In an intriguing turn of events, the Grade 3 Santa Ysabel Stakes at Santa Anita Park is set to witness a potential shift in fortunes as Supa Speed makes her dirt debut under trainer John Sadler. This prestigious $100,000 race for three-year-old fillies serves as a key preparatory event for the upcoming Santa Anita Oaks (G2) on April 5. With the possibility of wet conditions looming, the stakes are high for the six contenders vying for valuable points toward the Kentucky Oaks (G1) in May. Supa Speed, bred by Justify and Elfin Queen, has shown impressive form on turf, finishing second in stakes races twice and most recently winning an allowance race over a mile. Sadler expressed optimism about her performance on dirt, while acknowledging the uncertainty that comes with such a transition.
The Santa Ysabel Stakes will take place on Sunday, March 9, with a forecast predicting a 70% chance of showers in Arcadia, California. Trainer Bob Baffert, who has dominated this race in recent years, enters three fillies: Cipriani, Maysam, and Howin. Each brings a unique background and recent performance to the table. Supa Speed, the morning-line favorite at 2-1 odds, will be ridden by Flavien Prat, the Eclipse Award winner for outstanding jockey in the U.S. and Canada. Her preparation on the dirt track has been promising, and Sadler believes she can handle the change in surface.
Maysam, owned by Michael Lund Petersen, faced a disappointing run in the Sunland Park Oaks just 13 days ago. Despite being the heavy favorite, she encountered difficulties at the start and finished sixth. Baffert attributed this to pre-race jitters and has since adjusted her equipment by removing blinkers. He hopes this change will improve her focus and performance. Meanwhile, Cipriani, a Bernardini filly, showed promise in her debut last October but remains somewhat immature. She will be ridden by Hall of Famer Mike Smith for the first time, adding another layer of intrigue to the race.
The Santa Ysabel Stakes promises to be a pivotal moment for these young fillies as they prepare for the rigors of the spring racing season. The race is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. EST as part of an 11-race card, with the first post at 3 p.m. As the clouds gather over Santa Anita Park, all eyes will be on Supa Speed and her rivals to see how they fare in the challenging conditions. The outcome could have significant implications for their future careers and chances in the Kentucky Oaks.
The racing world welcomes the revival of Will Rogers Downs as it reopens its gates for the 2025 Thoroughbred season. Following a devastating tornado that struck the track last year, extensive reconstruction efforts have brought the venue back to life. The reopening marks not only a significant milestone for the facility but also highlights the resilience of the local community. Over the next 28 days, racing enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting lineup of events, including seven stakes races with substantial prize money.
A New Chapter Begins: The Return of Thoroughbred Racing
After enduring significant damage from a severe storm, Will Rogers Downs is set to recommence its Thoroughbred racing season. The inaugural race day features eight thrilling contests, with 50 horses ready to compete. This 28-day meet will span until mid-May, offering weekly Monday and Tuesday races, with additional Wednesday races scheduled for select weeks. The highlight of the season includes hosting live races alongside the simulcast of the Kentucky Derby card on May 3.
The journey to this moment has been challenging yet rewarding. Just ten days after the previous season concluded, a powerful tornado ravaged the track in Claremore, Oklahoma, causing widespread destruction. However, immediate rebuilding efforts ensured that the annual quarter-horse, paint, and Appaloosa meet proceeded without delay. Winter saw the completion of barn repairs, setting the stage for a triumphant return of Thoroughbred racing. The track's resilience reflects the determination of both organizers and the community to overcome adversity.
Showcase of Talent: Key Races and Stakes Events
The spring meet promises a series of high-stakes races that will showcase some of the finest equine talent. Seven stakes races are scheduled throughout the season, each offering lucrative purses. These events cater to various categories of horses, ensuring a diverse and competitive field. Notable among these are the Wilma Mankiller and Highland Ice stakes, which will attract top fillies, mares, and older horses.
Highlighting the importance of local breeding, several races are exclusively open to Oklahoma-bred horses. The Blue Ribbon and Welder stakes focus on younger horses, while the Miranda Diane and TRA Oklahoma Classic Sprint offer opportunities for more experienced competitors. Each race carries a prize purse ranging from $50,000 to $55,000, attracting both seasoned professionals and emerging talents. The carefully curated schedule ensures that every race day will be filled with excitement and anticipation, making this season one to remember for all involved.
Ashland, Virginia, is set to host a series of events dedicated to the memory of the iconic racehorse Secretariat. On Sunday, March 30th, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Reynolds Family Plaza at Randolph-Macon College will transform into a vibrant celebration hub. The plaza, home to the Secretariat Racing into History monument, will come alive with various activities designed for families and fans alike. Attendees can look forward to live musical performances, new merchandise, food trucks, an art exhibition, and interactive children's games. A highlight of the day will be the serving of birthday cake, commemorating what would have been Secretariat’s 55th birthday.
In addition to the main event, several complementary activities are planned throughout the weekend. The Ashland Theatre will screen Disney’s film "Secretariat" at 11 a.m., while the Ashland Museum will showcase historic artifacts related to the champion horse and Meadow Stable. Following the festivities, enthusiasts can enjoy a relaxed evening at Studio 54 with a horsey-themed happy hour featuring local cuisine and music. The preceding day, March 29th, offers a tram tour through Meadow Event Park, guided by co-authors Kate Chenery Tweedy and Leeanne Meadows Ladin. This exclusive tour provides insights into the historic barns where Secretariat was born and trained. Moreover, Oakdale Farm will host the Big Red Bash, a fundraiser that promises gourmet dining, live music, and an appearance by Sooleymon, a chestnut descendant of Secretariat.
The week following Secretariat Day, renowned sculptor Jocelyn Russell will lead a sculpting workshop at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. Participants will receive hands-on instruction from the artist who created the Secretariat monument in Ashland. These events not only celebrate the legacy of one of the greatest racehorses in history but also foster community spirit and appreciation for local heritage. Through these activities, the town of Ashland honors both its rich equestrian tradition and the enduring legacy of Secretariat, inspiring future generations to cherish and preserve this remarkable chapter in sports history.