Feeling the Love: Thoroughbred Club of America Preview

The Thoroughbred Club of America will be run this Saturday at Keeneland. This is the final “Win & You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint. A field of eight fillies and mares will take the track in hopes of getting an automatic spot in the starting gate just four weeks from now. I’ve been following many of these ladies all year long and will now share what I love, and don’t love, (because it is just not right to hate!), about each runner in the race.

1- Heykittykittykitty

I Love Her: She has been first or second in seven of her eight races this year. Her preferred trip is sitting right off the pace and making a move late. This form is ideal for this race.

I Love Her Not: The inside post! She may be pinched back early and if she gets more than five lengths back her day may be over pretty quick.

2- Desert Valley

I Love Her: The only three-year-old of this bunch is definitely on the upswing. She has been improving all summer and comes from a barn that is also making many positive strides.

I Love Her Not: All four of her wins come against weaker fields in allowance events. This filly has been less than stellar against Stakes Company.

3- Judy the Beauty

I Love Her: She is by far the most experienced and accomplished runner in this field.

I Love Her Not: Having said that, last year is last year. (Right, Ohio State?) She is winless in 2015 and must get back on track here.

4- Sweet Whiskey

I Love Her: If you don’t already know what I am going to say here, then you have not been reading my blog much! I love the fact that Florent Geroux will get the mount. He is one of the hottest jockeys in the country right now. He should have her rated nicely throughout.

I Love Her Not: She always finds a reason to lose. Maybe she likes being the bridesmaid…

5- Leigh Court

I Love Her: She won this race last year by three lengths, which seems like a football field in the sprinting division. Not to mention, this mare wins at 50% clip.

I Love Her Not: This is her first start on dirt since last year’s Breeders’ Cup.

6- Spelling Again

I Love Her: Trainer Brad Cox has helped this filly get back on track. She is finding her form at the right time.

I Love Her Not: Her recent wins have come against much weaker. Not to say she can’t surprise here, but it will take a huge effort.

7- Fioretti

I Love Her: How can you not love her speed? It is evident she will be pressing the pace early.

I Love Her Not: With speed comes questions regarding stamina. Can she hang out late to give jockey Sophie Doyle her first graded stakes win?

8- Brown Eyed Mary

I Love Her: Ok, so everybody needs some love, right? So, I am going to say I love her name. There, I found something!

I Love Her Not: This filly is in way over her head. She lacks the speed to compete at this level.