Keeneland Picks & Predictions: Friday, April 3 | Mr. Ed’s Horse Racing Tips

Keeneland’s Spring Meet opened today, Friday, April 3, 2026, with veteran handicapper Ed Sehon, known as “Mr. Ed,” providing his selections for the 10-race card. According to VSiN, Mr. Ed will offer his selections on VSiN every race day leading up to Kentucky Derby week in early May and plans to be at Keeneland from April 9-11.

Race-by-Race Selections

Mr. Ed’s selections focus on several key races throughout the day. Post time for the first race is 1:00 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT.

Race 1 – $90K Maiden Special Weight (2YOs, 4½ furlongs)

Mr. Ed suggests considering either #5 Bourbon Town (6-1 morning line), trained by Rey Hernandez and ridden by Luis Saez, or #6 Waggley (7-5), from the team of trainer Wesley Ward and jockey Joel Rosario. He notes that Bourbon Town has shown excellent works, while Waggley benefits from the strong trainer-jockey combination.

Mr. Ed recommends a $5 Daily Double of 5,6/4,5 ($20 total).

Race 2 – $63K Starter Allowance (3YO fillies, 7 furlongs)

To complete the Daily Double, Mr. Ed is betting on either #4 Edey (9-2 morning line) with Jose Ortiz riding or #5 Miss Call (5-2) for trainer Kenny McPeek.

Race 3 – $130K Allowance (4YOs & Up, 5½ furlongs on turf)

Marcus Hersh of Daily Racing Form identifies Camp Hale as the best bet in this race. Hersh notes that Camp Hale showed talent early in his career, winning two consecutive races at the end of his 3-year-old season. He also points out that Camp Hale’s workouts on turf have been impressive, suggesting a strong performance on the lawn.

Moves like a dream on the lawn. Looking for a big effort in a tough race.

Marcus Hersh, Daily Racing Form

Hersh also suggests Spiced Up as a contender, noting a strong win at Saratoga but acknowledging inconsistent form since. Donut God is also mentioned as a potential runner, though Hersh believes he may be too eager to lead.

Hersh’s projected finishing order for Race 3 is 1. Camp Hale, 2. Spiced Up, and 3. Donut God.

Additional Race Selections (Race 1 continued)

For Race 1, Mr. Ed also suggests considering #6 Waggley (7-5) for the team of trainer Wesley Ward and jockey Joel Rosario.

Keeneland Atmosphere

The Keeneland Spring Meet is described as a cherished event, spread across hundreds of acres of bluegrass in central Kentucky. It’s likened to The Masters of horse racing, attracting both serious bettors and families. The venue is praised for its setting, racing excitement, staff, food (including famous bread pudding), beverage (bourbon) offerings, wagering ease, and care for patrons. Approximately 40,000 patrons are expected each day.

Keeneland’s opening day marks the start of the build-up to the Kentucky Derby in early May.