Ellis Park: Society sets record in relocated Chicago Stakes

Society etched her name in the Ellis Park history books Saturday by not only dominating the 33rd running of the Grade 3, $225,000 Chicago Stakes but setting the new seven-furlong track record in 1:20.54.

Society is under the care of Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen and was ridden to victory by Tyler Gaffalione. The 4-year-old daughter of Gun Runner was geared down late and completed seven furlongs 0.15 seconds faster than previous track record holder Privet Moon in 2021.

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Gaffalione positioned Society on the lead just to the inside of front-running Drifaros as the duo blasted through an opening quarter-mile in 22.21 seconds. Heavy favorite Matareya sat third in the early stages about three lengths behind the dueling leaders. Around the far turn, Society began to step clear of Drifaros and powerfully opened up down the lane for a 10 3/4-length victory.

“She was super impressive today,” Gaffalione said. “It’s a credit to Steve (Asmussen) and his team for having her ready to run a huge race. It was pretty cool setting the track record with her today.”

Society returned $6.38, $4.34 and $2.20 for her victory. Drifaros, ridden by Martin Garcia, held second to pay $14.88 and $4.38. Matareya finished third and returned 2.10.

Be Like Water finished fourth followed by Hidden Connection and Stella Noir.

Society now boasts a lifetime mark of 10: 6-0-1 with purse earnings of $1,334,535.