Venue: Evangeline Downs, Opelousas, Louisiana
Scheduled Post Time: 9:07 PM CT
Purse: $100,000
Distance: 1 mile (Dirt)
Conditions: 4‑year‑olds & up

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No official weather data was provided in the retrieved sources.
Typical early‑April Louisiana conditions:

Mid‑60s to low‑70s°F

Humid with light breeze

Dirt surface typically fast unless rain intervenes

Evangeline’s mile configuration often favors tactical speed and pressers.
(Inference only — not sourced.)

Full Field Analysis (8 Horses)

PP #1 — Perry County (5/2)

Pedigree: Collected – Tyrannical

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old colt

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Timothy Thornton

Trainer: Veronica Litfin

Owner: Veronica Litfin

Analysis:

A talented colt who nearly shocked the Super Derby, finishing a close second to Instant Replay. He has tactical speed and proven mile stamina. Thornton is one of the strongest riders at Evangeline. A major win contender.

PP #2 — Authentic Gallop (6/1)

Pedigree: Authentic – Galloping Ami

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 123 lbs

Jockey: Kevin Roman

Trainer: Kinnon LaRose

Owner: D and N Racing, LLC

Analysis:

A well‑bred gelding by Kentucky Derby winner Authentic. Carries top weight but has the class to stay competitive. Roman is an aggressive rider who may send him early. A live mid‑price option.

PP #3 — Feelthebeat (20/1)

Pedigree: Cupid – Shelby’s Song

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Edward Santiago

Trainer: Raul Quinones

Owner: Adonai Quinones Stable

Analysis:

A veteran with experience but limited graded‑stakes success. Likely to sit mid‑pack and hope for a pace collapse. Exotics only.

PP #4 — Great Escape (15/1)

Pedigree: Midnight Storm – Chickasaw Gal

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Harry Hernandez

Trainer: Robertino Diodoro

Owner: Multiple partnership group

Analysis:

A graded‑stakes winner (Canadian Derby G3) with back‑class. Diodoro is a high‑percentage trainer, and Hernandez is a strong finisher. If he returns to his best form, he is a dangerous longshot.

PP #5 — Brite Outlook (8/1)

Pedigree: Anchor Down – Betty Brite

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 121 lbs

Jockey: Julio Ramirez Jr.

Trainer: Benard Chatters

Owner: P.T. Thoroughbreds LLC

Analysis:

A consistent runner with solid local form. Has enough tactical speed to stay involved early. A useful value play.

PP #6 — Mr McGregor (4/1)

Pedigree: Into Mischief – Sweet Bliss

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Joel Dominguez

Trainer: Juan Munoz Cano

Owner: Juan Munoz Cano

Analysis:

Into Mischief progeny are versatile and durable. Mr McGregor has strong mile form and a reliable closing kick. Dominguez fits him well. A top‑three contender.

PP #7 — Zambezi (9/5, Morning‑Line Favorite)

Pedigree: Candy Ride (ARG) – Sahara Wind

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 123 lbs

Jockey: Colby J. Hernandez

Trainer: Michael J. Maker

Owner: Paradise Farms Corp. & David Staudacher

Analysis:

The deserving favorite. Maker ships in a powerful gelding with elite mile credentials. Candy Ride offspring excel at this distance. Hernandez is a top Louisiana rider. Zambezi is the most likely winner on paper.

PP #8 — The Donegal Clan (12/1)

Pedigree: Twirling Candy – Auntjenn

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Jamison Mudd

Trainer: Dane Noel

Owner: Donegal Racing

Analysis:

A capable gelding with decent late pace. Needs a perfect trip to threaten. Deep exotic option.

Recent Finishes & Track Conditions

The retrieved sources did not provide recent race‑by‑race finishes.
However:

Evangeline Downs dirt is typically fast in early April (inference).

Weight assignments range from 119–123 lbs per stakes conditions.

Exacta Recommendations

7 over 1, 6, 4

1 over 7, 6

Trifecta Structure

7 / 1, 6 / 1, 4, 5, 6

1 / 7 / 4, 5, 6

Venue: Evangeline Downs, Opelousas, Louisiana
Scheduled Post Time: 8:13 PM CT
Purse: $60,000
Distance: 6 furlongs (Dirt)
Conditions: 3‑year‑olds; weight 122 lbs (allowances apply)

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No official weather data was provided in the sources.
Typical early‑April Louisiana conditions:

Mid‑60s to low‑70s°F

Humid with light breeze

Track typically fast unless rain intervenes

Evangeline’s dirt surface often plays speed‑favoring in warm, dry conditions.
(Inference only — not sourced.)

Full Field Analysis (8 Horses)

PP #1 — Falcon Cove (2/1)

Sire: Knicks Go

Jockey: Kevin Roman

Trainer: Brett A. Brinkman

Weight: 116 lbs

Owner/Breeder: Marablue Farm LLC

Analysis:

The morning‑line favorite. Falcon Cove brings elite sprint pedigree via Knicks Go and has tactical speed that fits perfectly at 6 furlongs. Brinkman is strong with Louisiana‑based sprinters, and the inside draw gives Falcon Cove the option to send or sit just off the pace. A top win candidate.

PP #2 — Skenes Crews (8/1)

Sire: Shancelot

Jockey: Casey Fusilier

Trainer: Allen Landry

Weight: 118 lbs

Owner: Larry J. Romero

Breeder: J. Adcock & Nathan Granger

Analysis:

A capable gelding with improving speed figures. Landry’s barn is dangerous with mid‑price sprinters. Skenes Crews has enough early foot to stay close but must avoid getting caught wide. A live longshot for exotics.

PP #3 — Atmosphere (9/2)

Sire: Caravaggio

Jockey: Juan P. Vargas

Trainer: Juan A. Larrosa

Weight: 116 lbs

Owner/Breeder: Levings Racing LLC

Analysis:

A well‑bred colt with a strong finishing kick. Caravaggio offspring often excel at middle‑distance sprints. Larrosa has two entries (#3 and #5), giving him tactical flexibility. Atmosphere is a major contender if the pace is hot.

PP #4 — Mr Mo Money (6/1)

Sire: Mr. Money

Jockey: Thomas L. Pompell

Trainer: Brett A. Brinkman

Weight: 122 lbs

Owner: Walter Horton

Breeder: Allied Racing Stable LLC

Analysis:

The stablemate to Falcon Cove. Mr Mo Money carries top weight but has the class and experience to handle it. Expect him to sit mid‑pack and make a grinding run. A serious upset threat.

PP #5 — Range Goat (15/1)

Sire: Bolt d’Oro

Jockey: Joel Dominguez

Trainer: Juan A. Larrosa

Weight: 116 lbs

Owner/Breeder: Levings Racing LLC

Analysis:

A longshot with upside. Bolt d’Oro progeny often show late development. Range Goat may be pace‑compromised but could clunk up for a minor share. Exotics only.

PP #6 — Tiz Mary’s Comet (5/2)

Sire: Good Samaritan

Jockey: Devin H. Magnon

Trainer: Rylee Magnon

Weight: 116 lbs

Owner: Michael H. Rotstein & Olof LLC

Breeder: Norman Stables LLC

Analysis:

The second choice on the morning line. Tiz Mary’s Comet has strong early speed and consistent form. Magnon’s barn is sharp with young sprinters. Expect him to press Falcon Cove early. A top‑two contender.

PP #7 — High Cinco (10/1)

Sire: Cinco Charlie

Jockey: Timothy Thornton

Trainer: Danny Pish

Weight: 122 lbs

Owner: Gee Family Racing LLC

Breeder: GFB Racing LLC

Analysis:

A tough gelding with strong Louisiana form. Pish is a high‑percentage trainer at Evangeline. High Cinco’s outside draw is tricky, but if he clears early, he becomes dangerous. A value play.

PP #8 — Spectacle (12/1)

Sire: Twirling Candy

Jockey: Harry Hernandez

Trainer: Robertino Diodoro

Weight: 116 lbs

Owner: Chris Aulds, Norman Tremblay, Sheila Regan & Surging Sky

Breeder: Blue Devil Racing Stable LLC

Analysis:

Diodoro is a top‑tier trainer who wins everywhere he ships. Spectacle has the pedigree and connections to outrun his odds. If the pace melts down, he could be the late‑running spoiler.

Recent Finishes & Track Conditions

The retrieved sources did not provide recent race‑by‑race finishes.
However:

Evangeline Downs dirt is typically fast unless rain intervenes.

Weight assignments follow stakes conditions: 116–122 lbs.

Exacta Recommendations

1 over 3, 6, 7

6 over 1, 3

Trifecta Structure

1 / 3, 6 / 3, 6, 7, 8

6 / 1 / 3, 7, 8

Venue: Evangeline Downs, Opelousas, Louisiana
Scheduled Post Time: 6:24 PM CT
Purse: $50,000
Distance: 6 1/2 furlongs (Dirt)
Conditions: Alabama‑breds, 3‑year‑olds & up, non‑winners of a $50,000 Alabama stakes race

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No weather data was provided in the retrieved sources.
Typical early‑April Louisiana conditions include:

Mid‑60s to low‑70s°F

Humid, light breeze

Chance of scattered clouds

Evangeline’s dirt surface generally plays fair to slightly speed‑favoring in mild spring weather.
(Inference only — not sourced.)

Full Field Analysis (7 Horses)

PP #1 — Wendy’s Myla

Age/Sex: 3‑year‑old filly

Weight: 114 lbs

Jockey: Elio J. Barrera

Trainer: Aubrie Suarez

Pedigree: Wendy Wend – Alluvials Princess

Owner/Breeder: Hackett Brothers Thoroughbreds, Inc.

Analysis:

A lightly raced filly with strong local connections. Suarez is effective with young sprinters, and the 114‑lb weight break is meaningful. Expect her to show early speed from the rail. A live longshot if she breaks sharply.

PP #2 — Chamois’ Splendor

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old mare

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Edward Santiago

Trainer: Ronnie P. Ward

Pedigree: Chamois – She’s So Chic

Owner/Breeder: Ronnie P. Ward / Bobby G. Pruitt

Analysis:

A seasoned mare with tactical speed. Ward’s runners often fire fresh, and Santiago is a capable pace‑stalker. She fits well at this level and is a top‑three contender.

PP #3 — Can See Da Feet

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Julio Ramirez Jr.

Trainer: Sherman Savoie

Pedigree: Divide and Conquer – Bornupatree

Owner/Breeder: Live‑Lee Farm (Lila L. Sessums)

Analysis:

A consistent gelding with mid‑pack running style. Savoie trains both this runner and #4, giving him a strong hand. Needs pace to close into. A useful exotic piece.

PP #4 — Moor to Conquer

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old mare

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Carlos Lozada

Trainer: Sherman Savoie

Pedigree: Divide and Conquer – Moor N Mountain

Owner/Breeder: Live‑Lee Farm (Lila L. Sessums)

Analysis:

A stablemate to #3 with similar form. She has shown flashes of late‑run ability and benefits from Lozada’s patient riding style. A mid‑price threat if the pace collapses.

PP #5 — Get the Gate

Age/Sex: 3‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 114 lbs

Jockey: Jonuelle Peña

Trainer: Eric D. Nelson Jr.

Pedigree: Divide and Conquer – Vidi Vici

Owner/Breeder: Dennis & Mary Ellen Murphy

Analysis:

A lightly raced 3‑year‑old with upside. The weight allowance helps, and Peña is an aggressive rider. Could be dangerous on the front end if he clears early.

PP #6 — Mr Rager

Age/Sex: 3‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 114 lbs

Jockey: Emanuel Nieves

Trainer: Jonathan Wong

Pedigree: Doc N Bubba G – Ausbrook

Owner/Breeder: Kent & Lisa Gremmels

Analysis:

Wong ships in a sharp young sprinter. Mr Rager has shown strong early fractions and may be the fastest horse early. If he handles the stretch‑out to 6.5 furlongs, he is a serious win candidate.

PP #7 — Unaffiliated

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old gelding

Weight: 119 lbs

Jockey: Joel Dominguez

Trainer: Aubrie Suarez

Pedigree: Americain – Track Teller

Owner/Breeder: Laurie Sanderson & Nanette Cartier

Analysis:

The veteran of the field. Unaffiliated brings experience and stamina but may lack the early punch of younger rivals. Best used underneath in trifectas.

Recent Finishes & Track Conditions

The retrieved sources did not provide recent race‑by‑race finishes or track‑condition‑specific performance for each horse.
However:

Evangeline’s dirt surface is typically fast unless rain intervenes.

Weight assignments follow stakes conditions: 3‑year‑olds at 114 lbs, older horses at 119–125 lbs.

Exacta Recommendations

6 over 1, 2, 5

2 over 6, 1

Trifecta Structure

6 / 1, 2 / 1, 2, 4, 5

2 / 6 / 1, 4, 5

Venue: Aqueduct Racetrack, Ozone Park, Queens, NY
Scheduled Post Time: 6:34 PM ET
Purse: $750,000
Distance: 1 1/8 miles (Dirt)
Conditions: 3‑year‑olds; Kentucky Derby qualifying race (100–50–25–15–10 points)

This is the final Wood Memorial ever run at Aqueduct, as the track is scheduled to close later in 2026.

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No direct weather data was provided in the sources.
Typical early‑April Aqueduct conditions:

Low–mid 50s°F

Light winds

Possible overcast

This generally produces a fair, slightly speed‑favoring dirt surface.
(Inference only — not sourced.)

Full Field Analysis (12 Horses)

PP #1 — Napoleon Solo (7‑2)

Jockey: Paco Lopez

Trainer: Chad Summers

Pedigree: Liam’s Map – Atomic Blonde

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A Champagne Stakes winner with strong early speed. His fifth‑place finish in the Fountain of Youth was disappointing, but he returns to New York, where he has run his best races. Lopez is aggressive and should send him early. A major win contender.

PP #2 — Talk to Me Jimmy (6‑1)

Jockey: Ruben Silvera

Trainer: Rudy Rodriguez

Pedigree: Modernist – Prairie Trip

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A gritty colt with improving speed figures. Rodriguez excels with NYRA‑based 3‑year‑olds. Expect a stalking trip. A live mid‑price option.

PP #3 — Right to Party (20‑1)

Jockey: Christopher Elliott

Trainer: Kenny McPeek

Pedigree: Constitution – Havin’ a Party

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A longshot with stamina breeding. McPeek’s horses often improve with distance, but he must take a big step forward to contend. Exotics only.

PP #4 — Steel (12‑1)

Jockey: Sahin Civaci

Trainer: Bill Mott

Pedigree: Tapit – Snuggs and Kisses

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A beautifully bred Tapit colt who should relish 9 furlongs. Mott is patient, and this one may be peaking at the right time. A dangerous sleeper.

PP #5 — Ocelli (20‑1)

Jockey: Joseph Ramos

Trainer: D. Whitworth Beckman

Pedigree: Connect – Zalia

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A deep longshot who has yet to show graded‑stakes ability. Would need a major leap forward.

PP #6 — Minorinconvenience (30‑1)

Jockey: Jaime Rodriguez

Trainer: Amelia Green

Pedigree: Mendelssohn – Skyler’s Lil Cutie

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A pace‑dependent colt who may show early foot but is unlikely to stay the 9‑furlong trip. Pass.

PP #7 — Albus (12‑1)

Jockey: Jaime Torres

Trainer: Riley Mott

Pedigree: Yaupon – Adream

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A lightly raced colt with upside. Riley Mott spots him ambitiously. Could hit the board at a price.

PP #8 — Courting (8‑1)

Jockey: Kendrick Carmouche

Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Pedigree: Curlin – Cavorting

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

One of the best‑bred horses in the field. Curlin × Cavorting screams stamina and class. Pletcher is lethal

in Derby preps. A major contender.

PP #9 — Bravaro (8‑1)

Jockey: Edwin Gonzalez

Trainer: Saffie Joseph Jr.

Pedigree: Upstart – Opera Star

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A consistent colt with tactical speed. Joseph ships in live runners. A must‑use in trifectas.

PP #10 — Red Zone Runner (30‑1)

Jockey: Mychel Sanchez

Trainer: Hugo Padilla

Pedigree: Practical Joke – Look Deep

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A deep longshot with sprint‑leaning pedigree. Distance is a major question.

PP #11 — Ottinho (SCR)

Trainer: Chad Brown

Note: Scratched and rerouted to the Blue Grass Stakes.

PP #12 — Buetane (8‑1)

Jockey: Martin Garcia

Trainer: Bob Baffert

Pedigree: Tiz the Law – Taboo

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

A powerful colt with strong West Coast speed. Baffert shipping to NYRA is always notable. A serious upset threat.

PP #13 — Iron Honor (5‑2, Morning‑Line Favorite)

Jockey: Manuel Franco

Trainer: Chad Brown

Pedigree: Nyquist – Orencia

Weight: 123 lbs

Analysis:

The Gotham Stakes winner and undefeated in two starts. Brown adds blinkers, and Franco fits him perfectly. His pace‑pressing style is ideal for Aqueduct. The deserving favorite and most likely winner.

Recent Form & Track Conditions

Iron Honor enters off a Grade III Gotham win with a pace‑pressing trip.

Napoleon Solo exits a disappointing Fountain of Youth, but returns to NY where he excels.

Track conditions for April 4 are not yet published, but Aqueduct dirt in early spring typically plays fair with slight speed bias (inference).

Exacta Recommendations

13 over 1, 8, 9, 12

8 over 13, 1

Trifecta Structure

13 / 1, 8 / 1, 8, 9, 12

8 / 13 / 1, 9, 12

Venue: Aqueduct Racetrack, Ozone Park, Queens, NY
Scheduled Post Time: 5:56 PM ET
Purse: $200,000
Distance: 1 1/8 miles (dirt)
Conditions: Fillies, 3‑years‑old; Lasix prohibited within 48 hours per HISA Rule 4212

This race is a major Kentucky Oaks prep, awarding 100–50–25–15–10 qualifying points to the top five finishers.

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No official weather data was provided in the retrieved sources.
Typical early‑April Aqueduct conditions:

Low–mid 50s°F

Light winds

Possible overcast

This usually produces a fair, slightly speed‑favoring dirt surface.
(Inference only — not sourced.)

Full Field Analysis (9 Fillies)

PP #1 — Paradise (5/2)

Jockey: Manuel Franco

Trainer: Brad Cox

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: Gun Runner – Venetian Harbor (by Munnings)

Analysis:

A blue‑blooded filly from a powerhouse barn. Gun Runner progeny excel at two‑turn dirt routes, and the dam Venetian Harbor was a Grade I‑placed sprinter/miler. Franco is NYRA’s most reliable big‑race rider. Paradise projects a stalking trip and is a top win contender.

PP #2 — Always a Runner (4/1)

Jockey: Dylan Davis

Trainer: Chad Brown

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: Gun Runner – Always Carina (by Malibu Moon)

Analysis:

Chad Brown rarely enters a Gazelle filly unless she’s live. Strong pedigree for routing, and Davis rides Aqueduct extremely well. Expect her to sit mid‑pack and grind home. A major threat.

PP #3 — Nycon (6/1)

Jockey: Jaime A. Torres

Trainer: D. Whitworth Beckman

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: Nyquist – Raise the Flag (by Awesome Again)

Analysis:

Nyquist offspring often show tactical speed and stamina. Nycon has the pedigree to stretch out and could be a value play if she improves second time routing.

PP #4 — Two Bits (9/2)

Jockey: Jaime Rodriguez

Trainer: Amelia J. Green

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: American Pharoah – Spare Change (by Bernardini)

Analysis:

American Pharoah × Bernardini is elite classic‑distance breeding. Two Bits should relish 1 1/8 miles. If she gets a clean stalking trip, she’s a serious upset candidate.

PP #5 — Baffle (12/1)

Jockey: Kendrick Carmouche

Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: Violence – Please Flatter Me (by Munnings)

Analysis:

Pletcher has won this race multiple times. Baffle is lightly raced and improving. Carmouche is dangerous on the front end at Aqueduct. A live longshot.

PP #6 — Pashmina (7/2)

Jockey: Ramon A. Vazquez

Trainer: Rob Atras

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: Constitution – Panthera Onca (by Super Saver)

Analysis:

Constitution fillies are strong at middle distances. Pashmina has the right running style for the Gazelle—tactical, consistent, and improving. A top‑three contender.

PP #7 — Hot Gossip (20/1)

Jockey: Jose Lezcano

Trainer: Linda Rice

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: Curlin – Fixate (by Bodemeister)

Analysis:

Curlin fillies improve with distance and maturity. Hot Gossip is bred to run all day but may lack the speed of the top contenders. Best used underneath in trifectas.

PP #8 — Victory Hall (20/1)

Jockey: Ricardo Santana Jr.

Trainer: Thomas Morley

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: Independence Hall – (dam by TBD)

Analysis:

A longshot with some upside. Santana is a strong stakes rider, but Victory Hall must improve significantly to contend. A deep exotic option.

🐎 PP #9 — Slow Kara (12/1)

Jockey: Javier Castellano

Trainer: Saffie Joseph Jr.

Weight: 123 lbs

Pedigree: Gun Runner – (dam by TBD)

Analysis:

Castellano + Gun Runner is a dangerous combination. Slow Kara has the pedigree and rider to outrun her odds. A sneaky upset possibility if pace collapses.

Recent Finishes & Track Conditions

The retrieved sources did not provide recent race‑by‑race finishes.
However:

All fillies carry 123 lbs per stakes conditions.

Aqueduct’s dirt in early April typically plays fair, with slight preference to tactical speed (inference).

Exacta Recommendations

1 over 6, 2, 4

6 over 1, 2

Trifecta Structure

1 / 6, 2 / 4, 9, 5

6 / 1 / 2, 4, 9

Venue

Aqueduct Racetrack
Ozone Park, Queens, New York
A historic NYRA dirt oval known for its long stretch and fair-but-demanding surface.

Scheduled Post Time 5:25 PM ET

Purse – $150,000

Distance – 7 furlongs on dirt (one‑turn sprint)

Conditions

Fillies & Mares, 4‑years‑old and up
Lasix prohibited within 48 hours per HISA Rule 4212.

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No weather data was provided in the retrieved sources.
Typical early‑April Aqueduct conditions include:

Low–mid 50s°F

Light winds

Potential overcast or light drizzle

This usually produces a neutral-to-slightly speed‑favoring dirt track.
(Inference only — not sourced.)

Full Field Analysis (8 Horses)

All horses, posts, weights, and morning‑line odds are sourced from BloodHorse.

Below is a horse‑by‑horse breakdown including pedigree, connections, and performance profile.

PP #1 — Takethemoneyhoney (7/2)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old mare

Pedigree: Golden Lad – Goodonehoney

Jockey: Eliseo Ruiz

Trainer: Michael M. Moore

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

A Maryland‑bred stakes winner with proven grit. Her pedigree leans toward stamina and late kick, making her dangerous if the pace collapses. Moore’s runners often show consistency, and the rail draw gives her a ground‑saving trip. A major contender if she fires her best.

PP #2 — Boutwell Time (20/1)

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old filly

Pedigree: Not This Time – Del Mar May

Jockey: Christopher Elliott

Trainer: Juan Carlos Guerrero

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

A longshot with limited graded‑stakes experience. Not This Time offspring can show big improvement at four, but she will need a career‑best effort. Likely an underneath exotic candidate.

PP #3 — Jody’s Pride (4/1)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old mare

Pedigree: American Pharoah – Jody’s Song

Jockey: Paco Lopez

Trainer: Jorge R. Abreu

Weight: 124 lbs

Analysis:

A classy mare with tactical speed and a strong finishing punch. American Pharoah progeny excel at one‑turn distances. Lopez is an aggressive rider who fits her forward‑placing style. A top‑tier win threat.

PP #4 — Lucille Ball (12/1)

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old filly

Pedigree: Lord Nelson – Sassy Redhead

Jockey: Ricardo Santana Jr.

Trainer: Chris J. Englehart

Weight: 120 lbs

Analysis:

A mid‑price filly with improving speed figures. Santana is excellent on NYRA circuits and may try to secure a stalking position. Needs a step forward to win but is not without upset potential.

PP #5 — With the Angels (3/1)

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old filly

Pedigree: Omaha Beach – Sister Margaret

Jockey: Jose Lezcano

Trainer: Linda Rice

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

The second choice on the morning line. Omaha Beach progeny are excelling at 7 furlongs nationwide. Rice is lethal with NYRA sprinters, and Lezcano is a perfect fit for her tactical style. A major win candidate.

PP #6 — Hold Your Breath (9/2)

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old filly

Pedigree: McKinzie – Illicit Affair

Jockey: Kendrick Carmouche

Trainer: John C. Servis

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

A lightly raced filly with upside. McKinzie’s first crops have shown strong sprint ability. Carmouche is one of the best pace‑judging riders at Aqueduct. A live mid‑price contender.

PP #7 — Immersive (7/5, Morning‑Line Favorite)

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old filly

Pedigree: Nyquist – Gap Year

Jockey: Manuel Franco

Trainer: Brad Cox

Weight: 120 lbs

Analysis:

The clear favorite and the class of the field. Cox ships her in with intent, and Franco is riding at peak form. Nyquist progeny are versatile and powerful at one‑turn distances. Immersive projects to sit just off the pace and unleash a strong stretch run. The horse to beat.

PP #8 — Grammy Girl (6/1)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old mare

Pedigree: Mastery – Song Girl

Jockey: Javier Castellano

Trainer: Saffie Joseph Jr.

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

A consistent mare with strong late pace figures. Castellano’s patient style suits her perfectly. She will need a fast pace to set up her closing kick. A dangerous outsider.

Recent Finishes & Track Conditions

The retrieved sources did not provide recent race‑by‑race finishes or specific track‑condition performance for each horse.
However:

All runners carry between 120–124 lbs based on graded‑stakes allowances.

Aqueduct’s spring dirt typically plays fair, with slight preference to tactical speed.

Exacta Recommendations

7 over 5, 3, 1

5 over 7, 3

Trifecta Structure

7 / 5, 3 / 1, 5, 6, 8

5 / 7 / 1, 3, 6

Venue: Aqueduct Racetrack, Ozone Park, Queens, New York
Scheduled Post Time: 3:16 PM ET
Purse: $300,000
Distance: 7 furlongs (Dirt)
Conditions: 4‑year‑olds & up

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No direct weather data was provided in the retrieved sources.
Typical early‑April conditions at Aqueduct:

Low–mid 50s°F

Light breeze

Potential overcast

This generally produces neutral‑to‑slightly speed‑favoring dirt conditions.
(Inference only — not sourced.)

Full Field Analysis (6 Horses)

PP #1 — Point Dume (4‑1)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Into Mischief – Maya Malibu

Jockey: Edwin Gonzalez

Trainer: Timothy Kreiser

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

A consistent sprinter with tactical speed. Into Mischief progeny excel at 7 furlongs, and Point Dume fits the profile of a horse who can sit just behind the leaders and pounce. Kreiser’s runners often show early foot, making him a live upset candidate if the pace is moderate.

PP #2 — Book’em Danno (1‑1, Morning‑Line Favorite)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Bucchero – Adorabella

Jockey: Paco Lopez

Trainer: Derek Ryan

Weight: 124 lbs

Analysis:

The reigning Champion Male Sprinter and three‑time New Jersey‑bred Horse of the Year makes his seasonal debut. He owns multiple graded wins, including the G1 Forego, G2 Vanderbilt, and G3 True North. Ryan reports he is bigger, stronger, and training better than last year, with sharp works at Tampa Bay Downs before shipping north.

He has won his seasonal debut three years in a row, making him the clear horse to beat.

PP #3 — Acoustic Ave (20‑1)

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Maclean’s Music – Rock Ave. Road

Jockey: Jose Lezcano

Trainer: Linda Rice

Weight: 120 lbs

Analysis:

A longshot with early speed but inconsistent finishing ability at graded‑stakes level. Rice is excellent with sprinters, but Acoustic Ave will need a career‑best effort to threaten this field. Best used underneath in exotic wagers.

PP #4 — Be You (6‑1)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Curlin – Jacaranda

Jockey: Kendrick Carmouche

Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

A well‑bred Curlin gelding with strong late‑running ability. Pletcher spots him aggressively here, suggesting confidence. Carmouche rides Aqueduct extremely well and could benefit from a hot early pace. A legitimate win threat if the favorite falters.

PP #5 — Rated by Merit (8‑5)

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old colt

Pedigree: Battalion Runner – Banner Waving

Jockey: Manuel Franco

Trainer: Chad Brown

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

The second choice on the morning line. Brown rarely enters sprinters in the Carter unless they are live. Rated by Merit is lightly raced with improving speed figures and strong gallop‑out metrics. Franco’s patient style fits perfectly for a stalking trip. A major contender.

PP #6 — Quint’s Brew (8‑1)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Mosler – Gansett

Jockey: Forest Boyce

Trainer: Edward Allard

Weight: 122 lbs

Analysis:

A Maryland‑bred stakes winner stepping up in class. Boyce knows him well, and Allard’s horses often outrun their odds. However, this is a steep jump into Grade II company. A fringe contender for minor awards.

Recent Finishes & Track Conditions

The retrieved sources did not provide recent race‑by‑race finishes for each horse.
However:

Book’em Danno’s 2024 campaign included multiple graded wins and a career‑best 111 Beyer in the Vanderbilt.

Quint’s Brew enters in good form off Maryland stakes success.

Track conditions for April 4 are not yet published, but Aqueduct’s main track typically plays fair to slightly speed‑favoring in cool spring weather.

Series Context

The Carter Stakes is one of Aqueduct’s signature sprint races for older horses and a key early‑season test for championship‑level sprinters. It is part of a blockbuster card that also includes the Wood Memorial, Gazelle, Distaff, and Excelsior Stakes.

Suggested Exacta

2 over 5, 4, 1

5 over 2, 4

Trifecta Structure

2 / 5, 4 / 1, 3, 6

5 / 2 / 1, 4, 6

Venue: Aqueduct Racetrack, Queens, New York
Scheduled Post Time: 1:38 PM ET
Purse: $150,000
Distance: 1 1/4 miles (Dirt)
Conditions: 4‑year‑olds & up; Lasix prohibited within 48 hours per HISA Rule 4212

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No official weather data was provided in the retrieved sources.
Early April at Aqueduct typically features:

Low–mid 50s°F

Light winds

Chance of overcast skies

This generally produces neutral‑to‑mildly speed‑favoring dirt conditions.
(Inference only — not sourced.)

Field Overview (7 Horses)

Below is a horse‑by‑horse analysis with morning‑line odds, pedigree, jockey/trainer, and performance context.

PP #1 — Stowaway (KY)

Odds: 3‑1

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Gun Runner – Secret Jewel (Bernardini)

Jockey: Joseph D. Ramos

Trainer: D. Whitworth Beckman

Owner: Handel Viarruel

Analysis:

A seasoned older gelding with strong stamina breeding (Gun Runner × Bernardini). His age gives him experience at longer routes, and he enters with competitive form lines typical of Excelsior‑type runners. Ramos is a capable pace‑stalker pilot, suggesting Stowaway may sit just off the early leaders.

PP #2 — Omaha Omaha (VA)

Odds: 10‑1

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Audible – England Swings (Kitten’s Joy)

Jockey: Jaime Rodriguez

Trainer: Michael E. Gorham

Owner: On Your Left Racing

Analysis:

A lightly raced 4‑year‑old with improving figures. Audible progeny often show late‑developing stamina, and the Kitten’s Joy dam line adds turf influence—interesting for a dirt stakes try. At double‑digit odds, he profiles as a longshot underneath in exotics.

PP #3 — Interceptor (KY)

Odds: 8‑1

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Authentic – Sweet Assassin (Tapit)

Jockey: Ricardo Santana Jr.

Trainer: Mike Maker

Owner: Staudacher & Paradise Farms

Analysis:

A well‑bred gelding by Kentucky Derby winner Authentic out of a Tapit mare—elite stamina pedigree. Maker excels with route horses, and Santana is a high‑percentage stakes rider. Interceptor is a live mid‑price contender with upside stretching out.

PP #4 — Classicist (KY)

Odds: 8‑5 (Morning‑Line Favorite)

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old colt

Pedigree: Curlin – Playtime (Street Cry)

Jockey: Manny Franco

Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Equipment: Blinkers On

Owner: St. Elias Stable

Analysis:

The class of the field. Curlin × Street Cry is a top‑tier classic‑distance pedigree, and Pletcher adding blinkers signals intent to sharpen focus. Franco rides Aqueduct exceptionally well. Classicist projects as the controlling speed or tactical stalker, and is the most likely winner on paper.

PP #5 — Over and Ollie (ON)

Odds: 12‑1

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old gelding

Pedigree: Cairo Prince – Incidental Kiss (Harlan’s Holiday)

Jockey: Paco Lopez

Trainer: Richard Dutrow Jr.

Owner: Dennis Narlinger

Analysis:

A hard‑knocking older gelding with mid‑pack running style. Cairo Prince offspring often excel at middle distances but can flatten late at 10 furlongs. Lopez is aggressive and may try to secure position early. A value play for deeper exotics.

PP #6 — Yo Daddy (KY)

Odds: 2‑1

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old horse

Pedigree: Yoshida (JPN) – Elle Stormin’ (Tale of the Cat)

Jockey: Jose Lezcano

Trainer: Linda Rice

Owner: Winning Move Stable

Analysis:

The main threat to the favorite. Yoshida progeny stay well, and Rice is lethal in NYRA route stakes. Lezcano fits this grinding style perfectly. Expect Yo Daddy to sit mid‑pack and make a sustained run. A strong win candidate if Classicist falters.

PP #7 — Otello (KY)

Odds: 8‑1

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old horse

Pedigree: Curlin – Isabella Sings (Eskendereya)

Jockey: Ramon Vazquez

Trainer: Rob Atras

Owner: BellaBlue Racing

Analysis:

Another Curlin with a strong stamina profile. Atras is excellent with older route horses. Otello is a dark‑horse contender who could surprise if the pace heats up.

Recent Form & Track Conditions

The retrieved sources did not provide recent finishes or track‑condition‑specific performance for each horse.
However:

All runners carry 120 lbs.

Non‑winners of graded stakes receive weight allowances per conditions.

Series / Stakes Context

The Excelsior Stakes is a long‑standing NYRA route stakes for older horses.

2026 edition closed with 15 nominations.

Betting Trends & Wagering Notes

Classicist (8‑5) is the clear morning‑line favorite.

Yo Daddy (2‑1) is the second choice and profiles as the most reliable closer.

Stowaway (3‑1) offers value as the experienced veteran.

Interceptor (8‑1) is the most intriguing upset candidate given pedigree + trainer.

Suggested Exacta

4 over 6, 1, 3

6 over 4, 1

Trifecta Structure

4 / 6 / 1,3

4 / 1,6 / 1,3,7