ZIA PARK – Zia Park presents its marquee juvenile feature with the Hobbs Fall Classic Stakes, a $150,000 test for New Mexico-bred two-year-olds. Stretching across one mile and seventy yards, this dirt contest brings together emerging talent for a tactically rich race that blends speed, stamina, and pedigree.
Race Overview
- Eligibility: NM-bred 2-year-olds
- Distance: 1 mile & 70 yards
- Surface: Dirt
- Purse: $150,000
- Location: Zia Park, Hobbs, NM
- Date: December 21, 2024
Field Breakdown & Contenders
| Horse | PP | Jockey | Trainer | Pedigree | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holy Hank | 1 | T J Hebert | S J Buechler | Holy Lute × City Veil (Gotham City) | Rail draw, early speed, pedigree depth |
| Lime Chilton | 2 | A Medellin | C Zamora | Sporting Chance × Limeade (Summer Bird) | Late closer with upset potential |
| B Bold Charlie | 3 | E Gonzalez | D Cappellucci | Shame On Charlie × B Bold Cindy (Desert God) | Stamina specialist, closes hard |
| Sapello Riddler | 4 | I J Rosendo | M Valdez-Cabral Jr. | Bernster × Maria’s Own (Maria’s Mon) | Needs improvement to contend |
| He’s a Genius | 5 | M T Fuentes Jr. | D J Barton | Attila’s Storm × Lady Genius (Quinton’s Gold) | Unpredictable; well-bred wildcard |
| Stand Up Guy | 6 | C Ramos | T W Fincher | American Anthem × Diabolical Dame (Diabolical) | Consistent grinder with tactical speed |
| Holy Rebel | 7 | E P Gomez | S J Buechler | Holy Lute × Sidewinder Sally (Mr. Gold Mover) | Stablemate to Holy Hank; outsider appeal |
| Short Round Bound | 8 | F Amparan | C T Lambert | Runaway Ghost × Just Keep Movin (Trappe Shot) | Improving form, but needs a breakout performance |
Spotlight Picks
- B Bold Charlie – Brings late-race energy and a proven distance pedigree; a serious threat if pace collapses.
- Holy Hank – Secures the rail and could dictate terms early. Strong connections add confidence.
- Lime Chilton – A sneaky value play with one-run potential; ideal for trifectas and deeper exotics.
- Stand Up Guy – Under-the-radar performer with tactical smarts; no surprise if he fights to the wire.
Tactical Breakdown
Expect a layered pace scenario: Holy Hank and Stand Up Guy may take early initiative, while closers like B Bold Charlie and Lime Chilton sit tight for the stretch drive. Jockey decisions and mid-race positioning will prove pivotal in determining who owns the lane turning for home.
Final Word
The Hobbs Fall Classic Stakes lines up as one of the most competitive juvenile events of the season in New Mexico. With deep pedigrees, experienced hands, and tactical variety, this race should offer a thrilling finish and a preview of future stakes contenders on the Southwest circuit.
