Natalma Stakes – Grade I [BC]
1 Mile Turf Stake Purse $500.000 Filly 2-Year-Olds.

1st Wonderful World Smokey Stover Velazquez J R

Well, a two-year-old that is working 1.09 and 4 in July after just one race is nothing short of freakish so it was no shock when this one strolled in an easy winner. What is rather funny for all the breeding statisticians out there is both the sire and dam never even raced on turf and whilst that may seem a little odd it is worth remembering that I doubt this one is just a turf horse and may turn out to be as brilliant on the main track.
On the speed today she got a big enough break on them turning for home that she was never going to be caught and won with enough in hand to make her an odds-on favorite for the BC Juvenile Fillies Turf.

2nd Light Cochise Mb Stables Lopez P

Whilst she was chasing shadows as far as the winner goes, she ran a great race to be second and while her dirt form didn’t look inspiring it seems she can run on turf and will be trying again in the BC.

3rd Beat Down TwinTowersRacing Hernandez R M

Another having her first race on turf she got a good third place, but I am not sure she proved herself any better on the surface. Honestly, it doesn’t seem to matter to most horses whether they are on dirt or turf, so I wouldn’t say this one’s future has changed dramatically.

4th Extremely Hot Arkansas Elite Saez L

Went back from the wide gate which tends to be the worst option but ran on well enough to run past a few and end up fourth. The ability is there but going on a line from the Astoria with Beat Down I would say she has a slight dirt preference….well maybe.

Categories: Grade I, STAKES ARTICLES