Horse Racing News: Intriguing Fields Lined Up for Weekend Stakes

While the Triple Crown season has come to a close, horse racing enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting weekend filled with stakes action across the country. Some of the top contenders from the Kentucky Derby trail are set to return in the Grade 3 Ohio Derby at Thistledown, while the talented mare Vahva seeks another graded stakes victory in the Chicago (G3) at Churchill Downs.

Ohio Derby (G3) at Thistledown

In the Ohio Derby (G3) at Thistledown on Saturday, Catching Freedom, who finished third in the Preakness Stakes (G1), will face off against the likes of Uncle Heavy, Mugatu, and Batten Down. Trainer Bill Mott has opted to send Batten Down to this spot after the colt broke his maiden impressively.

Lady Jacqueline Stakes at Thistledown

The listed Lady Jacqueline Stakes at Thistledown has drawn a deep and competitive field, including the consistent Misty Veil and the recent optional-claiming winner Corningstone from the barn of Kenny McPeek.

Chicago (G3) at Churchill Downs

Over at Churchill Downs, the Chicago (G3) for fillies and mares will see the return of Vahva, who closed out 2023 with two graded stakes victories. She’ll take on last year’s winner, Society, making her first start since the Breeders’ Cup. The talented Chi Town Lady will also look to build on her recent fourth-place finish in the Derby City Distaff (G1).

Wild Applause Stakes at Aqueduct

At Aqueduct, the listed Wild Applause Stakes on the turf features the comeback of Gala Brand, who won the With Anticipation (G3) before her Breeders’ Cup appearance. Awesome Czech, Vino Rouge, and Tina Ballerina are among the other promising sophomore fillies set to compete.

With these intriguing fields and a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, horse racing fans are in for an action-packed weekend of stakes competition. Stay tuned for the latest updates on these races and more from the world of horse racing.

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