. He gets the weight break with Kendry Rivera and won going a mile at Parx in his second-most-recent start. Rainy Skies (R4-5) at 8 to 1 has a 25 percent career win rate from 24 starts and could offer value if others are scratched.
Selections
Win: El Tinmarin (R4-6)
Place: Inmortal J (R4-4)
Show: Tojo’s Mojo (R4-2)
Betting strategy: El Tinmarin is a strong single candidate. Use him on top of exactas with Inmortal J, Tojo’s Mojo, and Jackson Road filling the place spot. In trifectas, spread more broadly underneath to capture value.
Race 5 – Maiden Claiming 15,000, PA-Bred 3YO Fillies, 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
1:53 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This 10-horse maiden claimer for Pennsylvania-bred three-year-old fillies is complicated by potential scratches of Samantha’s Capo (R5-6) and Turn On Twiss (R5-3). If both scratch, the field shrinks to eight. Just Fancy Free (R5-7) has a fast stalking style, while Craving Carbs (R5-10) is the fastest stalker remaining. Samantha’s Capo, if she runs, showed fast lead speed. Without her, the pace could be moderate, setting up for stalkers and closers.
Key Contenders
Samantha’s Capo (R5-6) is the morning line favorite at 2 to 1 from one source, trained by Michael Pino who is winning at a scorching 35 percent rate. She hit the board in both career starts, finishing second and third. However, she is on the scratch watch for a veterinarian issue, so bettors must confirm she is running.
Just Fancy Free (R5-7) at 8 to 1 morning line is the algorithmic top pick from one source, and she is the only horse in the field with a career win, having won one of four starts. Trainer Melecio Guerrero has been competitive, and the stalking style suits the Parx surface. Adam Bowman rides.
Secondary Choices
Rosie Outlook (R5-9) at 7 to 2 morning line has hit the board in two of four career starts, including a third last out at six and one half furlongs at Parx. She ran second at Penn National going a mile in her prior start. Julio Hernandez has a 20 percent win rate and should give her a good trip.
Craving Carbs (R5-10) at 6 to 1 morning line showed promise with a third in her second career start at Parx going five and one half furlongs. Trained by Brandon Kulp (around 30 percent win rate) and ridden by Angel Rodriguez (around 26 percent win rate), this is a live combination at a price. The fastest-stalker designation makes her dangerous on this surface.
Longshots
Shaunnasaprilfool (R5-2) at 6 to 1 morning line has three starts under her belt and finished fifth going six furlongs last out at Parx. She is trained by Steven Krebs and ridden by Silvestre Gonzalez, and the added experience could help her improve.
Selections
Win: Just Fancy Free (R5-7)
Place: Craving Carbs (R5-10)
Show: Rosie Outlook (R5-9)
Betting strategy: If Samantha’s Capo scratches, this race opens up significantly. Use Just Fancy Free and Craving Carbs as key horses in exactas and trifectas, spreading to Rosie Outlook and Shaunnasaprilfool for depth. This is a potential spread race in multi-race wagers.
Race 6 – Starter Optional Claiming 25,000, 4YO+, 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
2:20 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This compact seven-horse field should produce a genuine pace scenario. Cap Steak Robbery (R6-1) is the slowest leader type drawing the rail, while Mo Says (R6-3) is a mid-pack leader. Big Z Og (R6-6) is the fastest stalker, and Iron Sharpens Iron (R6-5) is a fast closer. Huggy (R6-2) has a deeper closing style. The pace should be honest but not suicidal, potentially favoring mid-pack runners who can sustain a move through the stretch.
Key Contenders
Huggy (R6-2) at 3 to 1 morning line is the top selection from one consensus source, trained by Robert Reid Jr. and ridden by Mychel Sanchez. This four-year-old gelding won two of his last three starts at six and one half furlongs at Parx. The Sanchez and Reid combination is extremely effective, and Reid has been a consistent high-percentage trainer at the Parx meet. Career stats of approximately 25 percent wins from 12 starts show quality.
Iron Sharpens Iron (R6-5) at 7 to 2 morning line is the selection from one handicapping source, trained by Jacinto Solis (around 37 percent win rate at Parx) and ridden by Dexter Haddock (about 20 percent win rate). This four-year-old colt has raced at Churchill Downs and Keeneland, suggesting a significant class edge over this field. His fast closing style is the one concern on a speed-favoring track, but the talent level may overcome the trip.
Secondary Choices
Mo Says (R6-3) at 4 to 1 morning line won his last start at six and one half furlongs at Parx impressively and has two wins from five career starts (40 percent win rate). Trained by Bruce Kravets and ridden by Ricardo Chiappe, this lightly raced gelding may have room for improvement. One algorithmic model assigns him a top win probability.
Big Z Og (R6-6) at 6 to 1 morning line is the fastest stalker in the field and finished third at six and one half furlongs in his last start at Parx. He transitions from turf at Laurel to dirt at Parx, and the surface switch is a question.
Longshots
Cap Steak Robbery (R6-1) at 8 to 1 morning line has a remarkable 40 percent career win rate from five starts and draws the rail. He won his last start and was second in his two prior starts. The inside draw on a speed-favoring track gives him every chance, and Patrick Henry Jr. should take advantage of the rail. He is a legitimate longshot threat.
Selections
Win: Huggy (R6-2)
Place: Mo Says (R6-3)
Show: Iron Sharpens Iron (R6-5)
Betting strategy: This is a competitive field with several potential winners. Consider boxing Huggy, Mo Says, and Iron Sharpens Iron in exactas and trifectas. Cap Steak Robbery at 8 to 1 from the rail is worth including as a fourth horse in superfectas.
Race 7 – Maiden Claiming 10,000 or 12,500, 4YO+, 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
2:47 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This 14-horse maiden claimer has been flagged as a Longshot Race Alert, suggesting the race is wide open with no clear favorite likely to dominate. Gunman Jayvo (R7-7) is the fastest stalker, while El Tamalero (R7-11) and Week’s Strong (R7-12) are fast stalkers. The large field and mix of running styles should produce an honest pace, and the key will be navigating traffic in a full field at six furlongs.
Key Contenders
El Tamalero (R7-11) at 5 to 2 morning line is the consensus favorite from multiple sources, trained by Josue Arce and ridden by Francisco Martinez. He finished second in his last start at five and one half furlongs at Parx and has shown improvement in four career starts. The fast-stalker designation suits the Parx surface. However, at 5 to 2 in a maiden claiming race with 14 horses, the odds may not fully compensate for the risk.
Week’s Strong (R7-12) at 9 to 2 morning line has the most consistent recent form with a second and third in his last two starts. Trained by J. Tyler Servis and ridden by Joezer Rangel, he shows a fast-stalking style and has banked 54,780 in 12 career starts without a win. The breakthrough could come at any time.
Secondary Choices
Stinger Bee (R7-8) at 10 to 1 morning line is one consensus pick, getting the Mychel Sanchez ride and the Robert Mosco barn. He finished fourth last out at five and one half furlongs and has been knocking on the door with 74,180 in career earnings without a win. Sanchez’s win rate could be the difference.
Pastero (R7-6) at 6 to 1 morning line finished second last out at six furlongs at Parx and is trained by Scott Lake, the legendary Parx-based trainer. Dexter Haddock rides, and the closing style could work if the pace is honest.
Longshots
Gunman Jayvo (R7-7) at 10 to 1 morning line is the algorithmic top pick from one source despite 17 winless career starts. Alphadini (R7-1) at 10 to 1 draws the rail and has hit the board in four of 13 career starts; the inside post could help in this large field.
Selections
Win: Week’s Strong (R7-12)
Place: El Tamalero (R7-11)
Show: Pastero (R7-6)
Betting strategy: This is a classic spread race. With 14 horses and no dominant favorite, the exotic payoffs could be substantial. Build trifectas and superfectas using Week’s Strong, El Tamalero, Stinger Bee, and Pastero as primary keys, then add Gunman Jayvo and Alphadini for price depth. This is not a race to invest heavily on win bets.
Race 8 – Claiming 10,000, 4YO+, 6.5 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
3:14 PM ET
Pace Analysis
Easy Action (R8-3) is the fastest leader in the field and has won his last three starts, all in wire-to-wire fashion. This sets up a clear pace scenario where the question is whether anyone can press Easy Action or if he runs free on the lead. Nuedorf (R8-1) and Diamond Heist (R8-4) both run from mid-pack lead positions and could provide some pace pressure, but Easy Action’s recent form suggests he may have too much early speed for this group.
Key Contenders
Easy Action (R8-3) is the unanimous consensus top pick at 7 to 2 morning line, with some sources listing him at 5 to 2. This six-year-old gelding for trainer J. Tyler Servis has won three straight races at Parx, including two at five and one half furlongs and one at six and one half furlongs. With Abner Adorno in the saddle, this front-runner has the fastest speed figures and should control the race from start to finish. The only concern is whether the weight of 122 pounds and the step up in distance to six and one half furlongs after two shorter sprints could slow him.
Diamond Heist (R8-4) at 6 to 1 morning line has also won his last two starts, both at six furlongs at Parx. Trained by Michael Pino and ridden by Mychel Sanchez, this combination is lethal when firing. He steps up to six and one half furlongs, which his mid-pack style should handle well. The Pino and Sanchez angle makes him the primary threat.
Secondary Choices
Backside Buzz (R8-9) at 9 to 2 morning line is the Jamie Ness representative, getting the five-pound weight break with Yedsit Hazlewood. He finished fifth last out at six and one half furlongs but has 569,270 in career earnings, showing he belongs at this level. The Ness barn knows when to place horses for success.
Mac Daddy Too (R8-6) at 5 to 1 morning line finished fifth last out but had been second in his two prior starts. Dexter Haddock rides for trainer J. Guadalupe Guerrero, and the mid-pack running style could pick up the pieces if the pace collapses.
Longshots
Nuedorf (R8-1) at 8 to 1 morning line draws the rail and won his last start impressively at six and one half furlongs at Parx. He has 11 wins from 38 career starts (29 percent win rate) and benefits from the inside post. At 8 to 1, he could offer significant value. Romantic Gamble (R8-7) at 15 to 1 has eight wins from 33 starts (24 percent career win rate) and has been running thirds recently at Parx.
Selections
Win: Easy Action (R8-3)
Place: Diamond Heist (R8-4)
Show: Nuedorf (R8-1)
Betting strategy: Easy Action is the most likely winner on the entire card. Use him as a strong single in multi-race wagers and pick sequences. In the race, exacta keys of 3 over 4, 1, and 9 make the most sense. Nuedorf at 8 to 1 from the rail is the value play underneath.
Race 9 – Maiden Special Weight, 3YO, 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
3:41 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This nine-horse maiden special weight at the 50,000 purse level is the classiest race on the card, though scratches of Final Joke (R9-7) and Discreetismydaddy (R9-9) could reduce the field to seven. N. Y. Finest (R9-1) has the fastest stalking style, while Gold in My Hands (R9-3) shows fast lead tendencies. Biz Whiz (R9-5) is a mid-pack closer. The pace should be moderate, which could benefit the stalking types who can pounce on the turn.
Key Contenders
N. Y. Finest (R9-1) is the consensus top pick at 3 to 1 morning line (some sources have him at 2 to 1), drawing the rail for trainer Uriah St. Lewis and apprentice Kendry Rivera. This three-year-old colt hit the board in both career starts, finishing second and third at Parx. The fastest-stalker style is ideal for the Parx surface, and the rail post gives him every advantage. Rivera’s five-pound weight allowance adds further appeal.
Buff Gary (R9-4) at 4 to 1 morning line showed some promise when finishing fourth on debut at six furlongs at Parx. Trained by Robert Reid Jr. and ridden by Abner Adorno, this gelding gets the experience of his first start under his belt and the top-tier connections suggest improvement is expected. One algorithmic model assigns him the highest win-probability index in the field.
Secondary Choices
Psalmist (R9-2) at 5 to 1 morning line has the most experience with six career starts, including a second-place finish at Churchill Downs going one mile and one sixteenth. He cuts back to a sprint for Jacinto Solis and Ruben Silvera. The class of the Churchill and Keeneland form stands out, and if he handles the sprint distance, he is a major contender.
Gold in My Hands (R9-3) at 5 to 1 morning line showed some run when finishing third going six furlongs in his second career start at Parx. Hugo Padilla trains, and the fast-lead style could carry him a long way if he breaks sharply from post 3.
Longshots
Biz Whiz (R9-5) at 15 to 1 morning line is a Jamie Ness trainee with three starts under his belt, all coming at Turfway Park and Churchill Downs. He has yet to show his best in those spots, but the drop to Parx for a colt from the Ness barn warrants attention. Yedsit Hazlewood’s good recent win rate adds intrigue at a double-digit price.
Selections
Win: N. Y. Finest (R9-1)
Place: Psalmist (R9-2)
Show: Buff Gary (R9-4)
Betting strategy: N. Y. Finest is a solid play from the rail at fair odds. Key him on top of exactas with Psalmist and Buff Gary. Use Biz Whiz as a longshot inclusion in trifectas and superfectas. If Final Joke scratches as expected, the field shortens and the favorites become stronger plays.
Race 10 – Allowance Optional Claiming 50,000, Fillies and Mares 4YO+, 6.5 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
4:08 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This nine-horse field features the highest purse of the day at 52,000. Lovely Charm (R10-8) is tagged as the fastest leader, while Aoife’s Magic (R10-1) and Pure Lure (R10-6) also show early speed. Sweet Laura (R10-3) is a mid-pack stalker. If Pure Lure scratches as indicated on the watch list, the pace could moderate, benefiting stalkers. Confirmed Star (R10-7) is a closer who needs pace to run at.
Key Contenders
Pure Lure (R10-6) is the algorithmic top pick at 7 to 2 morning line from one source, but she is on the scratch watch for illness and trainer withdrawal. If she runs, she has a 23 percent career win rate and 219,260 in earnings with Andy Hernandez aboard. However, the scratch risk is significant and bettors should confirm.
Confirmed Star (R10-7) at 4 to 1 morning line won her last start at six and one half furlongs at Parx and has been a model of consistency with a 24 percent win rate and 72 percent in-the-money rate from 25 career starts. Silvestre Gonzalez rides for Esteban Padilla. The slower-closer style is the one concern on the speed-favoring track, but she has proven she can win at this distance and venue.
Sweet Laura (R10-3) at 5 to 1 morning line won her last start at six and one half furlongs at Parx for Jamie Ness and gets the weight break with Yedsit Hazlewood. She has 12 wins from 35 career starts (34 percent win rate), which is outstanding. The Ness and Hazlewood connection has been lethal this meet.
Secondary Choices
Aoife’s Magic (R10-1) at 6 to 1 morning line draws the rail with a 29 percent career win rate and 525,420 in earnings. She finished third last out at six and one half furlongs at Parx and gets Frankie Pennington aboard. The inside draw is a plus, and trainer David Dotolo has been competitive.
Shetalkstomuch (R10-2) at 5 to 1 morning line has deep form at Parx with 46 career starts and six wins. She won her second-most-recent start going six furlongs and finished third last out going a mile. The mid-pack deeper style needs pace, and Melvis Gonzalez is experienced at the track.
Longshots
Lovely Charm (R10-8) at 9 to 2 morning line won her last two starts at Laurel going one mile and one sixteenth. She ships to Parx and cuts back to six and one half furlongs, which is a significant distance change. However, with 580,707 in career earnings (highest in the field), she has proven ability. Luis Ocasio’s low win rate is a concern, but the mare has talent.
Selections
Win: Sweet Laura (R10-3)
Place: Confirmed Star (R10-7)
Show: Aoife’s Magic (R10-1)
Betting strategy: If Pure Lure scratches, Sweet Laura and Confirmed Star become even more appealing. Key Sweet Laura and Confirmed Star in exacta boxes with Aoife’s Magic for value. Lovely Charm could surprise at a price if she handles the sprint distance.
Race 11 – Claiming 5,000, 4YO+, 5.5 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
4:35 PM ET
Pace Analysis
This 14-horse claimer at the bottom rung of the claiming ladder is a challenging betting race. Legal Deal (R11-2) is the fastest stalker, while Golden Wildcat (R11-6) shows fast lead tendencies. Capital Conquest (R11-1) is a mid-pack stalker. The large field and short distance of five and one half furlongs means the pace should be fast from the start, and traffic trouble is a real concern for horses drawn outside.
Key Contenders
Legal Deal (R11-2) is the morning line favorite at 2 to 1 (some sources list him at even money), with the highest career earnings in the field at 623,193 from 40 starts. He has seven wins and a 42 percent in-the-money rate. Francisco Martinez rides for Elliott Soto-Martinez. The class advantage is obvious, but he is coming off a seventh-place finish going a mile at Parx, and the significant drop in distance to five and one half furlongs is a question. His recent form at Finger Lakes suggests he may be in decline.
Capital Conquest (R11-1) at 5 to 2 morning line draws the rail with Yedsit Hazlewood and gets the weight break at 117 pounds. Trained by Josue Arce, this gelding finished second and third in his last two starts at six and one half furlongs at Parx. The rail draw is ideal for a mid-pack stalker in a 14-horse field at five and one half furlongs.
Secondary Choices
Golden Wildcat (R11-6) at 5 to 1 morning line is the selection from one handicapping source, trained by Esteban Padilla and ridden by apprentice Jeriel Catala at just 115 pounds. He won his last start going seven furlongs at Parx and has shown improvement recently. The fast-lead style and weight break make him dangerous.
Crypt (R11-8) at 10 to 1 morning line has 54 career starts and is trained by Jack Abrams. He finished fourth last out going seven furlongs and has experience at this level.
Longshots
Gun Maestro (R11-7) at 15 to 1 morning line finished third last out going seven furlongs at Parx and has Jean Aguilar aboard. The slowest-closer style is a concern at five and one half furlongs, but the price compensates.
Selections
Win: Capital Conquest (R11-1)
Place: Legal Deal (R11-2)
Show: Golden Wildcat (R11-6)
Betting strategy: This is another spread race with a massive field. Capital Conquest from the rail with the weight break gets the edge over Legal Deal, who may be overbet as the favorite. Box Capital Conquest, Legal Deal, and Golden Wildcat in exactas. Use all three as keys in trifectas with Crypt and Gun Maestro filling out the bottom slots.
Jockey Notes and Insights
Mychel Sanchez is a key rider at the Parx meet with a strong win rate and solid earnings through mid-February 2026. He rides Sister Marjorie (R1-6), Bestsugardaddyever (R2-6), Diamond Heist (R8-4), and Huggy (R6-2) today. All four are among the top contenders in their respective races. When Sanchez is aboard a Pino, Ness, or Reid trainee, the combination is especially potent, and he rides horses from all three barns today.
Yedsit Hazlewood has emerged as a force at Parx in 2026 with a high win rate and over one million in earnings, ranking him among the top 20 jockeys nationally by wins. He is still claiming an apprentice weight allowance on some mounts, giving him the dual advantage of elite riding ability and a weight discount. He rides El Tinmarin (R4-6), Capital Conquest (R11-1), Sweet Laura (R10-3), Backside Buzz (R8-9), Biz Whiz (R9-5), and other mounts. His connection with the Jamie Ness barn is particularly notable.
Andy Hernandez carries an approximately 19 percent win rate at Parx and has strong mounts today including Respighi (R3-1), Tojo’s Mojo (R4-2), Curious Soul (R8-2), Pure Lure (R10-6), and Sunny Magic (R7-14). He is reliable in the irons and gives every mount a professional ride.
Abner Adorno rides at a strong win rate at Parx and has key mounts on Easy Action (R8-3), Buff Gary (R9-4), and Delray (R10-5). His ride on Easy Action, who has won three straight, is the most significant of his day.
Angel Rodriguez maintains a solid national win rate and rides Sam’s Glory (R3-2) and Craving Carbs (R5-10) today. Both horses are competitive at their morning line odds.
Kendrick Carmouche ships in for the mount on Final Joke (R9-7) with a good national win rate, but Final Joke is on the scratch watch for illness, so this mount may not materialize.
Dexter Haddock rides with a strong win percentage and has notable mounts on Iron Sharpens Iron (R6-5) and Pastero (R7-6). Both are contenders in their races.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Jamie Ness continues his dominance as a leading trainer at Parx, running at a high win rate with the most winners of any barn at the meet. His entries today include Bestsugardaddyever (R2-6), Melt With You (R2-7), El Tinmarin (R4-6), Backside Buzz (R8-9), Sweet Laura (R10-3), and Biz Whiz (R9-5). When Ness enters at the claiming level, his horses are always dangerous, and his ability to manage surface switches (El Tinmarin from turf to dirt) and weight allowances (pairing with Hazlewood) is a hallmark of his operation. He also leads nationally in wins.
Michael Pino has been a major story of the Parx meet, winning at a remarkable rate. His entries today include Sister Marjorie (R1-6), Samantha’s Capo (R5-6, scratch watch), and Diamond Heist (R8-4). When Pino sends one out at a competitive price, the horse is usually ready. Sister Marjorie represents his best opportunity today, though Diamond Heist is also a serious contender.
Jacinto Solis carries a very high win rate at Parx from a smaller sample of starts. He trains Iron Sharpens Iron (R6-5), Psalmist (R9-2), Warheaded (R7-13, Also-Eligible), and Sunny Magic (R7-14). Iron Sharpens Iron and Psalmist are both quality horses with class edges in their respective races.
Robert Reid Jr. has been consistently excellent, training Huggy (R6-2) and Buff Gary (R9-4). His horses often run their best races at Parx, and both are prominent contenders.
Scott Lake trains Pastero (R7-6) and remains one of the all-time winningest trainers at Parx with thousands of career wins nationally. His maiden claimers are always worth a look, and Pastero has been knocking at the door.
Josue Arce trains El Tamalero (R7-11), Shetalkstomuch (R10-2), and Capital Conquest (R11-1), and has been running at a solid win rate at the meet. Capital Conquest with Hazlewood is a particularly interesting angle.
Hugo Padilla trains Respighi (R3-1) and Gold in My Hands (R9-3), carrying a respectable win rate. He has been solid with younger horses making their early career starts.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
The 82,865 Jackpot Pick 5 carryover beginning in Race 1 at 12:05 PM ET is the premier wagering opportunity of the day. The Pick 5 encompasses Races 1 through 5. The strategy here should be to identify singles and spread races.
For the Pick 5 (Races 1–5), Sister Marjorie (R1-6) and El Tinmarin (R4-6) are the two strongest singles on the sequence. Race 2 can be covered with Bestsugardaddyever (R2-6) and Yodel E. A. Who (R2-4). Race 3 is a spread race with first-time starters, so using Sunchill (R3-4), Respighi (R3-1), and Sam’s Glory (R3-2) is advisable. Race 5 is wide open, especially if Samantha’s Capo scratches, so spreading to Just Fancy Free (R5-7), Rosie Outlook (R5-9), Craving Carbs (R5-10), and Shaunnasaprilfool (R5-2) is recommended.
A suggested Pick 5 ticket structure:
Race 1: 6 (single)
Race 2: 4, 6
Race 3: 1, 2, 4
Race 4: 6 (single)
Race 5: 2, 7, 9, 10
for a total of 24 combinations.
For the late Pick 4 or Pick 5 (if offered starting Race 7 or later), Easy Action (R8-3) is the strongest single. Race 7 requires spreading widely due to the large field and longshot alert. Race 9 can be narrowed to N. Y. Finest (R9-1) and Psalmist (R9-2). Race 10 requires using Sweet Laura (R10-3), Confirmed Star (R10-7), and Aoife’s Magic (R10-1).
Top value plays on the card:
Capital Conquest (R11-1) at 5 to 2 morning line offers value over the overbet Legal Deal (R11-2). The rail draw, weight break, and Hazlewood and Arce combination make him the play.
Nuedorf (R8-1) at 8 to 1 morning line draws the rail and won his last start at six and one half furlongs. He could outrun his odds, especially if Easy Action (R8-3) sets a pace that favors mid-pack runners.
Cap Steak Robbery (R6-1) at 8 to 1 morning line has a 40 percent career win rate from five starts and draws the rail. In a seven-horse sprint, the inside is valuable.
Tojo’s Mojo (R4-2) at 10 to 1 morning line won going a mile at Parx two starts back and could offer overlay value behind the heavily bet El Tinmarin (R4-6).
Biz Whiz (R9-5) at 15 to 1 morning line is a Jamie Ness trainee with Hazlewood aboard cutting back to a sprint at Parx after racing at Churchill Downs and Turfway Park. The class of those races could translate to a maiden special weight at Parx.
Best bets of the day: Easy Action (R8-3) and El Tinmarin (R4-6) represent the two most likely winners on the card based on recent form, speed figures, and trainer and jockey connections. Building multi-race wagers around these two as anchors is the recommended approach.
