The
Grade I Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Sprint returns to a dirt surface
for the first time since its inaugural running won by Maryfield at
Monmouth Park in 2007.
While even the thought of back-to-back
Breeders' Cups held on Santa Anita's synthetic Pro-Ride may have had
many considering tearing up their Daily Racing Forms, the last two
renewals of the Female Sprint have proved quite formful.
Two
years ago, Ventura made an electrifying move on the turn for home and
blew by champion (and 9-5 favorite) Indian Blessing for an easy
four-length tally as the 5-2 second-choice. Last year, the well-built
Juddmonte homebred failed to defend her title at the Great Race Place,
with synthetic specialist Informed Decision taking advantage of a
flawless ride beneath Julien Leparoux. Sent off at 3-1, the Augustin
Stable color bearer shadowed Free Flying Soul early while Ventura
settled toward the rear. Leparoux hit the gas on the turn for home,
opened a clear lead in the stretch, and was home free as Ventura came
running late for second as the 4-5 chalk.