Horse Racing Analysis and Preview: Tondi Stakes at Fonner Park

The Tondi Stakes, held on the dirt course at Fonner Park, is set to showcase an elite field of horses aged three years and older on March 22, 2025. This race is known for attracting top-class talent.

Horses and Their Chances

1. Toomanynames (KY): A lightly raced 4-year-old gelding by Jimmy Creed out of Greatest Show (Storm Cat). Though bred for speed, his form suggests inconsistency. Trainer S. Rushton has paired him with jockey A. B. Ramos (notable for aggressive rides), but the 15/1 morning line indicates an uphill battle.
2. Subsidize (KY): A seasoned 7-year-old gelding by Into Mischief out of Diva Star (Cherokee Run). This veteran competes under the guidance of T. D. Rushton, a trainer known for getting strong performances out of older horses. Jockey J. R. Ironeyes has a solid reputation for pace management. At 10/1, his form may not match his pedigree.
3. Spirit’s Mischief (KY): Another Into Mischief progeny, this 4-year-old gelding is out of Stave (Ghostzapper), indicating a blend of early speed and stamina. S. Condon handles his training, with R. Hisby aboard—a capable and strategic jockey. His 9/2 odds suggest strong potential.
4. Under Oath (KY): A 6-year-old horse by Speightstown out of Jojo Warrior (Pioneerof the Nile), his pedigree leans toward versatility. With S. Rushton training and N. Haar riding, the team aims to capitalize on his experience. Odds of 5/1 reflect a balanced expectation.
5. Axel Steel (TX): Texas-bred 6-year-old gelding by Mohaymen out of Air Guitar (Five Star Day). Trainer M. N. Hibdon fields two runners, and jockey D. Cardoso is reliable in sprint races. The morning line favorite at 3/1 suggests he’s been consistent and is suited to the conditions.
6. Forced Ranking (KY): A 6-year-old gelding by Mastery out of Market Magic (After Market), showcasing stamina potential. Trainer S. Condon has a solid strategy in his hands, and T. Cunningham is capable of pushing him forward. However, 10/1 odds indicate a dark horse.
7. Uncashed (FL): By Uncaptured out of Charlie B (War Chant), this 5-year-old gelding exemplifies durability. Trainer L. Rivelli is known for preparing horses well, and J. A. Medina is tactically sound. His 5/2 odds make him the second choice and a contender.
8. Drivehappy (KY): This 7-year-old gelding by Runhappy out of Entrustment (Forestry) could defy the odds with the expertise of trainer M. N. Hibdon and jockey V. J. Bailon. However, his 15/1 morning line suggests challenges ahead.
9. Arthurian (KY): By Oxbow out of Taptam (Pleasant Tap), this 7-year-old gelding displays a mix of stamina and grit. Trainer D. C. Anderson and jockey K. Roman might leverage his potential as an outsider with 6/1 odds.

Trainer and Jockey Analysis

• S. Rushton: With multiple entries (Toomanynames and Under Oath), his methods are calculated but face challenges against stronger trainers.
• M. N. Hibdon: Handles favorites Axel Steel and Drivehappy with strategic insights; his record shows success in similar stakes races.
• S. Condon: Spirit’s Mischief and Forced Ranking show promise; his teamwork with jockeys often leads to competitive performances.
• L. Rivelli: Renowned for top-class preparation, particularly with favorites like Uncashed. His collaboration with J. A. Medina adds strength.
• T. D. Rushton: Manages Subsidize effectively but may not bring enough to eclipse stronger contenders.

Pedigree Spotlight

• Into Mischief’s Progeny: Dominates the race with strong performance lines, particularly in sprints. Spirit’s Mischief stands out.
• Runhappy Line (Drivehappy): Sprint-focused bloodlines but struggles in competitive environments.
• Speightstown’s Influence (Under Oath): Combines versatility and speed, proving reliable in similar setups.