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Santa Anita Park – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the March 6, 2026 card

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Santa Anita Park offers a nine race Friday card on March 6, 2026, with a mix of turf sprints and routes plus dirt races that set up a very playable sequence structure including early and late multi race wagers and a traditional Pick 6. The overnight indicates full fields in several claiming and allowance races and a modest Pick 6 carryover that should draw additional handle into the mid card pools.

Santa Anita's current meet runs from late December through early March, and the entries page shows that several horses on today's card, such as Resemblance (9) in Race 9, have already won more than once at the meet, which is a key angle for current form on this surface. Overall, the program is fairly balanced, with both pace heavy races and more tactical events, which should give handicappers multiple ways to attack depending on their preference for speed, stalkers, or late runners.

Weather and Track Conditions

Public weather data for Santa Ana, California in March 2026 shows mostly clear to partly cloudy conditions with no significant precipitation and light to moderate breezes, suggesting a fast main track and firm turf are the most likely conditions for today's card. Historical forecasts for the Santa Anita Park area around this time of year show daytime highs in the low to mid 70s with dry conditions, which generally favor a fair, consistent surface with minimal moisture related variance.

With no recent indication of heavy rain or storms, handicappers should assume standard Southern California conditions: a tightly harrowed dirt track playing fast and a turf course that is firm but not overly hard, often producing honest times without excessive kickback or divot issues. Any late changes (such as a temporary rail shift on the turf) should be checked close to post time, but the overnight suggests turf rails in use with standard lane settings, which tends to mildly favor forward or mid pack runners who can secure position into the first turn.

Track Bias and Post Position Bias

Recent statistical summaries for Santa Anita indicate that the track typically does not display an extreme, persistent bias, with both front runners and off the pace types winning at reasonable rates on both dirt and turf. However, week one track stats from a recent meet show that on dirt sprints, a strong majority of winners were either on the lead or within three lengths at the half mile, highlighting that tactical speed remains an important asset in these races.

In dirt routes, the majority of winners were tracking within three lengths but not necessarily on the lead, pointing to a mild preference for pace pressing or stalking trips rather than deep closers. On turf, including routes, winners were more evenly distributed between leaders, stalkers, and deeper closers, which aligns with the general view that Santa Anita's turf course plays relatively fair, with race shape and trip tending to matter more than raw post position.

Inside posts on turf routes can still be an advantage into the first turn, particularly at middle distances, but there is no strong evidence in the current stats of an overwhelming rail bias, so emphasis should be placed on field size, pace scenario, and rider rather than post alone. For today's card, the working assumption is a modest preference toward speed and tactical speed on dirt, a mostly fair turf course, and only minor post related nuances that can be overridden by class, form, and trip.

Race 1 – Claiming, 6.5F Turf (Rail 30 ft)

Runners: Rhythem On Stage (1), Belly Up (2), Everydayissaturday (3), The Old Nine (IRE) (4), Tapalo (5), Three Georges (6).​

Post Time

Approximate local post is early in the program at the standard first post for Santa Anita's Friday card; check the day's schedule for the exact minute, but expect around 12:30 PM PT.​

Pace Analysis

Race 1 projects an honest to slightly above average pace for a 6.5 furlong turf event with multiple runners capable of being involved early. Belly Up (2) and Tapalo (5) look like the most natural pace players, with Rhythem On Stage (1) capable of being forward if asked from the rail, which could lead to a contested opening quarter if riders are intent on securing position before the turn.

Everydayissaturday (3) and The Old Nine (IRE) (4) appear more likely to sit just behind the pace, offering stalk and pounce trips, while Three Georges (6) shapes up as the one who could drop in behind and make a run into the lane if the front group goes too hard. With the turf rail at 30 feet, speed is often a bit more effective, but a tracking trip within a couple of lengths is still very live, making mid pack stalkers appealing.

Key Contenders

Tapalo (5) looks like a primary win candidate based on projected pace position and the typical turf profile at this trip, as he should be able to secure a stalking or pressing trip outside the leaders without losing too much ground. Belly Up (2) also fits well if he can ration his speed, as front runners with tactical rating ability often perform well on the rail out configuration at Santa Anita turf sprints.

The Old Nine (IRE) (4) brings the interesting angle of turf experience and possibly classier European style form lines, making him the main off the pace threat if the early fractions get aggressive. With a likely trip just off the speed and a potential strong finish, The Old Nine (IRE) (4) profiles as the main “handicappers'” key contender alongside Tapalo (5).

Secondary Choices

Everydayissaturday (3) looks like a solid secondary choice with a versatile running style that should allow him to adapt to however the pace develops, hovering in a tracking position. Rhythem On Stage (1) from the rail may offer some value if he can break cleanly and either hold the pocket behind speed or sneak off the fence into a stalking lane, which can be advantageous when the turf rail is out and ground loss is magnified.

Three Georges (6) represents a logical underneath player who could clunk up for a piece if the race falls apart late, but he may need a more exaggerated melt down than the projected pace suggests. As such, he rates as more of a secondary or underneath horse in exotics rather than a top win choice.

Longshots

Given the compact field, there are no extreme longshots listed on the overnight, but Three Georges (6) is the one who could be overlooked on the board and still has a plausible path to outrun his odds if the leaders duel. Rhythem On Stage (1) could also slip through the wagering cracks slightly if bettors favor the more obvious turf pace types, making him a potential value key underneath in trifectas.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

This race sets up well for win bets focused on Tapalo (5) and The Old Nine (IRE) (4), depending on the final board, with Belly Up (2) potentially playable if he drifts above his fair odds. Exacta structures could lean on Tapalo (5) and The Old Nine (IRE) (4) on top, using Belly Up (2), Everydayissaturday (3), and Rhythem On Stage (1) underneath.​

Multi race players can lean fairly hard on Tapalo (5) and The Old Nine (IRE) (4) in early sequences, using Belly Up (2) as a backup on some tickets. Given the lack of clear hopeless outsiders, deeper vertical spreads may dilute value, so staying focused on 3 to 4 key runners is preferable.​

Selections

Win Tapalo (5)
Place The Old Nine (IRE) (4)
Show Belly Up (2)

Race 2 – Claiming/Allowance (Fillies and Mares)

Runners: Pocket Venus (1), Thatsalrightmama (2), Can'tdealwithit (3), Allihies (4), Crazy Cami (5), Jensco (6).​

Post Time

Race 2 follows roughly 30 minutes after Race 1 as part of the standard spacing on the Friday card; consult the official program for the exact post time.​

Pace Analysis

Race 2 appears to feature a more controlled pace scenario, with Pocket Venus (1) and Crazy Cami (5) capable of being forward but not necessarily demanding a hot duel. Thatsalrightmama (2) and Allihies (4) look like natural stalkers who can sit just behind the top pair, while Can'tdealwithit (3) and Jensco (6) may settle mid pack or slightly farther back, depending on break and rider intent.

Given the likely moderate fractions, preference should be given to horses who can secure position early and still finish, making pace pressers and tactical stalkers especially attractive in this race.

Key Contenders

Pocket Venus (1) stands out as a key contender from the rail, with the ability to show early speed and control the race if unpressured, particularly at this class level. Allihies (4) shapes up as the main alternative key contender, with a profile that suggests strong finishing ability and enough tactical speed to avoid traffic problems.

Thatsalrightmama (2) also deserves serious consideration, as her stalking style fits perfectly behind Pocket Venus (1) and Crazy Cami (5), and she may get first run on deeper closers turning for home.​

Secondary Choices

Crazy Cami (5) is a logical secondary choice given her pace presence and the possibility of sitting just off Pocket Venus (1) while applying pressure. Can'tdealwithit (3) could be a useful underneath piece in exactas and trifectas, especially if she can secure a mid pack trip and grind into a share of the minor awards without needing a meltdown.

Jensco (6) has enough ability to grab a share if the race unfolds favorably but projects more as an exotics filler than a primary win candidate given the projected pace and configuration.​

Longshots

If the public overbets the inside speed, Jensco (6) could be the overlooked runner who benefits if the top tier pace players hook up a bit earlier than expected. Can'tdealwithit (3) also may drift above her true odds and can be included as a longer priced horse for the bottom of trifectas and supers.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Win bets can be concentrated on Pocket Venus (1) if the price is fair, with Allihies (4) as the main alternative if she offers more value on the board. Exacta boxes or keys using Pocket Venus (1) and Allihies (4) on top, with Thatsalrightmama (2) and Crazy Cami (5) underneath, provide a solid structure.​

In multi race sequences, many handicappers will look to lean on Pocket Venus (1) as a single or primary A, with Allihies (4) as a backup, which can free up budget for deeper spreads in later, more chaotic races. For verticals, using Can'tdealwithit (3) and Jensco (6) as third and fourth slot horses can help improve payouts without dramatically increasing ticket cost.​

Selections

Win Pocket Venus (1)
Place Allihies (4)
Show Thatsalrightmama (2)

Race 3 – Claiming, Turf

Runners: Aleramo (IRE) (1), Giggle Giggle (2), Idessia (3), Shamrockin (4), Cyprus Moon (5), Strange Addiction (6), Miz Clubcali (7).​

Post Time

Race 3 goes mid early card, continuing the progression of the afternoon; check the official schedule for exact timing.​

Pace Analysis

Race 3 shapes up as a tactical turf event with potential for a moderate early pace. Giggle Giggle (2) and Shamrockin (4) appear to have the most early foot, with Aleramo (IRE) (1) capable of saving ground just behind them from the rail, while the others, including Idessia (3) and Cyprus Moon (5), look more likely to settle mid pack.

If the leaders are allowed to ration their speed, front end or just off the pace runners could prove hard to reel in, making it important to identify which horses can secure the top three positions down the backstretch.

Key Contenders

Aleramo (IRE) (1) is a key contender due to the advantageous rail draw on turf and the likely ground saving trip in behind the leaders, a profile that frequently produces winners at Santa Anita. Shamrockin (4) also profiles as a key contender with enough pace to either make or press the lead and enough class to stay on well late if not harassed.

Idessia (3) may be the top closing threat in here, with a running style that fits a scenario where leaders go a bit too fast early, and she can be the main late runner in deep stretch.

Secondary Choices

Giggle Giggle (2) is a natural secondary choice due to pace pressure concerns; if she is forced to duel, her late energy could be compromised, but she still has a path to win if she shakes loose. Cyprus Moon (5) and Strange Addiction (6) both figure as mid price options who can sit just off the main pack and potentially work out good trips into the lane, making them logical underneath considerations.

Miz Clubcali (7) from the outside may need some racing luck to avoid a wide trip but can be used underneath if the price is attractive.​

Longshots

Strange Addiction (6) is the sort of horse that could outrun longer odds if she benefits from a pace collapse and finds a lane late. Miz Clubcali (7) could also go off at a generous number and has some chance to pick up a share if she can tuck in and save some ground early.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Win bets here can focus on Aleramo (IRE) (1) and Shamrockin (4) if their odds stay reasonable relative to their perceived win chances. Exactas using Aleramo (IRE) (1) over Shamrockin (4), Idessia (3), and Giggle Giggle (2), plus some saver tickets with Shamrockin (4) over the same group, are sound structures.​

In multi race horizontal wagers, Aleramo (IRE) (1) is usable as a strong A type, with Shamrockin (4) and Idessia (3) as coverage horses to guard against pace or trip surprises. Vertical exotics can include Cyprus Moon (5), Strange Addiction (6), and Miz Clubcali (7) in the bottom slots for added value.​

Selections

Win Aleramo (IRE) (1)
Place Shamrockin (4)
Show Idessia (3)

Race 4 – Allowance/Optional Claiming

Runners: Fionello (1), What A Gift (2), Allequin Summer (3), Tommy Norris (4), Southern Melodee (5), Fuego Del Sol (6).​

Post Time

Race 4 lands near the start of the main mid card block and also marks the beginning leg of a Pick 6 sequence noted in the overnight.

Pace Analysis

This race projects a somewhat contentious pace scenario with multiple runners capable of being forward. Fionello (1) and Southern Melodee (5) appear to bring speed from inside and mid gate, while Fuego Del Sol (6) can also show pace from the outside, potentially creating a three way early scramble.

Tommy Norris (4) and What A Gift (2) are more likely to assume stalking roles just behind the leaders, with Allequin Summer (3) possibly settling mid pack and looking to make a later run. The cumulative effect of several speed oriented types suggests that a pressing or stalking trip may be ideal, with pure front runners at some risk of softening each other up.

Key Contenders

Tommy Norris (4) is a key contender as a likely stalker who can sit just off the primary speed horses and pounce when they begin to tire, an ideal profile in a pace heavy field. What A Gift (2) also fits well as a tactical runner capable of saving ground and launching a timely move, making her a popular choice among handicappers.

Southern Melodee (5) warrants consideration if she can clear or sit just off one rival rather than being trapped in a three way duel, leveraging her speed to stay on.

Secondary Choices

Fionello (1) and Fuego Del Sol (6) both qualify as secondary contenders; each has enough speed and ability to win if they work out favorable pace scenarios, but they are more vulnerable if the early fractions are strong. Allequin Summer (3) has some appeal as a mid price horse who could be running late into a hot pace, but her lack of positional speed makes her trip dependent, hence more of a secondary exotic player.

Longshots

Allequin Summer (3) is the main potential longshot, as she could benefit if the top quartet set unsustainable fractions and the race collapses late. Aside from her, the field is relatively compact with no obvious toss outs, so pricing will dictate whether any other runner qualifies as a true longshot in the betting.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Win bets on Tommy Norris (4) make sense if he is not overbet, as his trip projection is favorable. What A Gift (2) is the main hedge or alternative key, particularly if she offers slightly better odds while holding a similar probability to benefit from the race shape.​

Exactas can be structured with Tommy Norris (4) and What A Gift (2) on top, using Southern Melodee (5), Fionello (1), and Fuego Del Sol (6) underneath, with a smaller saver including Allequin Summer (3) in the second slot. In multi race wagers, using Tommy Norris (4) as a strong A and backing up with What A Gift (2) and Southern Melodee (5) is a sensible approach.​

Selections

Win Tommy Norris (4)
Place What A Gift (2)
Show Southern Melodee (5)

Race 5 – Maiden/Claiming (Fillies)

Runners: Sally's Wish (1), Danzig Til Dawn (2), Tis Sunrise (3), Warm Reception (4), Pure Chaos (5), Suntory Time (6), Adverse Selection (7), Jennys Wine Girl (8), Mperfection (9).​

Post Time

Race 5 sits in the heart of the card and is an important leg for mid sequence exotics such as the middle Pick 4 and the ongoing Pick 6.

Pace Analysis

This maiden or lower level race for fillies figures to have a lively but somewhat unpredictable pace, as inexperienced or lightly raced horses can occasionally show more or less speed than expected. On paper, Pure Chaos (5), Warm Reception (4), and Sally's Wish (1) appear to have enough early foot to be involved, while Adverse Selection (7) and Jennys Wine Girl (8) have stalk and pounce profiles.

Suntory Time (6), Tis Sunrise (3), and Mperfection (9) may take up positions in mid pack or the second flight, looking to pick up pieces if the leaders falter. With the likelihood of some erratic paddock and gate behavior typical of such races, a pace meltdown is possible, so balanced coverage between speed and closers is prudent.

Key Contenders

Sally's Wish (1) is a key contender from the rail, as she is likely to show speed and either make the lead or sit just off it while saving ground. Jennys Wine Girl (8) also appears as a main key threat with a stalking style and outside post that allows her rider to see the race develop and choose a lane, a plus for an inexperienced horse.

Adverse Selection (7) offers an appealing combination of tactical speed and potential upside, making her a popular pick among handicappers in this spot.​

Secondary Choices

Warm Reception (4) and Pure Chaos (5) both rate as secondary choices, as each has enough speed to be dangerous but may be vulnerable late if they are forced to duel or go faster than ideal early fractions. Suntory Time (6) can be used as a secondary play with the idea that she may benefit from a stalking or second flight position if the front runners tire.

Tis Sunrise (3) and Mperfection (9) are more fringe players in terms of win prospects but are usable underneath in vertical exotics.​

Longshots

Mperfection (9) is the main longshot candidate; from the outside, she may drop in and make one run, and if the race collapses, she can potentially grab a piece at a price. Tis Sunrise (3) also can serve as a longer priced filler for trifectas and supers, as maiden races often produce oddball outcomes beyond the top choices.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Win wagers can be split between Sally's Wish (1) and Jennys Wine Girl (8), with Adverse Selection (7) as a third option if the odds justify spreading. Exacta and trifecta tickets should generally key Sally's Wish (1), Jennys Wine Girl (8), and Adverse Selection (7) in the top two slots, with Warm Reception (4), Pure Chaos (5), Suntory Time (6), and Mperfection (9) in the lower slots.​

In horizontal wagers, this is the type of race where spreading is advisable, using at least four or five runners, as maidens and lower level races can be volatile. If a strong opinion exists on Sally's Wish (1) based on paddock or tote action, she could be upgraded as a single in some tickets while still keeping spread backup tickets.​

Selections

Win Sally's Wish (1)
Place Jennys Wine Girl (8)
Show Adverse Selection (7)

Race 6 – Claiming/Starter Allowance

Runners: Blame It On Jack (1), Omission (2), Positive Times (3), My Man Joe Roldan (4), Matt At Five (5), Galloping Ghost (6), One Step Beyond (7).​

Post Time

Race 6 opens the later portion of the card and often is part of late Pick 4 and Pick 5 sequences.

Pace Analysis

Race 6 looks to have a moderately strong pace, with Blame It On Jack (1) and Galloping Ghost (6) both likely to show early speed, and Positive Times (3) potentially joining them. Omission (2) and Matt At Five (5) can secure stalking spots just behind, while My Man Joe Roldan (4) and One Step Beyond (7) may be content to sit in mid pack or further back, waiting for the leaders to tire.

Given the number of possible pace contributors, a pace pressing or stalking trip is again preferred, as horses who are too committed to the lead may be softened up by the half mile pole.​

Key Contenders

Matt At Five (5) is a key contender as the likely best positioned stalker with enough tactical speed to sit just off the leaders and enough finish to take over late. Omission (2) is another major player with a similar running style, and their relative prices will dictate which offers better value.​

Blame It On Jack (1), while pace dependent, is still a key contender if he can secure the rail and not be pressed too hard early, as speed on the inside can be tough to reel in when conditions are fast.

Secondary Choices

Galloping Ghost (6) and Positive Times (3) are secondary choices who have the speed to get involved early but are more vulnerable if the leaders hook up and go too quickly. One Step Beyond (7) can be used as a secondary or underneath runner, especially if the expected pace battle materializes and he can pick off tiring horses late.

My Man Joe Roldan (4) is an exotics candidate as well, but his win chances may be lower given the profiles of some of the stronger pace pressers.​

Longshots

One Step Beyond (7) qualifies as the interesting longshot if the front end pace gets hotter than expected, as his style fits the scenario of a meltdown. My Man Joe Roldan (4) can also be used at longer odds for the lower rungs of trifectas and supers.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Win bets on Matt At Five (5) are justified if he remains a playable price, with Omission (2) as a backup or alternate key. Exactas can be constructed with Matt At Five (5) and Omission (2) on top, with Blame It On Jack (1), Galloping Ghost (6), and One Step Beyond (7) underneath.​

In horizontal wagers, treating Matt At Five (5) as a strong A and using Omission (2) and Blame It On Jack (1) as B level coverage helps balance confidence with risk. This race can also serve as a leverage point if a strong opinion is held, allowing a narrower use here and more coverage in the more chaotic later races.​

Selections

Win Matt At Five (5)
Place Omission (2)
Show Blame It On Jack (1)

Race 7 – Turf Route/Allowance

Runners: Wizard Of Westwood (1), Twirling Point (2), Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3), Amplitude (4), Living Life (5), City Exile (GB) (6).​

Post Time

Race 7 is in the late card slot and has the feel of a key feature among the non stakes events, often influencing the late Pick 4 and Pick 5 results.

Pace Analysis

Race 7's turf route pace scenario looks measured rather than hot, with Wizard Of Westwood (1) and Twirling Point (2) the most likely pace setters. Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3), a proven turf router with tactical speed, should sit just off the leading pair, while the remaining trio of Amplitude (4), Living Life (5), and City Exile (GB) (6) will likely take more patient, mid pack positions.

Given Santa Anita's relatively fair turf profile, and without obvious need the lead burners, the advantage tilts toward horses that can secure forward positions without expending excessive energy early.

Key Contenders

Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3) is a standout key contender based on his turf route credentials and ideal tactical style, fitting perfectly between pure speed and deep closers. Wizard Of Westwood (1) is another key player, as he can control the pace from the inside in a small field, forcing others to adapt to his rhythm.

City Exile (GB) (6) also merits key contender status as the principal late running threat with enough ability to finish strongly if the leaders overplay their hand early.

Secondary Choices

Twirling Point (2) is a secondary choice with possible pace leverage but some vulnerability if pressured by Wizard Of Westwood (1) and Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3). Amplitude (4) and Living Life (5) are both mid range contenders who could get minor awards but may need ideal trips and some racing luck to upset the more established turf routers.

Longshots

Living Life (5) is the main candidate to be a price horse who can pick up a piece if things break her way, particularly if she can tuck in and save ground before swinging out in the stretch. Amplitude (4) may also be a longer price who can bolster trifecta payouts if included in lower rungs.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Win bets should be centered on Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3), with Wizard Of Westwood (1) as a saver if the odds differential is significant. Exacta structures using Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3) on top of Wizard Of Westwood (1), City Exile (GB) (6), and Twirling Point (2) are justified, with some reverse coverage including Wizard Of Westwood (1) on top.

In multi race play, Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3) is a natural single for many players, given his form and fit in this race, allowing for wider spreads in the more volatile eighth and ninth races. For verticals, City Exile (GB) (6) and Living Life (5) should be used in the minor placings to enhance returns.

Selections

Win Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3)
Place Wizard Of Westwood (1)
Show City Exile (GB) (6)

Race 8 – Allowance/Optional Claiming or Minor Stakes

Runners: Duran (1), Crypto Ride (2), Majestic Palisades (3), Joint Venture (4), Feel The Magic (5), Pass The Baton (6), Rimprotector (7), Leyas Candy (8), Resemblance (9).​

Post Time

Race 8 functions as a key late feature and an important leg in the late multi race wagers, particularly the late Pick 4 and possibly part of the main Pick 6.

Pace Analysis

Race 8 appears to have a strong and potentially contentious pace profile. Duran (1), Crypto Ride (2), Pass The Baton (6), and Leyas Candy (8) all have pace tendencies, meaning the early fractions could be sharp as riders jostle for position into the first turn.

Majestic Palisades (3), Joint Venture (4), Rimprotector (7), and Resemblance (9) can all adopt stalking or mid pack roles, offering a second flight that will look to capitalize on any early overexertion by the leaders. Given the number of potential speed elements and the quality of mid pack runners, this race is ripe for a pace collapse scenario that favors stalkers and closers.

Key Contenders

Resemblance (9) is a leading key contender, showing strong current form at the meet with two wins from two starts and the ability to finish powerfully from stalking positions. Leyas Candy (8) is also a key contender, particularly if he can avoid a suicidal pace and instead sit just off the leaders before launching a move.

Joint Venture (4) stands out as another major player with a versatile style, likely to sit mid pack and get first run on the deeper closers, making him a logical key contender in many handicappers' eyes.

Secondary Choices

Duran (1) and Crypto Ride (2) are secondary choices with speed that might carry them a long way if the pace is not quite as hot as projected, but they are more vulnerable if they engage each other early. Majestic Palisades (3) and Rimprotector (7) are good underneath horses with enough ability to pick up minor awards, especially if they get clean trips and can attack at the right time.

Pass The Baton (6) can also serve in a supporting role as a pace presence who might hang around for a minor share if he avoids a destructive duel.​

Longshots

Rimprotector (7) is the most interesting longshot candidate, as his stalking style and outside draw could allow him to sit in a comfortable rhythm while the inside speed sorts itself out. Majestic Palisades (3) may be overlooked in the betting in a deeper field yet has a plausible path to a board hitting late run.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Win bets primarily belong on Resemblance (9), whose current form and running style match the projected race shape well. Joint Venture (4) is a prime backup or alternate key, especially if his price offers better value than that of the more obvious favorite.

For exactas and trifectas, keying Resemblance (9) and Joint Venture (4) in the top two slots with Leyas Candy (8), Duran (1), and Rimprotector (7) underneath is a sound approach. In late multi race wagers, it is reasonable to use Resemblance (9) as an A single, with Joint Venture (4) and Leyas Candy (8) as B level backups to protect against pace or trip variance.​

Selections

Win Resemblance (9)
Place Joint Venture (4)
Show Leyas Candy (8)

Race 9 – Closing Race (Claiming/Allowance)

Runners: Spun Not Stirred (1), Bad To The Bones (2), Do It For Dave (3), Silly Rabbit (4), Six Magpies (IRE) (5), Precision (GB) (6), Djoser (7), Tapit Dynasty (8), Bolt Supremacy (9).​

Post Time

Race 9 closes the card and is the anchor leg for many late multi race wagers, including the late Pick 4, Pick 5, and possibly the Sunset Pick 6.

Pace Analysis

Race 9 presents a fairly balanced pace picture with multiple horses capable of being forward but not necessarily guaranteeing a blazing early tempo. Bad To The Bones (2), Silly Rabbit (4), and possibly Tapit Dynasty (8) can show early speed, while Spun Not Stirred (1) and Djoser (7) may be stalking just behind.

Six Magpies (IRE) (5), Precision (GB) (6), and Bolt Supremacy (9) appear more likely to settle mid pack or further back, relying on their finishing kick if the leaders fade. Overall, the race may favor tactical stalkers who can sit within a few lengths of the lead while still conserving energy for the stretch run.

Key Contenders

Bolt Supremacy (9) is a key contender based on his placement by the connections and outside draw, which allows for a clear view of the pace while avoiding inner traffic. Precision (GB) (6) also stands out, with a profile suggesting solid finishing power and enough tactical speed to avoid being left with too much to do.​

Six Magpies (IRE) (5) is another strong contender, representing a turf or distance profile (depending on conditions) that could be very effective if the race shape becomes more demanding than it appears on paper.

Secondary Choices

Spun Not Stirred (1) and Bad To The Bones (2) are both secondary choices with enough speed to be forwardly placed and the potential to see out the trip if they are not pressured unduly. Djoser (7) and Tapit Dynasty (8) also fit into the secondary or supporting tier, with both capable of being involved in the finish if they secure good trips.

Silly Rabbit (4) can serve as a pace player who may hang on for a minor share, particularly in small fields or if the early pace is more controlled than projected.​

Longshots

Spun Not Stirred (1) could be overlooked on the rail and yet has a realistic chance to grab at least a share thanks to a potential ground saving trip near the pace. Djoser (7) and Tapit Dynasty (8) may also be longshot candidates who can spice up exotics if they outperform the market's expectations.

Betting Strategy and Wagering Angles

Win bets can be directed toward Bolt Supremacy (9) and Precision (GB) (6), with Six Magpies (IRE) (5) as an additional key if his price is attractive. Exacta and trifecta bets should key these three on top and in the second slot, with Spun Not Stirred (1), Bad To The Bones (2), Djoser (7), and Tapit Dynasty (8) filling out the lower positions.​

In multi race wagers, Race 9 is a spot where a modest spread is justified, using Bolt Supremacy (9), Precision (GB) (6), and Six Magpies (IRE) (5) as primary A level horses, with Spun Not Stirred (1) and Bad To The Bones (2) as B or C level backups. This approach balances the need to survive the final leg with the desire to leverage stronger opinions earlier in the sequence.​

Selections

Win Bolt Supremacy (9)
Place Precision (GB) (6)
Show Six Magpies (IRE) (5)

Jockey Notes and Insights

Santa Anita's current jockey colony is led by riders such as Juan Hernandez, who is described on the track's website as the top jockey at Santa Anita with multiple meet titles and a strong 25 percent win rate in a prior Hollywood meet. His strengths include excellent pace judgment, strong finishing ability, and versatility on both dirt and turf, which makes any horse he rides, particularly in key allowance or stakes type races, a serious contender.​

Riders like Mike Smith and others with deep local experience often get mounts on live horses in important races, especially in turf routes and higher level events, and their familiarity with the course nuances (such as timing moves on the far turn) is a distinct positive. For today's card, paying attention to which leading riders are aboard the main contenders, such as the jockey booked on Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3) in Race 7 or Resemblance (9) in Race 8, can help refine opinions where the form is otherwise closely matched.​

Mid tier riders who specialize in aggressive front running tactics can be particularly effective in the dirt sprints and early card races, where seizing the lead can translate into wire to wire victories given Santa Anita's historical tilt toward speed on dirt. Conversely, riders known for patience and timing, often imported turf specialists, may be particularly valuable aboard late runners in the turf routes such as Race 3 and Race 7, where trip and timing matter at least as much as raw ability.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Santa Anita trainer statistics show that several barns are operating at high win percentages this meet, including those with limited starters but high strike rates and others with large strings and consistent performance. Connections like those behind Resemblance (9) in Race 8 and Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3) in Race 7 have proven adept at placing their horses where they can win, which adds confidence to their runners' chances.​

The overnight entries indicate specific trainers with multiple starters on today's card, such as those sending out Sally's Wish (1) and Danzig Til Dawn (2) in Race 5, suggesting barn intent to win at this level. Trainers with strong records in turf events at Santa Anita, particularly turf routes, are especially noteworthy for runners like Aleramo (IRE) (1) in Race 3 and Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3) in Race 7, as they tend to excel at conditioning horses for the unique demands of the local turf course.

Likewise, barns with reputations for developing and spotting claiming level horses effectively can be trusted more in the lower level dirt events, such as Race 1, Race 2, and Race 6, where class moves and placement often determine outcomes as much as raw ability. For multi race wagering, upgrading horses from high percentage barns and downgrading those from cold stables can be an effective tie breaker when the form appears similar.​

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

Santa Anita's racing information notes a Pick 6 carryover with an estimated pool that should exceed six figures, making the multi race wagers especially attractive for players seeking large scores. The sequence beginning with Race 4 or Race 5 provides several races where confident opinions can be leveraged, such as Tommy Norris (4) in Race 4, Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3) in Race 7, and Resemblance (9) in Race 8.​

For value plays, targeting horses who may be a bit under the radar in contentious races can yield strong returns. Examples include Three Georges (6) in Race 1 as an underneath value if the pace collapses, Allequin Summer (3) in Race 4 as a late running longshot into a hot pace, Mperfection (9) in Race 5 as a potential exotics booster in a chaotic maiden field, One Step Beyond (7) in Race 6 as a closer into a contentious pace, and Rimprotector (7) in Race 8 as a stalking outsider in a speed heavy race.

For horizontal strategies, consider an early sequence focusing on races where opinions are more straightforward, such as singling or leaning on Tapalo (5) and The Old Nine (IRE) (4) in Race 1, Pocket Venus (1) in Race 2, and Aleramo (IRE) (1) in Race 3. The late Pick 4 or Pick 5 can be structured around strong cores like Matt At Five (5) in Race 6, Dicey Mo Chara (GB) (3) in Race 7, Resemblance (9) in Race 8, and Bolt Supremacy (9) or Precision (GB) (6) in Race 9, with modest spreads in the more open races to balance coverage and cost.

Finally, for vertical wagers, focusing exacta and trifecta plays on races with clearer pace and form structures, such as Race 4, Race 7, and Race 8, is likely more productive than over investing in the more chaotic maiden or lower level claiming events. Combining solid key horses with value oriented underneath runners in these spots can produce strong returns without requiring overly large ticket sizes.

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