Racing Dudes Three Stars of the Week: Turf Racing Takes Center Stage

The turf action took center stage last weekend at Arlington Park and Saratoga, giving us several thrilling events in a small window of time on Saturday. Sadly, it was the last big day ever at Arlington, with the track likely to be shutdown at the end of this meet. Regardless, let’s try to keep it positive as far as this post is concerned, and check out our latest three stars of the week:

1. Got Stormy

For the second time in three years, this fabulous mare was able to take home the Fourstardave Handicap (G1). Once again, she was able to regain some of her old form at this historic race track, where she always seems to show up with her best effort. After stalking the early pace up the backstretch, Tyler Gaffalione swung her to the outside heading down the stretch, and the big mare responded by passing those in front of her like they were standing still. From there, she was able to gain a big enough lead to hold off all challengers approaching the wire for a 1 1/2-length victory. She’s on to the Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1) now, with this victory earning her a free entry into the race.

2. Santa Barbara

Trainer Aidan O’Brien means business with this filly, who shipped to the United States and dominated once again last Saturday, taking home the Beverly D Stakes (G1) in impressive fashion. The American based Mean Mary, who had won two races in a row coming into this event, was able to set an easy pace, which seemed to give her a nice advantage up the backstretch. However, when asked to quicken, Santa Barbara cruised by that her rival with ease down the stretch for a 3-length triumph. This is quickly becoming one of the better turf females in training.

3. Two Emmys

Perhaps one of the biggest upsets of the year came in last Saturdays’ Mr. D Stakes (G1), which is likely to be the final Grade 1 event ever at Arlington Park. The race was supposed to be a walk in the park for Domestic Spending; however, Two Emmys had other ideas on his mind. After setting what could only be described as a “turtle-like” pace, Two Emmys was able to hold off the furious late charge of Domestic Spending, winning by a neck as they crossed the wire. The old saying of “pace makes the race” could not have been more accurate in this situation, giving Two Emmys his first graded stakes victory.