In an eagerly anticipated event, Caldwell Luvs Gold, a distinguished New York-bred filly, seeks her third career stakes triumph in the upcoming $150,000 Interborough Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack. The seven-furlong sprint, reserved for older fillies and mares, will be held on Saturday. This race marks a significant milestone as it is Caldwell Luvs Gold's first attempt against open company. Trained by the illustrious Brad Cox, this 4-year-old has previously claimed victories in the Seeking the Ante and the New York Oaks.
On a crisp winter day, excitement builds around Caldwell Luvs Gold's preparation for the Interborough Stakes. After securing a half-length victory in an allowance race over the same course and distance on December 13, the team is optimistic about her performance. Dustin Dugas, Cox’s assistant trainer, noted that Caldwell Luvs Gold has been particularly forward in her recent workouts. "She's been galloping with great energy," Dugas remarked. "We're hoping she can settle into a comfortable stride early in the race. If there's some pace to follow, it could work to her advantage."
The filly demonstrated her adaptability when she placed third on turf in the Grade 3 Fasig-Tipton Jockey Club Oaks Invitational last September. Since then, she has shown increasing fondness for the local dirt track. "With age, she's matured and seems more comfortable here," Dugas added. "Her last effort confirmed that she enjoys the surface."
Other notable contenders include Socially Selective, trained by Hall of Famer Bill Mott, who aims for her first stakes win after a strong second-place finish in the Sugar Swirl Stakes. Scalable, under the guidance of Todd Pletcher, also joins the fray following a third-place finish in the Comely Stakes. Both horses have undergone rigorous training and are primed for a competitive showing.
From a journalist's perspective, the Interborough Stakes presents a fascinating narrative of talent and resilience. Caldwell Luvs Gold's journey from a promising juvenile to a seasoned competitor highlights the importance of perseverance and adaptation in horse racing. Her ability to thrive in different conditions underscores the value of versatility and strategic training. As spectators look forward to Saturday's race, they are reminded of the sport's unpredictable nature and the thrill of witnessing exceptional performances.