The Grade 2 Fountain of Youth Stakes, one of three key prep races for the Kentucky Derby 2025, will take place this Saturday at Gulfstream Park. Featuring a field of eight promising three-year-olds, this prestigious event offers crucial qualifying points to the top finishers. Burnham Square, the standout from the Holy Bull (G3), leads the pack but faces formidable competition from Sovereignty and Gate to Wire. Historically, only two horses have managed to win both the Holy Bull and the Fountain of Youth in the past decade. The race is scheduled for 5:42 p.m. EST under sunny skies with temperatures in the upper 70s.
Top Contenders and Their Prospects
Burnham Square, trained by Ian Wilkes, has demonstrated a strong affinity for Gulfstream Park. After an impressive nine-length victory to close out 2024, he secured another win in the Holy Bull (G3) in January 2025. His speed figures continue to improve, earning him a 95 Equibase speed figure. With tactical speed and an experienced jockey, Edgard Zayas, Burnham Square remains a strong contender. However, he must prove his dominance over a more seasoned field.
Burnham Square’s journey through the ranks has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a board-hitter in Kentucky, he quickly adapted to the Gulfstream track, showcasing versatility in both sprinting and routing. In his most recent performance, he navigated a challenging outside post position to clinch a decisive victory. As a son of Liam’s Map, Burnham Square hails from a lineage of successful turf routers, including his second dam, Beautiful Noise. Despite Ian Wilkes’ modest graded stakes record, Burnham Square’s consistent improvement suggests he could be the horse to watch. His ability to adapt and lead early could be pivotal in securing another win.
Newcomers and Underdogs to Watch
Gate to Wire and Sovereignty present fresh challenges to the established favorites. Trained by Todd Pletcher, Gate to Wire made waves with a five-length triumph in the Swale Stakes, earning a career-best 99 Equibase speed rating. Although he lacks experience beyond seven furlongs, Pletcher’s expertise with sprint-to-route runners offers hope. Junior Alvarado rides Sovereignty, who broke his maiden in the Street Sense (G3). With solid late-pace figures and steady breezes, Sovereignty looks ready to make an impact in his first start since November 2024.
Gate to Wire’s breakthrough performance in the Swale Stakes was visually impressive, demonstrating a powerful closing kick despite limited long-distance experience. Trained by Todd Pletcher, known for his success with sprint-to-route transitions, Gate to Wire’s early running style could give him an edge. His sire, Munnings, boasts European group winners in his lineage, adding depth to his potential. Meanwhile, Sovereignty, trained by Bill Mott, brings tactical speed and a pedigree rich with stamina. Out of an unraced Bernardini mare, Sovereignty’s third dam includes notable performances in the Breeders’ Cup Distaff. Both horses will need to showcase maturity and adaptability to challenge the frontrunners.
In the world of high fashion, the recent Versace Fall 2025 Ready-to-Wear show was a dazzling event that drew an array of luminaries to its front row. This prestigious occasion, held in the heart of Milan, featured notable figures from various entertainment sectors. The runway presentation not only showcased innovative designs but also provided a platform for celebrities to exhibit their personal styles and charisma. Among those present were performers, musicians, and artists who added glamour and excitement to the event. The collection itself promised to set new trends for the coming season, blending classic elegance with modern innovation.
Glamorous Evening Unfolds in Milan
On a radiant evening in Milan, the Versace Fall 2025 Ready-to-Wear show transformed the city into a hub of fashion frenzy. Notable attendees included British actor Cillian Murphy, Italian singer Marco Mengoni, Spanish artist Bad Gyal, Italian musician Fedez, and American songwriter Victoria Monet, among others. Each star brought their unique flair to the venue, creating a spectacle that captivated both the audience and media alike. As models strutted down the catwalk in avant-garde outfits, the crowd was treated to a visual feast of cutting-edge fashion. The event highlighted the enduring appeal of Versace as a leader in luxury fashion, setting the stage for future trends.
From a journalistic perspective, this gathering underscores the intersection of fashion and celebrity culture. It demonstrates how major fashion houses leverage star power to amplify their brand presence and influence consumer trends. For readers, it offers a glimpse into the glamorous world of high fashion, where creativity meets celebrity, inspiring audiences worldwide. The event serves as a reminder of the transformative power of fashion and its ability to unite diverse personalities under one roof, celebrating artistry and innovation.
The serene mountain landscapes surrounding Santa Fe, New Mexico, have long attracted renowned artists and celebrities seeking solace away from the public eye. This peaceful haven has been home to many celebrated figures who have chosen to live modest lives among the piñon and juniper-scented foothills. However, this tranquility was recently shattered by the tragic news of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa being found deceased in their secluded residence.
Many prominent personalities, including authors, actors, and playwrights, have made Santa Fe their sanctuary over the years. The city's unique charm lies in its blend of rich history, vibrant arts scene, and laid-back atmosphere. Situated at an elevation exceeding 7,000 feet, Santa Fe offers breathtaking views and a distinct cultural identity shaped by Indigenous heritage and Spanish colonization. Residents and visitors alike appreciate the harmonious coexistence of diverse communities, from young skateboarders to affluent retirees.
Gene Hackman, known for his illustrious career spanning several decades, retired to Santa Fe in search of a quieter life. Despite his fame, he remained a humble presence in the community, often seen engaging in everyday activities like attending Pilates classes or cycling along scenic trails. Hackman's contributions extended beyond acting; he served on the board of trustees at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and authored books that reflected his deep connection to the region's history and landscape.
The passing of Hackman and Arakawa has left Santa Fe in mourning. It serves as a poignant reminder of the city's reputation as a place where individuals can find peace and anonymity. In a world increasingly dominated by media scrutiny, Santa Fe stands out as a refuge where even the most accomplished can lead ordinary lives, contributing positively to the community without fanfare. The legacy of these individuals will continue to inspire others to value simplicity and authenticity in their own lives.