21:45 fair-grounds Friday 2nd January 2026

SNARE (1) missed the placings two runs back then improved last start but found a couple better over 6f at Aqueduct, beaten 4 lengths after being in the firing line on the bend. Nicely placed to feature in the finish. JOE'S CANDY (3) is yet to break through after three career starts. Could only manage to finish fifth last time out over 1m1/2f at Del Mar (Turf) following a minor placing at Santa Anita (Turf) when fresh from a lay-off the run prior. Likely to play a major role. HITCHCOCK (2) is back from a lay-off and racing on turf for the first time. Generally runs well fresh and has been in the money at two of three runs. Looks a definite winning chance. FIRST SAMARITAN (7) finished 27 lengths from the winner in eighth at his most recent outing over 6f at this track (Dirt) after he got a long way back in the run. Looks to be in the right race to figure in the finish.