Daily Racing Form analyst Marcus Hersh has handicapped the March 9 racing card at Fair Grounds, offering projected finishers for each race. His best bet is Ayzee in the fifth race. The picks include detailed reasoning based on recent performances and class levels.
Marcus Hersh, an expert handicapper from Daily Racing Form, analyzed the nine-race card at Fair Grounds scheduled for Monday, March 9, 2026. He projected top finishers for each event, focusing on factors like recent form, class drops, and track suitability.
In the first race, Hersh favors Vamos Ya to win, citing its recent near-victory at a similar low claiming level, followed by Publicity and Express Line. The second race highlights Hesper as the top pick, expected to rebound in a pace-favorable field, with Classical Knight and Sarah’s Runner next.
For the third race, Wickedly Royal leads the selections due to its strong breaks, ahead of Clearly Bella and El Star. The fourth race features Dakota Cam first, noting its turf affinity from a prior strong showing, then Lady Orient and Myiyla.
Hersh's best bet, Ayzee, tops the fifth race after a promising turf debut, with Miss Amber Q and Summers With Sonya following. Skipping the fifth in his overview, he continues with the sixth race, picking Steppin Silver to improve off a poor last outing, alongside Indian Cat and Gorilla Trek.
The seventh race sees Mister Banderas as the choice, drawing on earlier strong efforts, with Asthecoldwindblows and Starry Eyed in pursuit. In the eighth, Love Getaway leads based on recent speed, followed by Restless Mind and Paradise Ridge. Finally, the ninth race picks Twirling Roses for post-claim improvement, then My Liam and Badgeball.
These selections emphasize horses stepping into suitable conditions, with Hersh noting opportunities in claiming and allowance races. Free past performances are available from DRF for the day's featured race.
