This Saturday at Laurel Park promises exciting competition, featuring a key race: the 1 1/16-mile Robert T. Manfuso Stakes for horses aged 3 and older. This event is one of four $100,000 stakes in a nine-race program called the “Christmas Stakes,” starting at noon ET with two Value Pick 5 wagers that have a low 12% takeout rate.
Among the standout matchups is a rematch between Post Time and Barbadian Runner, two popular and skilled horses that showcased their abilities in October’s Milton P. Higgins III Maryland Million Classic. Post Time, the reigning Maryland-bred horse of the year, had held an undefeated streak in Maryland racing until narrowly losing to Barbadian Runner, a tough competitor owned by AJ Wilwyn Stable. Post Time has an impressive record with several graded stakes wins across the country, while Barbadian Runner, purchased for just $5,000 early in his career, has steadily risen with multiple stakes wins under veteran trainer Henry Walters.
Despite differing career paths, both horses hail from Maryland beginnings and are set to face off again, with Post Time’s trainer Brittany Russell hopeful that the extra rest since his recent race will boost his performance. Barbadian Runner, likely starting from the inside post, looks to defend his edge, especially with Not This Boy expected to scratch from the race.
Additional contenders include Pei Billy, a G1 Preakness starter recovering for this race; Teachin Terreese, a consistent and dominant winner; and horses like Hittheroadjak, Secret Zipper, and Point Dume rounding out the field. The race honors Robert T. Manfuso, a significant figure in Maryland racing history.
Elsewhere, Quint’s Brew makes a comeback after a long break in the Howard and Sondra Bender Memorial for Maryland and Virginia-breds, with strong odds in his favor. Other notable entries are Slam Notion, Blue Kingdom, and several stakes winners, highlighting the competitive depth of the event.
In the six-furlong Polity race for Maryland-bred fillies and mares, Take the Money Honey returns as a favorite after recent performances and a substantial layoff. Brittany Russell also fields strong entries in this race, including Grayson’s Girl and Concurso Sewecan, both showing promising form. Other competitive horses include Onyx Ten, Green Eyed Monster, Miss Harriet, and Devil Pays in Gold.
The 1 1/8-mile filly and mare division features standout contenders like Jane of Complexity, who seeks to extend her winning streak despite some quirky behavior. Luteworm, Intrepid Mo, Dr. Abby, and The Sky Is Falling add to the rich field, while other well-regarded runners include Sartori Russ, Late Nite Call, Di’s Surprise, Bailintin, Secret Journey, and Audibly.
This event reflects the vibrant Maryland racing scene and showcases a mixture of seasoned champions and rising stars, promising thrilling races that honor the region’s rich traditions.
Fan Take: This clash between established stars and emerging talents highlights the dynamic nature of Maryland horse racing, keeping fans engaged with compelling storylines and fierce competition. Such events not only celebrate the sport’s heritage but also inspire excitement for its future, strengthening the fanbase and the industry overall.
