The Christopher Armond Memorial Sprint headlines the grand finale of the 2025 racing season on Saturday, December 27.
This prestigious sprint, staged over 5 ½ furlongs, is open to horses at the Graded Stakes and Open Allowance levels.
A select field of five contenders will clash, each bringing unique credentials to the starting gate.
Below is The Quick Galloper’s assessment of their chances, listed in draw order.
1 – PACK PLAYS
Showed early prominence in the Mouttet Mile, racing competitively until fading to sixth in the final furlong. The cutback in distance should prove more suitable, allowing him to utilize his natural speed without the stamina test of a mile. With the experienced Dane Nelson aboard, Pack Plays could mount a serious challenge, though he must overcome several pace-heavy rivals to secure victory.
2 – LEGACY ISLE
Blazed through the opening stages of the Mouttet Mile before succumbing to the relentless Rideallday. Legacy Isle is a pure sprinter, perfectly suited to this 5 ½ furlong trip. His raw speed makes him the horse they all must catch, even while shouldering weight. If he breaks sharply and maintains rhythm, Legacy Isle has every chance to dominate from start to finish.
3 – DOTHRAKI
Imported with promise but disappointed badly in the Mouttet Mile, trailing throughout to finish last. The shorter sprint distance may offer some reprieve, yet his lack of tactical speed remains a concern. With the visor removed, connections hope for improvement, but expectations are muted. Dothraki will need a dramatic turnaround to feature meaningfully in this contest.
4 – CALIFORNIA CROWN
The lone locally bred runner, California Crown earned respect with a solid fourth-place finish in the Bruceontheloose, just under four lengths behind Of A Revolution. He brings determination and consistency, though the abundance of speed in this field poses a significant challenge. A top-three finish appears his most realistic target.
5 – DESERT OF MALIBU
A mare whose 2025 campaign has been underwhelming, with only one win from six starts. Desert of Malibu enters this race seeking redemption and a strong year-end performance. Benefiting from a weight drop, she could capitalize if the frontrunners engage in a speed duel. Still, she must prove she can match the class and pace of Legacy Isle to secure the victory.
THE QUICK GALLOPER’S VERDICT
Legacy Isle stands out as the clear speed and class of the field, and if he executes his customary front-running style, the race may be over before the stretch. Pack Plays, with Dane Nelson guiding, looms as the main danger, while California Crown could sneak into the frame. Desert of Malibu is the dark horse, aided by lighter impost, but must rise above her recent form. Dothraki, despite the shorter trip, appears unlikely to trouble the principals.
