breeders cup Justify (1), with jockey Mike Smith up, crosses the finish line to win the 150th running of the Belmont Stakes horse race and the Triple Crown, Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Elmont, N.Y. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Review of Saratoga Late P5 on 7/18/26
We started the afternoon looking like we were in position to make a run at the Late P5. While we connected on winners throughout the sequence, we could not land all five in a row to take down the ticket. Still, the day offered plenty to build on as we move toward a loaded weekend ahead.
Race 8
We opened the sequence with confidence, tagging #2 Cy Fair for a chalky win. The runner delivered exactly what we expected, giving us a clean start and momentum heading into the tougher legs.
Race 9
This was our “all” button race, and while we didn’t get a longshot to juice the payout, we did land #3 Stimulate, who returned $7.58. Two legs down, three to go, and the ticket remained alive.
Race 10
We singled #3 Annexperience, as many handicappers likely did. He showed his class and separated from the field at the wire, paying $3.52 and keeping the chalky P5 moving forward.
Race 11
This was the type of race where the “all” button earns its keep. We labeled it a spread race with no clear standout, and #5 Leon Blue stepped up with a $16.34 payout. At this point, every handicapper’s favorite moment arrived: the “will pays.”
Race 12
We closed with two selections, but the winner slipped past us. The #1 First Dinah delivered a strong $30.58 payout, making the chalky P5 return a respectable $1,663. Our ticket of 2,3 / ALL / 3 / ALL / 2,4 cost $162, and while the structure gave us chances, it wasn’t enough to seal the deal.
We will keep grinding, and we encourage you to take our picks, blend them with your own opinions, and build tickets that fit your style. The goal is always the same: stay sharp, stay flexible, and find the right spots to take a stand.
Preview of 7/25/26
On Friday 7/24/26 at 3PM on our Happy Hour Show, John Kostin and I will break down The Coaching Club American Oaks, Race 10 at Saratoga. We will also dive into The Bing Crosby Stakes, Race 10 at Del Mar, two outstanding races that deserve a deep look.
Be sure to join us Saturday at 12:30 as we analyze the Late P5 at Saratoga, Races 8 through 12. It’s shaping up to be another strong card, and we’ll give you the insights you need to build competitive tickets.
As we always say… bet smart, cheer hard, fast horses can lead to some serious fun, and in the end just Let ‘em Run.
