Stogie’s Horse Racing Picks for Friday, May 9, 2025
Belmont at the Big A Race 5
- 7 Despo’s Dream wasn’t able to get the job done when stepping up the class ladder last out. Filly drew the rail that day and raced on inside part of the track, which was not the place to be. She draws a favorable outside post and drops back to a similar level where she was a 2-length winner. She makes her second start off the claim for a trainer who hits at 28% winners off that angle. Top Pick
- 2 Lady Arwen has been consistent performer at this level. Connections stepped this gal up in class big time off the claim and she was no match for the tougher competition that day. Filly fits well here. Win Contender
- 1 Foxy Cara has been facing tougher and makes her first start in a new barn. With only 1 win here at the Big A in 23 Lifetime starts, I’m not taking this Mare on the win bet. Use Underneath
Selections 7-2-1-3
Churchill Downs Race 8
- 7 Enterdadragon was completely overmatched in the Florida Derby on the dirt in South Florida. Gelding gets back on his preferred surface today where he is Stakes placed. This son of Outwork has a nice late turn of foot and the likely fast early pace should set this one up nicely for the stretch drive. Win Contender
- 3 Blue Coast returns to the turf after failing to find the winners circle in 2 sprint races on the All-Weather track at Turfway Park. I believe this Gelding will relish the two turns today and the surface switch. He was claimed out of his last race and trainer Conor Murphy removes the eye cups and adds lasix. Live Longshot
- 4 Mcllroy tries the blades for the first time after two impressive races to start his career. Colt ran third in debut, then followed up with a Maiden breaking win by over two lengths while routing for the first time. If he takes to the weeds, he’ll be tough to beat. Win Contender
Selections 7-3-4-5
Santa Anita Race 8
- 1 I’m a Risqué Girl makes her second start off the layoff after running an even 4th at this level in her most recent start. Gal was claimed out of that race and now runs for the red hot Francisco Rodriguez barn. Rodriguez hits at 29% winners with newbies to his stable. I believe we’ll get 5-1 or better come post time. Top Pick
- 3 Roses R Blue has been a consistent closer these sprint races. Mare should get a favorable set up today. Win Contender
- 7 Icy Mischief defeated tougher two races back. Don’t Ignore
Selections 1-3-7-5
