The TRAO Classic Sprint Stakes at Will Rogers Downs promises an exciting showdown among seven Oklahoma-bred contenders. This six-furlong dirt race, with a purse of $55,000, features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Here’s a detailed analysis of the horses, jockeys, trainers, and pedigrees:
Horses and Profiles
- Salt Creek Kid (7-year-old gelding)
- Trainer: J. Sue Hunt
- Jockey: Obed Sanchez
- Pedigree: Euroears – Abo Hazel, by Victory Gallop
- Analysis: A conditioned allowance winner last season at Remington Park, Salt Creek Kid brings experience and consistency to the field. His pedigree suggests stamina and speed, making him a solid contender.
- Connors Outlaw (5-year-old gelding)
- Trainer: Kari Craddock
- Jockey: Leandro Goncalves
- Pedigree: Cinco Charlie – Le Grand Fromage, by Grand Slam
- Analysis: With a 4-for-7 record at Will Rogers Downs, Connors Outlaw is a proven performer on this track. His speed and front-running style make him a key player in this race.
- C W Prize (5-year-old gelding)
- Trainer: Joe S. Offolter
- Jockey: Richard Eramia
- Pedigree: Code West – M B Prize, by Pure Prize
- Analysis: C W Prize enters the race in strong form, following a sharp workout and a second-place finish in his last outing. His pedigree emphasizes durability and versatility.
- Mortify (4-year-old colt)
- Trainer: Jaime Castellanos
- Jockey: Lindey Wade
- Pedigree: Flat Out – Dame Fortune, by Into Mischief
- Analysis: Mortify returns to sprinting after competing in route races. His pedigree combines speed and stamina, and his last win at six furlongs suggests he could be a threat.
- Tommyhawk (8-year-old gelding)
- Trainer: Randy E. Swango
- Jockey: Luis Quinonez
- Pedigree: Kick On – Saron’s Time, by Timebank
- Analysis: A seasoned veteran, Tommyhawk has the experience to capitalize on a hot pace. His pedigree highlights resilience and adaptability.
- Our Cornerstone (6-year-old gelding)
- Trainer: Jerry Glen Stephens
- Jockey: Travis Cunningham
- Pedigree: Optimizer – American Sound, by Awesome Again
- Analysis: A four-time winner at Will Rogers Downs, Our Cornerstone is a reliable performer on this track. His pedigree suggests a balance of speed and endurance.
- Legacy Account (4-year-old gelding)
- Trainer: Durk Peery
- Jockey: Alfredo Triana Jr.
- Pedigree: Den’s Legacy – Liquor Account, by Liquor Cabinet (IRE)
- Analysis: Legacy Account enters the race off a front-running victory in a first-level allowance. His pedigree emphasizes speed, making him a potential pace-setter.
Race Dynamics
The race is expected to feature a competitive pace, with Connors Outlaw and Legacy Account likely to vie for the lead early. C W Prize and Tommyhawk could benefit from a fast pace, while Mortify’s return to sprinting adds an intriguing element. Salt Creek Kid and Our Cornerstone bring consistency and track familiarity, making them strong contenders.
Predicted Contenders
- Top Speed: Connors Outlaw, Legacy Account
- Strong Finishers: C W Prize, Tommyhawk
- Track Specialists: Salt Creek Kid, Our Cornerstone
