Harken, the 2-1 morning-line favorite, will break from post 5 in the $150,000 Mountain Top Quarter Horse Derby this Saturday at Ruidoso Downs.

© Coady Media

By StallioneSearch

RUIDOSO DOWNS, NM–JUNE 10, 2025–The spotlight shines on the 2025 edition of the $150,000 Mountain Top Quarter Horse Derby this Saturday at Ruidoso Downs, where the top ten qualifiers from the May 31 trials will battle it out over 350 yards.

The race, exclusively for New Mexico-bred 3-year-olds, features a standout lineup led by the highly touted Harken, alongside formidable challengers Eye for Cambria and Alamos.

Harken, the 2-1 morning-line favorite, will break from post 5 for trainer Jesus M. Soto and owners Alepony, LLC. Undefeated in four starts at Ruidoso Downs, the MJ Farms-bred gelding enters off a powerful trial win in :17.343 over a sloppy surface, notching a 98 speed index.

Already a multiple stakes winner, including a victory in the Grade 3 West Texas Derby, Harken brings a resume boasting seven wins in eleven starts and $346,377 in earnings.

The second choice on the morning line at 7-2 is Eye For Cambria, who drew post 8 for owners Ellison Carter and Jeff Bourquin. Trained by James J. Gonzales III and ridden by champion jockey Ricky Ramirez, the daughter of Eye Am King surged late to win her trial with an 96 speed index.

With three wins from seven outings and earnings of $66,889, she continues her upward trajectory this season, showing a knack for strong finishes and resilience on different track surfaces. She will be going for her fourth consecutive win.

Alamos, listed at 9-2 and breaking from post 10, comes into the Derby with renewed momentum following a breakout trial win in :17.427, good for a 96 speed index. Trained by Tony E. Sedillo for Tungsten Racing Partnership, the gelding turned in a career-best effort under jockey Mauro Salcedo, who returns aboard for Saturday's final.

All three top choices—Harken, Eye for Cambria, and Alamos—are progeny of leading New Mexico sire Eye Am King and were bred by the respected MJ Farms, solidifying their status as premier representatives of the state-bred program. Their shared pedigree adds an intriguing dimension to what is already shaping up to be a thrilling showdown.

Fans will have plenty of wagering opportunities on Race 10, which goes off at 4:54 PM MDT. The betting menu includes Exacta, Trifecta, $.10 Superfecta, Pick 3 (Leg 3), Pick 4 (Leg 4), and a Late Daily Double, providing ample options for all levels of bettors.

With a strong field of contenders and the added intrigue of shared bloodlines and competitive trial performances, the 2025 Mountain Top QH Derby promises to be one of the season’s most exciting matchups at Ruidoso Downs.

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