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The February 12 program at Laurel Park features a nine-race card highlighted by an Allowance Optional Claiming feature in the sixth race. While the day begins with lower-level claiming events for fillies and mares, the quality improves significantly mid-card. Several races have seen significant scratches, creating shorter fields that emphasize tactical positioning and trainer intent.
Weather and Track Conditions
The track is expected to remain fast throughout the day. Temperatures are forecast in the mid-30s with no precipitation expected. This dry, cold air typically creates a firm surface that favors horses who can maintain a high cruising speed.
Track Bias Analysis
Recent trends at Laurel suggest a slight preference for horses situated in the middle to outside post positions in sprint races. The rail has not been the place to be, and many winning riders have been angling their mounts into the two or three path for the drive. Stalkers who can sit just off the lead appear to have an advantage over pure front-runners or deep closers.
Race 1: 1 Mile Dirt
Post Time
12:00 PM EST
Pace Analysis
The scratches of speed elements leave Vodkatini (1) with a significant pace advantage. She is the likely leader from the rail.
Key Contenders
Vodkatini (1) is the primary horse to beat given the pace scenario. Missy Boss (4) fits well at this level and should stalk the leader.
Secondary Choices
Baby Sox (7) is a consistent runner who benefits from an outside draw.
Longshots
Honor the Truth (3) has back class but needs to prove she can still compete at this distance.
Race 2: 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
12:30 PM EST
Pace Analysis
A fast opening quarter is expected with multiple horses vying for the lead.
Key Contenders
Greek Heiress (5) is perfectly spotted to sit behind the speed and move late. Golden Rocket (6) is a dangerous veteran with a top jockey.
Secondary Choices
Susan’s Mule (4) is a reliable exotic filler who rarely runs a bad race.
Longshots
My Flicker (1) could be dangerous if the speed duel fails to materialize.
Race 3: 5 1/2 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
01:00 PM EST
Pace Analysis
The field has been decimated by scratches, leaving a clear path for the remaining speed.
Key Contenders
Genecho (2) is the standout for the Brittany Russell barn and should control the race from start to finish.
Secondary Choices
Trouble and Strife (1) will be the main pursuer from the rail.
Longshots
Shenadoah Sunrise (7) could pick up the pieces if the favorites engage too early.
Race 4: 1 1/16 Miles Dirt
Post Time
01:30 PM EST
Pace Analysis
A moderate pace is expected in this two-turn route.
Key Contenders
Artist Mark (4) possesses the best closing kick in the field and should appreciate the distance. Twice Gold (2) comes from a high-percentage barn and is in top form.
Secondary Choices
Docsgotallthecandy (6) is the speed threat who will try to lead as long as possible.
Race 5: 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
02:00 PM EST
Pace Analysis
There is plenty of early interest in this maiden event, likely leading to a contested front end.
Key Contenders
Julie Belle (6) has the tactical speed to win and gets a jockey upgrade. Rylnnslookinglucky (8) has been competitive and draws well.
Secondary Choices
Hey Alexa (9) is a threat if she can overcome the wide post.
Longshots
Poor Mans Lady (7) has shown enough in morning trials to suggest she can compete here.
Race 6: 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
02:30 PM EST
Pace Analysis
As the feature race, this sprint will be defined by the class of the favorites.
Key Contenders
Prince of Jericho (6) is a stakes-quality runner facing a much easier group than usual. Bouncer (10) is the only horse in the field with the speed figures to challenge him.
Secondary Choices
Worcester (4) is a steady runner who should find his way into the top three.
Race 7: 6 Furlongs Dirt
Post Time
03:00 PM EST
Pace Analysis
Expect a sharp pace led by the inside runners.
Key Contenders
Johnny Lies (5) is the horse to beat for a trainer winning at an exceptional rate. Hoppetosse (9) is a dangerous sprinter for a top Maryland barn.
Secondary Choices
Mo Missile (1) will need a clean break from the rail to be effective.
Longshots
Ravi (6) has shown enough improvement to be considered at a price.
Race 8: 1 1/16 Miles Dirt
Post Time
03:30 PM EST
Pace Analysis
The entry of Hagrid’s Flame and Love Me Not will likely dictate the tempo.
Key Contenders
Crossland (5) is a specialist at this distance and should be closing late. Hagrid’s Flame (7) is a dangerous speed horse from the Jamie Ness barn.
Secondary Choices
Certified Loverboy (4) is a consistent runner who fits this class.
Race 9: 1 1/16 Miles Dirt
Post Time
04:00 PM EST
Pace Analysis
The finale features a field of older claimers where the pace should be steady but not overly fast.
Key Contenders
Be Better (4) drops in class and has the back speed to dominate this group. Self Taught (7) is a veteran grinder who always gives an honest effort.
Secondary Choices
Morning Thoughts (6) is capable of a big effort on his best day.
Jockey Notes and Insights
Yedsit Hazlewood continues to be the dominant rider this meet, showing particular skill in timing his moves on the outside. Sheldon Russell and Mychel Sanchez remain high-percentage choices for the top barns. Angel Cruz is the preferred rider for those looking for value on aggressive front-runners.
Trainer Notes and Insights
The barns of Brittany Russell and Jamie Ness remain the standard for excellence at Laurel Park. Anthony Farrior is currently in the midst of a significant winning streak and must be respected in all claiming levels. Hugh McMahon is another trainer showing great form with horses moving up or down the class ladder.
