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Parx Racing in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, presents a 10-race card on Monday, February 23, 2026, with a first post time of 12:05 PM ET. The card features a range of conditions from bottom-level claiming races through the feature ninth race, an Allowance Optional Claiming event for three-year-olds carrying a $50,000 purse and a $75,000 claiming tag. All 10 races are contested on the main dirt track at distances from six furlongs to one mile.
The card includes several races on the scratch watch. Booted Up (PP9) in Race 1 carries a veterinarian scratch watch. In Race 5, both Cisco Kid (PP2) and Seven Anniversary (PP1) are listed as also-eligible. Race 6 has significant scratch watch activity with Badbadbobby (PP11), Banjo (PP5), Dirty Harry (PP6), Guaio (PP12), and Happyflyer (PP8) all flagged for various reasons including stewards and veterinarian holds. Ten Gauge (PP3) in Race 8 is also-eligible, and Waitwaitdonttellme (PP7) in Race 10 has a stewards scratch watch. Bettors should monitor these closely as final scratches will reshape several fields.
The Pick 5 sequence begins in Race 6, running through Race 10, and anchors the exotic wagering opportunities for the day. The card’s class peak is Race 9, a $50,000 Allowance Optional Claiming event that features some of the most accomplished runners on the grounds.
Weather and Track Conditions
A major nor’easter has struck the Philadelphia region, and a Blizzard Warning was in effect for Bensalem, PA through 6:00 PM on February 23. As of 3:00 AM on race day, Bensalem had already received 14 inches of snowfall, with nearby Fairless Hills recording 18 inches and Levittown 15 inches. The forecast calls for a high of 37 degrees and a low of 30 degrees, with snow changing to rain and overcast skies throughout the day.
Given the severity of the storm, there is a legitimate possibility this card could be cancelled or significantly delayed. Parx has a history of weather-related cancellations during winter months, having cancelled multiple cards in January 2026 alone due to frigid temperatures. If racing does proceed, the track surface will almost certainly be rated sloppy or muddy, which dramatically alters the handicapping equation for every race.
On a wet surface at Parx, horses drawn on the inside tend to struggle as they can get bogged down in conditions close to the rail. Bettors should weigh this factor heavily, as several favorites today are drawn inside. Speed horses on sloppy tracks at Parx can sometimes seal the deal if they avoid the worst of the kickback, but closers occasionally benefit from the compromised footing of front-runners.
Track Bias and Post Position Analysis
Parx is generally regarded as a speed-favoring track where front-runners and stalkers hold a significant advantage. Wire-to-wire winners are commonplace, making early pace positioning one of the most critical handicapping factors at this venue. Horses that can secure the lead or sit within striking distance through the first turn tend to hold up well through the stretch.
In sprint races on the main track, historical data shows a strong bias toward inside posts. Approximately 17% of sprint winners have come from post position one, and over 40% of sprint winners were drawn in posts one through four. Posts five and eight have historically been the least successful in sprints. Post nine has been an outlier, producing 16% of winners from a smaller sample. Horses drawn in post 10 or wider face a significant statistical disadvantage, with just six of 77 runners from post 10 winning in the sample period.
For longer races (one mile and beyond), the bias has historically been less pronounced, though inside posts still tend to fare well. In wet conditions, however, the inside bias weakens considerably because the rail area becomes the most chewed-up part of the track. Today’s sloppy conditions may shift the preferred path to posts three through six in sprints.
For this card, with most races carded at six furlongs to six and a half furlongs on a likely sloppy surface, handicappers should look for horses with tactical speed drawn in posts two through six as the ideal profile.
Race 1 – Claiming $7,500, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $21,000
Post Time: 12:05 PM ET
A 13-horse field of four-year-olds and upward that have never won two races. Booted Up (PP9) is on the scratch watch (veterinarian), which would reduce the field to 12. This is a wide-open affair at the bottom of the claiming ranks.
Pace Analysis
Several horses in this field show early speed. Battle Anthem (PP7) and Extrasexymcsteemee (PP5) both figure to be forwardly placed. King Phoenix (PP2) as a first-time starter at Parx for trainer Richard Dutrow Jr. adds an element of uncertainty to the pace scenario. The likely setup is moderate-to-honest early fractions with at least three runners pressing for position through the opening quarter.
Key Contenders
Battle Anthem (PP7) is the 7/2 morning line favorite and the top selection from multiple handicapping models. This six-year-old gelding carries the experience edge in this field and has shown competitive speed figures. Jockey Bryan Torres has the riding assignment, and the Torres/Velazquez trainer combination has been productive at Parx. At 3/1 on the morning line, the value may be slim, but Battle Anthem has the running style to be forwardly placed and control the pace.
King Phoenix (PP2) at 9/2 is an interesting shipper for trainer Richard Dutrow Jr. with apprentice Yedsit Hazlewood aboard. Hazlewood is riding at a torrid 23% win rate with a 59% in-the-money clip in 2026. The post-two draw is statistically favorable at Parx in sprints. However, Dutrow’s record at Parx is just 0-for-13 lifetime, and that 0% win rate is concerning. The five-pound apprentice weight allowance (117 lbs) is a positive.
Extrasexymcsteemee (PP5) at 4/1 has shown early speed and fits the Parx track profile of a front-running type. Jockey Angel Rodriguez gives this gelding a capable ride, and the Kulp barn is competitive at the lower claiming levels.
Secondary Choices
Davola (PP8) at 5/1 is trained by John Servis, who has been running at approximately a 31% win rate recently. Jockey Abner Adorno has shown a 15% win rate with a strong 53% ITM percentage. The Servis barn’s high winning percentage makes any of his runners worth a look, though the PP8 draw is historically one of the weakest positions at Parx.
Sergeant Sinatra (PP13) at 8/1 is a deep closer who will need a strong pace to set up his late run. The outside post is a major negative, and this running style is against the Parx bias.
Longshots
Run My Card (PP11) at 10/1 is a first-time starter with Jeriel Catala aboard for trainer Irving Rodriguez, who has a 20% win rate at Parx. A debut at the claiming level can occasionally spring a surprise, but the wide draw limits enthusiasm.
Private Cabana (PP10) at 20/1 is the most experienced horse in the field at age seven, but his recent form does not inspire confidence. Only live in the exotics at best.
Selections
Win: Battle Anthem (PP7)
Place: King Phoenix (PP2)
Show: Extrasexymcsteemee (PP5)
Betting Strategy: Use Battle Anthem on top in exactas and trifectas keying King Phoenix and Extrasexymcsteemee underneath. A small win bet on Battle Anthem is warranted at 3/1 or higher.
Race 2 – Claiming $5,000, 6.5 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $18,000
Post Time: 12:32 PM ET
A 10-horse field of four-year-olds and upward at the $5,000 claiming level. This is a class-restricted race for horses that have not won two races since August 23.
Pace Analysis
Power Agenda (PP10) shows the best pace figures and could press for the lead from the outside. Borracho (PP8) at age 10 has shown some tactical speed in recent outings. The pace is likely to be moderate, as many of these older claimers prefer to stalk.
Key Contenders
Borracho (PP8) is the 3/1 morning line favorite and a consensus top pick among handicappers. This 10-year-old gelding has been remarkably durable and competitive at this level. Jockey Reylu Gutierrez pilots for trainer Esteban Padilla. The concern is the advanced age and the PP8 draw, which is statistically unfavorable at Parx. However, the class edge is apparent.
Power Agenda (PP10) at 4/1 is one of the more interesting runners here, with strong total pace figures and a potential front-running trip. Jockey Jean Aguilar rides for trainer Miguel Penaloza. The wide PP10 draw is a significant negative in a sprint at Parx, but this horse’s raw ability may overcome the post.
Secondary Choices
Frost Mountain (PP4) at 9/2 is well-drawn in post four with jockey Jorge Vargas Jr. for trainer Ernesto Padilla-Preciado, who carries a 27% win rate at Parx. The inside-to-middle draw is ideal, and Padilla-Preciado runners always deserve respect at this track.
Aggrandize (PP2) at 5/1 has the rail draw with jockey Luis Ocasio for trainer Carlos Caban. The post-two position is statistically one of the best at Parx in sprints, and this horse should get a clean trip.
Longshots
Tuff Constitution (PP1) at 10/1 has Yedsit Hazlewood in the irons and benefits from the inside draw. At double-digit odds, this horse offers potential exotic value, especially if the inside track holds up better than expected on a wet surface.
Selections
Win: Borracho (PP8)
Place: Frost Mountain (PP4)
Show: Power Agenda (PP10)
Betting Strategy: Borracho is the deserving favorite but offers thin value at 3/1. The better play is to use Frost Mountain and Aggrandize underneath in exactas and trifectas, keying Borracho on top but also using Frost Mountain on top as a saver.
Race 3 – Maiden Claiming $25,000, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $26,000
Post Time: 12:59 PM ET
A 10-horse field of three-year-old maidens at the $25,000 claiming level. This is a notoriously tricky race type to handicap because several runners are making their first or second career starts.
Pace Analysis
Cap’n Cats (PP10) has shown a fast-stalker style and should be prominent early. Filled With Desire (PP7) is profiled as the fastest closer in the field, which works against him on the speed-favoring Parx surface. The pace should be moderate with no clear-cut speed, setting up a potential chaotic scenario.
Key Contenders
Cap’n Cats (PP10) at 4/1 has been remarkably consistent without breaking through, compiling a 0-4-4 record from seven starts with a 57% in-the-money rate. This gelding has shown second twice at Parx at this distance and has the highest earnings in the field at $50,750. The PP10 draw is a concern, but the fast-stalker running style should allow him to find a good position. Jockey Melvis Gonzalez (14% win rate) rides for trainer Josue Arce (17% win rate).
Filled With Desire (PP7) at 9/2 is a consensus pick among handicappers and the top selection from multiple sources. This colt has shown third in two of his six starts and owns the highest closing speed figures in the field. Jockey Silvestre Gonzalez (16% win rate, 47% ITM) rides for trainer Bobbi Anne Hawthorne. The closing style is a concern on the Parx speed track, but if the sloppy conditions slow the leaders, closers could gain an edge today.
Secondary Choices
Mybandit (PP6) at 5/1 has shown a 0-1-1 record from just two starts, including a runner-up finish at Parx at six furlongs. The fast-stalker profile is ideal for this track. Jockey Dexter Haddock (20% win rate, 45% ITM) rides for trainer Richard Vega (15% win rate, 59% ITM at Parx). This could be the best bet in the race at the price.
Chaser Racer (PP2) at 6/1 is a first-time starter for powerhouse trainer John Servis, who is running at an elite 31% win rate. Apprentice Jeriel Catala’s five-pound weight allowance brings the load down to 117 pounds. First-out runners from Servis always demand respect, though betting blind is risky in maiden claiming events.
Longshots
Onishenko (PP8) at 6/1 is another first-time starter with Mychel Sanchez in the saddle. Sanchez is the leading rider at Parx with 32 wins in 2026 and a career 22% win rate. Any debut runner with Sanchez aboard deserves a long look, especially at a square price. Trainer Marya Montoya carries a 14% win rate.
Like Tyson (PP5) at 6/1 has Yedsit Hazlewood riding for trainer Jorge Diaz. Only one career start (fifth of six at Laurel) provides limited data, but the Hazlewood booking at 23% win rate in 2026 is significant.
Selections
Win: Filled With Desire (PP7)
Place: Cap’n Cats (PP10)
Show: Mybandit (PP6)
Betting Strategy: This is a spread race. Use Filled With Desire, Cap’n Cats, and Mybandit in exacta boxes. Include Chaser Racer and Onishenko in trifecta and superfecta sequences. A first-time starter from the Servis barn is always dangerous.
Race 4 – Starter Optional Claiming $16,000, 6.5 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $26,000
Post Time: 1:26 PM ET
An eight-horse field of fillies and mares four years old and upward. This is a starter optional claiming event, meaning horses must have previously started for $16,000 or less.
Pace Analysis
Western Woman (PP5) may show some early speed, and Stress Reliever (PP2) figures to be forwardly placed. With a smaller field of eight, the pace should be manageable, favoring the horse that can control the tempo from just off the leaders.
Key Contenders
Stress Reliever (PP2) is the 3/1 morning line favorite and the consensus top choice. This five-year-old mare is trained by Jamie Ness, who is one of the dominant trainers in the mid-Atlantic region with a 25% win rate nationally in 2025 from 1,415 starts. Ness has earned over $107 million lifetime and holds the Parx training title multiple years running. Apprentice Yedsit Hazlewood’s five-pound weight allowance brings the impost to just 115 pounds, the lightest in the field. The PP2 draw is statistically excellent for Parx sprints.
Western Woman (PP5) at 7/2 is the second choice on the morning line and received support from handicappers. Jockey Mychel Sanchez rides for trainer Steven Krebs. Sanchez (22% career win rate, 307 wins in 2025) provides one of the strongest jockey upgrades possible. The PP5 draw has historically been weak at Parx in sprints, but the presence of Sanchez negates some of that concern.
Secondary Choices
Mink Stole (PP6) at 9/2 shows some tactical speed and has jockey Francisco Martinez aboard for trainer Robert Mosco. The six-post draw is acceptable, and at nearly 5/1 on the morning line, there may be value if the top two choices take money.
Leretha (PP4) at 6/1 benefits from the riding of Kendry Rivera (21% win rate, 49% ITM) for trainer Kathleen Demasi. The PP4 draw is favorable, and this horse’s stalking style could prove effective if the pace collapses.
Longshots
Little Cocoa Bean (PP8) at 8/1 offers a mild upset possibility with jockey Melvis Gonzalez for trainer Josue Arce. The wide draw is the main concern.
Selections
Win: Stress Reliever (PP2)
Place: Western Woman (PP5)
Show: Mink Stole (PP6)
Betting Strategy: Stress Reliever is a strong play in the Ness/Hazlewood combination. Consider a win bet at 3/1 or higher. Exacta box Stress Reliever with Western Woman for the most likely combination.
Race 5 – Claiming $7,500, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $21,000
Post Time: 1:53 PM ET
A 10-horse field of four-year-olds and upward. Cisco Kid (PP2) and Seven Anniversary (PP1) are both on the also-eligible list and may not draw into the race. If they scratch, the field dynamics shift significantly.
Pace Analysis
Soar Richard (PP8) is profiled as the fastest leader in the field and should dictate terms from the front. Carbonite (PP10) also shows fast-leads style and could press the pace. If both are forwardly placed, the early fractions could be fast, potentially setting up a closer. Fazaro (PP7) is described as the slowest leader, suggesting he will try to grind on the front end at a moderate pace.
Key Contenders
Soar Richard (PP8) at 4/1 is the top choice from handicappers and shows the fastest leader profile. This five-year-old gelding won his last start at Parx going six furlongs and has three wins from 16 career starts with a 19% win rate and 56% ITM clip. Jockey Andrew Wolfsont (16% win rate, 50% ITM) rides for trainer Ronald Abrams. The concern is the PP8 draw, which is historically weak at Parx in sprints.
Cisco Kid (PP2) at 3/1 on the morning line is the algorithm favorite but sits on the also-eligible list. If he draws in, the PP2 draw and 3/1 morning line make him the horse to beat. Jockey Melvis Gonzalez rides for trainer Benjamin Dunn. However, with the AE designation, bettors should wait for the final field before committing.
Secondary Choices
Carbonite (PP10) at 5/1 has by far the most experience in the field with 53 career starts and four wins, along with $368,404 in earnings. Jockey Mychel Sanchez gives this horse a huge jockey upgrade. The fast-leads running style is ideal for Parx, though the PP10 draw is a negative.
Fazaro (PP7) at 6/1 won his last start at Parx going 5.5 furlongs and has placed second in two of his recent starts. Jockey Kendry Rivera (21% win rate, 49% ITM) is a strong booking. The PP7 draw is manageable, and the class fits well.
Save a Prayer (PP4) at 6/1 has a 27% career win rate (three wins from 11 starts) and benefits from the favorable PP4 draw. Jockey Eliseo Ruiz (17% win rate, 54% ITM) rides for trainer Kathleen Demasi.
Longshots
Clever Tiger (PP5) at 8/1 has three wins from 15 starts (20%) and a 53% show rate. Jockey Silvestre Gonzalez (16% win rate, 47% ITM) rides for trainer Steven Krebs. At 8/1, there is value if the pace is fast and the stalker types benefit.
Selections
Win: Soar Richard (PP8)
Place: Carbonite (PP10)
Show: Fazaro (PP7)
Betting Strategy: This is a contentious race. If Cisco Kid draws in, he becomes the likely favorite. Use Soar Richard on top in exactas with Carbonite, Fazaro, and Save a Prayer underneath. A small trifecta box of Soar Richard, Carbonite, and Fazaro is a reasonable play.
Race 6 – Claiming $7,500, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $21,000
Post Time: 2:20 PM ET
This is the first leg of the Pick 5 sequence, and the 16-horse field makes it the widest field on the card. Multiple horses on the scratch watch (Badbadbobby PP11, Banjo PP5, Dirty Harry PP6, Guaio PP12, Happyflyer PP8) could significantly reduce the field. This race for four-year-olds and upward that have never won three races at the $7,500 claiming level.
Pace Analysis
With a massive field and several speed types entered, the pace is likely to be honest or fast. Moving to Kentucky (PP3), One Improbable (PP4), and Drunkle (PP7) all show forward tendencies. The likely scenario is a contested pace that could set up a closer or stalker in the large field.
Key Contenders
Moving to Kentucky (PP3) at 4/1 is the top-rated horse by algorithms and a consensus pick. The PP3 draw is excellent for Parx sprints, sitting in the statistically strongest zone. Jockey Mychel Sanchez provides the best jockey booking in the race, and trainer Robert Mosco sends out competitive runners at this level. The inside draw combined with Sanchez’s skill at navigating traffic makes this the most likely winner.
One Improbable (PP4) at 6/1 draws well in post four for jockey Anthony Salgado and trainer Miguel Rodriguez. The Rodriguez barn has a 16% win rate at Parx, and the inside draw combined with tactical speed makes this horse a strong contender in a large field.
Secondary Choices
Hoppy Time (PP2) at 5/1 has Yedsit Hazlewood aboard with the five-pound apprentice allowance (117 lbs) for trainer Michael Pino, who carries a remarkable 35% win rate at Parx. The Pino/Hazlewood combination is one of the most potent on the grounds. The PP2 rail draw is statistically strong, and the weight break is significant in a large, competitive field.
Drunkle (PP7) at 6/1 has jockey Abner Adorno for trainer Elliott Soto-Martinez (22% win rate at Parx). The PP7 draw is acceptable, and Adorno’s 15% win rate with 53% ITM suggests board-hitting ability.
Star Man Bob (PP10) at 6/1 is the lone horse carrying top weight of 125 lbs, indicating he is the only recent winner in the field. Jockey Yan Rodriguez rides for trainer Robert Reid Jr. (26% win rate at Parx). The weight and wide draw are concerns, but the class edge of a recent winner is significant.
Longshots
Backtrack (PP13) at 12/1 was a notable pick from one handicapping source. Jockey Kendry Rivera (21% win rate) provides a capable ride, and trainer Jordan Bullock sends out a horse that may benefit from a fast pace set by the frontrunners.
Selections
Win: Moving to Kentucky (PP3)
Place: Hoppy Time (PP2)
Show: One Improbable (PP4)
Betting Strategy: This race is key to the Pick 5 as the first leg. In a 16-horse field (potentially reduced by scratches), spreading is essential. Use Moving to Kentucky, Hoppy Time, One Improbable, and Drunkle as the A-team. Include Backtrack as a saver in wider exotic sequences.
Race 7 – Starter Optional Claiming $25,000, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $28,000
Post Time: 2:47 PM ET
An eight-horse field of fillies and mares. This starter optional claiming event for horses that have previously started for $25,000 or less offers a step up in class from the earlier claiming races.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario is unclear, as none of these runners project as a dominant speed type. Persian (PP1), Give Her Another (PP3), and More Than Grace (PP7) could all be forwardly placed. With a small eight-horse field, the pace should be moderate, favoring the horse with the best turn of foot in the stretch.
Key Contenders
Give Her Another (PP3) at 7/2 is the algorithm top-rated horse and a consensus pick. Trained by Jacinto Solis, who carries an astounding 37.5% win rate at Parx, the highest among active trainers. Jockey Dexter Haddock (20% win rate, 45% ITM) provides a strong riding assignment. The PP3 draw is in the sweet spot for Parx sprints.
Persian (PP1) at 5/1 is trained by Jamie Ness (25% win rate nationally) and ridden by Yedsit Hazlewood with the five-pound apprentice allowance, bringing the weight down to 115 lbs, the lightest in the field. The Ness/Hazlewood combination has been highly profitable, and the rail draw can be advantageous in a small field. The concern on a sloppy track is that the rail may be dead, neutralizing the post advantage.
Secondary Choices
Didn’t It Rain (PP4) at 6/1 is picked as the top selection by one major handicapping outlet. Jockey Frankie Pennington rides for trainer Harold Wyner. The PP4 draw is statistically favorable, and at 6/1, there could be value if the favorites underperform.
Marelow (PP6) at 4/1 is rated second by algorithms and has jockey Melvis Gonzalez for trainer Josue Arce. The Arce barn has shown a 17% win rate at Parx, and Gonzalez is a reliable pilot. The PP6 draw is acceptable in a small field.
Longshots
Sevenon (PP8) at 6/1 is trained by Jacinto Solis, the same conditioner as Give Her Another. Having two starters from a 37.5% win-rate barn in the same race is noteworthy. Jockey Ruben Silvera is the rider. If Give Her Another takes the bulk of the public money, Sevenon could offer a sneaky-good value play from the same trainer.
Selections
Win: Give Her Another (PP3)
Place: Persian (PP1)
Show: Didn’t It Rain (PP4)
Betting Strategy: The Solis barn’s dominance at Parx is the key angle. Give Her Another is the top play, but also include Sevenon in trifectas and superfectas for Solis barn exacta potential. An exacta box of Give Her Another with Persian and Marelow covers the most likely top-two finishes.
Race 8 – Claiming $40,000, 1 Mile Dirt, Purse $35,000
Post Time: 3:14 PM ET
A seven-horse field at the $40,000 claiming level going one mile on the dirt. This is a significant class jump from the earlier races, and the one-mile distance introduces different handicapping dynamics. Ten Gauge (PP3) is on the also-eligible list.
Pace Analysis
This race sets up as a tactical affair. Excellorator (PP2) and Recker Point (PP1) are both from the Jamie Ness barn, and Ness entries in the same race always warrant attention regarding pace tactics. Just Step On It (PP4) and Margin of Air (PP6) could also be involved in the early running. At one mile, the pace is less critical than in sprints, as there is more time for horses to settle into stride.
Key Contenders
Excellorator (PP2) at 5/2 is the unanimous consensus selection across all handicapping sources consulted. This eight-year-old gelding is trained by Jamie Ness and ridden by Mychel Sanchez, the most potent jockey-trainer combination at Parx. The PP2 draw is excellent for route races, and Sanchez’s ability to rate horses off the pace and deliver a closing kick is well-documented. This is the most confident play on the card.
Recker Point (PP1) at 7/2 is the barn mate and draws the rail for the same Ness operation, with Yedsit Hazlewood in the irons. Having two Ness runners in a seven-horse field gives the barn a significant tactical advantage. Recker Point could act as a pacemaker or simply run his own race inside. The five-pound apprentice allowance (117 lbs) is a nice weight edge.
Secondary Choices
Just Step On It (PP4) at 9/2 is a five-year-old with jockey Dexter Haddock for trainer Louis Linder Jr.. The PP4 draw is favorable, and Haddock’s 20% win rate gives this horse a strong chance to hit the board.
Margin of Air (PP6) at 5/1 has the Arce/Gonzalez combination (trainer Josue Arce, jockey Melvis Gonzalez). Arce runners are always competitive at Parx, and the PP6 draw is workable in a route race.
Longshots
Tricolour (PP7) at 8/1 is trained by John Kirby with jockey Silvestre Gonzalez aboard. This seven-year-old has been inconsistent but has shown flashes of ability at the distance. The outside draw in a seven-horse field is not a major detriment at one mile.
In Spades (PP5) at 6/1 has Andrew Wolfsont riding for trainer Felissa Dunn. The PP5 draw is workable, and Wolfsont has been riding at a 16% win rate with 50% ITM.
Selections
Win: Excellorator (PP2)
Place: Recker Point (PP1)
Show: Just Step On It (PP4)
Betting Strategy: Excellorator is a strong single in multi-race wagers. A win bet at 5/2 or better is warranted. Consider a Ness barn exacta (Excellorator over Recker Point) as a value play. In the trifecta, key Excellorator on top with Recker Point and Just Step On It for second and third.
Race 9 – Allowance Optional Claiming $75,000, 6.5 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $50,000
Post Time: 3:41 PM ET
The feature race of the card, a six-horse field of three-year-olds. This is the classiest race on the card, with a $50,000 purse and a $75,000 claiming tag. Small field size and high-quality runners make this a fascinating handicapping puzzle.
Pace Analysis
Ponder and Dream (PP2) is profiled as the fastest leader in the field and should control the pace from an advantageous post-two draw. Tough Guy Tony (PP3) is a fast leader who will likely press or sit second. Bootleg Runner (PP6) is a mid-pack leader who will be positioned within striking distance. The pace should be honest but not suicidal, with two confirmed speed types in a small field.
Key Contenders
Ponder and Dream (PP2) at 2/1 is the consensus morning line favorite and is trained by Robert Reid Jr. (29% win rate) with jockey Mychel Sanchez (31% win rate at current Parx meet, 25% nationally in 2026). This colt won his last start at Parx going six furlongs, finished third before that, and second before that, showing consistent improvement with a 100% show rate from four career starts. The PP2 draw is ideal for the fastest leader profile at Parx, and Sanchez is the best jockey on the grounds.
Tough Guy Tony (PP3) at 7/2 has the highest career win percentage in the field at 50% (three wins from six starts) and the highest earnings at $232,950. Trained by the same Robert Reid Jr. barn as Ponder and Dream, this creates an interesting entry-mate dynamic. Jockey Frankie Pennington (12% win rate, 37% ITM) is a capable rider. The PP3 draw is excellent, and the fast-leader profile is perfect for Parx. Tough Guy Tony showed third in his last start going seven furlongs at Parx and won before that at Penn National. At 7/2 compared to the 2/1 barn mate, there may be more value here.
Secondary Choices
Bootleg Runner (PP6) at 3/1 is trained by Michael Pino, who carries a 29% win rate and 58% ITM at the current meet. The Pino barn has been the hottest operation at Parx. Jockey Francisco Martinez (15% win rate, 40% ITM) provides a solid ride. Bootleg Runner has a 1-3-4 record from five starts (80% ITM) and finished second in his last start at Parx at this distance. The PP6 draw is the widest in the small field but not a major issue at 6.5 furlongs.
Wave Rider (PP5) at 9/2 has a 1-2-2 record from three starts (67% show rate) and won a mile race at Parx in his second start. Jockey David Cora is less proven (0% win rate from four starts), which is a red flag. Trainer T. Bernard Houghton does not have current Parx statistics, adding uncertainty.
Longshots
Racetrack Romance (PP1) at 12/1 is trained by Hugo Padilla (20% win rate, 55% ITM) with jockey Andy Hernandez (14% win rate, 43% ITM). This colt has a 1-1-1 record from three starts (33% win rate) and won at Penn National last out. The rail draw at Parx in a small-field sprint is potentially advantageous. At 12/1, this horse offers significant value and should be included in exotic wagers.
Live Stream (PP4) at 8/1 has two wins from six starts but has been away from Parx and showed poorly in recent East Coast outings. Jockey Martina Rojas (25% win rate from four starts) is a limited sample. The Rojas/Rojas family training operation is an unknown at Parx.
Selections
Win: Ponder and Dream (PP2)
Place: Tough Guy Tony (PP3)
Show: Bootleg Runner (PP6)
Betting Strategy: Ponder and Dream is likely to be heavily bet as the favorite. The value play is to key Tough Guy Tony on top in exactas at higher odds, using Ponder and Dream and Bootleg Runner underneath. A trifecta box of the top three is the safest play. Include Racetrack Romance in superfecta sequences at 12/1 for value.
Race 10 – Claiming $5,000, 6 Furlongs Dirt, Purse $18,000
Post Time: 4:08 PM ET
A 12-horse field of fillies and mares. Waitwaitdonttellme (PP7) is on the stewards scratch watch. This is the nightcap and the final leg of the Pick 5 sequence.
Pace Analysis
Several horses in this field have shown some early speed. Warrior’s Miss (PP8) and Pacific Princess (PP9) could be involved early. Old Head (PP10) may sit just off the pace. With 12 runners (potentially 11 if Waitwaitdonttellme scratches), the pace should be honest, which could favor stalkers and closers in the stretch.
Key Contenders
Old Head (PP10) at 3/1 is the consensus morning line favorite and trained by Michael Pino, who carries the highest win percentage among active trainers at Parx at 35%. Jockey Yedsit Hazlewood’s apprentice allowance brings the weight to 117 lbs. The Pino/Hazlewood combination is one of the most dangerous on the grounds. The PP10 draw is a concern in a sprint at Parx, but Pino runners consistently overcome post-position disadvantages.
Warrior’s Miss (PP8) at 4/1 is picked as the top selection by data models and the second choice on the morning line. Jockey Angel Rodriguez rides for trainer Brandon Kulp. The PP8 draw is historically weak at Parx, but this mare has shown consistent form at the level.
Secondary Choices
Spirited Ride (PP3) at 9/2 draws the favorable PP3 position with jockey Anthony Salgado for trainer Miguel Rodriguez. The inside draw is a significant advantage in this sprint, and at 9/2, there is potential value against the wide-drawn favorites.
Pacific Princess (PP9) at 6/1 has a veteran profile and jockey Silvestre Gonzalez aboard for trainer Alexander Martinez. The wide draw is a negative, but this mare has the tactical speed to overcome it.
Longshots
Bad Temper (PP11) at 8/1 has apprentice Jeriel Catala’s five-pound weight break (115 lbs) for trainer Jorge Diaz. At 8/1, this is an interesting price for a horse with some speed figures that fit.
Fast Motion (PP12) at 10/1 also benefits from Bryan Torres’s apprentice allowance (115 lbs) for trainer James Nicholson Jr.. The outside post is a major obstacle, but the weight break provides a potential edge.
Selections
Win: Old Head (PP10)
Place: Spirited Ride (PP3)
Show: Warrior’s Miss (PP8)
Betting Strategy: Old Head is the class of the field, but the PP10 draw in a sprint makes the 3/1 price thin. The value play is to use Spirited Ride (PP3) on top in exactas at 9/2, keying Old Head and Warrior’s Miss underneath. In the trifecta, box Old Head, Spirited Ride, and Warrior’s Miss.
Jockey Notes and Insights
Yedsit Hazlewood is the hottest jockey on the mid-Atlantic circuit, leading the 2026 national jockey standings (among mid-Atlantic riders) with 36 wins from 159 starts, a 23% win rate, and a 59% in-the-money rate. His five-pound apprentice weight allowance makes him the most valuable rider on the card today. He has eight mounts: King Phoenix (R1), Tuff Constitution (R2), Like Tyson (R3), Stress Reliever (R4), Hoppy Time (R6), Persian (R7), Recker Point (R8), and Old Head (R10). The Hazlewood/Ness combination is particularly potent with Stress Reliever, Persian, and Recker Point.
Mychel Sanchez is the all-time leading rider at Parx and ranks among the top 25 nationally in 2026 with 32 wins from 137 starts. In 2025, Sanchez recorded 307 wins from 1,373 starts with earnings of $11.4 million. He has six mounts today: Western Woman (R4), Carbonite (R5), Moving to Kentucky (R6), More Than Grace (R7), Excellorator (R8), and Ponder and Dream (R9). His two strongest mounts are Excellorator in Race 8 and Ponder and Dream in Race 9, both of which are consensus favorites.
Dexter Haddock carries a 20% win rate with a 45% ITM rate at the current Parx meet. He rides Curlins Cruzin (R2), Mybandit (R3), Charm of the Song (R10), Just Step On It (R8), Give Her Another (R7), and Badbadbobby (R6, if runs). His strongest mount is Give Her Another in Race 7 for the Solis barn.
Kendry Rivera has been riding at a 21% win rate with a 49% ITM clip. He has several mounts scattered across the card including Dirty Cash (R3), Leretha (R4), Fazaro (R5), and Backtrack (R6). Rivera is a reliable pilot at the claiming level and should not be dismissed in any race.
Francisco Martinez has shown a steady 15% win rate with 40% ITM. His key mount of the day is Bootleg Runner in Race 9 for the Pino barn, where the trainer’s 29% win rate elevates any runner.
Silvestre Gonzalez (16% win rate, 47% ITM) has multiple mounts including Clever Tiger (R5), Watch Hill (R6), Tiptop (R7), Tricolour (R8), and Pacific Princess (R10). A journeyman capable of popping at a price.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Jamie Ness is the dominant force at Parx and finished 12th nationally among trainers in 2025 with 353 wins from 1,415 starts (25% win rate) and earnings of $11 million. He has won multiple consecutive Parx training titles and his barn produces consistent winners at every level. Today he saddles four horses: Stress Reliever (R4), Persian (R7), Recker Point (R8), and Excellorator (R8). When Ness runs two in the same race (Recker Point and Excellorator in R8), it often signals he has identified a race as particularly winnable for his barn. Excellorator is the probable main speed, with Recker Point as the alternative.
Michael Pino carries a stunning 35% win rate at Parx and has been on a hot streak. His runners today include Bootleg Runner (R9), More Than Grace (R7), and Old Head (R10). Every Pino starter deserves respect, and at these percentages, his horses should be included in multi-race wagers as singles or A-team contenders.
Jacinto Solis has the highest win percentage at Parx at 37.5% from 48 starts. He saddles Give Her Another and Sevenon in Race 7, and Charm of the Song in Race 10. Two starters in the same race from a 37.5% barn is a powerful angle.
Robert Reid Jr. carries a 26% win rate at Parx and has the top two contenders in Race 9 with Ponder and Dream and Tough Guy Tony. Having the likely favorite and a strong contender from the same barn in the feature race is a significant tactical edge.
John Servis has been running at approximately 31% win rate and sends out Davola (R1) and Chaser Racer (R3). First-time starters from the Servis barn are always live, making Chaser Racer an interesting play in the maiden race.
Richard Dutrow Jr. has a 0% win rate at Parx from 13 career starts at the track, which is a notable statistic to weigh against King Phoenix in Race 1. While Dutrow has won major stakes nationally (including Breeders’ Cup Classic winners), Parx has not been his strongest venue.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
The anchor play of the day is Excellorator (PP2) in Race 8. As the unanimous consensus choice from every handicapping source, trained by Jamie Ness and ridden by Mychel Sanchez at the optimal post, this horse is the strongest single on the card. At 5/2, the price is fair but not generous. Excellorator should be singled in Pick 5 and Pick 4 sequences to reduce cost.
The best value play of the card is Hoppy Time (PP2) in Race 6 at 5/1 on the morning line. Trained by Michael Pino (35% win rate at Parx) and ridden by Yedsit Hazlewood (23% win rate in 2026) with the five-pound apprentice allowance, this horse benefits from the statistically strong PP2 draw. The 16-horse field will dilute the odds, potentially pushing Hoppy Time to 8/1 or higher. In a race where many scratches are expected, this horse could land an ideal trip.
The Ness/Hazlewood connection today is a thread to follow across the card. Their combined runners (Stress Reliever R4, Persian R7, Recker Point R8) represent a bankroll-building opportunity. Consider Daily Double plays linking Stress Reliever in R4 to other selections.
The Pick 5 sequence (Races 6-10) should be structured as follows:
Race 6 (Leg 1): Moving to Kentucky, Hoppy Time, One Improbable (3 horses)
Race 7 (Leg 2): Give Her Another, Persian (2 horses)
Race 8 (Leg 3): Excellorator SINGLE
Race 9 (Leg 4): Ponder and Dream, Tough Guy Tony, Bootleg Runner (3 horses)
Race 10 (Leg 5): Old Head, Spirited Ride, Warrior’s Miss (3 horses)
This structure creates a manageable 54-combination ticket at a $0.50 base cost of $27. For a budget play, single both Excellorator in R8 and Give Her Another in R7 to reduce to an 18-combination ticket at $9 for a $1 base.
The Daily Double from Race 8 to Race 9 (Excellorator to Ponder and Dream) is the most likely combination to hit and should be a standalone wager. For value, add Tough Guy Tony alongside Ponder and Dream in Race 9 to catch a potential barn-mate upset at 7/2 versus the 2/1 favorite.
In early races, Race 4 offers the most bankable play outside the Pick 5 with Stress Reliever (PP2) for Ness/Hazlewood at 3/1. This is a strong win candidate.
Sloppy track considerations: If the track is rated sloppy or muddy due to the blizzard conditions, favor horses drawn in posts three through six over those drawn on the rail or far outside. Adjust plays accordingly, particularly in Race 6 where Moving to Kentucky (PP3) and One Improbable (PP4) would gain an additional edge. Also elevate Bootleg Runner (PP6) in Race 9 as a legitimate win candidate on a wet surface.
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Here’s the full handicapping report for today’s Parx Racing card. It covers all 10 races with in-depth analysis including pace scenarios, key contenders, secondary choices, longshots, and suggested wagers for each race.
Key highlights:
- Major weather alert: Bensalem received 14 inches of snow overnight under a Blizzard Warning — monitor for potential cancellation
- Best bet of the card: Excellorator (PP2, Race 8) is the unanimous consensus pick from all sources
- Best value play: Hoppy Time (PP2, Race 6) with the Pino/Hazlewood combination at 5/1+
- Feature race (R9): Ponder and Dream tops a competitive three-year-old field, but Tough Guy Tony offers better odds from the same barn
- Pick 5 structure (R6-R10) is laid out at the end with ticket configurations at $27 and $9 levels
The jockey and trainer notes section highlights the Ness/Hazlewood and Sanchez power combinations driving much of the action across the card.
