March Madness Expert Picks and News

A talented field of 10 fillies and mares will take to the turf in the $225,000 Hillsborough Stakes (G2T) at Tampa Bay Downs on March 8, 2025. The 1 1/8-mile race is a key early-season test for turf runners and features multiple stakes winners, including Saffron Moon, Gimme a Nother, and Sparkle Blue. Trainer Chad Brown sends out three strong contenders in the field, hoping to add another graded stakes win to his record.

A field of 12 talented 3-year-old fillies is set to compete in the Grade 3, $200,000 Florida Oaks at Tampa Bay Downs on March 8. The 1 1/16-mile turf race is an important early-season test, attracting promising fillies who may be targeting more significant stakes later in the year. 

A strong field of fillies and mares is set to compete in the Grade 3, $165,000 Hurricane Bertie Stakes at Gulfstream Park on March 8. The 6 1/2-furlong dirt sprint will feature seven contenders, including Nic’s Style, who looks to extend her winning streak, and multiple graded stakes winner Spirit Wind.

Saturday's Grade 2 Azeri Stakes at Oaklawn Park marks the much-anticipated return of reigning Horse of the Year, Thorpedo Anna. The 4-year-old filly will face six rivals in the 1 1/16-mile contest, offering a $350,000 purse. She aims to become the first Horse of the Year since 2014 to return with a campaign ahead.

The Grade 1 Beholder Mile at Santa Anita Park on Saturday features a field of six talented fillies and mares, all seeking their first victory at the top level. Cavalieri and Alpha Bella finished first and second in the Grade 3 La Canada Stakes in January, and eastern shippers Hoosier Philly and Tarifa. The $300,000 race at one mile serves as a key early-season test in the older female division.