First Post Time: 1:05 PM
Racing returns to Woodbine Racetrack for another exciting card of thoroughbred action. Our handicapping team has analyzed the entries and provides comprehensive race-by-race selections with detailed reasoning for each pick.
Race 1 – Claiming
Top Selection: #4 Leopardi
The morning line favorite brings solid recent form into this claiming event. Look for this runner to be involved from the start and provide good value at shorter odds.
Second Choice: #2 Anselmo
A consistent performer who should be competitive in this field. The connections have been patient with this horse’s development and could be rewarded today.
Race 2 – Claiming
Top Selection: #6 Big Baby Henry (Even Money)
This heavy favorite shows excellent recent form and projects as the horse to beat. The morning line of even money reflects his clear class advantage in this field. Expect him to be forwardly placed throughout and prove difficult to catch.
Value Play: #5 True Shot (3-1)
Offers solid place and show value behind the favorite. This runner has shown improvement in recent starts and could provide exacta value.
Also Consider: #3 Sol de Verano (4-1)
Another live contender who could factor in the superfecta at attractive odds.
Race 3 – Starter Optional Claiming
Top Selection: #3 Grey Princess (5/2)
The morning line favorite appears to have a clear class edge over this field. Her recent workouts suggest she’s ready for a strong performance.
Second Choice: #4 That Girl Artemus (3-1)
Shows consistent form and could challenge the favorite if given the right trip. Watch for tactical speed from this one.
Longshot Special: #5 Sharp Flame (7/2)
Has shown flashes of ability and could surprise at a decent price if the pace sets up favorably.
Race 4 – Optional Claiming
Top Selection: #3 Rhaenyra (5/2)
The class of this field who should appreciate the step up in company. Her breeding suggests she’ll handle the distance well, and the connections are having a strong meet.
Upset Special: #7 Whiskey N Ice (3-1)
Jockey: Sahin Civaci
Trainer: Mark E. Casse
This combination has been effective throughout the meet with a 25% win rate and 83% in-the-money percentage. Look for tactical speed from this runner who could steal this race if he gets loose on the lead.
Also Consider: #8 Bedazzle Me (4-1)
Shows strong closing ability and could benefit from a fast early pace.
Race 5 – Claiming
Consensus Pick: #1 Indy One (9/5)
Multiple expert handicappers have identified this runner as the standout in the field. Doug McPherson, Woodbine’s expert handicapper, has specifically endorsed this selection. The horse appears to have significant form advantages over this claiming level.
Value Alternative: #7 Wico (IRE) (2-1)
The Irish-bred brings international form to this domestic claiming race and could provide upset potential.
Also Consider: #4 Catholic Jackie (4-1)
Shows enough recent form to be competitive and could factor in multi-race wagers.
Race 7 – Sprint
Featured Selection: #7 Shadow Realm (7/2)
According to expert analysis, “Shadow Realm brings excellent Tapeta form to this main turf sprint and could mow down all the speed if he stays in the zone”. His versatility across surfaces gives him a significant advantage, with his only turf start producing a creditable third behind quality opposition in the Bull Page Stakes.
Race 8 – Maiden Claiming
Top Selection: #7 Just Like That (3-1)
The morning line third choice appears to offer the best combination of ability and value in this maiden claiming event.
Second Choice: #12 Em Chamas (4-1)
Shows promise for connections and could provide exacta value with the top pick.
Longshot Consideration: #4 Brazilian Legacy (5-1)
International breeding suggests untapped potential that could emerge in this spot.
Betting Strategy Recommendations
Daily Double (Races 1-2): #4 Leopardi with #6 Big Baby Henry
Pick 3 (Races 2-3-4): #6 Big Baby Henry / #3 Grey Princess / #3 Rhaenyra
Best Bet of the Day: #1 Indy One in Race 5
Track Notes
Weather conditions are expected to be favorable for racing with a fast track anticipated. The main track has been playing fairly with winners coming from various running styles. Speed horses have been holding well in sprints, while closers are finding room in route races.
Jockey to Watch: The Casse barn has been particularly effective this meet, and any runners from that stable merit extra attention.
The card offers excellent betting opportunities across multiple races, with several races featuring competitive fields that should produce attractive payoffs for exotic wagers.
