Racing Dudes Three Stars of the Week: Kentucky Downs Takes Center Stage

Look how far Kentucky Downs has come! When the Racing Dudes first arrived on the scene, Kentucky Downs was hardly talked about, but last week, it was one of the premiere betting tracks in the country. See how many Kentucky Downs runners made our Three Stars of the Week and if any horses from other tracks captured a spot in our rankings.

1. Miss Temple City

It’s always good to see her get into the winner’s circle. After going to Royal Ascot for the third straight year, it was clear that Miss Temple City was not her normal self in her return race at Monmouth Park, but last Saturday, she proved that she is rounding back into form with a gutty win in the Grade 3 Kentucky Downs Ladies Turf Stakes. This type of win could get her on track for a start in a Breeders’ Cup race, and you can bet that she’ll be pointed to Keeneland as a prep race because she loves that track.

2. Oscar Nominated

He LOVES Kentucky Downs. Oscar Nominated won at this track last year and came back to do it again in the Grade 3 Calumet Farm Kentucky Turf Cup on Saturday. When you glance through his past performances, you quickly see that this track moves him up significantly. He is normally a decent horse no matter where he runs, but when he shows up at this unique oval, he becomes more than just a decent horse. It’s too bad for him that the Kentucky Downs meeting is only five days.

3. Rubilinda

This could be a rising star! After having to scratch a few times at Saratoga due to weather-related issues, Rubilinda finally made a start on Friday at Belmont Park, and she did not disappoint with a furious last-to-first run to win the $100,000 Christiecat Stakes. This was only a small stakes race, but it is likely to catapult Rubilinda into tougher company from here on out. Also, look for her to stretch out a bit in her next start, as 6 furlongs is probably not her optimal distance. Trainer Chad Brown has another great turf filly on his hands.