HorseRacing
Elite Horses Gear Up for Spring Campaigns with Vigorous Workouts
2025-01-25

Several top-tier racehorses, including past champions and graded-stakes winners, completed significant workouts across various tracks in preparation for upcoming races. Notably, Eclipse Award winner Just F Y I, a 4-year-old filly, resumed training under Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott after an extended break. Meanwhile, other notable horses like Citizen Bull, Kopion, and Nakatomi also showcased impressive times during their respective sessions. These workouts signal the beginning of intense preparation as these elite athletes gear up for competitive seasons ahead.

Just F Y I's Return to Form Under Bill Mott's Guidance

After a hiatus following her sixth-place finish in the Grade 1 Acorn Stakes last summer, Just F Y I made a notable comeback with a spirited workout at Payson Park. The daughter of Justify, owned by George Krikorian, breezed four furlongs in 51.0 seconds, marking her fourth workout this month. Trainer Bill Mott has been carefully managing her return, ensuring she is in peak condition for future races. Although no specific race has been announced yet, this workout indicates that Just F Y I is well on her way to regaining her championship form.

The filly’s performance in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies as a two-year-old was nothing short of spectacular, securing her undefeated record at that age. Her subsequent win in the Grade 1 Frizette further solidified her status as one of the top young talents in racing. Despite a setback in the Acorn, Mott remains confident in her abilities. This recent workout suggests that Just F Y I is ready to make a strong statement in her next appearance, potentially setting the stage for another memorable season.

Other Elite Performances Highlight Saturday's Workout Sessions

Beyond Just F Y I, several other graded-stakes winners demonstrated impressive performances across different tracks. Among them, Citizen Bull, trained by Bob Baffert, clocked the fastest time among 106 horses working five furlongs at Santa Anita. Meanwhile, Kopion, a Grade 1 winner, maintained a steady pace with her five-furlong workout, while Nakatomi, another Grade 1 victor, set the fastest time over four furlongs at Payson Park. These workouts underscore the rigorous preparation these horses undergo to maintain their competitive edge.

Citizen Bull, a two-time Grade 1 winner, continued his stellar form with a swift five-furlong run in 59.0 seconds, showcasing his readiness for the upcoming season. Trained by Bob Baffert, Citizen Bull’s last victory in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile highlighted his potential. Similarly, Kopion, who triumphed in the La Brea Stakes, worked diligently to prepare for her next challenge. Nakatomi, known for his Grade 1 win in the Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap, also demonstrated impressive speed with a 48.0-second four-furlong workout. These performances indicate that these horses are not only maintaining but possibly improving their form as they prepare for high-stakes races in the coming months.

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