Monday mornings are buzzing with activity in the horse racing world, and this week was no exception. Top graded-stakes winners from across the nation hit the track for training. With key contenders gearing up for their next challenges, here’s a detailed look at some standout workouts and what they mean for upcoming races.
Straight No Chaser Shines Again
Straight No Chaser, a standout sprinter and Breeders’ Cup Sprint winner, was back on the track at Santa Anita for his fourth workout since his big win at Del Mar. The 6-year-old, trained by Dan Blacker, clocked five furlongs in 1:00.8. His sharp performance keeps him in the spotlight as an Eclipse Award finalist for champion male sprinter alongside Cogburn and The Chosen Vron. Although he raced only three times in 2024, his victories in the Santa Anita Sprint Championship (G2) and the Breeders’ Cup Sprint cemented his elite status.
Other Graded-Stakes Stars in Action
Truly Quality: Building Momentum
Truly Quality, the Hollywood Turf Cup (G2) winner, continued his preparation with a four-furlong workout in 49.2 seconds at Santa Anita. Trained by Jonathan Thomas, the 5-year-old has won three races in a row, including a Grade 3 victory at Woodbine. His consistency and recent form make him a strong contender in upcoming turf events.
Air Force Red Returns
Air Force Red, a Grade 2 winner, logged a solid workout at Santa Anita, completing four furlongs in 48.8 seconds. This marks his first workout since placing seventh in the Joe Hernandez Stakes (G2). Trainer Leonard Powell aims to bring him back into top form.
Spirit of Makena’s Recovery
Spirit of Makena, another Grade 2 winner, worked five furlongs in 1:00.2 at Santa Anita. After a challenging ninth-place finish in the Santa Anita Sprint Championship, his recent workouts suggest he’s aiming for a strong return.
Workouts Across the Country
At Gulfstream Park
Atone, a Grade 1 winner, worked five furlongs in 1:03.3. Although not his fastest session, Atone’s steady progress suggests a possible rebound from his sixth-place finish at Kentucky Downs last September.
Belmont Park Updates
Stolen Base, the 2022 American Turf winner, completed a four-furlong workout in 49.6 seconds. Trainer Bruce Levine is working to bring this veteran back to competitive form.
Charles Town’s Coastal Mission
Coastal Mission breezed through three furlongs in 36.7 seconds, showing his readiness after a fourth-place finish in the Cigar Mile Handicap (G2).
Fresh Faces in the Spotlight
Getaway Car’s Promising Start
Getaway Car, a Grade 3 winner, posted an impressive four-furlong time of 48.4 seconds at Santa Anita. His recent second-place finish in the Los Alamitos Futurity suggests bright prospects for this young competitor.
Nadette and Track Phantom’s Efforts
Nadette and Track Phantom also showed steady progress in their respective workouts. Nadette completed five furlongs in 1:01.6, while Track Phantom clocked four furlongs in 50.6 seconds.
Monday’s workouts showcased the depth of talent in the horse racing world. From Straight No Chaser’s continued dominance to rising stars like Getaway Car, these horses are setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. As trainers refine their strategies, fans can expect thrilling performances in the months to come.
Visit Home