2021 Kentucky Oaks
QueenZFan22
Member
Since the first points race for the Oaks was run today i wanted to make this discussion now.
QueenZFan22
Member
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Girl Daddy Punches Breeders' Cup Ticket in Pocahontas: https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/243229/girl-daddy-punches-breeders-cup-ticket-in-pocahontas
Malathaat - 2020 - Demoiselle Stakes:
Malathaat Carries on Family Tradition in Demoiselle: https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/245093/malathaat-carries-on-family-tradition-in-demoiselle
Varda Rallies to Win Starlet; Princess Noor Pulled Up: https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/245092/varda-rallies-to-win-starlet-princess-noor-pulled-up
The ability to overcome adversity and a will to win were on full display in the Dec. 5 Demoiselle Stakes (G2) for juvenile fillies at the Big A, when Shadwell Stable's Malathaat overcame unfavorable circumstances with a furious rally to make the grade in her third start.
Breaking from the rail under Hall of Famer John Velazquez, Malathaat appeared to be uncomfortable taking some kickback when in behind horses but allowed her class to prevail with a five-wide move around the turn as she collared Millefeuille in the final strides.
"She had to overcome a lot. I was proud of her for persevering," trainer Todd Pletcher said. "When she got in the clear, she put in a strong run. It was an impressive performance considering all the adversity along the road."
In winning the Demoiselle, Malathaat earned 10 qualifying points toward the Kentucky Oaks (G1), scheduled for April 30, 2021, at Churchill Downs. Pletcher said he would like to give her two starts prior to the Oaks, which he won with Ashado (2004), Rags to Riches (2007), and Princess of Sylmar (2013).
Pletcher said the Curlin bay would ship to his winter division at Palm Beach Downs in South Florida this week
"We'll give her an easy month. I don't know what her next target will be. We'll just see how she's doing," Pletcher said.
The Demoiselle was Malathaat's first start going two turns. She is unbeaten in three starts.
Santa Ynez Stakes (Grade II) January 3, 2021:
Kalypso Notches Graded Victory in Santa Ynez: https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/245489/kalypso-notches-graded-victory-in-santa-ynez?utm_source=BHTW&utm_medium=social
Charlie's Penny Shines in Silverbulletday: https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/245711/charlies-penny-shines-in-silverbulletday?utm_source=BHTW&utm_medium=social
The Grass Is Blue Rallies to Busanda Score: https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/245827/the-grass-is-blue-rallies-to-busanda-score?utm_source=BHTW&utm_medium=social