The prestigious $125,000 Busanda Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack this Saturday is set to be a thrilling event for horse racing enthusiasts. This 1 1/8-mile race serves as an important qualifier for the Kentucky Oaks (G1) in May. With a field of nine talented fillies, including Ramify as the morning-line favorite at 5-2 odds, the competition promises to be intense. The race awards valuable points to the top five finishers, making it a critical stepping stone on the path to the Oaks. Trainers and jockeys are gearing up for what could be one of the most evenly matched races of the season.

A Field of Rising Stars: Notable Contenders in the Busanda Stakes

The Busanda Stakes features a diverse group of promising young fillies, each with unique backgrounds and potential. Among them, Ramify stands out after her impressive debut win at Aqueduct last December. Trainer Chad Brown’s charge has drawn favorable attention, with Jose Lezcano set to ride from post position three. Another notable contender is Sharp Smile, trained by Brad Cox, who broke her maiden in a one-mile race at Aqueduct. Manny Franco will once again be in the saddle for this filly, aiming to build on her early success.

Other contenders include Carmen’s Candy Jar and Ruth, both trained by Todd Pletcher, who has won the Busanda Stakes five times. These fillies, along with Bless the Broken and Beautiful Blome, add depth to the field. Each horse brings its own strengths and strategies, making the race particularly challenging for bettors and exciting for spectators. The race's format and the quality of the field ensure that every moment will be filled with anticipation and drama.

In Focus: Running Away's Remarkable Journey

One of the most intriguing stories in the Busanda Stakes revolves around Running Away, the second choice at 3-1 odds. A daughter of Gun Runner, she has shown remarkable adaptability by transitioning from turf to dirt racing. Her trainer, Wesley Ward, highlights her natural speed and relaxed demeanor, which have been evident in both training sessions and races. After two solid performances on turf, Running Away made a decisive move to dirt, where she dominated a 1 1/16-mile race at Churchill Downs by five lengths. This performance suggests that she might be at her best on this surface.

Ward reflects on his decision to switch Running Away to dirt, acknowledging that he may have done so sooner. He emphasizes her physical attributes—big, rangy, and long-bodied—which make her well-suited for the challenges of dirt racing. As Running Away prepares for the Busanda Stakes, all eyes will be on her to see if she can continue her impressive form. Her ability to lead from the start and maintain her composure throughout the race positions her as a formidable competitor. For fans and bettors alike, Running Away represents a compelling narrative within the broader excitement of the Busanda Stakes.