The Kentucky Oaks is one of the most anticipated horse races of the year, and the road to this Grade 1 event is heating up. This Saturday, at Aqueduct Racetrack, fans will see an exciting race in the $125,000 Busanda Stakes. The 1 1/8-mile race is a key qualifier for the Kentucky Oaks, with points awarded to the top five finishers. Let’s explore the horses, their trainers, and what to expect from this thrilling race.
What is the Busanda Stakes?
The Busanda Stakes is a key prep race for the Kentucky Oaks, offering valuable qualifying points (20-10-6-4-2) to the top five finishers. This year, the race will feature a strong field of 3-year-old fillies competing at Aqueduct Racetrack on January 13. Scheduled as the eighth race of the day, it promises to be a highlight for horse racing enthusiasts.
Meet Ramify: A Rising Star
Juddmonte’s homebred Ramify will make her stakes debut in the Busanda Stakes. Trained by Chad Brown, Ramify had an impressive win in her debut on December 8. She overcame a slow start to finish strong, earning the highest Beyer Speed Figure (76) in the field. This chestnut filly comes from an outstanding lineage, including champions like Hall of Famer Chris Evert and multiple Grade 1 winner Sightseek. With Jose Lezcano as her jockey, Ramify is a top contender to watch.
Other Horses to Watch
- Running Away
Trained by Wesley Ward, this daughter of Gun Runner is coming off a dominant five-length win at Churchill Downs. Known for her front-running style, Running Away has shown versatility on both turf and dirt, making her a strong competitor. - Carmen’s Candy Jar
Trained by Todd Pletcher, this filly has consistently performed well in stakes races. While she finished fifth in her last outing, her past successes and lineage give her a solid chance. - Bernieandtherose
Dominick Schettino’s Bernieandtherose has been on a winning streak, with two big victories at Aqueduct. Her ability to adapt to different race styles makes her an exciting contender. - Beautiful Blome
With an impressive stakes win at Delaware Park, this filly has shown potential despite a disappointing finish in her last race.
Why the Busanda Stakes Matters
The Busanda Stakes is more than just a race; it’s a stepping stone to the Kentucky Oaks. Winners of this race have gone on to achieve greatness, like Princess of Sylmar in 2013. For trainers and jockeys, it’s an opportunity to showcase their horses’ skills on a big stage.
The Busanda Stakes is set to deliver an action-packed race this Saturday. With talented fillies like Ramify, Running Away, and Bernieandtherose, the competition will be fierce. Each horse brings a unique story, from impressive wins to legendary bloodlines. Fans and bettors alike can expect a thrilling showdown as these young horses vie for a spot in the Kentucky Oaks. Don’t miss it!
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