This Saturday, Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is set to host the prestigious Grade 1 Apple Blossom race, featuring a purse of $1.25 million. The highlight of this event is Thorpedo Anna, last year’s champion horse. Since its inception in 1973 as a race exclusively for female thoroughbreds, the Apple Blossom has seen victories by some of the most legendary names in horse racing history, including Susan’s Girl, Bayakoa, and Zenyatta. This year’s contenders include Thorpedo Anna and Where’s My Ring, both boasting impressive speed figures across multiple rating systems, making them strong favorites in the competition.

The Apple Blossom race has long been associated with greatness, having crowned numerous champions over the decades. In recent years, notable winners like Untapable and Midnight Bisou have added their names to the list of illustrious victors. Among the current field, Thorpedo Anna stands out not only for her tactical prowess but also for her consistent performance under jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., who brings a wealth of experience to the partnership. According to various speed figure scales, Thorpedo Anna leads the pack with ratings that place her at the forefront of the competition. For instance, she scores a 129 on the TimeformUS scale and a 131 on the HRN scale, narrowly surpassing Where’s My Ring, whose highest figure is a 135 on the HRN scale.

Other competitors in the race include Free Like a Girl, Wild Bout Hilary, and Sweet Alyssa, each bringing their own strengths to the table. While Free Like a Girl ranks third overall according to several metrics, Wild Bout Hilary and Sweet Alyssa are considered wildcard entries due to their mixed performances across different rating systems. Despite these challenges, the pace of the race will ultimately determine the outcome, though Thorpedo Anna's versatility and strategic approach suggest she may navigate any obstacles effectively.

In conclusion, the upcoming Apple Blossom race promises to be an exhilarating spectacle, showcasing the finest talents in thoroughbred racing. With Thorpedo Anna leading the charge, fans can expect a thrilling contest where skill, strategy, and speed converge to create unforgettable moments. As one of the most anticipated events of the season, the Apple Blossom continues to uphold its legacy as a showcase for equine excellence and sporting drama.