HorseRacing
Thorpedo Anna Leads Nominees for Prestigious Azeri Stakes
2025-03-01

The Oaklawn racing department has announced a list of eight prominent fillies and mares, including the 2024 Horse of the Year Thorpedo Anna, as potential entrants for the Grade 2, $400,000 Azeri Stakes. Scheduled for next Saturday, this prestigious event serves as a key preparatory race for the upcoming $1.25 million Apple Blossom Handicap on April 12. Both races cover a distance of 1 1/16 miles. Entries and post positions will be finalized on Sunday.

Athletic prowess and competitive spirit are set to take center stage in the Azeri Stakes. Among the notable contenders is Alpine Princess, trained by Brad Cox, who brings a wealth of graded wins to the table. Free Like a Girl, under Chasey Deville Pomier's guidance, and Jody’s Pride, managed by Jorge Abreu, also stand out among the probable entries. Additionally, Recharge, guided by Steve Asmussen, and Thorpedo Anna, prepared by Kenny McPeek, round out the list of likely participants. Other possible entrants include Hoosier Philly, Nuit Magique, and Wild Bout Hilary.

Thorpedo Anna, the unanimous choice for champion 3-year-old filly and Horse of the Year in the U.S. and Canada, boasts an impressive record. In 2024 alone, she achieved six stakes victories, culminating in a dominant performance at the Breeders’ Cup Distaff. Her journey included significant wins at the Kentucky Oaks, Acorn, Coaching Club American Oaks, Cotillion, and Fantasy Stakes. After a brief hiatus, Thorpedo Anna resumed training with four workouts since February 8, including a five-furlong drill that clocked in at 1:00.8 on Saturday morning.

Beyond Thorpedo Anna, other nominees bring their own accolades to the race. Recharge and Alpine Princess secured first and second places, respectively, in the Houston Ladies Classic. Meanwhile, Free Like a Girl narrowly missed a graded-stakes victory in the Bayakoa, finishing second by just a head. Jody’s Pride, known for her success in New York stakes events, adds further depth to the field.

The Azeri Stakes promises to be a showcase of top-tier equine talent. With Thorpedo Anna leading the charge, the race offers a thrilling preview of what to expect in the Apple Blossom Handicap. The competition highlights the strength and resilience of these remarkable fillies and mares, setting the stage for an unforgettable day of racing.

Spotlight on Style: The 2025 Essence Black Women In Hollywood Awards
2025-02-27

The 2025 Essence Black Women In Hollywood Awards, held at the prestigious Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, marked a significant celebration of African American achievements in the entertainment industry. This annual event not only honors outstanding contributions but also offers a dazzling display of fashion and glamour. Celebrities graced the red carpet with their striking ensembles, each outfit reflecting personal style and creativity. From elegant gowns to avant-garde designs, the day showcased an array of sartorial brilliance that left attendees and viewers alike in awe.

Fashion Extravaganza Unveiled at the Fairmont Century Plaza

In the heart of Los Angeles, under the golden hues of a California afternoon, the 2025 Essence Black Women In Hollywood Awards unfolded at the iconic Fairmont Century Plaza. The event, celebrated annually, recognizes the remarkable accomplishments of black women in film, television, and music. This year’s luncheon was particularly memorable for its fashion moments. Attendees arrived dressed in outfits that ranged from classic elegance to bold and innovative styles. Among the honorees, Teyana Taylor made heads turn with her camel-colored gown, while Cynthia Erivo captivated the audience with her Maison Margiela creation featuring intricate detailing. Storm Reid’s vibrant lime green skirt by Cong Tri paired with a sky blue cropped jacket added a playful twist to the runway. Laverne Cox, in a Thom Browne suit, offered a sophisticated blend of sporty chic with a plaid tennis-inspired skirt. Ruth Negga dazzled in a sequined top and drop-length trousers from Diotima, styled by Karla Welch. Lori Harvey, in a Burberry SS25 look, brought a fresh take on traditional trench coats with a cropped jacket and bow front design. Each outfit told a unique story, highlighting the diversity and innovation within the fashion world.

From the perspective of a journalist covering this event, it's clear that fashion serves as more than just attire; it is a form of expression and empowerment. The choices made by these influential women reflect not only their individuality but also set trends and inspire others. This event underscores the importance of representation and celebrates the multifaceted roles that black women play in shaping both the entertainment and fashion industries. It’s a powerful reminder that every garment tells a story, and these stories are being written by some of the most inspiring figures in Hollywood today.

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Kate Cassidy Revisits Sentimental Location, Reflects on Love for Liam Payne
2025-03-01

In a poignant reflection on her past relationship, Kate Cassidy recently returned to a place that holds deep sentimental value. The 25-year-old influencer shared her thoughts and emotions through an Instagram post featuring images from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s iconic lamppost exhibit. This visit marked a significant moment as she revisited memories with the late Liam Payne, reflecting on their time together and the impact his passing has had on her life.

Memories at LACMA: A Journey Through Time and Emotion

On a crisp Friday evening, Kate Cassidy found herself standing amidst the lampposts outside the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). It was here, in this very spot, where she and Liam Payne had spent unforgettable moments. In one image, Cassidy is seen posing alongside Payne, both dressed in stylish yet understated attire. The second photo captures her alone, dressed casually, yet radiating a sense of nostalgia. Cassidy wrote, “I thought this place would feel empty without you, but instead, it’s filled with the warmth of this moment we shared.”

The couple dated from 2022 until Payne’s untimely death in October 2024. Tragically, the One Direction star fell from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, leaving behind a legacy of music and love. While Cassidy had left Argentina days before the incident, she expressed profound regret over not being there in those final moments. “If I could see into the future, I would never have left,” she confided in an interview with The Sun.

Cassidy’s reflections reveal the depth of her grief and her ongoing struggle to come to terms with Payne’s absence. She spoke candidly about how her life has changed since then, saying, “I think about Liam every second of every day.” Her words convey a heartache that remains raw and unyielding, even months after his passing.

Beyond Cassidy, Payne is survived by his family, including his young son Bear. His cause of death was attributed to multiple traumas resulting from the fall, with traces of drugs found in his system. Despite the tragedy, Cassidy continues to honor Payne’s memory, celebrating the joy and positivity he brought into her life and the lives of others.

In October 2024, Cassidy traveled to England to attend Payne’s funeral, joining his family and close friends, including his former bandmates from One Direction. This gathering served as a bittersweet farewell to a man who touched so many hearts.

“You are — because I can’t say were — my best friend, the love of my life,” Cassidy wrote in a heartfelt tribute. Her message underscores the enduring nature of their bond, a love that transcends time and loss.

Through her actions and words, Cassidy offers a touching reminder of the power of love and the lasting impact it leaves behind, even in the face of unimaginable sorrow.

This reflection on Cassidy’s journey brings to light the complexities of love and loss. It serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the strength found in cherishing cherished memories. For readers, it invites us to reflect on our own relationships and the importance of holding onto the moments that matter most.

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