Turfway Park – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the March 20, 2026 card

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Turfway Park offers a 10-race all-synthetic Tapeta card for Friday, March 20, 2026, with a mix of starter allowance, maiden claiming, low- to mid-level claiming, and two strong allowance optional claiming events anchoring the middle of the program. The feature-quality races are Race 5 (allowance optional claiming at 1 1/16 miles for older horses) and Race 7 (allowance optional claiming sprint for fillies and mares), both drawing full or near-full fields with several established local and ship-in barns represented. The undercard is made up of competitive maiden claiming sprints, starter allowances, and conditioned claimers that should produce honest pace scenarios and several live price opportunities.

Recent meet trends on Turfway's Tapeta continue to favor horses with proven synthetic form, particularly those capable of sustaining a run from midpack or off the pace in routes, and tactical speed with a finishing kick in sprints. Field sizes tonight are generally healthy, especially in the allowance and maiden claiming races, which increases the value in multi-race exotics such as early and late Pick 5s, Pick 4s, and rolling doubles. There are no current reports of card cancellations or emergency weather measures specific to this date, and Turfway has historically conducted its winter-spring meet reliably despite variable March weather.

Weather and Track Conditions

Florence, Kentucky conditions in mid to late March 2026 are seasonally cool with daytime temperatures commonly in the 50s to lower 60s Fahrenheit, and the latest regional observations just before this date report temperatures near 59 degrees with mostly clear skies, light southerly winds, and dry conditions. These conditions suggest a fast, consistent Tapeta surface without moisture-related extremes, supportive of fair footing for most running styles. The synthetic surface at Turfway is designed to drain and handle precipitation efficiently, so even if scattered rain develops, major changes in track condition are unlikely compared to dirt tracks, though kickback and comfort in traffic can still vary by horse.

Wind speeds have been light to moderate in the days leading up to this card, and there is no strong indication that crosswinds or headwinds will materially affect front-running or closing styles down the stretch. Overall, handicappers can approach the card assuming a standard Tapeta profile: reliable footing, moderate fractions, and a premium on horses with demonstrated synthetic form and the ability to stay engaged through the lane rather than relying solely on early speed.

Track Bias and Post Position Profile

Recent analysis of Turfway Park's Tapeta indicates the track has generally played fair, but with meaningful nuances by distance and race type. In sprints (6 to 6 1/2 furlongs), inside to middle posts have been slightly more efficient, especially for horses with tactical speed that can secure a stalking or pressing trip without being forced into speed duels or losing ground three- to four-wide. Deep closers can still win, but they tend to need honest or contested fractions and clear lanes turning for home, while pure need-the-lead types drawn outside can be vulnerable if they are forced to work into the turn.​

In routing events (1 mile and 1 1/16 miles), meet-level profiling shows that midpack and closing types have enjoyed an edge, particularly when they can drop over and save ground on the first turn while relaxing off a contested or moderate pace. Post-position data suggest that middle gates (approximately posts 3 through 8, depending on field size) have performed slightly above average, while extreme inside and far outside posts are more trip-dependent and sensitive to the break. Given tonight's field sizes and the Tapeta's consistency, neither rail bias nor extreme outside bias is expected; instead, trip dynamics, pace positioning, and jockey decision-making should drive outcomes more than raw post statistics.

1st Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Starter allowance, 1 mile, older horses that have started for 5,000 or less since March 20, 2024. Competitive, class-tested group with several veterans who know this circuit.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 5:55 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

The pace should be honest but not blistering, with several pace-adjacent types and one or two who can show initiative. Streamsong (1) can use the inside draw to secure a ground-saving tracking spot, while Faster (4) and Silver Quarters (5) have enough tactical speed to be forwardly placed without necessarily gunning. Gucci Man (6) scratched from a prior allowance optional spot from the also-eligible list and has the profile of a horse capable of attending the pace, but the entry must be checked for any race-day scratch status. Bay Street Money (7) and Sagittarius (8) are more midpack to off-the-pace; their chances improve if the first half-mile is contested around 47–48 seconds.​

Key Contenders

Streamsong (1) projects to get an ideal rail-stalking trip under a rider who is comfortable establishing position into the first turn at Turfway. This gelding's prior starter allowance and claiming form suggest reliability around this class level, and the combination of a ground-saving trip and finishing punch on Tapeta is appealing. King Of Kentucky (3) appears well spotted by the trainer after a previous starter optional claiming entry on February 7 where a trainer scratch was noted; this suggests the barn has been aiming for a softer yet still competitive spot like today's. King Of Kentucky (3) owns back class and races that fit strongly at this level if he is ready off the bench.

Sagittarius (8) brings a good late-running profile, and the outside post can be an asset if he can drop in behind and make a sustained mid-race move. His synthetic form and ability to pass horses make him a serious win threat if the leaders soften each other.

Secondary Choices

Gucci Man (6) has been in tougher allowance optional company and shows a pattern of being entered aggressively, including a February 12 turfway race where he was on the also-eligible list for an allowance optional claiming event. Dropping into a starter allowance restricted by prior claiming conditions may be the right class level, and his forward style is a tactical asset. Bay Street Money (7), despite his age, has experience in many class levels and could sit a midpack stalk-and-pounce trip if the pace is moderate.

Catalina Cat (2) is lightly raced for a four-year-old gelding at this level and may still have some upside; with a reasonable stalking trip, he could improve enough to threaten for a share.​

Longshots

Faster (4) shows enough tactical pace to be involved early, but his finishing ability and recent form make him more of an underneath player; he can hang around for minor awards with the right trip. Silver Quarters (5) is a ten-year-old warrior for a high-percentage barn; he might lack the finishing punch of his younger days, but veteran savvy and an inside to middle post give him some chance to pick up a minor piece at a price.

Betting Strategy and Angles

Given the relatively compact field and likely honest pace, this race sets up for a keying strategy around Streamsong (1) and Sagittarius (8), while respecting King Of Kentucky (3) as a class-based alternative. Straight win wagers can focus on Streamsong (1) if the price holds above 5/2, with exactas built 1–3–8 over 1–2–3–6–7–8. Multi-race players (early Pick 5 and Pick 4) can lean on Streamsong (1) and Sagittarius (8) as A-level horses, with King Of Kentucky (3) as a backup B.

Selections

Selections

Win: Streamsong (1)
Place: Sagittarius (8)
Show: King Of Kentucky (3)

2nd Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Maiden claiming, 6 1/2 furlongs for three-year-old fillies for a 15,000 tag. This is a class-drop-and-debut mixed group with several who bring angles off scratches and placement.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 6:25 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

Several of these fillies are lightly raced with incomplete pace lines, but the configuration suggests a contested to honest early tempo. Noulikeabook (3) and Shez Twisted (5) can show speed, while Mother Lode (8) and Hardly Ready (9) may be pace-pressing or stalking types depending on break and intent. Screeched In (1) could be forced to use some early speed from the rail to avoid being shuffled back, adding to the early mix. The second half-mile should favor fillies who can relax early and produce a sustained run, as maiden claimers at this level on Tapeta often fall apart late if early fractions are too aggressive.

Key Contenders

Hardly Ready (9) gets a capable finishing jockey and lands an outside post that provides options to either sit in the clear stalking the leaders or drop in behind a wall of speed. The Morey barn has had success placing maidens at appropriate claiming levels, and this filly's profile lines up as a strong win candidate against this group. Mother Lode (8) has competitive prior efforts and should sit an ideal pressing trip on the outside of leaders without being forced wide early, making her a logical win threat.

Hope Rising (6) carries a rider known for patient, well-timed rides and comes from a barn that is often patient but effective with their maidens; she may be ready to move forward significantly in this softer claiming spot.​

Secondary Choices

Shez Twisted (5) shows a scratch pattern that includes a vet scratch on March 5 at Mahoning Valley from a maiden special weight, then re-entry here for a lower maiden claiming price, suggesting connections are regrouping at a more realistic level. If Shez Twisted (5) breaks cleanly, she can be part of the pace and hang on for a minor placing. Noulikeabook (3) has enough speed to factor early and might be dangerous if the others do not apply pressure; she is more of a secondary win option and strong underneath inclusion.

Belle Of Liberty (7) comes from a productive barn and can improve with experience; she looks like a midpack runner who can clunk up for a share, especially in trifectas and superfectas.​

Longshots

Screeched In (1) must navigate the inside with limited prior form, but the rail trip can allow her to save ground and catch a minor award if she can move forward in her second or third start. Loving Mischief (2) and Rosenvold (4) have modest paper but could show more at this claiming level; they are usable at the far back of exotics but difficult to endorse on top without stronger evidence.​

Betting Strategy and Angles

Hardly Ready (9) is a win candidate, but this race has the kind of maiden claiming volatility that favors spreading in multi-race bets rather than singling. Wagering strategy can center on win bets on Hardly Ready (9) and Mother Lode (8) if either drifts above 3–1, with exactas and trifectas structure like 8–9–6 over 3–5–6–7–8–9. In the early Pick 5, a three- to four-deep approach using Hardly Ready (9), Mother Lode (8), Hope Rising (6), and Shez Twisted (5) as A/B types is justified.

Selections

Win: Hardly Ready (9)
Place: Mother Lode (8)
Show: Hope Rising (6)

3rd Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Maiden claiming, 6 1/2 furlongs for three-year-olds at a 30,000 tag. The market projects Itchy (6), Vino Subito (3), and Captain Gabe (4) as key players, with probable short prices in overseas odds indications.​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 6:55 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

Rippin (1) and Circle The Storm (2) can show some early foot, but the main tactical speed appears to reside with Captain Gabe (4) and Itchy (6), both of whom are expected to sit prominent stalking or pressing trips. Vino Subito (3) has shown the ability to travel comfortably in midpack and produce a run, and he should benefit from an honest but not suicidal pace profile. Playonwords (7) and Race For Cover (5) figure as midpack to backmarkers who are more dependent on the race collapsing late.

Key Contenders

Itchy (6) is a likely favorite based on overseas pricing and underlying ability; form lines show he is competitive against this grade of maiden claimers and possesses tactical speed with enough finish to see out the 6 1/2 furlong trip. The jockey is a capable finisher at Turfway, and his prior synthetic runs suggest he handles the Tapeta surface. Vino Subito (3) has run respectably at Turfway without breaking through; his forward figures and projected trip stalking just behind the top two give him a solid chance to graduate today if he can sustain his run through the final furlong.

Captain Gabe (4) is highly regarded in overseas early lines and appears well-meant shipping in for a strong barn; he has the tactical speed to attend the pace and the breeding to handle synthetic footing. If Captain Gabe (4) improves as expected second out or with a class drop, he is a co-top contender.

Secondary Choices

Rippin (1) draws the rail again and may be forced to commit early to avoid traffic; he has shown enough ability to be a win threat if he can relax after securing the pocket, but the rail trip is inherently tricky. Circle The Storm (2) has the speed to be involved and is usable as a pace-based upset candidate if the favorites fail to fire.​

Playonwords (7) is interesting as a lightly raced gelding who can improve; he is more of an exotics inclusion but could outrun odds if the race falls apart late.​

Longshots

Race For Cover (5) looks a cut below the top trio on existing form and may need a big step forward or chaos to factor for the win; he is more of a superfecta filler. Still, Race For Cover (5) can improve with experience and a better trip, so he should not be completely dismissed in deeper verticals.​

Betting Strategy and Angles

This is a race where one of the three main contenders is likely to win; trying to beat all three may be unwise. Consider a win bet on the best-priced option among Itchy (6), Vino Subito (3), and Captain Gabe (4), and press exactas with those three over Rippin (1), Circle The Storm (2), and Playonwords (7). In multi-race plays, use all three primary contenders as A's and one or two of the secondary horses as backups in case of a favorite's misfire.

Selections

Win: Itchy (6)
Place: Vino Subito (3)
Show: Captain Gabe (4)

4th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Claiming 5,000 for older horses at 6 1/2 furlongs. Deep veteran group with several class droppers and one-time stakes runners now at the bottom levels.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 7:25 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

This race contains several horses capable of showing speed or pressing, including Hilarious Affair (1), Ready To Roll (2), Ready Pursuit (3), and Crowned Jewel (4). English Tide (8) and Dontkissdaminister (10) could add to the pace scenario from outside posts if given the green light, which may result in a contentious run to and through the far turn. Closers like Caballo Feliz (9) and Masen (7) stand to benefit if the projected early scrum materializes and the first half-mile is on the sharper side.

Key Contenders

Caballo Feliz (9) returns for a barn that scratched him from a February 6 claiming 5,000 event, likely to await a more favorable spot; this is that spot. He is a late-running gelding who will appreciate a collapse if the front-runners tangle, and his back class at this level makes him a strong win threat at a fair price. Hilarious Affair (1) is a logical contender from a high-percentage barn, and the rail draw combined with tactical speed gives him a chance to either control the pace or sit in the pocket and punch late.

Dontkissdaminister (10) is dangerous from the far outside if he can clear or sit just off the leaders without losing too much ground; his prior figures fit with the best in here, and a wide closing move may be feasible if the pace is hot.​

Secondary Choices

Ready Pursuit (3) and Ready To Roll (2) both have enough experience and speed at this level to be serious players but might be vulnerable late if they are involved in a duel. English Tide (8) is an older warrior who can still produce a move; he is better suited for exotics but can sneak into the exacta or trifecta at a price.​

Masen (7) is a long-layoff or placement question mark, but if he retains enough talent, he could improve second off a break and pick up pieces late.​

Longshots

Crowned Jewel (4), On Palm Sunday (5), and Hometown Hero (6) project as grindy types who may lack the finishing kick to win but can hold on for minor awards with a good trip. They become more interesting if one or two likely favorites scratch, but for now they are underneath candidates.​

Betting Strategy and Angles

Given the pace profile, keying closers in exotics makes sense. Win bets can center on Caballo Feliz (9) if he is near 4–1 or higher, with saver win or place bets on Hilarious Affair (1). Exacta and trifecta constructions can use 1–9–10 over 1–2–3–8–9–10, emphasizing closers over speed horses in the second and third slots.

Selections

Win: Caballo Feliz (9)
Place: Hilarious Affair (1)
Show: Dontkissdaminister (10)

5th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Allowance optional claiming, 1 1/16 miles, purse 104,000, for three-year-olds and up. This is one of the strongest races on the card, with multiple high-profile barns.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 7:55 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

With a full field of 14, the pace could be more complex than simple early vs late. Siesta Key (1) from the rail, Urban Planner (3), Special Justice (4), and Sugoi (5) all have enough early speed to be part of the vanguard or just behind it. Skyro (6), Big To Do (7), Friar Newton (8), and Bullard (12) are more tactical midpack types, while Army Officer (13) and Azoi (14) can be deeper closers exploiting pace breakdowns. Izzy D'oro (2) and Just A Fair Shake (9) will likely be inside to midpack stalkers, trying to avoid traffic while saving ground.

Given the large field and presence of several speed-forward horses, a genuine to strong pace is expected, benefiting horses who can settle and finish, particularly those in mid to outside posts who can avoid the worst inside traffic.

Key Contenders

Skyro (6) is a proven class horse, now an eight-year-old but still competitive at this allowance optional level; his tactical style and strong finishing kick, combined with a talented rider and sharp barn, make him a major win contender. Siesta Key (1) from the Brad Cox barn is well-drawn inside if he can establish position without being caught in a duel; he has the talent and conditioning to compete strongly, especially if he can ration his speed.

Army Officer (13) for the Maker barn is a dangerous late runner who should appreciate a strong pace and the mile and a sixteenth distance on Tapeta; his outside draw allows him to stay in the clear and launch a wide sustained run. Bullard (12) is another classy synthetic type for a shrewd trainer, and his trip from a mid-outside post can be favorable if he drops in behind the first flight.

Secondary Choices

Izzy D'oro (2) brings solid form for a reputable trainer-jockey combo and should enjoy the distance, but he may be more of an underneath key given the strength of the top group. Urban Planner (3) is a forward type who can grab a good spot behind Siesta Key (1) and Special Justice (4); if he gets a moderate middle fraction, he could stick around for a piece.​

Friar Newton (8) and Just A Fair Shake (9) have the kind of grinding style that works well at Turfway in routes; they will likely be in the midpack tier, looking to pass horses late but may find it tough to outkick the top closers.

Longshots

Special Justice (4), Sugoi (5), Big To Do (7), In A Jam (11), and Azoi (14) are all capable of outrunning big odds with good trips; Azoi (14) in particular has been on the also-eligible list for strong allowance events and could be a late-running bomber if pace conditions are ideal. Clyde's Got A Gun (10) is a capable veteran whose best efforts may now be a bit below this level, but he can still factor in the third or fourth slot at a price.​

Betting Strategy and Angles

In this feature-level race, multi-race tickets should respect multiple contenders given field size and complexity. Consider win plays primarily on Skyro (6) and Army Officer (13) if either offers 7/2 or better, with saver win bets on Siesta Key (1) or Bullard (12) if prices drift. Vertical exotics can be structured with 1–6–12–13 on top, spreading underneath to include 2–3–4–5–7–8–9–10–11–14 in second and third slots, leaning toward closers and tactically drawn mid-outside horses.

Selections

Win: Skyro (6)
Place: Army Officer (13)
Show: Siesta Key (1)

6th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Maiden claiming, 6 furlongs for three-year-olds and up at a 30,000 tag. This is a mixed-age maiden claiming sprint with some comeback and drop-down angles.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 8:25 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

Barstool (2), Easy Dial (3), and Hellacious (5) have profiles suggesting early or pressing speed, while J David (1) and Calling On Heaven (4) can be tactical sit-and-pounce types. Sinatra (6), Love In Lights (7), and El Oso (8) are more likely to sit midpack or back and look for a late move. With at least three horses capable of contesting the pace, an honest early tempo is likely, favoring horses that can sit just off the leaders and finish strongly.

Key Contenders

Calling On Heaven (4) represents a strong placement by a high-percentage barn, dropping into this maiden claiming level with a rider who knows Turfway well and excels on late-running synthetics. His combination of midpack tactical ability and finishing kick make him a prime candidate to win. J David (1) has the rail but does not have to blast; he can use the inside to secure a ground-saving spot just behind the pace and launch a rail or split move turning for home, making him a strong win or place candidate.

Hellacious (5) was a vet scratch on February 11 in a maiden claiming 50,000 due to illness, but if healthy now and ready to compete, he has class and speed to be a major factor at this lower 30,000 level. Monitoring his pre-race appearance and odds action is important.​

Secondary Choices

Barstool (2) and Easy Dial (3) are the main pace players among the secondary group; either could wire or sit second and hold for a share if the tempo is not too hot. Sinatra (6) is a question mark on class and form but may benefit from sitting back and picking up tired horses late.​

Love In Lights (7) is a lightly-campaigned five-year-old maiden who has likely had training or soundness issues; she is hard to tout for the win but can be used in the back end of superfectas.​

Longshots

El Oso (8) comes off an also-eligible status on February 28 in a maiden claiming 30,000 event; he can improve if he gets a fair break and a stalking position, but his form suggests more of an outside exotics role. Overall, the longshots in here look up against it without significant improvement.​

Betting Strategy and Angles

Calling On Heaven (4) is a reasonable single in multi-race sequences if the odds are acceptable and there are no negative pre-race signs. Win and exacta strategies can key Calling On Heaven (4) over J David (1), Hellacious (5), Barstool (2), and Easy Dial (3). For trifectas, use 4 over 1–2–3–5–6–8 in second and third slots, weighting more heavily toward 1 and 5.

Selections

Win: Calling On Heaven (4)
Place: J David (1)
Show: Hellacious (5)

7th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Allowance optional claiming, 6 furlongs for fillies and mares, purse 106,000. Small but classy field of six.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 8:55 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

Girl Of My Dreams (2) and Baby No Worries (3) are likely pace elements, with Just An Opinion (5) and Marmalade Skye (6) pressing or stalking. Fantastical (1) and Ripassare (4) both possess tactical speed and could sit ideal just-off-the-pace trips, especially given their inside to middle draws. With only six runners, a slow or moderate pace is possible if no one commits; riders' intent will be crucial, and those who secure position early without overexertion will have the edge.

Key Contenders

Ripassare (4) from the Cox barn appears to be the class of the field, with a strong combination of tactical speed and finishing strength, plus a rider who is highly effective at Turfway. She can press or stalk just outside of Girl Of My Dreams (2) and Baby No Worries (3), then pounce turning for home. Fantastical (1) for the Sharp barn is another top contender, particularly from the rail where she can secure the pocket trip and have first run on the tiring leaders.

Just An Opinion (5) is a dangerous midpack sprinter with a strong late kick and reliable synthetic form; if pace heats up more than expected, she could roll over the top in the lane.​

Secondary Choices

Marmalade Skye (6) scratched from an Oaklawn race on March 6 for trainer reasons and shows up here on synthetic, which could signal a target spot from a sharp claiming barn; she has speed and resilience and is a legitimate upset candidate. Baby No Worries (3) brings pace and experience; if allowed to control the tempo alone, she might prove tough to reel in.​

Girl Of My Dreams (2) is usable on class and experience but appears up against a tougher group; she can still stick for a minor award if she breaks sharply and secures a good spot.​

Longshots

In a six-horse field, no entrant is a total toss, but Girl Of My Dreams (2) shapes as the least likely winner on form; still, she can finish in the trifecta. All others are viable in various outcomes given the small field and pace uncertainties.

Betting Strategy and Angles

This race may not offer huge win-value on top choices, but it is very important in late multi-race sequences. Ripassare (4) is a logical single or A-level use in late Pick 4 and Pick 5 structures, with Fantastical (1) and Just An Opinion (5) as backups. For straight wagering, exactas and trifectas using 4 over 1–5–6 and 1–5–6–3 beneath can capture value if the second and third finishers offer mild prices.

Selections

Win: Ripassare (4)
Place: Fantastical (1)
Show: Just An Opinion (5)

8th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Claiming 5,000 non-winners of two at 1 mile. This is a classic Turfway bottom-level route with several horses cycling through similar conditions.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 9:25 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

Connect The Brocks (1), Coasting By (3), Rachael's Wagon (5), and Scoville (8) all have some early pace, while It Takes A Cowboy (4) and Il Marchesse (7) are more tactically inclined and can stalk. Cue Country Roads (2), K's Storm Ready (6), White Blue (9), and Moonrise Drive (10) project as midpack to deep closers. With multiple speed and pressers, the pace should be honest, potentially tilting the race toward stalkers and midpack horses who can conserve energy early.

Key Contenders

Il Marchesse (7) stands out as a logical top contender: this four-year-old gelding has the right combination of tactical speed, class-fit, and a strong jockey-trainer combo to sit a perfect trip just behind the leaders and strike at the top of the lane. Connect The Brocks (1) is an experienced synthetic runner who can use the rail to his advantage and either set or press the pace, hoping to outstay the rest; he is dangerous if allowed an easy early lead.

Scoville (8) is another capable speed/stalker, whose outside post allows for a controlled pressing trip; if he clears or sits second without pressure, he can be tough to reel in.​

Secondary Choices

It Takes A Cowboy (4) dropped through conditions and enters here after prior non-winners-of-two attempts; his tactical style and three-year-old allowance weight make him a potential improving type, particularly if he stays relaxed early. Cue Country Roads (2), scratched previously from a March 7 non-winners-of-two claiming race for trainer reasons, may offer value as a freshened closer in a race with possible pace meltdown.​

Moonrise Drive (10) had a prior scratch on February 11 due to illness; if healthy, his late kick and outside draw can be effective at this distance, making him a live longshot.​

Longshots

Coasting By (3), Rachael's Wagon (5), K's Storm Ready (6), and White Blue (9) all have limitations on current form, but any could sneak into the trifecta with a trip or improvement. Rachael's Wagon (5) has some back class and might hold on for a minor placing if he shakes loose early at a manageable pace.​

Betting Strategy and Angles

Il Marchesse (7) is a strong win candidate; if offered at 3–1 or better, he is playable straight. Exacta and trifecta strategies can key Il Marchesse (7) over Connect The Brocks (1), Scoville (8), It Takes A Cowboy (4), Cue Country Roads (2), and Moonrise Drive (10), with 7–1–8 as a primary exacta box. In multi-race bets, 7 should be a primary A, with 1–2–4–8–10 as backups in a spread leg.

Selections

Win: Il Marchesse (7)
Place: Connect The Brocks (1)
Show: Scoville (8)

9th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Claiming 15,000 non-winners of two for fillies and mares at 6 1/2 furlongs. This is a big, contentious field with opportunities for value.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 9:55 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

Army Girl (1), Pretti Boujee (2), But Seriously (3), and Tricky Furey (4) all bring pace or pressing tendencies, while I'm A Cookie Lover (5), Couldyoubeloved (6), Extreme Dream (7), and Fifth Wheel (8) can be midpack stalkers. Hand It Over (9), Don't Cross Alexis (10), and Mo Indian Lady (11) fit closer profiles. Expect a lively pace with several eager front or near-front runners, increasing the likelihood that midpack and closing types get their chance late.

Key Contenders

But Seriously (3) has a favorable combination of speed and finish; she can track just off the front line from an inside-to-middle post and get first run on tiring leaders. Hand It Over (9), from a powerful barn, has enough tactical speed to avoid being too far back and the finishing power to capitalize on a hot pace, making her a strong win candidate.

Don't Cross Alexis (10) brings class and a capable jockey; she is well suited to sit midpack and launch a wide rally down the lane. Given the potential pace setup, Hand It Over (9) and Don't Cross Alexis (10) both fit as key late-running threats.

Secondary Choices

Pretti Boujee (2) and Tricky Furey (4) are pace players with enough stamina to hang around; if the anticipated meltdown does not fully develop, one could wire or hold for a major share. Couldyoubeloved (6) had a prior trainer scratch from a February 5 claiming 30,000 non-winners-of-two race, now dropping to 15,000; this class relief could be significant.​

Extreme Dream (7) and Fifth Wheel (8) are logical exotics inclusions, given their stalking styles and ability to sit behind the leaders and pounce.

Longshots

Army Girl (1), I'm A Cookie Lover (5), and Mo Indian Lady (11) are more difficult to support on top but have paths to hit the board with specific race shapes. Army Girl (1) from the rail may be sent aggressively, which could compromise her late but contribute to the overall pace; she is an underneath candidate.​

Betting Strategy and Angles

This race offers strong vertical and multi-race value; it is a good place to spread. Consider win bets on Hand It Over (9) and But Seriously (3) at odds of 4–1 or higher. Exacta and trifecta tickets can be structured with 3–9–10 over 2–3–4–6–7–8–9–10–11, leaning heavily on 9 and 10 underneath to exploit their closing potential.

Selections

Win: Hand It Over (9)
Place: But Seriously (3)
Show: Don't Cross Alexis (10)

10th Race – Turfway Park – Friday, March 20th, 2026

Maiden claiming, 1 1/16 miles for three-year-olds and up at a 15,000 tag. Full field of 12 closes the card with a wide-open route.

Post Time

Scheduled post time is approximately 10:25 PM local.​

Pace Analysis

Highlighter (1), Otzelberger (2), Keen Talent (3), and Bar Fight (4) have enough speed to be on or near the lead, especially into the first turn. Hyperbolize (5), Turnbuckle (6), Ando (7), Bravitas (8), and Kick It In (10) are more midpack grinders. Ton A Laughs (9), Jinxzi (11), and Very Tall Somethin (12) project as midpack to deeper closing types. With several forward-looking maidens, the pace should be honest if not strong, which puts a premium on horses who can stay the distance and finish.

Key Contenders

Highlighter (1) gets the rail and can establish a ground-saving lead or pressing trip; for maiden claimers, this is often decisive if the horse is fit and not pressured excessively. Jinxzi (11) has the look of a late-developing route-type maiden: he should appreciate the distance and can sit midpack or deeper, then rally into a pace that has taken its toll on the leaders.

Hyperbolize (5) has the right style for this race; he is not overly dependent on the lead and can sit a good stalking position, then grind past tiring horses late. His combination of class and stamina gives him a strong chance to graduate today.​

Secondary Choices

Bar Fight (4), Keen Talent (3), and Otzelberger (2) are the main pace elements; any one of them could steal this race if allowed comfortable fractions. Turnbuckle (6) is an interesting midpack type who can save ground from a middle draw and may improve stretching out.​

Bravitas (8) and Ton A Laughs (9) have claims to minor awards; they may not be obvious win types but could factor in exotics with a good setup.​

Longshots

Ando (7), Kick It In (10), and Very Tall Somethin (12) appear to need improvement or better trips than they have previously received; they are best used in the back slots of trifectas or superfectas. Still, in a maiden claiming route with many unknowns, any can jump up with the right conditions.​

Betting Strategy and Angles

The finale is an excellent race to spread in the late Pick 4 and Pick 5, but for straight wagering, concentrating on a couple of key horses is prudent. Consider win bets on Hyperbolize (5) and Jinxzi (11) if each offers fair prices around 4–1 or higher, with Highlighter (1) as a saver if the board suggests strong support and soundness. For trifectas, structure tickets such as 1–5–11 over 1–2–3–4–5–6–8–9–11–12, recognizing the high variance nature of maiden claiming routes.

Selections

Win: Hyperbolize (5)
Place: Jinxzi (11)
Show: Highlighter (1)

Jockey Notes and Insights

The Turfway jockey colony features several riders who excel on synthetic surfaces and in giving horses efficient trips on Tapeta. In particular, riders such as Gerardo Corrales, Rafael Manuel Hernandez, Luan Machado, and Edgar Morales have had success at the meet by securing tactical positions, saving ground, and timing runs effectively. In today's card, Corrales pilots key mounts including Sagittarius (8) in Race 1, Calling On Heaven (4) in Race 6, Just An Opinion (5) in Race 7, and Army Officer (13) in Race 5, making his mounts important to weigh heavily in exotics and multi-race bets.

Rafael Manuel Hernandez rides Belle Of Liberty (7) in Race 2, Skyro (6) in Race 5, Il Marchesse (7) in Race 8, and Hyperbolize (5) in Race 10, a strong book of mounts whose synthetic-route expertise enhances their chances. Luan Machado, another reliable Tapeta rider, partners with Faster (4) in Race 1, Itchy (6) in Race 3, Urban Planner (3) in Race 5, Ripassare (4) in Race 7, and But Seriously (3) in Race 9, giving him multiple live opportunities for trips that can make the difference in close finishes.

Edgar Morales has a solid set of rides, including Gucci Man (6) in Race 1, Playonwords (7) in Race 3, Fantastical (1) in Race 7, and Connect The Brocks (1) in Race 8; his consistent ability to place horses in the right spot on synthetic makes these mounts likely to outrun mediocre paper in some cases. Additionally, long-time veteran riders like Fernando De La Cruz and Julien Leparoux bring experience and composure that can be particularly valuable in maiden races (Race 2, Race 3) and complex route fields (Race 5, Race 10).

Trainer Notes and Insights

Several high-profile and high-percentage trainers have multiple entries across the card, and understanding their patterns can offer wagering edges. Brad Cox sends out Siesta Key (1) in Race 5 and Ripassare (4) in Race 7, both in spots that fit his typical pattern of placing good synthetic runners in strong allowance optional company; these runners warrant strong respect. Joe Sharp has Fantastical (1) in Race 7 and Skyro (6) in Race 5, a duo that could easily produce a win or multiple board hits given his record on synthetic.

Michael Maker's Army Officer (13) in Race 5 and Michael McCarthy's Captain Gabe (4) in Race 3 and Bullard (12) in Race 5 are well-spotted horses from barns that travel to Turfway with intention rather than by chance. Ian Wilkes has Hope Rising (6) in Race 2 and Jinxzi (11) in Race 10, two maidens placed at claiming levels where his patient style can finally pay off.​

Local and regional trainers such as Paulo Lobo (Friar Newton (8) in Race 5), Dale Romans (Just A Fair Shake (9) in Race 5), and Steve Asmussen (Hand It Over (9) in Race 9) are adept at maximizing the synthetic configuration and should not be underestimated in any horizontal wagers. Claiming and lower-level barns like Nery Alvarez (K's Storm Ready (6) in Race 8), David Jacobson (Marmalade Skye (6) in Race 7), and Paul McEntee (Rachael's Wagon (5) in Race 8) often aim their stock at soft spots, offering occasional big-priced winners when race shapes play to their horses' strengths.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The card offers multiple opportunities for both straight and exotic wagering, as well as early and late multi-race sequences. For straight win bets, standout value candidates include Streamsong (1) in Race 1 if he remains above 5/2, Hardly Ready (9) in Race 2 at 3–1 or higher, Itchy (6) in Race 3 if any overlay arises against a strong favorite projection, Caballo Feliz (9) in Race 4 at or above 4–1, Skyro (6) and Army Officer (13) in Race 5 around 7/2–4–1, Calling On Heaven (4) in Race 6 as a potentially reliable single, Ripassare (4) in Race 7 as a likely favorite, Il Marchesse (7) in Race 8 as a top non-winners-of-two type, Hand It Over (9) in Race 9 at 4–1 or better, and Hyperbolize (5) or Jinxzi (11) in Race 10 if the board offers value.

For early multi-race plays (Races 1–5), constructing an early Pick 5 could look like: Race 1 using Streamsong (1), Sagittarius (8), and King Of Kentucky (3); Race 2 using Hardly Ready (9), Mother Lode (8), Hope Rising (6), and Shez Twisted (5); Race 3 using Itchy (6), Vino Subito (3), and Captain Gabe (4); Race 4 using Hilarious Affair (1), Caballo Feliz (9), and Dontkissdaminister (10); and Race 5 spreading around Skyro (6), Army Officer (13), Siesta Key (1), Bullard (12), and Izzy D'oro (2). This approach combines a few strong opinions (singles or two-deep legs) with strategic spreads in more chaotic races.

For the late Pick 5 (Races 6–10), a possible structure includes singling Calling On Heaven (4) in Race 6, using Ripassare (4) as a strong A with Fantastical (1) and Just An Opinion (5) as backups in Race 7, then going 7–1–8–2–4–10 in Race 8, 3–9–10–2–4–6–7–8–11 in Race 9 with emphasis on Hand It Over (9) and But Seriously (3), and spreading 1–5–11–2–3–4–6–8–9–12 in Race 10. Players with smaller bankrolls may tighten these sequences by pressing stronger opinions: for example, singling Ripassare (4) in Race 7 and focusing on Hyperbolize (5) and Jinxzi (11) in Race 10 as A-level horses.

In verticals, focusing on the races with larger, more contentious fields (Races 5, 8, 9, and 10) can yield the best return on investment. Look to key proven closers and midpack types with strong rider-trainer combinations in second and third slots, especially behind modestly priced favorites; this includes horses like Army Officer (13) in Race 5, Il Marchesse (7) in Race 8, Hand It Over (9) and Don't Cross Alexis (10) in Race 9, and Jinxzi (11) in Race 10. Always verify updated scratches and morning line odds before finalizing bets, and adjust your approach if key pace or key closers are withdrawn.

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