Rachel Alexandra, the reigning 2009 Horse of the Year, will run at Churchill this Saturday. Though her connections indicated weeks ago there was a chance she would run in the feature, the Stephen Foster, against colts, it is not surprising that they picked an easier spot. She was also nominated for the Ogden Phipps at Belmont, ( against Unbridled Belle ) and the Obeah at Delaware, on the same day. Why all the need for drama in picking the appropriate race, who knows? Rachel has had trouble getting her top 3 year old form back, but her last 3 workouts indicate that the Rachel from last year should show up.She has too.
What is surprising is the fact that they have retained her regular rider, Calvin Borel. There was some speculation that Steve Asmussen's regular go-to rider, Shawn Bridgmoan would be aboard, as he has been working her of late.
Good Luck Rachel !
Some thoughts on Rachel's race... first of all I am glad she won. She looks tons better than she has looked earlier this year. Is she really BACK yet? Not so sure about that. First of all , the figure eight is gone. They must be reading what all the bloggers have been saying ! But I do think it makes a difference. Calvin is very careful about not messing with her mouth... he is riding her with a VERY loose rein... and maybe that's what works best for her. The third race back off a layoff is usually a horses' best effort, and now with that confidence booster, maybe Rachel can move forward. Blame's win in the Foster was impressive, and Rachel's connections were wise to stay out of there.
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