Horse Racing Odds: 2025 Shakertown Sprint

Share News

Horse Racing Odds and Analysis

Coppola, Arzak, and Rogue Lightning Lead Shakertown Sprint Showdown

While Kentucky Derby Prep Races grab most of the spotlight this spring, the $400,000 Shakertown Stakes (G2T) at Keeneland on April 8 offers turf sprinters their moment in the sun. Though it won’t affect Kentucky Derby odds or Kentucky derby betting directly, the race plays a pivotal role in shaping the sprint division as top contenders clash over 5 1/2 furlongs.

Arzak Eyes Title Defense Against Familiar Rivals

Arzak returns to the Shakertown after winning this race in 2023, followed by a strong campaign that included a third-place finish behind Our Shot in the Woodford (G2T) and a close sixth in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (G1T). He ended 2024 with a runner-up effort in the Janus Stakes at Gulfstream, where Coppola held him off late.

Trained by Michael Trombetta and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., the 7-year-old veteran has prepped sharply with four consecutive bullet workouts at Fair Hill, signaling readiness for his seasonal debut. Arzak starts from post 3, just outside of Janus winner Our Shot.

Coppola, now riding a two-race stakes win streak for trainer Dale Romans, could be the one to catch once again. The Into Mischief colt led wire-to-wire in the Janus and the Gulfstream Park Turf Sprint, clocking blistering splits in his most recent win. However, the outside post (10) and added ground could test his ability to maintain the pace.

Rogue Lightning, Valentine Candy Bring X-Factor to the Field

International import Rogue Lightning makes his U.S. debut for Wathnan Racing and trainer Tom Clover. A Group 3 winner in Qatar, the Kodiac gelding turned down a Dubai World Cup day invitation in favor of this Keeneland start. 

Connections believe the Shakertown’s configuration will suit him, and a good showing could set up a run in the Twin Spires Turf Sprint on Kentucky Derby day.

Valentine Candy, a six-time stakes winner on dirt, makes his turf debut for Steve Asmussen. By Justify out of a Candy Ride mare, the 4-year-old has turf pedigree on both sides and could be a surprise. Jose Ortiz will ride him and breaks from post 5.

Our Shot, who beat Arzak in last year’s Woodford, returns with Luis Saez aboard. The son of Kantharos has been in sharp form and draws the 2 post.

Other runners in the 11-horse field include Run Carson (John Velazquez, post 1), Mischievous Rogue (Christopher Emigh, post 9), and No Nay Hudson (Luan Machado, post 6), who aim to break through in graded company.

While this race doesn’t carry Kentucky Derby Prep Races points, it promises to shape the landscape for turf sprinters this season. For complete entries, the best horse racing odds, and to place your bets, head to our racebook today.