In this biweekly racing analysis, our expert handicapper highlights several promising horses that have recently caught attention. The article previews key races where these equine athletes are set to compete, providing insights into their past performances and future potential. From Gulfstream Park to Santa Anita, the featured horses showcase impressive speed figures and competitive histories. The report also includes a summary of recent successes and upcoming challenges for each contender, offering valuable information for racing enthusiasts.

Racing Prospects Shine at Major Tracks

Gulfstream Park: In the picturesque setting of South Florida, River Thames, a 3-year-old colt trained by Todd Pletcher, made an impactful debut on January 11, sprinting six furlongs with a commanding performance. He dominated the race by 4¾ lengths, earning a 94 Beyer Speed Figure. Now, River Thames will face his next challenge in a one-mile $75,000 allowance optional claimer. With odds set at 7-5, he is expected to be a formidable competitor if he can match or exceed his previous effort.

Santa Anita: At the renowned California track, Richi delivered a stellar victory in the Grade 3 Las Flores, winning by 1½ lengths over top-tier competition. She now aims for another graded-stakes win in the seven-furlong Santa Monica (G2). Despite facing a small but talented field, Richi has a strong chance of claiming victory after returning from a seven-month break.

Fair Grounds: Another standout, Gunmetal, impressed in his maiden special weight debut, winning by 1¼ lengths after pressing hot fractions. He now prepares for the Swale Stakes at Gulfstream Park, where he will encounter tough rivals like Futurity (G3) runner-up Gate to Wire. However, Gunmetal's 96 Beyer Speed Figure suggests he has the speed to handle the challenge.

Santa Anita: In the Robert B. Lewis (G3), two watch list members, Citizen Bull and Rodriguez, will clash on the road to the Kentucky Derby. Citizen Bull, a Bob Baffert-trained colt, comes off consecutive wins in prestigious events. Meanwhile, Rodriguez, who won a one-mile maiden special weight by seven lengths, is a serious contender. Both horses are expected to deliver an exciting matchup.

Gulfstream Park: Guns Loaded brings early speed to the Holy Bull (G3), his first graded stakes appearance. Having led throughout his previous races, Guns Loaded will need to maintain his pace around two turns. If he secures an uncontested lead, he could secure another wire-to-wire victory in this seven-horse field.

Gulfstream Park: For the Forward Gal (G3), both Stunner and Eclatant may find success at the seven-furlong distance. Both fillies have shown promise in shorter races but struggled in longer distances. This mid-distance event could be more suitable for their abilities.

Delta Downs: Touchuponastar, a seasoned 6-year-old gelding, boasts an impressive record of 13 wins out of 19 starts. As the favorite in the LA Bred Premier Night Championship, Touchuponastar aims for his third consecutive victory in this race. His recent win in the Louisiana Champions Day Classic makes him a strong contender.

Oaklawn: On Sunday, Prime Power returns to action after a close second-place finish in his debut. Stretching out to a mile, Prime Power has the potential to dominate his rivals, especially if he can replicate his earlier performance.

Santa Anita: Eagles Flight, a half-brother to the 2022 Horse of the Year Flightline, showed promise in his return from a layoff. With two sharp workouts under his belt, Eagles Flight may bounce back to the winner's circle in a 1⅛-mile contest.

Overall, the horses on the watch list have demonstrated a 32% win rate and a 68% in-the-money rate in 2025, reflecting their consistent performance and potential for future success.

From a reader's perspective, this analysis provides valuable insights into the upcoming races, highlighting not only the horses' past achievements but also their potential for future victories. It underscores the importance of tracking emerging talent and understanding the nuances of each horse's performance, making it an essential resource for anyone following the world of horse racing.