Silent Tactic Eyes Rebel Stakes After Southwest Victory
Silent Tactic, trained by Mark Casse, is set to compete in the $1 million Rebel Stakes (G2) at Oaklawn Park on March 1, following his impressive win in the Southwest Stakes (G3) on February 6. The colt secured a preliminary Beyer Speed Figure of 88, a new career high, after winning the 1 1/16-mile Southwest by 3 1/4 lengths.
Casse’s Dominance at Oaklawn Continues
This victory marks the third consecutive Kentucky Derby qualifying race win for Mark Casse at Oaklawn Park. He previously won the Arkansas Derby (G1) with Sandman and the Smarty Jones Stakes with Strategic Risk. Silent Tactic passed nine horses in the final three-sixteenths of a mile to seize the lead, demonstrating a strong closing ability.
Strategic Risk’s Setback and Rebel Plans
Despite the success of Silent Tactic, stablemate Strategic Risk didn’t fare as well in the Southwest, finishing 10th after a strong performance in the Smarty Jones. Casse believes the recent track closure due to a winter storm, which halted training for nine days, may have impacted Strategic Risk’s performance. Both Silent Tactic and Strategic Risk are planned to run in the Rebel Stakes.
Nitrogen’s Successful Return and Azeri Stakes Target
Eclipse champion Nitrogen also delivered a win for Casse, taking the $250,000 Bayakoa Stakes (G3) on February 7. Casse initially hesitated about running Nitrogen, considering the disruption caused by the winter storm and track closure, but ultimately decided to proceed. Nitrogen is now targeting the $400,000 Azeri Stakes (G2) on March 7.
Other Contenders for the Rebel Stakes
Blackout Time, a runner-up in the Breeders’ Futurity Stakes (G1), is also aiming for the Rebel Stakes. Casse is also considering Top Level, who broke his maiden sprinting on February 6, though he indicated Top Level may not participate in the Rebel.
The Road to the Kentucky Derby Heats Up
The Rebel Stakes will award 105 total Kentucky Derby qualifying points to the top five finishers (50-25-15-10-5). Oaklawn’s Kentucky Derby qualifying series will conclude with the $1.5 million Arkansas Derby (G1) on March 28.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on track conditions. The recent weather disruptions at Oaklawn Park highlight how crucial track conditions can be for a horse’s performance. A consistent track surface is vital for optimal training and racing.
FAQ
Q: What is the significance of the Rebel Stakes?
A: The Rebel Stakes is a key Kentucky Derby qualifying race, offering significant points towards entry into the first leg of the Triple Crown.
Q: What impact did the weather have on the horses at Oaklawn Park?
A: A winter storm caused a nine-day closure of the track, disrupting training schedules and potentially affecting some horses’ performances.
Q: Which trainer has been most successful in Oaklawn’s Kentucky Derby qualifying races?
A: Mark Casse has won three consecutive Kentucky Derby qualifying races at Oaklawn Park.
Q: Where will Nitrogen race next?
A: Nitrogen is scheduled to compete in the Azeri Stakes (G2) on March 7.
Did you know? Silent Tactic’s victory in the Southwest Stakes was achieved by passing nine other horses in the final stretch, showcasing his impressive closing speed.
Stay updated on the latest horse racing news and analysis. Visit the Kentucky Derby website for more information on the Road to the Derby.
