Event Details
Venue: Laurel Park, Laurel, Maryland
Race: Richard W. Small Stakes – Race 8
Post Time: 3:22 PM ET
Distance/Surface: 1 1/8 miles, dirt
Eligibility: 3yo+
Purse: $100,000 (1st: $63,000; 2nd: $20,000; 3rd: $10,000; 4th: $7,000)
Horse-by-Horse Analysis
Barbadian Runner (Post 5, 6/5): Walters trainee, dominant 3yo with multiple wins (122211). Carries 124 lbs but has tactical speed and stamina. Heavy favorite.
Hardspun Reason (Post 4, 7/2): Motion’s veteran gelding, consistent graded‑level performer. Strong closing kick at 9f. Major threat.
Phantom Speed (Post 2, 4/1): Arrogate gelding for Saville, sharp allowance/stakes form. Sheldon Russell aboard. Contender for exacta.
Secret Zipper (Post 6, 9/2): Capuano’s gelding, versatile runner with multiple wins. Wide draw but reliable. Value play.
Hittheroadjak (Post 1, 6/1): Sanchez‑Salomon’s gelding, rail draw, tactical speed. Needs rebound from recent mid‑pack finishes. Exotics inclusion.
Formal Affair (Post 3, 12/1): Corrales colt, recent win streak but stepping up in class. Longshot.
Track & Weather
Conditions: Dirt expected Fast; temps ~55°F, partly cloudy, light winds.
Impact: Laurel’s 9f dirt favors tactical speed and stamina; inside posts advantageous.
