2026 Expert Picks
The 2026 racing season is almost here and we’re off to a fast start. Fan-favorite handicappers Joe Kristufek and Geoff Riggs are here with expert picks, bold predictions and insider insights to help you pick winners all season long. Whether you’re playing for fun or aiming for the win, their advice will have you one step closer to the finish line.
The season runs through July 2 through August 23 and we can’t wait to see you trackside!
Joe Kristufek’s Race Day Selections
Churchill Downs, Ellis Park, Fair Grounds and Twin Spires’ senior producer & racing analyst Joe Kristufek began his career in his native Chicago, climbing the ladder at the local racing venues. The 1989 rivalry between Kentucky Derby winner Sunday Silence and his nemesis Easy Goer got Joe hooked on the game. A self-proclaimed “horse racing ambassador”, Joe’s industry experience spans from Dubai to Hong Kong to roughly 40 tracks across North America.
Thursday, July 2
Check out Joe’s picks!
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Race 1
#1 Eskenforit — Better than ever; tactical advantage
#3 Yes It’s Ginger
#2 Speighter WomanRace 1 selections: 1/2-3/6-7-8
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Race 2
#1 Eskenforit — Better than ever; tactical advantage
#3 Yes It’s Ginger
#2 Speighter WomanRace 2 selections: 1/2-3/6-7-8
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Race 3
#1 Eskenforit — Better than ever; tactical advantage
#3 Yes It’s Ginger
#2 Speighter WomanRace 3 selections: 1/2-3/6-7-8
Geoff Riggs’ Race Day Selections
Born in Louisville the day after Unbridled’s 1990 Kentucky Derby win, Geoff Riggs has had a natural connection to racing from the start. He is an analyst and handicapper with on-air experience at Turfway Park, Ellis Park, Fair Grounds, and Churchill Downs. Known as “The Bearded Handicapper” from his presence on Twitter/X, Geoff is also a co-host of The Auxiliary Gate Podcast and a member of the Kentucky Derby Notes Team.
Thursday, July 2
Check out Geoff’s picks!
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Race 1
#1 Eskenforit — Better than ever; tactical advantage
#3 Yes It’s Ginger
#2 Speighter WomanRace 1 selections: 1/2-3/6-7-8
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Race 2
#1 Eskenforit — Better than ever; tactical advantage
#3 Yes It’s Ginger
#2 Speighter WomanRace 2 selections: 1/2-3/6-7-8
-
Race 3
#1 Eskenforit — Better than ever; tactical advantage
#3 Yes It’s Ginger
#2 Speighter WomanRace 3 selections: 1/2-3/6-7-8
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