A competitive field of local talent is set to square off in Saturday evening’s feature race at Charles Town Races in West Virginia, an allowance contest offering a $30,900 purse. The headliner is Muad’dib, the 8-year-old veteran who has banked over $1 million in earnings and enters as the morning-line favorite.

Trained by Jeff Runco for owner David Raim, Muad’dib concluded his 2024 campaign on a strong note, notching a victory and four straight in-the-money finishes. He will break from post six under jockey Angel Cruz, looking to add to his impressive career resume.

The top threat to Muad’dib appears to be Play It Loud (5-2), trained by Cynthia McKee for her own Beau Ridge Farm. The gelding finished second in a similar spot last out, snapping a two-race win streak. Notably, his regular rider, Reshawn Latchman, has opted to stick with him over Jungle Beast, another contender in this race.

Jungle Beast (4-1) comes into this race in improving form for trainer Javier Contreras. The gelding’s latest victory broke a lengthy losing streak and marked his second straight top-two finish. With Latchman choosing Play It Loud, he gains the services of Charles Town’s leading rider, Arnaldo Bocachica.

Another key player is Sarah’s Candy Camp, conditioned by Stephen Murdock. Expected to set the early pace, he comes off a solid recent effort but faces a class test in this spot. Notably, all four of Murdock’s starters in 2025 have finished second, a trend jockey Christian Maldonado will look to improve upon.

Post time for the evening’s feature is set for 10:02, and with a mix of proven class and rising contenders, it promises to be an exciting showdown under the lights at Charles Town.