Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher and his talented colt, Locked, stole the spotlight with a thrilling victory in Saturday’s Grade 2 Cigar Mile at Aqueduct. This win capped a comeback year for Locked, who overcame early injuries to deliver two powerful performances in the fall. Let’s dive into the highlights of his win and explore what’s next for this promising 3-year-old.
Locked’s Comeback Story
Locked started 2024 with setbacks due to injuries, but he returned stronger than ever. His first race back in October was a seven-furlong allowance sprint where he crushed the competition by 7 1/2 lengths. He followed this with an impressive 1 1/2-length win in the Cigar Mile, showcasing his adaptability and skill.
In the Cigar Mile, Locked faced a tough field of experienced rivals, including Grade 1 winners and millionaires. After stalking the pace in sixth place, he surged ahead in the final stretch to overtake Grade 1 winner Mullikin, stopping the clock at 1:34.52. His victory earned him a career-best 101 Beyer Speed Figure, solidifying his status as a top competitor.
Pletcher’s Praise for Locked
Trainer Todd Pletcher is excited about Locked’s growth, both physically and mentally.
“He’s always been highly talented, but now he’s also developed a tactical mind,” Pletcher said. “His versatility and ability to handle older, more experienced horses is very impressive.”
Pletcher also highlighted how Locked’s strong mental game complements his physical abilities, making him a standout contender for future high-stakes races.
What’s Next for Locked?
Locked is headed to Palm Beach Downs in Florida as Pletcher and the owners decide his next move. Some potential races include:
- Pegasus World Cup (G1): Set for January 25 at Gulfstream Park, this prestigious event is a likely target.
- Middle East Races: The Saudi Cup and Dubai World Cup are also under consideration.
While plans aren’t finalized, Pletcher expressed optimism about the options ahead. For now, the team is celebrating Locked’s success and preparing for bigger challenges.
Other Highlights from Pletcher’s Weekend
Tizzy in the Sky Shines in the Go for Wand (G3)
Pletcher’s 5-year-old mare, Tizzy in the Sky, secured a gutsy victory in the Grade 3 Go for Wand Stakes. After taking the lead in the final stretch, she fended off challengers to win by half a length, earning an 89 Beyer Speed Figure.
“She’s always trained like a Grade 1 horse, so it’s rewarding to see her achieve a graded stakes win,” Pletcher said.
Tizzy will likely compete in the nine-furlong Ladies on January 11 at Aqueduct, a track where she has performed exceptionally well.
Julia Shining’s Strong Comeback
Another standout for Pletcher was Julia Shining, who made a winning return in a local one-mile route on December 1 after a seven-month layoff. Despite stumbling at the start, the full sister to champion Malathaat delivered a dominant performance. She’s also a candidate for the upcoming Ladies Stakes.
Todd Pletcher’s success with Locked, Tizzy in the Sky, and Julia Shining highlights his expertise in developing champions. Locked’s victory in the Cigar Mile marks the beginning of what could be an extraordinary career. As Pletcher and the team plan for future races, fans can expect to see Locked competing on some of the biggest stages in horse racing.