Grade 1 Winner Vahva Set for Chicago Stakes Return at Churchill Downs
(Churchill Downs, June 23, 2023) – Grade 1 winner Vahva is gearing up for her return to Churchill Downs, where she will face a talented field of five fillies and mares in next Saturday’s 34th running of the Grade 3, $250,000 Chicago Stakes.
The seven-furlong Chicago Stakes, carded as Race 7 of 11 with a post time of 3:51 p.m. EST, will feature the highly anticipated seasonal debut of last year’s dominant winner, Society. Trained by the renowned Steve Asmussen, Society is a Grade 1 victor in her own right, having cruised to a 5 3/4-length win in the Cotillion Stakes (G1) as a 3-year-old.
Vahva, owned in partnership by Belladonna Racing, Edward Hudson Jr., West Point Thoroughbreds, and several other connections, recorded her first Grade 1 triumph just six weeks ago when she cruised to a two-length score in the Derby City Distaff on Kentucky Derby Day. The 4-year-old daughter of Gun Runner, trained by Cherie DeVaux, has already amassed over $1.5 million in career earnings with five wins, three seconds, and two thirds from 12 starts. Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., who was aboard for the Derby City Distaff, will reunite with Vahva from post position 3.
The Chicago Stakes Field
The Chicago Stakes field also includes last year’s runner-up, Royal Spa, trained by Rodolphe Brisset, as well as Chi Town Lady, conditioned by Wesley A. Ward, and Positano Sunset, from the barn of Ian R. Wilkes.
“With an accomplished and seasoned group of contenders, the 34th running of the Chicago Stakes promises an exciting showdown at Churchill Downs next Saturday afternoon.”
Fans can follow the action by visiting ChurchillDowns.com for entries, results, and updates.
🔗 Source