Online Racebook – Rachel Alexandra Still Cruising
Posted July 20, 2009 – 9:29 am in: Sports
If you thought that Rachel Alexandra, the Kentucky derby odds filly who came out of nowhere to win The Preakness, but then was pulled out of The Belmont Stakes, would be taking a break from racing, you’re wrong.
The owners and trainers of Rachel Alexandra, the first filly to win the Preakness since 1924, pulled her out of the Belmont because they probably didn’t think she had a great shot to win. With a longer track and a new horse, they felt that it wasn’t worth the risk – and maybe the entry fee – to race her. As it turned out, the way the race turned out, it looked like it was probably a good decision.
She’ll keep racing though and she’s going to take on the Belmont Stakes winner, Summer Bird, in the $1 million Grade I Haskell Invitational on Aug. 2 at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, N.J.
1 1/8-mile race would be perfect for the filly, who has won twice at nine furlongs this year.
And after hearing trainer Steve Asmussen talk about her – and the length of the track, it makes sense that they would keep her out of the Belmont and let her race in all the smaller tracks that she can dominate.
Summer Bird will be her competition but don’t be surprised if Rachel Alexandra with this one – again.
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