Vahva Dominates Again with Graded Stakes Victory at Churchill Downs
Vahva, the 4-year-old Gun Runner filly trained by Cherie DeVaux, continued her impressive run with another graded stakes win on Saturday at Churchill Downs. Ridden by jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., Vahva covered the seven furlongs of the Grade 3 Chicago Stakes in a swift 1:21.02, crossing the finish line 1 1/4 lengths in front of her rivals.
The victory earned Vahva impressive speed figures, with a 104 Brisnet Speed Rating and a 99 Beyer Speed Figure – the highest last week among all stakes winners. This latest triumph marks Vahva’s fourth graded stakes win in her last six starts, which also include a victory in the prestigious Derby City Distaff (G1) on the Kentucky Derby undercard.
Misty Veil and Batten Down Shine
Misty Veil, a 6-year-old mare trained by Mike Maker, also turned in a standout performance last week, capturing the listed Lady Jacqueline Stakes at Thistledown. Ridden by Ramon Vazquez, Misty Veil covered the 1 1/8-mile distance in 1:50.04, earning a 101 Brisnet rating and a 105 Beyer Speed Figure – the second-highest of the week.
In the Ohio Derby (G3) at the same Thistledown card, Batten Down, trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. and ridden by Junior Alvarado, recorded a 100 Brisnet and 93 Beyer for his 1 1/8-mile victory.
As the summer racing season heats up, these impressive equine athletes and their connections continue to showcase their talents and provide thrilling moments for horse racing enthusiasts across the country.
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