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Zia Park concludes its fall 2025 thoroughbred meet with an 11-race card featuring two stakes races. The Lea County Stakes opens the program as a competitive 6 1/2 furlong contest for two-year-old New Mexico bred fillies worth $100,000, while the Hobbs Fall Classic headlines the early card with trainer Todd Fincher dominating entries. The final day program showcases predominantly New Mexico bred horses across multiple maiden and claiming events, with purses ranging from $20,000 to $100,000.​

Fincher enters the closing day locked in a tight battle with Dick Cappellucci for the leading trainer title at the meet, having maintained exceptional form throughout the season with a 56 percent win rate in early action. The trainer’s remarkable dominance shows through six entries in the Hobbs Fall Classic alone, representing the majority of that competitive field.​

Weather and Track Conditions

December 16, 2025 conditions at Zia Park favor racing with ideal weather forecast for Hobbs, New Mexico. Temperatures range from morning lows around 38°F climbing to sunny afternoon highs near 71°F. Clear skies with minimal wind create optimal conditions for the dirt surface, which has consistently maintained a fast rating throughout recent race days.​

The track surface benefits from stable weather patterns with no precipitation expected, allowing the one-mile dirt oval to maintain its characteristic speed-favoring properties. Post time for the first race begins at 11:45 AM MST with the card running through approximately 4:15 PM.​

Recent track maintenance combined with favorable December weather produces a lightning-fast surface that rewards tactical speed throughout the day. Horses demonstrating early foot consistently gain significant advantages, particularly in sprint distances under six furlongs.​

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

Zia Park’s one-mile dirt configuration demonstrates clear post position patterns through the 2025 meet. Sprint races under one mile show pronounced advantages for middle posts, with positions 2 through 6 producing win rates between 12.6% and 15.5%. Post 1 significantly underperforms with just a 7.4% win rate from 190 starts through November, suggesting disadvantages for inside draws in sprint competition.​

Outside posts 7 through 10 remain competitive without providing inherent advantages, maintaining win rates between 8% and 13.8%. The track’s long homestretch allows horses positioned mid-pack to sustain momentum through the final furlong, making tactical speed more valuable than pure early pace.​

Route races at one mile show smaller sample sizes but posts 1 through 5 perform adequately with win rates from 10% to 30% in limited opportunities. Pace dynamics and trip quality supersede post position importance at longer distances, where the configuration’s sweeping turns favor horses able to maintain steady positioning throughout.​

The dirt surface characteristics favor horses securing positions within the first three throughout the opening quarter, with closers facing significant disadvantages when racing more than five lengths off the early pace. Ground-saving tactics prove most effective when combined with tactical speed rather than relying solely on inside post draws.​

Race 1 – Lea County Stakes

Post Time: 11:45 AM MST

The $100,000 Lea County Stakes for two-year-old New Mexico bred and Arizona bred fillies enrolled in the NMHBA program presents a competitive showdown over 6 1/2 furlongs. The five-horse field features recent New Mexico Classic Lassie Stakes competitors seeking redemption or confirmation of form.​

Pace Analysis

This stakes race develops with legitimate early speed from multiple fillies, creating honest fractions throughout. Country Club Crush and Mark’s Sassy Girl both possess tactical speed to control terms, while Caprock Cutie has shown ability to press the pace effectively. The 6 1/2 furlong distance allows fillies with sustained speed to maintain advantages established early, though the stretch drive becomes crucial for separating contenders.​

The New Mexico Classic Lassie Stakes from November 24 provides the most relevant form reference, with Country Club Crush narrowly defeating Mark’s Sassy Girl in a hard-fought contest. That race demonstrated the competitiveness of this crop, with both fillies showing determination through the final sixteenth.​

Key Contenders

Country Club Crush enters as the 9-to-5 second choice despite her victory in the New Mexico Classic Lassie Stakes over this course on November 24. The Dallas Barton trainee for owner Barbara Barton and Jay H. Barton broke her maiden impressively before handling Mark’s Sassy Girl in their stakes rematch. The two-year-old daughter of Marking has won twice from three career starts with earnings exceeding $127,000.​

Miguel Fuentes Jr takes the mount from post 1, carrying 120 pounds in this competitive field. The jockey’s recent success with stakes winners positions him well, though the inside post creates tactical challenges based on Zia Park’s sprint bias patterns. Fuentes demonstrated strong timing aboard this filly in the Classic Lassie, securing victory by a narrow margin.​

Mark’s Sassy Girl draws as the even-money morning line favorite despite three consecutive defeats following her maiden victory. Trainer Todd Fincher sends out this Norman Allen homebred looking to reverse the Classic Lassie result. The daughter of Marking broke her maiden on debut, ironically defeating Country Club Crush before finding that filly too strong in their rematch.​

Floyd Wethey Jr handles the riding assignment from post 2, benefiting from the favorable middle post position that aligns with Zia Park’s sprint bias. The filly’s three consecutive in-the-money finishes demonstrate consistency, with earnings surpassing $85,000 from four career starts. Fincher’s exceptional meet statistics provide additional confidence, though the trainer’s recent pattern shows vulnerability in stakes rematches.​

Secondary Choices

Caprock Cutie represents the Dick Cappellucci stable for owners Glen Robertson and Bobby McQueen as the 3-to-1 third choice. The daughter of Marking broke her maiden in her third career start at Zia Park before finishing a close third in the Classic Lassie Stakes. Elvin Gonzalez rides from post 4, carrying 116 pounds in what appears to be favorable positioning.​

The filly demonstrated improvement in the Classic Lassie, closing ground through the stretch to secure third place. Cappellucci’s strong meet form combined with Gonzalez’s 17% win rate provides confidence in this runner’s ability to factor prominently. The four-pound weight advantage over Country Club Crush creates tactical flexibility.​

Longshots

Who Said It’s Easy represents Fincher’s second entry at 10-to-1 with Olaf Hernandez aboard from post 3. The daughter of Sporting Chance finished a well-beaten fourth in the Classic Lassie Stakes but maintains potential for improvement. Owners J. Kirk and Judy Robison campaigned this filly patiently, suggesting belief in untapped ability.​

American Prada completes the field as Fincher’s third representative at 15-to-1 odds. Luis Valenzuela rides this Ernie J. Wood, Brenda Wood, and Austin Williams owned daughter of American Anthem from the outside post. The filly broke her maiden at Albuquerque Downs before struggling in tougher company, finishing fifth in the Classic Lassie.​

Betting Strategy

The rematch between Country Club Crush and Mark’s Sassy Girl dominates the wagering angles, with handicappers projecting another competitive duel. Country Club Crush demonstrated superior determination in their previous encounter, suggesting the filly possesses the tactical speed and heart to repeat. The 9-to-5 price offers value compared to the even-money favorite Mark’s Sassy Girl, particularly considering the post position disadvantage facing the Fincher runner.​

Exacta combinations emphasizing Country Club Crush over Mark’s Sassy Girl and Caprock Cutie provide solid coverage of the most likely outcomes. The three-horse box including those fillies offers protection while maximizing value from the post position advantages. Trifecta plays using Country Club Crush on top with all combinations of the other four fillies beneath create affordable coverage of upset scenarios.​

Selections

Win: Country Club Crush

Place: Mark’s Sassy Girl

Show: Caprock Cutie

Race 2 – Hobbs Fall Classic Stakes

Post Time: 12:12 PM MST

The $100,000 Hobbs Fall Classic Stakes for two-year-old New Mexico bred and Arizona bred colts and geldings presents trainer Todd Fincher’s stable dominance over 6 1/2 furlongs. The eight-horse field includes six Fincher trainees, with Bully Boy and Speed Merchant headlining as established stakes performers.​

Pace Analysis

This stakes sprint develops with significant early speed from multiple entrants, creating the potential for contentious fractions throughout. Bully Boy, Speed Merchant, and Cash Waterfall all possess tactical speed to factor prominently in the pace scenario. The Fincher stable’s numerical advantage creates strategic options for controlling pace distribution, though legitimate competition between stablemates remains likely given the stakes purse distribution.​

The New Mexico Classic Juvenile Stakes from November 24 established current form standards, with Bully Boy dominating by 2 1/2 lengths over Speed Merchant. That performance demonstrated Bully Boy’s superiority in their recent encounter, though Speed Merchant had previously defeated his rival in the New Mexico State Fair Thoroughbred Futurity.​

Key Contenders

Bully Boy enters as the 6-to-5 morning line favorite seeking his second stakes victory for trainer Todd Fincher and owners Robert M. and Del Rae Driggers and Ben Lee Ivey. The two-year-old son of Sporting Chance has finished no worse than second in four career starts, demonstrating remarkable consistency for a juvenile. His most recent victory came in dominating fashion in the $150,000 New Mexico Classic Juvenile Stakes on November 24.​

Floyd Wethey Jr rides from the rail position, carrying 120 pounds as one of two horses assigned high weight. The inside post creates tactical questions given Zia Park’s bias patterns, though Bully Boy’s tactical speed allows flexibility for securing favorable position early. The colt has won twice from four starts with earnings exceeding $167,000, bred in New Mexico by Bar Y Equine LLC.​

The gelding’s progression throughout the meet demonstrates steady improvement, with his Classic Juvenile victory representing his most authoritative performance. Fincher’s exceptional statistics provide confidence, though the trainer’s decision to enter six horses creates uncertainty regarding stable tactics.​

Speed Merchant represents Fincher’s primary challenger to Bully Boy as the 5-to-2 second choice. The son of Marking for owner Dale F. Taylor Racing LLC had his three-race unbeaten streak snapped by Bully Boy in the Classic Juvenile. The colt narrowly defeated Bully Boy in the New Mexico State Fair Thoroughbred Futurity before finding his rival too strong in their most recent meeting.​

Luis Valenzuela handles the mount from the far outside post 8, carrying 120 pounds. The outside draw creates significant ground loss concerns throughout the first turn, though Valenzuela’s tactical awareness helps mitigate that disadvantage. Speed Merchant has won three times from four career starts with earnings surpassing $207,000, bred in New Mexico by Brad King and Chris Coleman.​

Secondary Choices

Cash Waterfall represents Fincher’s third entry as the 5-to-1 third choice with Oscar Andrade Jr aboard from post 5. The gelding’s recent form suggests capability at this level, though specific past performance details remain limited compared to the top pair. Andrade’s riding assignment creates confidence given his 39% win rate when paired with select trainers at the meet.​

Buy Local completes the primary Fincher quartet as the 8-to-1 fourth choice with Elvin Gonzalez riding from post 2. The favorable middle post position provides tactical advantages, while Gonzalez’s strong meet form enhances this runner’s prospects. The gelding benefits from the inside draw that proved disadvantageous to Bully Boy.​

Longshots

Fort Sumner represents trainer Justin Evans as the 10-to-1 outsider with Luis Ramon Rodriguez aboard from post 6. The gelding provides an alternative to Fincher’s dominance, though facing the stable’s numerical strength creates significant challenges. Evans maintains solid statistics at the meet, suggesting this runner merits respect despite long odds.​

Cowboy Campfire enters for trainer Greg Green at 12-to-1 with Francisco Amparan handling riding duties from post 3. The gelding represents a different training approach compared to Fincher’s polished juveniles, offering potential upset value. Green’s experience with New Mexico bred juveniles provides some confidence despite limited form details.​

Country Club Sport and Risk Capital complete the field as Fincher’s fifth and sixth entries, both listed at 20-to-1. Ken Tohill rides Country Club Sport from post 4, while Olaf Hernandez partners with Risk Capital from post 7. These longshots provide Fincher with complete field coverage while representing legitimate horses capable of minor placing.​

Betting Strategy

The Fincher stable’s dominance creates unusual wagering dynamics, with six of eight entries trained by the meet’s leading conditioner. Bully Boy’s recent superiority over Speed Merchant suggests the favorite offers legitimate win potential, though the 6-to-5 price provides marginal value. Speed Merchant’s outside post creates significant concerns despite his proven ability, making the 5-to-2 price less attractive than form suggests.​

Exacta plays using Bully Boy over Speed Merchant, Cash Waterfall, and Buy Local provide coverage of the most likely scenarios while building in protection against stable tactics. A trifecta box using those four horses creates comprehensive coverage while maintaining reasonable costs. Alternative strategies emphasizing Buy Local or Cash Waterfall on top offer value plays if either benefits from favorable pace dynamics.​

Selections

Win: Bully Boy

Place: Speed Merchant

Show: Cash Waterfall

Race 3 – Claiming $7,500

Post Time: 12:39 PM MST

The third race features a 5 1/2 furlong claiming sprint for New Mexico bred three-year-olds and upward that have never won four races or haven’t won in 2025. The $32,000 purse contest restricted to $7,500 claiming price ($10,000 for New Mexico breds) presents competitive bottom-level conditions.​

Pace Analysis

This claiming sprint develops with moderate early speed from several entrants capable of securing favorable position throughout the opening quarter. The abbreviated 5 1/2 furlong distance favors horses breaking alertly and establishing tactical positioning early, as closers face significant disadvantages when conceding more than three lengths to the leaders.​

The New Mexico bred restrictions create a specialized field where local trainers maintain significant advantages through familiarity with regional bloodlines and racing patterns. Weight allowances for non-winners since September 16 provide two pounds relief, adding tactical dimensions to handicapping considerations.​

Key Contenders

Comfort J Byrd represents trainer Dick Cappellucci with Luis Valenzuela aboard from post 8. The four-year-old gelding carries 123 pounds as an older horse without allowances, indicating recent racing success. Cappellucci’s strong meet form combined with Valenzuela’s current hot streak creates confidence in this combination.​

The gelding’s recent speed figures suggest competitiveness at this claiming level, with the outside post providing flexibility for rating behind early speed or pressing throughout. Valenzuela’s 43% win rate when paired with specific trainers enhances this runner’s prospects.​

Cerveza enters for trainer Jeffrey Trujillo with Alfredo Sigala handling riding duties from post 2. The eight-year-old gelding benefits from the favorable middle post position while carrying 121 pounds with allowances. Sigala’s experience with claiming-level horses provides tactical advantages, particularly in competitive sprint conditions.​

Secondary Choices

Wheredoesthecashgo represents the Cappellucci stable’s second entry with Elvin Gonzalez aboard from post 3. The ten-year-old gelding’s extensive experience creates familiarity with Zia Park conditions, while Gonzalez’s strong meet statistics enhance placing prospects. The veteran campaigner carries 121 pounds from a favorable middle post.​

Dora’s Storm enters for trainer Ever Olguin with Jose Torres riding from post 4. The four-year-old gelding carries 123 pounds without allowances, suggesting recent competitive efforts. The middle post draw provides tactical flexibility for securing favorable position early.​

Betting Strategy

The Cappellucci stable’s dual entry dominates the wagering considerations, with Comfort J Byrd representing the most logical win play based on connections. Valenzuela’s exceptional form combined with Cappellucci’s meet-leading statistics creates confidence despite the weight disadvantage. Exacta combinations using Comfort J Byrd over Cerveza and Wheredoesthecashgo provide solid coverage.​

Selections

Win: Comfort J Byrd

Place: Cerveza

Show: Wheredoesthecashgo

Race 4 – Maiden Special Weight

Post Time: 1:06 PM MST

The fourth race presents a six furlong maiden special weight for two-year-old fillies running Lasix-free. The $45,000 purse attracts quality juveniles, with horses that have started for $25,000 or less in their last three starts receiving least preference.​

Pace Analysis

This maiden sprint develops with moderate early speed as several fillies seek to establish favorable position throughout the opening quarter. The Lasix-free conditions create potential fitness advantages for fillies training naturally without medication, though the restriction applies equally across the field.​

The six furlong distance provides sufficient stretch for tactical adjustments while rewarding fillies demonstrating sustained speed through the final furlong. The maiden special weight conditions ensure competitive balance with horses showing similar form levels.​

Key Contenders

Lucinda Who represents trainer Joel Marr with Ken Tohill aboard from post 8 as the 6-to-5 morning line favorite. The two-year-old filly breaks from the outside in the eight-horse field, creating ground loss concerns through the first turn. Marr’s solid meet statistics combined with Tohill’s experience provides confidence despite the post position disadvantage.​

The filly’s breeding and connections suggest quality despite the maiden status, with morning line odds indicating handicappers’ belief in superior ability. Tohill’s tactical awareness helps mitigate the outside post concerns, particularly if the filly demonstrates tactical speed early.​

Marka enters for trainer Todd Fincher with Luis Valenzuela riding from post 3. The two-year-old filly benefits from the favorable middle post position while representing Fincher’s exceptional current form. Valenzuela’s hot streak combined with Fincher’s meet-leading statistics creates strong appeal.​

Secondary Choices

Haddonfield represents trainer Casey Lambert with Olaf Hernandez aboard from post 7. The two-year-old filly draws outside but inside the favorite, providing reasonable positioning. Lambert’s solid training operation at Zia Park suggests this filly merits consideration despite the maiden status.​

Pearlofgreatprice enters for trainer Terri Rust with Elvin Gonzalez handling riding duties from post 2. The favorable inside-middle post provides tactical advantages, while Gonzalez’s strong statistics enhance placing prospects. The filly’s name suggests connections’ faith in future potential.​

Betting Strategy

The post position dynamics create interesting wagering angles, with Lucinda Who facing ground loss concerns from the outside draw despite favorite status. Marka offers value from the advantageous middle post position with superior connections. Exacta plays using Marka over Lucinda Who provide value if the post positions prove decisive.​

Selections

Win: Marka

Place: Lucinda Who

Show: Haddonfield

Race 5 – Claiming $7,500

Post Time: 1:33 PM MST

The fifth race features a 5 1/2 furlong claiming sprint for three-year-olds and upward that have never won four races or haven’t won since July 2. The $28,000 purse contest allows claiming prices of $7,500 for open company and $10,000 for New Mexico breds.​

Pace Analysis

This sprint develops with significant early speed as multiple horses possess tactical foot to factor prominently in the pace scenario. The abbreviated distance favors horses securing favorable position within the opening quarter, with closers facing substantial disadvantages.​

The claiming conditions attract competitive horses transitioning between levels, with trainers seeking optimal placement for their charges. Weight allowances for non-winners since December 8 provide two pounds relief, creating tactical considerations for handicapping.​

Key Contenders

Red Leader represents trainer Martin Valdez-Cabral with Fausto Da Silva aboard from post 4 as the 9-to-5 morning line favorite. The three-year-old gelding benefits from the two-pound weight allowance, carrying 119 pounds from the favorable middle post position. The Valdez-Cabral and Da Silva combination demonstrates strong statistics when paired, winning at 40% according to recent meet data.​

The gelding’s youth provides developmental advantages against older rivals, while the weight concession enhances tactical flexibility. Da Silva’s 21% meet win rate combined with Valdez-Cabral’s effective claiming-level placement creates confidence in this selection.​

Lewis Bere from France enters for trainer Sebedeo Chacon with Luis Valenzuela riding from post 7. The four-year-old gelding carries 121 pounds despite foreign origins, suggesting competitiveness at this claiming level. Valenzuela’s exceptional form provides significant appeal, particularly when partnered with horses demonstrating tactical speed.​

Secondary Choices

Ham Sandwich represents trainer Jeffrey Trujillo with Erick Medellin aboard from post 5. The four-year-old gelding carries 121 pounds from the favorable middle post position, providing flexibility for tactical adjustments. Trujillo’s familiarity with claiming conditions enhances this runner’s prospects.​

Tequila Time enters for trainer Sherry Armstrong with Alejandro Medellin handling riding duties from post 6. The seven-year-old gelding brings extensive experience while carrying 121 pounds. Armstrong’s training operation maintains respectable statistics at the meet.​

Betting Strategy

The pace dynamics favor horses demonstrating tactical speed while securing favorable position early, making Red Leader an attractive play despite favorite status. The combination of youth, weight allowance, and superior connections justifies the morning line price. Exacta plays using Red Leader over Lewis Bere and Ham Sandwich provide coverage of likely outcomes.​

Selections

Win: Red Leader

Place: Lewis Bere

Show: Ham Sandwich

Race 6 – Maiden Claiming

Post Time: 2:00 PM MST

The sixth race presents a 5 1/2 furlong maiden claiming event for three, four, and five-year-old horses. The $20,000 purse with claiming prices at $7,500 ($10,000 for New Mexico breds) attracts horses seeking their first victory.​

Pace Analysis

This maiden claiming sprint develops with moderate pace as horses demonstrating limited success seek breakthrough victories. The claiming conditions create competitive balance while providing claiming opportunities for trainers seeking affordable additions.​

The 5 1/2 furlong distance rewards horses breaking alertly and maintaining position throughout, as maiden-level horses often lack the tactical sophistication for effective closing moves. The nine-horse field creates potential traffic concerns, making the break from the gate crucial.​

Key Contenders

Hoser Satrapa represents trainer Martin Valdez-Cabral with Fausto Da Silva riding from post 5 as the 5-to-2 morning line favorite. The three-year-old gelding benefits from both the favorable middle post position and the proven Valdez-Cabral/Da Silva partnership that demonstrates strong statistics. The 121-pound weight assignment reflects youth advantages against older rivals.​

The combination’s 40% win rate when paired creates significant appeal in maiden claiming conditions. Da Silva’s tactical abilities help navigate potential traffic issues while securing favorable position early.​

Speedy Money enters for trainer Dick Cappellucci with Floyd Wethey Jr aboard from post 4. The three-year-old gelding carries 121 pounds from an advantageous middle post position. Cappellucci’s meet-leading statistics combined with Wethey’s experience enhances this runner’s prospects.​

Secondary Choices

Karaoke Hero represents trainer Timothy Gleason with Luis Valenzuela handling riding duties from post 8. The three-year-old gelding breaks from the outside with 121 pounds, creating ground loss concerns. Valenzuela’s hot streak provides confidence despite the post disadvantage.​

I Got the Moves enters for trainer Greg Green with Francisco Amparan aboard from post 9. The three-year-old gelding draws the far outside in the nine-horse field, facing maximum ground loss throughout. Green’s experience with maiden-level horses suggests some potential.​

Betting Strategy

The Valdez-Cabral and Da Silva combination offers superior value in maiden claiming conditions based on their exceptional partnership statistics. Hoser Satrapa benefits from post position, connections, and weight advantages. Exacta plays using Hoser Satrapa over Speedy Money and Karaoke Hero provide solid coverage.​

Selections

Win: Hoser Satrapa

Place: Speedy Money

Show: Karaoke Hero

Race 7 – Claiming $7,500

Post Time: 2:27 PM MST

The seventh race features a one-mile claiming event for three-year-olds and upward that have never won two races. The $24,000 purse with $7,500 claiming price ($10,000 for New Mexico breds) represents the day’s longest dirt race.​

Pace Analysis

This route develops with moderate early fractions as horses settle into rhythm through the first half-mile. The one-mile distance diminishes post position importance compared to sprint races, with trip quality and pace dynamics becoming more decisive factors.​

The claiming conditions for non-winners of two races create competitive balance while providing opportunities for horses seeking class relief. Weight allowances for non-winners since December 8 offer two-pound concessions, adding tactical considerations.​

Key Contenders

Hank Hill represents trainer Luis Rojero with Enrique Gomez aboard from post 5 as the 8-to-5 morning line favorite. The three-year-old gelding benefits from the two-pound weight allowance, carrying 119 pounds. The favorable middle post position provides flexibility for tactical adjustments throughout the extended distance.​

The gelding’s youth offers developmental advantages against older route horses, while the weight concession enhances stamina reserves for the stretch drive. Rojero’s training operation maintains solid statistics with claiming-level routers.​

Diablo Rosso enters for trainer Joy Marlin with Tracy Hebert handling riding duties from post 10. The three-year-old gelding carries 119 pounds with allowances from the outside post in the ten-horse field. Hebert’s tactical awareness helps mitigate the post position disadvantage through patient rating tactics.​

Secondary Choices

Spend Again represents trainer Ever Olguin with Alfredo Sigala aboard from post 3. The six-year-old gelding brings route experience while carrying 121 pounds from a favorable inside-middle position. Olguin’s familiarity with claiming routers provides confidence.​

Scorpion Shot enters for trainer Bernadette Barrios with Alfredo Juarez Jr riding from post 6. The four-year-old gelding carries 121 pounds from a reasonable middle post. Juarez’s exceptional meet statistics enhance placing prospects.​

Betting Strategy

The route distance creates different tactical considerations compared to sprints, with pace distribution and trip quality becoming primary factors. Hank Hill offers value as the favorite based on youth, weight advantages, and favorable positioning. Exacta combinations using Hank Hill over Diablo Rosso and Spend Again provide coverage of likely scenarios.​

Selections

Win: Hank Hill

Place: Diablo Rosso

Show: Spend Again

Race 8 – Maiden Special Weight

Post Time: 2:54 PM MST

The eighth race presents a 6 1/2 furlong maiden special weight for New Mexico bred fillies and mares aged three, four, and five. The $55,000 purse represents one of the day’s most valuable maiden contests.​

Pace Analysis

This maiden sprint for older fillies and mares develops with moderate early fractions as horses seek their breakthrough victories. The 6 1/2 furlong distance provides sufficient stretch for tactical development while rewarding sustained speed through the final furlong.​

The New Mexico bred restrictions create specialized conditions where local trainers maintain significant advantages through familiarity with regional bloodlines. Horses that have started for less than $25,000 in their last three starts receive least preference, indicating quality expectations.​

Key Contenders

Spoonin Shuga represents trainer Todd Fincher with Floyd Wethey Jr aboard from post 1. The three-year-old filly draws the inside post while carrying 121 pounds, creating mixed tactical scenarios. Fincher’s exceptional meet statistics provide confidence despite the inside draw disadvantage in sprint races.​

Wethey’s experience helps navigate the rail position challenges, particularly if the filly demonstrates tactical speed early. The Fincher stable’s dominance throughout the meet creates expectation for continued success.​

Hallie’s Gal enters for trainer Joel Marr with Ken Tohill riding from post 4. The three-year-old filly benefits from the favorable middle post position while carrying 121 pounds. Marr’s solid training operation combined with Tohill’s tactical awareness enhances this runner’s prospects.​

Secondary Choices

Baby Sisters Dream represents trainer Joel Marr’s second entry with Miguel Fuentes Jr aboard from post 5. The three-year-old filly carries 121 pounds from an advantageous middle post. Fuentes demonstrates strong form throughout the meet, particularly in New Mexico bred events.​

My Yellowstone enters for trainer Bernadette Barrios with Fausto Da Silva handling riding duties from post 10. The four-year-old mare carries 123 pounds as an older runner from the outside post in the ten-horse field. Da Silva’s tactical skills help mitigate the post disadvantage.​

Betting Strategy

The Fincher and Marr stables dominate the handicapping considerations, with both trainers demonstrating strong form at the meet. Spoonin Shuga faces inside post concerns but represents superior connections despite that disadvantage. Exacta plays using Spoonin Shuga and Hallie’s Gal in combination provide coverage of the most likely outcomes.​

Selections

Win: Spoonin Shuga

Place: Hallie’s Gal

Show: Baby Sisters Dream

Race 9 – Maiden Special Weight

Post Time: 3:21 PM MST

The ninth race features a 5 1/2 furlong maiden special weight for New Mexico bred two-year-olds running Lasix-free. The $55,000 purse attracts quality juveniles in the day’s most valuable maiden event.​

Pace Analysis

This juvenile maiden sprint develops with significant early speed as young horses seek their first victories. The Lasix-free conditions apply equally across the field, creating natural racing conditions for developing two-year-olds.​

The abbreviated 5 1/2 furlong distance favors juveniles demonstrating precocious speed while maintaining form through the final furlong. The ten-horse field creates potential traffic concerns, making the break from the gate crucial for securing favorable position.​

Key Contenders

Perfect Ruler represents trainer Todd Fincher with Olaf Hernandez aboard from post 8. The two-year-old gelding breaks outside but inside the far rail horses, providing reasonable positioning. Fincher’s exceptional statistics with New Mexico bred juveniles creates confidence despite limited past performance details.​

The gelding’s breeding and connections suggest quality, with Fincher’s patient development approach indicating readiness for competitive efforts. Hernandez’s tactical awareness helps secure favorable position from the outside post.​

Vanishing Money enters for trainer Dick Cappellucci with Elvin Gonzalez riding from post 9. The two-year-old gelding draws the far outside in the ten-horse field, creating ground loss concerns. Cappellucci’s meet-leading statistics combined with Gonzalez’s strong form provides confidence despite the post disadvantage.​

Secondary Choices

Mark My Kiss represents trainer Todd Fincher’s second entry with Oscar Andrade Jr aboard from post 2. The two-year-old gelding benefits from the inside-middle post position, providing tactical advantages. Andrade’s solid statistics when paired with leading trainers enhance placing prospects.​

Hold My Scotch enters for trainer Casey Lambert with Ken Tohill handling riding duties from post 10. The two-year-old gelding draws the far outside post, facing maximum ground loss. Lambert’s training operation demonstrates solid form with juveniles, suggesting this runner merits consideration despite the post.​

Betting Strategy

The Fincher and Cappellucci stables dominate with multiple entries, creating tactical considerations for handicapping. Perfect Ruler offers value from reasonable positioning with superior connections. Exacta plays using Perfect Ruler and Vanishing Money provide coverage despite both facing outside draws.​

Selections

Win: Perfect Ruler

Place: Vanishing Money

Show: Mark My Kiss

Race 10 – Maiden Special Weight

Post Time: 3:48 PM MST

The tenth race presents a 6 1/2 furlong maiden special weight for New Mexico bred three, four, and five-year-old males. The $55,000 purse attracts quality horses that have started for more than $25,000 or haven’t raced at that level.​

Pace Analysis

This maiden sprint for older males develops with competitive early fractions as horses seek breakthrough victories. The 6 1/2 furlong distance provides sufficient stretch for tactical adjustments while rewarding sustained speed.​

The twelve-horse field creates maximum traffic concerns, making post position and early speed crucial for securing favorable trips. The New Mexico bred restrictions ensure specialized competition where local trainers maintain advantages.​

Key Contenders

Private Equity represents trainer Todd Fincher with Olaf Hernandez aboard from post 12. The four-year-old gelding draws the far outside in the maximum field, creating significant ground loss concerns. Fincher’s exceptional meet statistics provide confidence despite the post disadvantage.​

The gelding’s older age suggests patient development by connections, with the four-year-old status potentially indicating untapped ability. Hernandez faces challenges from the outside but possesses tactical skills for navigating traffic.​

M L’s Sportscaster enters for trainer Joel Marr with Ken Tohill riding from post 7. The four-year-old gelding carries 123 pounds as an older horse from a middle post position. Marr’s solid training operation combined with Tohill’s experience creates appeal in this competitive maiden field.​

Secondary Choices

Gimme a Who represents trainer Joel Marr’s second entry with Miguel Fuentes Jr aboard from post 6. The three-year-old gelding benefits from the weight allowance while carrying 121 pounds from favorable positioning. Fuentes demonstrates strong form throughout the meet.​

Tap the Prize enters for trainer Vilma De La Cruz with Luis Ramon Rodriguez handling riding duties from post 9. The three-year-old colt carries 121 pounds from an outside middle position, providing reasonable tactical flexibility. De La Cruz’s training operation maintains respectable statistics.​

Betting Strategy

The maximum twelve-horse field creates chaos potential, with post position becoming crucial for securing clean trips. Private Equity faces significant disadvantages from the outside draw despite superior connections. M L’s Sportscaster offers value from the favorable middle post with proven connections. Exacta plays using those two with Gimme a Who provide coverage.​

Selections

Win: M L’s Sportscaster

Place: Private Equity

Show: Gimme a Who

Race 11 – Maiden Special Weight

Post Time: 4:15 PM MST

The eleventh race closes the program with a five furlong maiden special weight for two-year-olds running Lasix-free. The $45,000 purse attracts quality juveniles, with horses that have started for $25,000 or less in their last three starts receiving least preference.​

Pace Analysis

This juvenile sprint develops with significant early speed as young horses compete at the minimum distance. The Lasix-free conditions create natural racing environments for developing two-year-olds.​

The abbreviated five furlong distance heavily favors juveniles demonstrating pure speed from the gate, with tactical considerations minimized by the short trip. The twelve-horse field maximizes chaos potential, making the break crucial.​

Key Contenders

Lord Chatham represents trainer Joel Marr with Ken Tohill aboard from post 11. The two-year-old gelding narrowly missed victory in his most recent start, suggesting readiness for breakthrough performance. Marr’s patient juvenile development combined with Tohill’s tactical awareness creates confidence.​

The gelding draws outside but demonstrates sufficient speed to overcome the post position disadvantage at five furlongs. Tohill’s experience helps secure favorable position from the outside draw.​

Beers On Me enters for trainer Justin Evans with Olaf Hernandez riding from post 2. The two-year-old gelding benefits from the favorable inside-middle post position at the minimum distance. Evans’ training operation demonstrates solid form with juveniles, suggesting competitive efforts.​

Secondary Choices

Champagne Lane represents trainer Justin Evans’ second entry with Luis Valenzuela handling riding duties from post 6. The two-year-old gelding carries standard weight from a middle post position. Valenzuela’s exceptional form creates appeal despite the maiden status.​

Seven Rags enters for trainer Dan McFarlane with Miguel Fuentes Jr aboard from post 7. The two-year-old colt debuts with first-time blinkers, suggesting readiness for competitive efforts. Fuentes demonstrates strong statistics with first-time starters.​

Betting Strategy

The minimum five furlong distance creates pure speed emphasis, with post position less crucial than breaking alertly. Lord Chatham offers value based on recent near-miss combined with proven connections. Exacta plays using Lord Chatham with Beers On Me and Champagne Lane provide solid coverage.​

Selections

Win: Lord Chatham

Place: Beers On Me

Show: Champagne Lane

Jockey Notes and Insights

Alfredo Juarez Jr leads the Zia Park meet with exceptional consistency, having dominated the jockey standings in 2025 with 19 wins representing a 32% win rate, nearly double any other rider. The experienced jockey maintains a 53% in-the-money percentage across all mounts, demonstrating remarkable reliability for bettors. Juarez excels particularly when paired with trainer Martin Valdez-Cabral, winning at 46% when combined, and also demonstrates strong results with the Fincher and Cappellucci operations.​

Luis Valenzuela maintains exceptional form throughout the meet with multiple stakes victories and consistent win percentages across varied competition levels. The veteran rider demonstrates particular strength when partnered with trainer Todd Fincher, combining for numerous stakes scores including Holy Hank in the New Mexico Classic Derby and Matilda’s Mark in stakes competition. Valenzuela’s tactical awareness allows him to overcome disadvantageous post positions while maximizing horses’ abilities throughout the stretch run.​

Miguel Fuentes Jr brings strong tactical skills particularly effective in stakes competition, having piloted Let Him Be to victory in the Rocky Gulch New Mexico Classic. The jockey’s timing aboard first-time starters creates confidence when partnered with leading trainers, with notable success in New Mexico bred events throughout the meet. Fuentes demonstrates patience in traffic while maintaining position throughout, making him particularly effective in full fields.​

Floyd Wethey Jr provides veteran experience across all competition levels, maintaining a 15% win rate in 2025 with over $3.2 million in earnings. The rider excels when paired with the Dick Cappellucci stable, demonstrating tactical awareness in competitive claiming conditions. Wethey’s ability to rate horses effectively proves particularly valuable in sprint distances where pace dynamics become crucial.​

Elvin Gonzalez maintains solid statistics throughout 2025 with a 17% win rate and 48% in-the-money percentage across 828 mounts, earning over $4 million. The jockey demonstrates versatility across competition levels from maiden claiming through allowance conditions. Gonzalez excels at securing favorable position from middle post draws while maintaining tactical flexibility throughout races.​

Ken Tohill brings extensive experience with over 4,000 career victories, demonstrating remarkable longevity in the sport. The veteran rider maintains solid form at Zia Park with consistent in-the-money percentages across varied competition. Tohill’s tactical awareness proves particularly valuable in maiden special weight events where trip quality often determines outcomes.​

Fausto Da Silva maintains a 21% win rate in 2025 with strong form when paired with trainer Martin Valdez-Cabral. The combination wins at 40% when partnered, creating exceptional value for bettors. Da Silva demonstrates tactical skills in navigating traffic while securing favorable position throughout, particularly effective in sprint distances.​

Trainer Notes and Insights

Todd Fincher dominates the Zia Park meet with exceptional statistics, winning at a 56% rate in early meet action while battling Dick Cappellucci for the leading trainer title. The trainer demonstrates particular strength with New Mexico bred horses, having earned over $3 million in 2025 through strategic placement and patient development. Fincher excels with two-year-olds, winning 21% of starts while developing stakes performers including Bully Boy and Speed Merchant.​

Fincher’s operation maintains remarkable depth with six entries in the Hobbs Fall Classic Stakes, demonstrating the stable’s dominance in New Mexico bred juvenile competition. The trainer’s patient approach with maiden horses creates value opportunities when runners make second or third career starts. Fincher shows particular strength when paired with jockeys Luis Valenzuela and Floyd Wethey Jr, combining for numerous stakes victories throughout the meet.​

Dick Cappellucci emerges as another leading trainer at the meet with strong statistics across sprint distances. The conditioner maintains a solid win percentage while demonstrating effective placement in claiming conditions. Cappellucci excels with class droppers, winning at strong percentages when horses drop in claiming price. The stable shows particular strength when paired with jockeys Elvin Gonzalez and Floyd Wethey Jr.​

Martin Valdez-Cabral maintains strong statistics at the meet with a 22% overall win rate. The trainer excels with class droppers, winning at 24% with horses dropping in claiming price, and shows particular strength with New Mexico bred horses at 28%. Valdez-Cabral demonstrates consistent success when paired with jockey Fausto Da Silva at 40%, creating exceptional value for bettors. The operation’s ability to spot horses effectively in claiming races makes the barn particularly dangerous in lower-level events.​

Joel Marr brings solid credentials with consistent form across maiden special weight and allowance conditions. The trainer demonstrates patience with developing horses, allowing runners to mature naturally before competitive efforts. Marr shows strong statistics when paired with jockey Ken Tohill, combining tactical awareness with patient development strategies.​

Justin Evans maintains respectable statistics at the meet with a 28% win rate and over $2.1 million in earnings for 2025. The trainer demonstrates effective placement strategies across varied competition levels, with particular strength in allowance conditions. Evans’ patient development approach with maiden horses creates value opportunities when runners advance through conditions.​

Casey Lambert demonstrates solid form as a former jockey turned trainer, having expanded from five stalls to 33 at Zia Park through consistent success. The operation shows particular strength with maiden special weight horses, applying riding insights to training strategies. Lambert maintains respectable statistics when competing against the meet’s dominant trainers.​

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The closing day program at Zia Park creates numerous wagering opportunities across varied competition levels. The two stakes races opening the card provide exacta and trifecta value, particularly in the Hobbs Fall Classic where trainer Todd Fincher’s six entries create unusual dynamics. Handicappers should emphasize post position advantages in sprint races under one mile, with middle posts 2 through 6 demonstrating clear superiority throughout the meet.​

Multi-race wagers offer value by connecting maiden special weight favorites with competitive claiming races where class advantages become apparent. Pick 3 sequences beginning with Race 1 through Race 3 create affordable coverage while emphasizing superior trainer and jockey combinations. The Pick 4 spanning Races 4 through 7 incorporates two maiden special weights with claiming events, allowing single and multiple horse coverage based on confidence levels.​

Daily double opportunities exist connecting the two stakes races, with Country Club Crush/Bully Boy combinations offering reasonable value compared to straight win betting. Place and show wagering provides value on horses facing post position disadvantages, particularly in larger fields where traffic creates uncertainty. Exacta boxes using three horses from dominant trainer operations create consistent returns when barn form peaks.​

Late Pick 4 sequences from Race 8 through Race 11 emphasize maiden special weight events where trainer statistics prove most reliable. Single horses from the Fincher, Cappellucci, and Marr operations provide anchor points while allowing multiple selections in competitive races. Superfecta wagering becomes viable in the two stakes races where field size and competition create higher payouts.​

Vertical exotic wagers in individual races offer value when clear favorites emerge with strong post positions and connections. Exactas and trifectas keying top selections over multiple underneath runners provide coverage against upset scenarios. In races featuring stable entries from single trainers, alternative strategies emphasizing the secondary entry create value if stable tactics favor that runner.​

Cross-track wagers connecting Zia Park races with other afternoon tracks create expanded pool opportunities for exotic bets. Pick 5 sequences incorporating multiple tracks allow broader coverage while maintaining reasonable costs through strategic single-horse selections at Zia Park. Rolling exotic wagers beginning with the two stakes races create momentum for afternoon sequences through claiming and maiden events.​

Value plays exist throughout the card by emphasizing middle post positions in sprints combined with superior trainer-jockey partnerships. Horses drawing posts 3 through 5 with Fincher, Cappellucci, or Valdez-Cabral training paired with top jockeys offer consistent value across varied odds. Late-running horses face significant disadvantages on the speed-favoring surface, making early speed horses with tactical ability the most reliable wagering propositions.